You take a seat on her right side while Wendy sits on her left. Merlin stands up as you do, closing her laptop but not dismissing her familiar. You note she's bareleg as she stands, which is a little unusual for her. It's not like she has a problem with it- you've heard of witches who do, thinking it's a demeaning and embarrassing 'tradition' that should be done away with- but with her it's usually more a case of her forgetting to wear pants. Either that or not being bothered to put them on- there's been more than one occasion, you know, where she's spent the day in her underwear and an oversized T-shirt and little else.

"I've already gotten initial reports from Tessa, Muninn, and Lovelace." She says, pulling up the map on the wall. "The analysts are already going over the mission data, but it looks like you did fairly significant damage to the LNG terminal and moderate damage both to the port and airport. Gun camera and data indicates you sunk one frigate, and Sho-sa, you got eight aircraft and damaged another two. Wendy, you destroyed at least four large aircraft at the airport, and damaged another two others, and damaged two freighters at the port itself."

You nod- that sounds about right. "Their response was badly delayed and disorganized." Kyou says. "Was that due to Lovelace?"

Merlin frowns. "It's too early to tell, but we think so." She says. "At least to some degree. Remember there were other wyverns active over Korea at the same time, so I'm sure they were attempting to deal with multiple threats at once. This is the first time we've had more than one drake attacking them at the same time, and we don't think they were quite prepared for it."

2/3 (oops)

Kyou nods. "It certainly didn't seem so. We saw no aircraft, other than the ones the Sho-sa engaged, and even that was a small number of them, considering how close to China we were. The Frigate was the only defense of any note in the area, though we did detect a few other ground defenses."

"Their aircraft were surprised by my presence." The Sho-sa says, her voice controlled and level. "They flew as if they were expecting no hostiles, and scattered with poor discipline when I attacked them."

Merlin nods at that. "That was the disruption on their command network." She says. "I do want to caution you that they'll start to adapt to that sort of thing- we can't count on it being effective all the time."

"If that's the case, perhaps it would be best to restore our countermeasures." Kyou says. "while they were never able to fire on us, it was unnerving to see so many fire-control radar locks on us."

"Well, if you want to do that, it's going to have to wait." Merlin says. "Right now we need you operational. Morgan, what do you think?"

Honestly, you're not sure. You were able to deal with your mission almost without any sort of opposition- which you could get used to. On the other hand, it did feel like you were kind of naked up there- what defenses there were could have easily given you a lot of trouble, had they come online even a few seconds earlier. You absolutely trust Kyou's powers, of course, but you'd rather not test her shield to the limit if you can avoid it- at least not in a live fire situation.

[] I think having Lovelace around is a big enough advantage that it's worth keeping. Maybe we should start mounting ECM pods?
[] Kyou's right. Lovelace is nice, but I'd rather have our ECM back when we can.

>>4209185
>[X] I think having Lovelace around is a big enough advantage that it's worth keeping. Maybe we should start mounting ECM pods?

>>4209185
>[x] Kyou's right. Lovelace is nice, but I'd rather have our ECM back when we can.

I'd call the votes, gents, but I think with only 2 I'll go grab some chow and let some more folks get in, haha!

>>4209185
>[] I think having Lovelace around is a big enough advantage that it's worth keeping. Maybe we should start mounting ECM pods?

>>4209185
[] Kyou's right. Lovelace is nice, but I'd rather have our ECM back when we can.

>>4209185
>[] Kyou's right. Lovelace is nice, but I'd rather have our ECM back when we can.

Really slow night gents, Would you guys prefer if we call it for the night with the OP and pick up again tomorrow, and extend out through Friday? I won't lie, I kinda don't want to leave a whole thread to 2-3 votes a post, haha!

and right as I say that we get two new votes. Alright! Votes called! haha.

>>4209185
>[x] I think having Lovelace around is a big enough advantage that it's worth keeping. Maybe we should start mounting ECM pods?
I feel like it is too early to call but I wasn't too enthused about a full install either way, this might be a nice middle ground for now.

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[x] Kyou's right. Lovelace is nice, but I'd rather have our ECM back when we can.

You think for a minute, then nod. "Kyou's right." You say. "Lovelace is nice, but I'd rather have our ECM back when we can."

Merlin nods. "He won't be happy to hear that, but I'll start on the arrangements." She says. "We won't be able to make any changes until later, probably after the landings, but we should be able to do it in a day or two when we do get the time."

"Will this affect his willingness or ability to perform his duties in the air?" Kyou asks.

Merlin shakes her head. "I don't think it will, no. For all his quirks, Lovelace is still a professional, and the best in his field. He'll be disappointed, and so will the agency, but he'll do what he's ordered to do anyway."

Kyou nods. "Very well." She says.

There's a short pause. "Does anyone have anything else?" Merlin asks. "If not, you're dismissed."

"I can't think of anything." Kyou says. "Wendy?"

"I've nothing to add, mum." Wendy says, and Kyou nods.

"Morgan?" Kyou asks.

[] I can't think of anything else, no.
[] do we have any information on the collateral damage yet?
[] Other! (Write in!)

>>4209350
Normally I'd have gone ahead and counted this, but I felt with the time we've already had today and the fact that you'd have tied the vote, It was better to go ahead and write the next post.

That being said, I'll be giving you guys plenty of chances to suss this out!

>>4209401
>[x]Do we have any information on the collateral damage yet?

>>4209401
>[] Other! (Write in!)
"I'd be willing to have Lovelace back in if there was a way to install the cores without compromising our ECM, but as of now it compromises the safety of the aircraft more than I'm comfortable with."

>>4209401
>[x] I can't think of anything else, no.

>>4209401
>[X] I can't think of anything else, no.

>>4209401
>>4209414
This.

>>4209414
Seconding.

ok, votes called!

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[x] Other! (Write in!) "I'd be willing to have Lovelace back in if there was a way to install the cores without compromising our ECM, but as of now it compromises the safety of the aircraft more than I'm comfortable with."

You're still not sure how you feel about the AI- you know you don't like the loss of your defensive electronic countermeasures, but at the same time, you don't want to lose the capability to paralyze local area command and control networks either. "I'd be willing to keep him if there was a way to do it without compromising our ECM." You say, after a second. "But right now it's a risk to my plane and my crew I'm not comfortable with."

Merlin nods. "That's fine. I'll work on something if I can, I have some ideas, but I haven't had the time so far." She says. "In the mean time, we can go ahead and mount existing ECM gear on the hard points. It'll mean a reduction in your load, but it should restore at least some of your countermeasures."

"We may well have to discuss that." Kyou says, looking over at you- you nod. You're ok with that, honestly, since more often than not you're landing with unexpended weapons aboard anyway, and with Muninn running it, you're able to do almost as well as a specialized electronic warfare aircraft with external pods- effectively a growler on steroids.

"That's fine." Merlin repeats. "I'll get to work, but in the mean time, if there's nothing else, you're all dismissed."

You all stand- you don't salute, of course, but you still wait for Merlin to nod again before leaving the ready room. Kyou halts your little group in the passageway outside. "Sho-sa, Dai-i, we will be retiring to our cabins, but we will be sending for you later." She says, getting a nod out of both of the Japanese witches. "If either of you has observations about the flight today, we would like to hear them then."

1/2

Both of them nod again, and, realizing they've been dismissed, they both turn, heading back to their own quarters aboard ship. Kyou lets them walk a short distance before turning to you and Wendy with a nod. "Now that that's done, I suspect our next discussion will be on who is able to shower first."

"I'm quite content to wait, mum." Wendy offers. "I can use the time to get a pot of tea on, perhaps?"

"Perhaps." Kyou responds, as she turns down the passageway back toward your quarters. "What were your opinions of them?"

"Dai-i Kurita seemed quite capable." Wendy says. "I think we'd have done quite a bit more damage, had she been similarly equipped as myself, but otherwise I was rather impressed."

"And the Sho-sa?" Kyou asks.

"Far more disciplined than I'd initially suspected, forgive me for saying it." Wendy responds. "I had taken her to be a more bloodthirsty type, but she didn't appear to argue with you at all when you ordered her to return. It's going to be rather difficult to decide which of their names to put forward."

"I thought so as well." Kyou says. "Morgan, were your impressions the same?"

[] Mostly. We still don't have a lot to go on, though.
[] Kind of, though I still prefer the Dai-i over her for the job.
[] Sort of, but I'm starting to think she's better suited than the Dai-i

>>4209576
>[X] Mostly. We still don't have a lot to go on, though.

>>4209576
>[x] Mostly. We still don't have a lot to go on, though.

>>4209576
>[x] Mostly. We still don't have a lot to go on, though.

Need more interaction to make a call. I don't want to assume personality traits based on anime pics alone; especially when they probably came out of Ghost's fap folder.

>>4209576
>[] Mostly. We still don't have a lot to go on, though.

>>4209576
>[] Mostly. We still don't have a lot to go on, though.

>>4209576
>[X] Kind of, though I still prefer the Dai-i over her for the job.

ok, votes called!

Got called away for something there, haha! This'll be our last update for the evening.

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[x] Mostly. We still don't have a lot to go on, though.

You nod. "Mostly." You say. "We still don't have a lot to go on, though."

"Not yet." Kyou agrees. "But it appears we're all in agreement that the decision isn't as clear cut as we had initially assumed."

"I did wonder what the army was doing, sending the Sho-sa here." Wendy remarks. "She seemed a prime candidate for discipline issues, not this position. I'm rather glad to see I was wrong."

Kyou nods, but the three of you walk back through the carrier in silence. The passages aboardship feel almost empty- you only see a few other people as you head back to the imperial cabins. It seems a little strange, though. A ship this big has thousands of crew, not to mention the embarked air wing and all it's support personnel, and the ship's landing troop compliment, the IJN's equivalent to the marine corps. Other than the landing troops, of course, most of them are going to be at their duty stations- with the ship on a war footing, there's little movement aboard outside of watch changes, and, of course, the aircraft handlers, who move back and forth between the flight deck and the hangar constantly.

The two marine guards in front of the imperial cabins snap to attention when Kyou rounds the corner, and they stay at attention until the hatch clicks closed behind you. "They seem rather unnecessary." Wendy remarks. "Tradition, I'm sure?"

Kyou nods, taking a seat on one of the chairs and slips off her shoes, while Wendy pulls out a teapot from the limited cabinets and fills it at the small sink, setting it on the electric heating plate and pulling out three cups. "Tradition states that while they're occupied, in absence of imperial guard household troops, a ship's landing troop contingent may provide a guard on the imperial cabins." Kyou explains. "Of course, with Morgan standing in for a personal bodyguard, I've no need or want of a contingent of household troops, and it's a massive waste of his talent to ask him to stand outside the door to watch for potential assassins or insurrectionists."

"I see." Wendy responds. "If you'd like the shower first, mum, I'll have a cup of tea ready for you when you're done."

1/2

Kyou smiles faintly and shoots a glance to you- you know what she'd like to say, but apparently changes her mind. "Thank you Wendy, that would be excellent." She says, standing up to head back into your rooms to finish taking off her flight suit and get a change of clothes. One thing you're sure is MIU bleed is her choice of 'relaxed' clothing- she prefers oversized T-shirts and if they're oversized enough to not require her to wear pants, so much the better. You're not quite big enough to make your PT shirts long enough for that, though- though you're also not sure how much longer that's really going to matter to her. She only wears as much as she does so as to not embarrass Wendy- and those days, you know, are rapidly approaching their end.

She emerges a short time later, wrapped in an oversize towel and carrying a change of clothes with her- she smiles at you as she passes, making sure to brush by you a little closely. You know what's on her mind, of course, but it can wait- and you know she knows that, too. Regardless, you let the door to the head close before shaking your head.

"She seems rather pleased." Wendy says, handing you a teacup and a small bag of tea. While it's not quite how you like- Wendy has always preferred lady grey tea, and you grew up drinking mostly sweet tea unless you needed a remedy, she prepares it well enough that you can't complain.

You nod.

Wendy laughs lightly. "I had thought for a second she intended to order me into the shower with her." She says, shaking her head. "Silly, of course. I can't imagine she wants for anything in that regard, if you'll let me say it."

[] Probably not as silly as you think, Wendy.
[] Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

>>4209781
>[] Probably not as silly as you think, Wendy.

And that's going to be it for the night!

Sorry about the slow start today, I'm still a little groggy even now- I took a short nap, but I haven't slept well the last couple nights. Hoping I can sleep better tonight, but I guess we'll see how it goes.

Anyway, I'll be around a bit to handle questions or comments if you gents have any, but otherwise, till tomorrow gents, cheers!

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>>4209781
>[X] Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

>>4209783
Thanks for the run boss.

>>4209781
>Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

>>4209781
>[x] Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

>>4209781
>[] Probably not as silly as you think, Wendy.

>>4209781
>[x] Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

>>4209783
Thanks for the run Ghost!

>>4209778
Man I hope Wendy wants a couple of kids from Morgan eventually. It'd be criminal for those Hips to go to waste.

>>4209781
>[x] Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

It's nice to see Wendy open up more.

>>4209781
>[X] Probably not as silly as you think, Wendy.

>>4209781
>[X] Probably not as silly as you think, Wendy.

>>4209781
>[x] Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

>>4209781
>[] Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

>>4209781
>[X] Probably not as silly as you think, Wendy.

Alright gents, votes called! Gonna make some coffee real fast, then we'll get rolling!

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[x] Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that.

You smile. "Not too long ago you'd have turned lobster red from just thinking that." You say, sipping your tea.

Wendy laughs again. "I'm sure I'm still perilously close to doing so now." She says. "Though I do feel, if you'll allow me to be a little presumptuous, that you and miss Kyou prefer the playfulness."

You nod. "We prefer it to nervousness and doubt, yes."

She smiles. "Well, it's rather hard to do away with those completely, but continuing to complain about them seems silly considering your feelings on the matter." She says, then frowns a little. "And for some reason, I do feel rather more close with the two of you than I have with most anyone else. I'm sure that's normal, though."

You nod- you're sure she knows why that is of course- neither Merlin nor the navy has ever made that particular facet of the MIU a secret, though it's not spoken of much. There had been some question regarding it with her, of course, if for no other reason than she'd be a third person, but in hindsight you should have suspected it- the AI is the same, for the most part.

"Regardless," She says. "I am afraid that continuing along this line of conversation may not be a wise idea, so let's change the topic. Do you think we'll be returning to Japan soon?"

[] Unwise how? I don't see a problem.
[] I doubt it, not with the MEF making a landing soon. They'll need us in theater too much.
[] Probably after the MEF lands. They're transferring in a lot of drakes and I don't think the Japanese are going to want to wait too long on getting their witches back.

>>4211261
>[X] I doubt it, not with the MEF making a landing soon. They'll need us in theater too much.

>>4211261
>[x] I doubt it, not with the MEF making a landing soon. They'll need us in theater too much.

But also
>[x] Unwise how? I don't see a problem.

I want to answer her question properly but I also don't want to give up on the opportunity to press her on... *personal* matters.

>>4211261
>[x] I doubt it, not with the MEF making a landing soon. They'll need us in theater too much.

>>4211261
>[] Unwise how? I don't see a problem.

>>4211261
>[] I doubt it, not with the MEF making a landing soon. They'll need us in theater too much.

>>4211261
>>4211270
This.

ok, votes called!

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[x] I doubt it, not with the MEF making a landing soon. They'll need us in theater too much.

You shake your head- you'll let her off the hook for now, you figure, but you know it's, at best, a temporary thing- Kyou has made her intentions fairly clear, and she can be rather single-minded in her pursuit of a goal. Though you're also starting to suspect Wendy doesn't really have a problem with it- not that you could prove it, and you're not sure about acting on it regardless.

"I doubt it," you say. "Not with the MEF landing soon, they'll need us in theater too much."

Wendy nods. "I had suspected as much, but felt I'd like to hear your or miss Kyou's opinion on it." She says, then smiles again. "I find myself sometimes wishing to be able to retire to my quarters in the palace again. They're rather pleasant, even if it's going to take some getting used to."

"Better than your apartment at the Styles'?" You ask, and she nods.

"Oh, very much so." She says. "Not to say they mistreated me, quite the opposite, but it's rather hard to compete with imperial comfort. I may have to redecorate though, I'm quite sure I don't have nearly enough to comfortably furnish the rooms."She shakes her head with a light laugh again. "I almost felt lost the night we spent in there. It's quite more than I'm used to, I almost feel as if I'm being spoiled."

"Almost?" You ask.

She laughs again. "Quite right. I am being spoiled, aren't I? Regardless, I see no reason to not enjoy it, as miss Kyou has made it abundantly clear I can expect it for the rest of my life." She pauses, settling back in her chair slightly, leaning her head back for a second. "It's quite wonderful to imagine."

[] We're glad you're happy with it.
[] Has she said anything about your race plane?

>>4211419
>[x] We're glad you're happy with it.

>>4211419
>[X] Has she said anything about your race plane?

>>4211419
>[] Has she said anything about your race plane?

Was the two-seater the one Wendy took Morgan's first time (flying) in?

>>4211419
>[x] Has she said anything about your race plane?

>>4211435
Yes.

>>4211445

Noice

>>4211419
>[] We're glad you're happy with it.

>>4211419
>[X] Has she said anything about your race plane?

ok, votes called!

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[x] Has she said anything about your race plane?

"Has she said anything about your race plane?" You ask. Technically, of course, the aircraft are owned by Styles air racing, and Wendy is just their pilot- but you can't see the Styles attempting to hold on to them if Kyou tries to buy them for Wendy- and you also can't see Kyou not making sure Wendy doesn't get to keep them.

Wendy nods. "She's discussed it some, yes." She says. "Though I feel I may be rather too old by the time my second career is over to return to the racing circuit. Regardless, she feels as if possession of the aircraft is important enough that she's promised she intends to look into it as soon as possible." She smiles again. "Though she's also asked if I'd be interested in operating a modified A6M, instead."

You laugh- so far as you know, Wendy's choice of aircraft was hers- and she's steadfastly refused to operate another type, despite offers by several other people, including your father, to furnish race modified airframes for her. The offer from your dad, particularly, was a good one- vought was offering to factory build a corsair to her specifications. That she turned it down was a bit of a surprise- at the time, it was widely assumed Wendy would do anything he'd asked, just for him asking. "What did you tell her?"

Wendy shakes her head. "I'd consider the offer, but I was quite pleased with my existing aircraft." She responds. "She didn't seem bothered, so I don't think I'll be changing types at all. Not that it matters, of course."

You shrug. "I've heard stories Charlotte Yeager flew long into her 80s." You point out. "And she still sneaks rides up in eagles."

Wendy nods. "Oh, of course. It's said that Patricia Townsend did the same until her passing, and that her last flights were in an Excalibur. Still, I doubt I'll be so lucky as to be able to continue flying as an air racing pilot in my sixties. My reaction times will have slipped badly enough that I suspect I'll be quite unable to manage by then, especially since I won't have the advantage of the MIU in a race plane."

"True." you say. "But you won't have to give up flying."

"Oh, no, not at all." She says, hurriedly. "I don't plan to do that at all. More to the point, miss Kyou has indicated she doesn't intend to allow me to stop anytime soon." She smiles. "She was rather clear on that point."

[] She's not going to allow you? I might have to talk with her.
[] You like that sort of thing from her?

>>4211596
>[x] You like that sort of thing from her?

>>4211596
>[x] You like that sort of thing from her?

There are times I worry that Kyou is getting a little to demanding.

>>4211596
> [] You like that sort of thing from her?

Maximum dom + maximum sub is... interesting.

>>4211596
>[X] You like that sort of thing from her?

>>4211596
>[x] You like that sort of thing from her?
I do wonder how much of this is Wendy actually liking taking orders and how much is just ingrained subservience from her time in the RAF

>>4211596
>[X] You like that sort of thing from her?

ok, votes called! I need to go grab some food real fast, so I'm going to do that, then get working on the update!

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[x] You like that sort of thing from her?

"You like that sort of thing from her?" You ask. You've long known Wendy prefers to be told what to do- always kind of has, so far as Maman has told you. She never speculated on why- Wendy's history isn't exactly a secret, but you suspect there's a lot more to it than just that. Her time in the RAF was bad, for sure, but it was so long ago- and such a comparatively short time period, all told.

Wendy hesitates a second before nodding. "I believe I do, yes." She says, then frowns. "I couldn't explain why quite sufficiently, I'm sure, but it's... " She pauses. "Comforting."

"Comforting?" you ask.

She nods. "Yes, I believe so." She says, nodding again. "I know that, perhaps for the first time, I belong where I am, both because I'm happy there and the other people involved are quite happy to keep me."

You nod as the shower shuts off from the other room- Kyou will be out pretty soon. Wendy looks over her shoulder and smiles. "And miss Kyou has been quite emphatic in my belonging." She says.

[] As long as you're happy with it then.
[] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

>>4211776
>[X] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

>>4211776
>[x] As long as you're happy with it then.

>>4211776
>[] As long as you're happy with it then.

>>4211776
>[X] As long as you're happy with it then.

>>4211776
>[] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

>>4211776
>[] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

Well, since it's a tie vote, and it's midnight- and I haven't slept for crap for the last couple nights, I think I'll leave this up overnight as our vote. I'd have liked to have gotten one more in, but I think this is fine for now, haha.

We may extend out an extra day because of the slow start Tuesday, we'll have to see where we get to tomorrow.

Anyway gents, I'll be around a bit to answer any questions or comments, but otherwise gents, till tomorrow, Cheers!

>>4211776
>[] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

>>4211776
>[] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

>>4211867
Thanks for the run Ghost!

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>>4211867
Thanks for the run boss.

>>4211776
>[X] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

>>4211776
>[x] As long as you're happy with it then.

>>4211776
>[x] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

Kyou worries me at times with her behavior.

>>4212775
Does it really matter as long as Wendy is happy?
>>4211776
[] As long as you're happy with it then.

>>4212775
Control on this level could be the start of an abusive relationship. Kyou means well for sure but it still makes my skin crawl at times.

>>4211776
>[] As long as you're happy with it then.

>>4212845
See
>>4212852
As I am apparently incapable of operating 4chan.

ok gents, sorry for the late start- I pulled something in my back or pinched a nerve or something, not sure, so I was sleeping it off. Well, trying to. haha! Anyway, votes called!

Hey Ghost, what's an Excalibur aircraft?

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[x] Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object.

You nod. "Just remember you belong as a teammate, not an object." You say. You know that that sort of thing is going to largely be lost on her- at least, according to maman. You can't understand it, of course- and you still feel compelled to get some kind of spark of independence out of the older witch, even if it is just to get her to realize she's a partner, and not some kind of slave.

She smiles and nods. "Of course." She says. "Miss Kyou is rather insistent on that point as well. But with the nature of our team, I don't see it making much difference. I can't leave, even should I want to, being bound by a similar contract to your own, and regardless I'm quite sure I don't want to leave, nor can I imagine any sort of situation where I'd wish to."

You nod again. "Still, it's important to me you understand the difference." You say.

"Oh, I do." She says, then smiles again. "Though I do plan to remain with the two of you as long as you'll allow me, and Miss Kyou has indicated that I may be considered part of the imperial household now, as are you- and that the position is quite permanent."

You don't have a chance to respond, as Kyou steps out of the attached head, finishing the act of running a comb through her dark hair. She smiles at the both of you, and nods to Wendy. "Wendy, if you'd like, the shower is free." She says.

Wendy glances over at you for a second, but then nods. "Yes mum." She says, standing up. "I'll only take a few minutes."

"Take as long as you wish." Kyou says, taking a seat next to you. "There is unlimited hot water aboard the carrier, and you've more than earned it."

Wendy nods, retreating to her room before emerging- still in her flight suit- and crossing the quarters to the head. Kyou sits quietly for a minute afterwards. "An unusual woman." She says, eventually. "Tell me, are all your so-called aunts like her?"

[] Wendy's a unique case, I think.
[] Well, all of them are a little crazy in their own way.

>>4213388
>[X] Well, all of them are a little crazy in their own way.

>>4213388
>[] Well, all of them are a little crazy in their own way.

They really are

>>4213388
>[] Well, all of them are a little crazy in their own way.

>>4213388
>[x] Well, all of them are a little crazy in their own way.

where's the lie

>>4213388
>[x] Wendy's a unique case, I think.
Not to say they aren't all at least a little crazy, just that Wendy is a bit unique among them.

>>4213388
>[] Well, all of them are a little crazy in their own way.

>>4213388
I don't think Wendy is abnormal. Or more than Kyou. Neither of the two options given really statisfy me.

>>4213458
You're always welcome to write a response in, even if I don't have write in listed!

Ok, votes called! For the record, to restate what I said here >>4213464 write in votes are always welcome, and I'll always do the best to honor their intent, if not use them exactly as written.

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[x] Well, all of them are a little crazy in their own way.

"Well," you say, thinking about it. "All of them are a little crazy in their own way." Even Rosalie- who you consider probably the most normal of the lot- is married to the commander of the French first armored division and you, like your father, have a suspicion of anyone that's willing to fight from inside a tank.

Kyou smiles, looking at the head- and, you suspect, imagining the witch in it. "But it would be safe to say Wendy is rather unique, even among them?" She asks.

You nod. Kyou knows the older witch's story by now, so there's no sense in repeating it, so far as you're concerned, but it's no stretch of the truth to say that, even among such cases as aunt Patty and Katya, Wendy is a bit of an outlier.

"It's unusual to meet one so..." Kyou pauses. "Needy." She says, eventually settling on a word. "I had assumed initially it was a personal weakness, but she's as strong as anyone I've ever met. She has no confidence in herself, though, which is unusual, and she practically begged me for reassurances I would never ask her to leave."

She smiles, looking over at you. "I was more than happy to give her those reassurances. It's almost as if she wishes to be told she won't be allowed to leave." She pauses. "Of course, she spoke to me on condition that she be allowed to bring you her concerns in her own time, and I won't violate that trust."

"She's worried about me?" You ask.

Kyou shakes her head. "No, I believe her primary concern was myself. Those concerns I have since addressed, I hope." She frowns. "I'm slightly concerned I may have stated my position with her too forcefully, however. She seems to consider herself bound to me, and while I have little reason or desire to complain about such a state of affairs, my concern is she now views herself as a favored maid or something similar."

"Wouldn't be surprising." You say- again, according to maman, at the end of the war there had been rumors Wendy would be staying with your father and the witches there, and it was something of a surprise when that didn't happen. It's one of the few times your Maman has had anything bad to say about any of them- even if they didn't want her to join them as the fifth member of their arrangement, she'd have just as happily stayed on as a live-in maid or housekeeper. Maman thinks that it was Tabitha acting selfishly that prevented it- in dereliction of her duty as Wendy's defacto matron at the time. Either way, though, it's not a subject that comes up much, if at all, really.

"It will be something that will have to be addressed." Kyou says. "I cannot have her believing she is mere house staff anymore than you are."

[] How do you plan to do that, though?
[] I think, as long as you keep making sure she's treated like she is now, she'll come around.

>>4213568
>[X] I think, as long as you keep making sure she's treated like she is now, she'll come around.

>>4213568
>[x] How do you plan to do that, though?
She is probably going to have a spectacularly bad (or hilarious) idea

>>4213568
>[] How do you plan to do that, though?

>>4213568
>[] I think, as long as you keep making sure she's treated like she is now, she'll come around.

>>4213568
>[X] How do you plan to do that, though?

>you, like your father, have a suspicion of anyone that's willing to fight from inside a tank.
Has Morgan even met his uncle Jake?

>>4213619
Morgan has such a big extended family that it wouldn't surprise me at all if there's large parts of it he straight up has never met, DESU

Ok, votes called!

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[x] How do you plan to do that, though?

"How do you plan to do that?" You ask, almost afraid of the answer you'll get.

Kyou smiles. "Why, take her as a lover, of course." She responds.

You must look like you were hit with a poleaxe- she starts to laugh. "Relax, it was a joke." She says, still smiling. "Though I still consider it a possibility, I'm willing to defer to you on the matter."

"Of starting a thing like my father has going?" You ask.

Kyou shrugs. "It's not the worst plan, and we both know the MIU functions the same with her as it does between us."

"I'd suspected that, yes." You mutter.

Kyou laughs. "Would it really be so bad a thing?" She asks. "I'm sure she'd be overjoyed at the prospect. At least, she's indicated as much to me, in our conversations."

You blink. "She has?"

"Not directly." Kyou says. "But her hinting is less than subtle to one versed in the intrigues of palace politics." She smiles. "I'm sure she's far to embarrassed to make such hints to you, though."

"Assuming I were to agree-" You start "And I'm not. But assuming I did, what would you do?"

Kyou shakes her head. "I haven't considered it." She says. "Regardless, now is not the best time, not aboard ship. Not with Admiral wells also sharing our quarters, and certainly not with the imperial witches flying with us. Of course, I'm also fairly sure that, were either of us to make a move, she would happily and quickly agree, regardless of circumstances."

[] I doubt it. That's not a challenge, by the way.
[] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.
[] I doubt it.

>>4213719
>[X] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.

>>4213719
>[x] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.

>>4213719
>[] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.

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>>4213719
>[x] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.

>Though I still consider it a possibility

>>4213719
>[] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.

>>4213719
>[x] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.

Much as I love the idea of Morgan having a MILF on each arm and a Wolf Princess on top, now's not the time to pursue it.

Ok, votes called!

>>4213719
>[X] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.
>>4213745
>MFW Bishop genes grant Harem Protagonist EX

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[x] Let's not worry about it. Like you said, now's not the time, regardless.

"Let's not worry about it." You say- she was looking for an excuse, you realize. You kind of wonder what happened to all that self-control she had- then again, you think, she probably feels like she can start letting some of it go in this instance. It's not like Wendy would really impact your ability to fight, you realize- and studies on the subject indicate it may actually improve the cohesion of the unit, though that justification is somewhat thin, at best. "Like you said, now's not the time, regardless."

Kyou nods. "I agree. Though once we return to the eastern palace, I will be asking for your decision on the matter." She says. "I expect that to be some time from now though."

You nod. "They're going to want us over Korea." You agree. "Especially with the MEF going in."

Kyou nods. "It also provides us a chance to finish our assessment of our imperial attachments without them needing to accompany us back to the imperial grounds." She says, smiling thinly. "Which, I am sure, was part of the goal with them. That is a point I wished to address with you, as well. I am sure, once we have made our recommendation, our selection will be forwarded to us to remain flying with us as a temporary measure." She frowns. "It will be anything but. I had intended to refuse, but thought it best to bring it up to you, first. Understand that regardless of what we are told, if we agree to keep our recommendation on, she will be remaining with us for at least the duration of the war."

"And probably past that, if Wendy is anything to go on." You say, and Kyou nods.

"There may be existing impressions there that make her position different, but I feel at this point we can assume anyone operating in an MIU network with us will end up in a similar position as hers." Kyou says, then smiles. "And while there are many examples of an imperial family member having some lovers beyond their spouse, I'm not eager to test the limits of that particular allowance. One is fine, Two is acceptable, but more than that may be troublesome."

1/2

You nod. "So you don't want either of them in a valkyrie with us at all?"

Kyou shakes her head. "I would prefer not, no." She says. "We would never be rid of them, if we did accept them, and three aircraft is not a feasible fighting element, which would necessitate a fourth, and that isn't acceptable to me given both the rarity of the system thus far and the necessary chaos a fourth selection would cause."

You can well imagine- with both of the witches you're assessing for the imperial military now being nobility, you can well guess what kind of influence they'd stand to gain by having a daughter in Kyou's immediate household, as well as at the cutting edge of imperial warfighting technology. It'd be enough so that the competition to gain the next spot would be incredibly fierce- and potentially underhanded.

"We can discuss it after our guests leave, this evening." Kyou says as the shower shuts off- Wendy should be out soon. "It is your turn to shower, and we both know you would not mind company." She says with a grin.

"Certain company." You correct her, standing up.

"Once Admiral Wells returns, I'll tell her." Kyou responds, her grin getting wider. "I suspect she'd be happy to join you."

You frown at the statement- though you do have to wonder if Kyou's right.

And that's going to be it for the week! I'd wanted to extend into tomorrow to make up for the slow start Tuesday, but that would have kind of had us closing out at an odd place, so this works out a little bit better, I think.

It also means I can get some icy hot on my back and try to figure out what I did- pulled a muscle or pinched a nerve or something, I guess, my lower back has been hurting all day today and most of yesterday, too. Getting old is hell, haha.

Anyway, as usual gents, I'll be around on and off through the weekend to answer questions or comments if anyone has any, but otherwise, till next week gents, cheers!

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>>4213880
Thanks for the run boss.

>>4213880
Thanks for running.

>>4213880
Thanks for the run Ghost!

>>4213880
thanks for running Ghost

>Getting old is hell, haha.
indeed it is, I somehow sprained my ankle while sleeping and couldn't walk on it for 2 days last week

>>4214029

Sad part is IDK what I even did, because it happened between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. It's irritating to cripple yourself in your sleep! haha.

>>4213880
>some icy hot
Some what ?

>>4214583
Topical muscle relaxer. It didn't work, haha!

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Sorry for the later start gents, I slept in a bit, haha! Well, that and I ended up re-writing parts of the OP a couple times. I'm going to get this up, but then go get myself some chow, so the voting period may be a bit longer, maybe 45 minutes or so. Apologies in advance if it runs longer than that.

========================================================================

Your shower was, perhaps a little surprisingly, accomplished without interruption by 'company'. You're not sure if you're happy or a little disappointed at that fact- while being able to shower alone is a luxury you always enjoy, given the company you could have had, you're sure you wouldn't have minded. It beats one of your sisters barging in for whatever reason- their definition of 'personal space' could be highly variable, especially the snakes.

Instead, dressed in a fresh pair of NWUs, you step out to find Kyou sitting on the couch, sipping tea serenely. She looks up and smiles at you, setting her tea down. "You know the uniform is unnecessary in quarters, yes? I will happily admit it looks excellent on you, but if you wish to wear something more comfortable no one will complain."

You shrug- you don't carry more than one set of civilian clothes in your effects, and your PT gear seems a bit light, honestly. One of the advantages of the imperial cabins is that they have their own air conditioning- and Kyou prefers to keep it a little on the cooler side.

"Admiral Wells is in." She says, conversationally. "I had asked if she wished to join you in the shower. She turned the most interesting shade of red but responded that she didn't think it would be a good idea right now." Kyou tilts her head to one side. "Of course, this means there is a time when she does think it would be a good idea, or anticipates one, at the least. I'm interested to see which it is."

"And how to make it happen, no doubt." You respond, returning to your seat after getting a bottle of water out of the small refrigerator set into the tiny galley.

Kyou shrugs. "I see no problem with the idea." She says. "However, I've no desire to become like your sisters and constantly speculate to you about relationships."

You say a silent prayer of thanks for that, then look around. "Where's Wendy?" You ask.

Kyou smiles again. "Changing." She says. "I got her a small gift, of sorts."

"A gift?" You ask, and she nods.

1/2

"Well, a gift and a change of uniform." Kyou responds. "I'd noticed she seemed to often wear legwear that displayed the unit emblem of VF-3 Spellcaster, despite no longer being a member of that squadron."

You nod- Wendy's incredibly fond of them, you know, and while she tended to wear a fire-retardant flight suit in her races, for public appearances she usually went bareleg, with the gray and crimson thigh high socks being a prominent feature of her outfit.

Kyou frowns. "While I'm not bothered by her enjoying them, I thought it more fitting she wear something more suited to her current situation." She says. "So I arranged for several pairs of similar stockings to be made with a scheme more fitting for her place now."

You blink, and Kyou laughs. "I'd thought of asking your opinion on it, but that seemed unnecessary." She says, looking over as Wendy steps out of her room wearing, you assume, the new stockings. "Ah, there. What do you think, Wendy?"

Wendy's smile cuts across her face, practically from ear to ear. "They're wonderful mum, thank you so much." She says.

Kyou nods. "Excellent. I'm glad you approve of them." She says, then looks up at the clock. "If you don't mind, will you see to it that our meal is sent up?"

Wendy nods and steps out of the room quickly.

"I think she likes them." Kyou muses. "I expected she would."

[] Gifts like that go a long way with her.
[] What made you decide on those, though?

>>4222696
>[X] Gifts like that go a long way with her.

>>4222696
>[x] Gifts like that go a long way with her.

>>4222696
>[x] Gifts like that go a long way with her.

>>4222696
>[X] Gifts like that go a long way with her.

>>4222696
>[X] Gifts like that go a long way with her.

>>4222696
>[] Gifts like that go a long way with her.

ok, votes called!

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[x] Gifts like that go a long way with her.

"Gifts like that go a long way with her." You say, and Kyou nods.

"She has a quite evident need to belong." She says. "Both, I think, in the sense of being a part of something else, and in the sense of having someone over her A better, if you will." She pauses. "While it's difficult to see her as being inferior at all to anyone, I had them include a version of the household seal, and made it clear that while we were on duty, she wasn't to wear her old VF-3 clothing any longer."

"How'd she react?" You ask.

Kyou smiles. "She seemed overjoyed, and you saw her reaction to wearing them yourself." She says. "I believe that, combined with continual reinforcement, it will be good for her state of mind to think of herself as belonging here, with us."

You nod. While you have reservations about the depth and nature of the 'belonging' that Kyou's speaking about, you also admit to yourself she's not exactly wrong. And the evidence you're seeing now points in that direction as well- Wendy's been opening up more, and seems less nervous and worried, and far more energetic.

"Regardless." Kyou says. "I'll be assigning someone from the household staff to arrange for transport of her things from America to her place in the eastern palace. I was waiting to see if you'd prefer me to arrange the same for you."

You shrug. It's not like you have a lot of things stateside- the contents of two rooms, for the most part. You've never really lived on your own, you realize- you moved from living with Maman to the academy at Annapolis, and then from there to the fleet. There's also your car, of course- a 1970 426hemi Barracuda that Maman got from someone, somewhere as a project car for you. It took you all of your highschool years, but you managed to restore it- with significant help from around the bayou. Sometimes, being the unofficial prince of the coven had it's advantages.

[] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.
[] Yeah, I think that might save us some headache, though moving the car is going to be a pain.

>>4222941
>[X] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.

>>4222941
>[x] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.

>>4222941
>[X] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.

>>4222941
>[X] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.

>>4222941
>] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.

LOCAL WOLF PRINCESS NEGOTIATES WITH CAT-MOM

Ok, votes called!

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>>4222941
>[x] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.

>'70 Hemi Cuda

I wonder if this is Ghost's way of saying that we treated Wendy kind of wrong as Frank.

>>4222941
>[X] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.

>>4223036
Nah; from what i'm reading it was all in-universe stuff after the quest. Ice probably being the most to blame.

Like, I think the only way we could've treated wendy any better in the last quest (short of literally putting her on a leash) would have been to choose her as the "winning" girl instead of the harem route.

Also I feel like it'd have been out of character for Frank to dictate things to Wendy like Kyou does, in a general sense.

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[x] I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person. She's going to want to see us there at some point.

"I think we'd better wait to arrange things with maman in person." You respond- while you're sure maman wouldn't try to obstruct the move, you're also sure she'd make her displeasure known that you decided to move out in such an impersonal way. "She's going to want to see us there at some point."

Kyou nods. "I had considered that." She says. "And had assumed as much, but felt it better to ask."

You nod. "Maman's probably already having to deal with why we haven't visited yet." You say, picturing it in your mind. While the war gives her an excuse no other maman would dare argue against- especially considering how many congratulatory letters you got from them after your acceptance to flight school and again to the wyvern program. Of course, you're sure they're all also anxious to meet Kyou. That's always been the down side of being the prince, you think- any girlfriend you've ever had had to pass every single maman's test.

None of them to this point ever have- though, you think, none of them to this point have ever been imperial royalty.

"I suspect the trouble there will be Wendy." Kyou says. "I cannot imagine that there are conventions in place for that sort of thing in your home as well, regardless of your father, and I refuse to leave her out of anything we may do."

You shrug. "Maybe, maybe not. Wendy's known back home, and well enough liked." Officially, you're told, the stance is she's a wonderfully pleasant person, and more than welcome at any coven function or social gathering- but not maman material by a long margin. It'll get a few raised eyebrows, for sure, but everything considered, it's probably less noteworthy than Maman Dauterive marrying a man from New York, which caused something of a scandal that still reverberates to this day- nearly forty years on.

1/2

Of course, you think- adding anyone else to the equation may tip the scales against you. But there again, it might not- it's hard telling, honestly. Witches sharing a particularly strong, skilled or valiant man in the past isn't unheard of in the traditional works, and while it's effectively a dead practice, it's not like the mamans don't at least pretend to care about tradition.

You both are cut out of the conversation by Merlin emerging from her room, towel in hand. "If the shower's free?" She says- Kyou nods.

"Morgan was the last to use it." She says.

Merlin nods and walks past, looking a little tired still- she must have only been dozing, but given how she's walking and her expression, she'll shower, brush her teeth, and be out like a light.

"It's hard to understand how she can spend so much time with our aircraft." Kyou says as Merlin steps into the bathroom and the door clicks closed behind her. "I understand loving them, but it seems as if she is never satisfied that everything is in order."

[] She's always buried herself in that sort of thing, it's just how she is.
[] She's always got something or other she can improve, so to her nothing ever is in order.

>>4223131
>[X] She's always got something or other she can improve, so to her nothing ever is in order.

>>4223131
>[x] She's always got something or other she can improve, so to her nothing ever is in order.

Curse of the (slightly) mad genius

>>4223131
>[x] She's always got something or other she can improve, so to her nothing ever is in order.

>>4223131
>[] She's always got something or other she can improve, so to her nothing ever is in order.

>>4223131
>[X] She's always got something or other she can improve, so to her nothing ever is in order.

ok, votes called!

>>4223131
>[] She's always buried herself in that sort of thing, it's just how she is.

Assuming, of course, she's not just completely burying herself in work so that she doesn't have to think about her failed token marriage and her taboo feelings for her best friend's son who's young enough to be *her* son.

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[x] She's always got something or other she can improve, so to her nothing ever is in order.

You smile at Kyou's assessment- it's correct, partly. "She's always got something she can improve, so to her nothing ever is in order." You explain. "She's probably working nonstop with Muninn and Tessa to enhance their performance. If we were at a land base, she'd have a magic shop set up to fabricate things to her spec."

Kyou nods. "She's indicated as much. It's a pity that we can't make similar arrangements for her as we did for Wendy, I'm sure any of the companies in the empire would fall over themselves to arrange such a thing. Merely being seen to have a secretive shop inside the palace grounds would be a huge boon to any of them."

You frown. "She's married and has two daughters." you point out.

Kyou smiles. "And yet she never wears a wedding ring or speaks of her family." She retorts, then shakes her head. "Regardless, I am not suggesting anything, merely noting that it is a pity."

You shrug. "She had something like that at Barin, I think." You say. "And I'm pretty sure she's got a place there at the Vought plant in Dallas, too."

Kyou nods. "She is the kind of asset any company would wish to keep close." She says. "I am sure there are many who have attempted to steal her from them."

[] Like yourself?
[] More than a few. It's only worked a couple times, that I'm aware of.

>>4223217
>[X] More than a few. It's only worked a couple times, that I'm aware of.

>>4223217
>[x] More than a few. It's only worked a couple times, that I'm aware of.

>>4223217
>[x] More than a few. It's only worked a couple times, that I'm aware of.

Doesn't she have some bad history with the Japanese industry? Something to do with Kenji?

>>4223217
>[] More than a few. It's only worked a couple times, that I'm aware of.

>>4223226
Don't forget the ship's matron was implied to have been a part of that too. I'd imagine part of the whole busy shtick here is to avoid her when she can...

ok, votes called!

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[x] More than a few. It's only worked a couple times, that I'm aware of.

"More than a few." You say, thinking back- you know that, after the navy, she went to work for Lockheed-Martin for a while, and while there had been talk of her leaving the US to go to work for Mitsubishi, the ending of her relationship and the subsequent ugliness put a rapid end to that. Supposedly, the only reason she want to Vought was because they offered to pick up Frank as well to work directly with her- and that if he doesn't move again, she probably won't either. It's part of the reason the company lets him get away with as much as he does, you're sure. "It's only worked a couple times that I'm aware of."

Kyou nods. "I do wonder, though, if that indicates simply that she's shrewd enough to recognize a better offer, or if she prefers to follow someone she feels close to." She says. "It's well known that she had a feud of sorts with the imperial coven, yet, here she is, with an imperial witch as her apprentice, no less."

You nod. Maman has said as much, as well- her opinion is Merlin is happiest working with your father, and so getting him to come onboard was the key to Vought's success in that regard. It's also something maman cautioned you about- that if that ever changed and Merlin started following you, for example, you'd find yourself even more a hot property than you already were. You don't remember the exact words Maman had for you, but you remember the overall message- if that were to happen, you'd, more or less, have to take up the same role as your father did regarding her. Maman was, and still is, of the opinion that while she's adorable, Merlin isn't capable of functioning as an adult quite correctly.

Kyou pauses. "Regardless, it's not a concern I have currently." She says, then smiles. "While I do find myself concerned for her well being, Wendy is of more immediate import."

1/2

You nod, then smile. "Funny part is, you switched their places and they'd both have been happy." You point out. "Merlin living over her hangar, Wendy married with a little family."

Kyou nods. "From our discussions, that was one of her dearest wishes." She says, then frowns. "I am unsure if what we're doing is correct, but it does seem as if she's much more content with her life now. I imagine if she were to see us as family, that would improve, but I also intend to leave the final step there to her and your decision."

You nod- Kyou's 'final step' isn't one you're eager to rush, exactly- and while you don't have the same objections to it you would if she were proposing the same thing with, say, Merlin, you do have some. Still, the logic follows the evidence so far- the more Kyou's driven home the belonging, the more Wendy has responded. Regardless, though, you don't exactly feel the need to rush things along- Wendy's doing fine enough as-is.

"Putting aside our plotting regarding our attractive older roomates, as enjoyable as it is, I wished to discuss our aircraft." Kyou says. "I have been thinking that it may be acceptable to mount countermeasure equipment externally. It will ruin our stealth characteristics, but at this point I see little reason in keeping them. We have never acted in a role where low obeservability is important."

"And you're ok with keeping Lovelace?" You ask. She frowns, but nods.

"As disagreeable as I find his personality, it's impossible to deny his effectiveness." She says. "And I know that it's possible to get most, if not all, of our integrated ECM equipment into pods beneath two hardpoints, though we may have to request them to be fabricated to our specifications. I have been wondering about the effect that would have on his ability to function outside our aircraft, though."

[] Well, we can always just ask him directly.
[] Let's let Merlin finish her shower, and we can ask her.

And that's going to be it for the night!

I'm still hammering at those update times, an hour is good, but should be better. Pacing isn't gonna get quite back to the '89 days, I know, but still. I'll keep working at that, gents, and thanks for your patience.

Anyways, since that's all for the evening, I'll be around a little to answer questions or comments anyone has, otherwise, till tomorrow gents, cheers!

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>>4223354
>[X] Let's let Merlin finish her shower, and we can ask her.

>>4223357
Thanks for the run boss.

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>>4223129
>Maman Dauterive
I'm now picturing a Witchy version of Bill.
It is a horrifying mental image, and I curse you for it, Ghost.

>>4223354
>[x] Let's let Merlin finish her shower, and we can ask her.

>>4223361
No comment.

>>4223354
>[] Let's let Merlin finish her shower, and we can ask her.

So if Merlin takes too long in the shower, who gets to go in and get her?

>>4223354
>[x] Well, we can always just ask him directly.

>>4223357
Thanks for the run Ghost!

>>4223354
>[] Let's let Merlin finish her shower, and we can ask her.

Just imagine the can of whoop ass we can open on the chinese when Merlin comes up with a ECM suite that can fit alongside Lovelace, giving us our stealth back. We'd go from something they can see and dread and run away from, to something they'll never know was there, even after all their forces are dead and burning.

>>4223357
thanks for running boss

>>4223354
>[X] Let's let Merlin finish her shower, and we can ask her.

>>4223354
> "Funny part is, you switched their places and they'd both have been happy." You point out. "Merlin living over her hangar, Wendy married with a little family."

If Merlin's marriage goes bad that's not out of the question. Merlin with a garage workshop in the eastern palace, Wendy mothering everyone's kids, Kyou and Morgan flying/doing whatever princesses do

>>4223388
Aren't Merlin and Wendy way too old to have kids at this point? Like, late 40s/early '50s?

>>4223366
You know what you did, Ghost.
Live with your shame.

>>4223392
IIRC Witchy magics keeps them fertile for a super long time in addition to making them look like they're forever 20.

>>4223396
Kind of. There are some limits to the extent magic can prolong things like that- talented healwitches tend to be able to use that sort of magic more effectively, sometimes enough to effect a 40 year swing- so a 60 year old healwitch would be able to look (and act) as if she were in her 20s. For untalented witches, it's largely dependent on strength- while Kyou might be able to match (or exceed- superwitches are whole other level, and there's not a lot of hard data on what they can do) a healwitch, for Wendy or Merlin, a 20 year offset is probably the limit of what they can do.

so....if we had taken merlin's daughter as our backseat......would be be in an oyakodon situation?

>>4223423
Ah, I see.

Well, late '30s is still in the safe range. Not to mention the inherent attractiveness of a pair of 30-something MILFs

>>4223427

Delicious.

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>>4223427
>>4223455
...Against my better judgement I'm going take the bait and remind you both that Merlin's daughters are like 12.

>>4223467
If we take both of them at once that adds up to 24, so it's legal.

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>>4223472

>>4223354
>[x] Let me go into the shower, and I can ask her.

Ok, votes called!

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[x] Let's let Merlin finish her shower, and we can ask her.

"We can ask Merlin when she's out of the shower." You say, looking back over your shoulder at the closed door to the head for a second.

Kyou smiles. "Are you certain you don't wish to go in and ask her now?"

You nod. "She's married, Kyou." You say again- and Kyou nods again, taking a sip of tea.

"Of course." She says- in a way that indicates she doesn't think that's a very valid counterargument. Either that or it won't be one in the future. You're fairly sure she's wrong though- at least, you tell yourself you are.

"Regardless, it does raise some interesting possibilities." Kyou says. "I'll admit, I had always preferred the ability to enter their airspace with them knowing we were coming, making a challenge to them every time we flew. This ability to fly in unseen and unmarked, leaving only wreckage behind us is far more your taste in things though, I am sure."

You shrug. "It's more effective." You say. It's a difference in philosophy, you know- your personal take on the matter is that Maman's approach to warfare makes the most sense. You can't fight something you never see, as opposed to your father who, as far as anyone can tell, favored Kyou's sort of approach. Of course, you think, Kyou's far more aggressive about things than Frank ever was, which makes sense. Kyou's known as the wolf princess, Frank's known as the worlds most deadly golden retriever.

Kyou smiles. "I am unsure of that, but you are the aircraft commander." She says. "And I do find it hard to argue with our current successes. However, it does also lead into what to do with Wendy?"

You frown. "In what way?"

"Her aircraft has similar potential for specialization as ours." Kyou responds. "She has indicated she'd prefer in specializing in ways to better defend our aircraft from her position as our wingmate, but I feel that's largely wasting her on something we can do perfectly well ourselves."

[] So what are you thinking?
[] I'm not sure. If that's what she wants to do, we should listen.

>>4224786
>[X] So what are you thinking?

>>4224786
>[x] So what are you thinking?
>[x] Though we should listen to Wendy's opinion on the matter too

>>4224786
>>4224790

+1

And i'm wondering just how much of Kyou shipping Morgan with older women is her responding to the MIU bleed and how much is straight up her own thirst coming into play

>>4224786
>[x] I'm not sure. If that's what she wants to do, we should listen.

>>4224786

>[] So what are you thinking?

MURDERCAKE

Ok, votes called!

>>4224786
>[] So what are you thinking?

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[x] So what are you thinking?

"So what were you thinking?" You ask.

Kyou shakes her head. "I'm not certain." She admits. "I feel it's a waste of her ability for her to merely be flying defensively for us, especially considering the presence of Muninn, but at the same time, I find it difficult to argue with the weight of her experience in the matter." She says.

You nod- Wendy's combat experience was a deciding factor in convincing Kyou to go along with her over Spears, you know, and it's proven so far to be a good decision. You do sometimes wonder what it would have been like with the Marine witch on your wing, but you're just as glad to have Wendy. Probably more glad, everything considered- Wendy and Kyou have turned out to get alone incredibly well. How much of that is just because of their personalities is a good question- but at least some of it is.

"At the same time, her performance thus far has more than proven she's entirely capable on her own." Kyou says.

"And her preference is to improve her ability to cover us?" You ask.

Kyou nods. "Yes." She says. "Were we in a first generation wyvern, or a conventional aircraft, I'd have no objections to it, but in a modern Wyvern there's little point in it. The aircraft was designed to operate alone, and while she has expanded our capabilities immensely, restricting her to flying with us seems unacceptable to me."

You nod, thinking. Wendy is skilled- there's no doubt about that for anyone involved- and you've repeatedly indicated to her that her opinion has weight- but at the same time, Kyou's right. For as much as she wants to be the loyal wingmate, it's a waste to employ her just to cover your back, especially if you get your defensive countermeasures back.

Kyou nods. "It is a dilemma." She says. "I feel as if we'd be best suited by improving her aircraft's offensive abilities, with as often as we detach her to attack targets independently of us. I'm not sure what could be done in that regard, however." She pauses. "Another question for Merlin."

You nod, agreeing. "She's been in the shower a while." You say, frowning.

Kyou smiles. "Perhaps she is merely enjoying the hot water." She states, just as you hear the showerhead turn off. "Either that or she was merely waiting to see if someone intended to come check on her. I had considered asking you to a minute ago. A missed opportunity."

[] Clearly.
[] We'll have to make sure to not miss it next time, then.

>>4224952
>[X] Clearly.

>>4224952
>[] We'll have to make sure to not miss it next time, then.

>>4224952
>[X] Clearly.

I can say right now that you can yank out all four Machine Guns and replace them with say a pair of M39 20mm Revolver Cannons which were used by the F-5 and F-20.....

>>4224952
>[x] We'll have to make sure to not miss it next time, then.
Hey Ghost

What kind of showerheads does this shower use.

The handle on a flexible tube kind in every Japanese animu?

>>4224952
>[x] Clearly.

>>4224952
>[] Clearly

>>4224986

No comment.

Votes called!

>>4225016
Aaaaah, the silence is deafening..

Well then. Now we know what Merlin was doing in the shower for so long then.

>>4224982
1. The M39 is twice the combined weight of the .50 Browning AN/M3 and MG3 it would be replacing, and probably too large to fit in the existing space.
2. If weight and space aren't a concern, why wouldn't you go with the gun that replace the M39, the M61 Vulcan?

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[x] Clearly.

"Clearly." You say, as dryly as you can manage. Kyou laughs.

"Regardless, it's done." She says, taking another sip of tea.

Merlin emerges from the head a couple minutes later, a small cloud of steam wafting out of the room when she opens the door. She's managed to get herself into what passes for her sleeping clothes- a slightly oversized T-shirt with the UAC logo on it- no doubt a promotional item she had sent her way by Id for their new doom release- and a pair of relatively plain black underwear that are only just not covered by the shirt. She's pretty popular in the gaming scene- nowhere near as influential as she is in the technology and engineering field, of course, but still a well-known figure- and gets promotional shirts and things all the time, usually without any sort of request for them. Better than half the time, she's just handed them to you- you've still got many of them.

"Many apologies, admiral, but if you have a minute, we should like to talk?" Kyou says.

Merlin looks at the two of you for a second before nodding- she does look tired, you note, no doubt overdoing it again. You make a mental note to keep a closer watch on her, or at least detail someone else to do it for you. She pads over to the chair nearest you and sits, yawning.

"What-" Merlin's cut off by another yawn. "Did you want to talk about?" She asks.

Kyou looks over at you. "Perhaps now is not the time." She says. "It can wait, and I'm afraid if we keep you here, Morgan will have to assist you to bed."

Merlin shakes her head. "It's fine." She says, then smiles. "I can stay up for a few more minutes."

"If you're certain." Kyou says. "Morgan and I had been discussing our countermeasures gear. Would it be possible to reinstall it in external pods?"

Merlin frowns. "It would, though we'd need to run simulations to see how that would affect Lovelace." She says. "The four interior hardpoints are wired for pods and strong enough for them, only your outboard mount can't handle them. It would block the FAST pack weapons bays, though, so we'd want to convert that over or change them out."

Kyou nods. "We were also discussing the possibility of modifying Wendy's aircraft to better mesh with our own." She says. "But we were unsure of what can be done in that regard."

Merlin nods. "I have some ideas in mind, but aboard ship they'll be hard to implement." She says. "I've been waiting for additional feedback from the other teams about their experiences so far before really setting down to do anything."

"I see." Kyou says. "Do you think the ECM change will be possible aboard ship?"

"Probably." Merlin says. "The Kaga's equipped to handle that sort of thing, I'll have to take a look though. But it means you'll be using off the shelf components, at least for now."

"That's acceptable to me, if Morgan agrees?"

[] Yeah, that's fine.
[] I think I'd rather operate as-is right now, I'd rather not lose the space in the FAST packs just yet.

>>4224982
I'd just as soon drop the 30s for more 50 cal ammo if it's not possible to add 2 more 50s.

>>4225129
>[] I think I'd rather operate as-is right now, I'd rather not lose the space in the FAST packs just yet.

>>4225129

[] Yeah, that's fine.

Someone remind me how much space our fast packs have again?

>>4225129
>[X] I think I'd rather operate as-is right now, I'd rather not lose the space in the FAST packs just yet.

>>4225129
>[X] I think I'd rather operate as-is right now, I'd rather not lose the space in the FAST packs just yet.

>>4225139
>they can carry six AMRAAMS o-or eight sidewinders each

>>4225129
>[x] I think I'd rather operate as-is right now, I'd rather not lose the space in the FAST packs just yet.

It's just too much firepower to give up, especially since we seem to be fighting Ace Combat quantities of enemies.

>>4225129
>[x] Yeah, that's fine.

>>4225139
Up to Six AMRAAMs or Eight Sidewinders in each pack, we've mostly been running them with mixed loads. The other FAST packs were Weapons/Fuel and ECM/Fuel. IIRC the ECM/Fuel one had TALD bays as well.

ok, votes called!

>>4225177
Might as well just put ECM/Fuel in one then in the interim, then.

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[x] I think I'd rather operate as-is right now, I'd rather not lose the space in the FAST packs just yet.

You frown. "I think I'd rather operate as-is right now." You say. "I'd rather not lose the space in the FAST packs just yet."

Kyou frowns, thinking. "Considering the numbers they're consistently deploying against us, that may be for the best." She says. "Though I am still uneasy about flying without countermeasures equipment for the time being."

Merlin nods. "I'll come up with some things and then get to you with them." She says, yawning again. "Now, what about Wendy?"

"She's indicated she'd like to start to optimize her aircraft to better support our own." Kyou says, "But neither Morgan nor I feel that's a good use of her ability, and were wondering about what can be done to increase her offensive capability. In particular, I feel the guns are of concern."

"I'll have to look, but I think there's some things we can do." Merlin responds. "You're not the only ones saying that, by the way, so I think that's a mistake in our design."

Kyou shakes her head. "For a witch, it should have proven more than sufficient." She says. "And it may prove to be so in a production model. Also is there any possibility of adding weapon stations to the aircraft? I realize it's quite small and the wings can't support it, but perhaps on the wing glove or fuselage?"

"Possibly." Merlin says. "We'd considered two canted hardpoints on the wing glove, but we discarded it because it would block the ability to shift modes with them occupied. We can certainly add them if that's what you want, though."

Kyou nods. "We'll discuss it with her, some, but I believe so, yes." She says, looking at you. "Morgan, do you agree?"

[] It sounds like we should just wait till we've got some down time again.
[] I think so, at least for now. Can that be done quickly, or will it take her out of action a while?

>>4225265
>[] It sounds like we should just wait till we've got some down time again.
kinda don't want to rush it. Limiting the ability of a transforming mecha to, well *transform* rarely ends well.

>>4225265
>[x] It sounds like we should just wait till we've got some down time again.

>>4225265
>[X] It sounds like we should just wait till we've got some down time again.

>>4225265
>[] It sounds like we should just wait till we've got some down time again.

>>4225265
>[] It sounds like we should just wait till we've got some down time again.

ok, votes called, this'll be our last one of the evening!

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[x] It sounds like we should just wait till we've got some down time again.

"It sounds like we should just wait till we've got some down time again." You say, and Kyou nods.

"I agree." She says. "I hadn't considered all the other work that would go into this."

Merlin nods, yawning again and going to stand up slowly. "I think that's a good idea." She says. "If there's an emergency or you need me, come get me, but I'm going to bed."

You nod, and Kyou smiles. "Sleep well." She says, as Merlin slowly makes her way to her bedroom and closes the lightweight door behind her most of the way, leaving it cracked open just a bit.

Kyou leans back in her chair. "Well, that's unfortunate." She says.

You shake your head. "It works out, it just means she'll have more time to come up with what we need."

"Yes, but it also means we'll be flying in a worse configuration than we were." She says. "Regardless, I'm sure it will be fine for the time being, but we are going to need to change it."

You nod, agreeing, as the hatch into the passageway opens and Wendy steps in, accompanied by two IJN sailors, all of them carrying trays of food. "Bell peppers and beef." Wendy says as she sets her trays down on the table and directs the sailors to do so as well. After they do, they both bow and leave the compartment. "They also sent up rice." She says, popping open the containers. "Should I start serving it here?"

"We'll join you at the table, Wendy." Kyou says, looking over at you. "Morgan, should you go in and see if Admiral Wells wishes to join us, or do you wish to let her sleep?"

She's probably out already, you know- and she'll eventually wake up and go hunting for food here in the imperial cabins before leaving for the all hours galley- but she's probably also not had anything but monsters for the last day or so, which, of course, you don't approve of. It wouldn't be the first time you've had to drag her to the table- or carry her, whichever- but usually you let her sleep when it's between the two.

[] She'll be fine, we'll just leave some for when she gets up.
[] Yeah, I'll go get her.

and that's going to be it for the evening!

I was going to go to the range tomorrow, but I'm down to my last six mags for my rifle, so I figured I'd skip it till prices came down a bit, haha! So, as always, I'll be around to field questions or comments if there are any!

Otherwise, gents, till tomorrow, cheers!

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>>4225459
>[X] She'll be fine, we'll just leave some for when she gets up.

>>4225463
Thanks for the run boss.

>>4225459
>[] Yeah, I'll go get her.

it's been, like, two minutes.

>>4225459
>[X] She'll be fine, we'll just leave some for when she gets up.

>>4225459
>[X] She'll be fine, we'll just leave some for when she gets up.

>"Bell peppers and beef."
At least it's not without the beef.

>>4225459
>[] She'll be fine, we'll just leave some for when she gets up.

thanks for running Ghost

>>4225459
>[x] She'll be fine, we'll just leave some for when she gets up.

As much as i'd like for the chance for her to sleepily snog Morgan as he tries to wake her up; let the woman sleep.

>>4225459
>[x] Yeah, I'll go get her.

>>4225463
Thanks for the run Ghost!

>>4225459
>[x] Yeah, I'll go get her.
Time to force feed Merlin...

>>4225459
>[] Yeah, I'll go get her.

Because she WILL forget if not fed now

ok gents! Just rolled out of the sack, sorry for the late start. Votes called!

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[x] She'll be fine, we'll just leave some for when she gets up.

You consider going to get her- you know that if she's asleep, it's only just, and waking her up to eat wouldn't be so bad, but you shake your head. "She'll be fine." You say, trying to figure out how to help Wendy without getting in the way- you eventually decide you can't really, and so just take a seat. "We'll just leave some for her when she gets up."

Wendy nods, setting aside one plate and taking the other two to the table. "Wendy, sit." Kyou orders the older witch. "You can set aside her food after you've eaten."

Wendy hesitates- but takes the plate and joins you at the table. "Sorry mum." She says, a bit subdued. Kyou smiles, reaching across the table to put a hand on the older witch's arm.

"You worry about others first, and that is admirable." Kyou says. "But even in small matters like this one, remember you cannot help anyone if you allow yourself to become a victim. From now on you are to see you have served yourself at meals first."

Wendy nods again.

Kyou smiles again. "I think that is enough of that. How do you like your new uniform?"

Wendy smiles at that. "Oh, I adore it!" She says- having to stop herself from standing up to show off the thighhigh socks she's wearing. "It's only a shame I can't wear them while we're on alert."

Kyou smiles. "I've asked the development bureau to see if they can create a pair of link stockings with similar design." She says. "Though that may take somewhat longer than these did."

"That would be amazing." Wendy says, sounding a tiny bit overwhelmed.

"I did consider something you could wear on alert," Kyou says. "But with the flight suit the way it is, the only real piece of clothing that would have worked for that would have been a collar, and I felt that may be a bit much."

Wendy blushes. "A- A collar?"

Kyou nods, either not noticing- or, more likely, pretending to not notice- the older witch's reaction. "Probably too much for now, though." She says. "I think the stockings are enough. Morgan, do you agree?"

[] I think so, yeah.
[] A collar might be overkill, but something else wouldn't be too bad.

>>4226806
>[X] I think so, yeah.

>>4226806
>[] I think so, yeah.

>>4226806
>[x] I think so, yeah.

>>4226806
>[x] I think so, yeah.

I'm half expecting her to suggest matching piercings next.

ok, votes called!

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[x] I think so, yeah.

You nod. "I think so, yeah." You say- a collar? Really? You're glad she waited- honestly, you'd have thought that sort of thing would be just as difficult to explain as anything else Kyou's suggested today- but then again, you don't actually know. Maybe people just expect that sort of thing from her and are already just assuming that things are like that with Wendy.

"We've discussed your aircraft with Merlin." Kyou says, after letting Wendy calm down for a minute. "While any modifications will have to be made later, I wished to have Morgan here when we discussed any changes made. I feel that your aircraft being tailored to defend ours is a waste of your ability."

Wendy frowns at that. "But that's my job as a wingmate." She protests. "Lead sets up the shots and makes them, the wingmate watches their back."

Kyou nods. "And in a conventional aircraft or early model wyvern that makes sense." She responds. "But in a modern Wyvern, we have an AI that's dedicated to maintaining situational awareness and keeping abreast of anything occurring in the air around us at all times. While I'm sure Muninn, being the lazy child it is, wouldn't complain about having less to do, it would be too much of a waste of ability to simply have you watching for things he can do perfectly well."

"Then what would I do?" Wendy asks, confused.

Kyou blinks, looking over at you. "What you've been doing." She says. "Your ability to fight is more then evident and I'm convinced that expanding on it is the correct choice. Instead of additional ECM gear and antimissile systems, we should be outfitting you with better guns and more ordinance."

1/2

Wendy looks thoughtful for a minute. "Well, I would like some proper guns." She says, after a minute. "Pardon me for saying, and they're rather more than my L85 was, but I feel there's room for improvement there."

Kyou nods. "We discussed as much with Merlin." She says, "But we wanted to talk with you before overriding your concerns. Is the only reason you want a more defensive aircraft because you consider it your role to protect us in the air?"

Wendy hesitates, thinking. She eventually nods. "I believe so, yes." She says. "You selected me to fly with you based on my performance during war, flying with Sir Frank, correct? They only allowed me to continue flying with them the way I did because I was able to effectively defend them in our first engagements. Had it not been for that I'm certain they'd have allowed me to return to my posting with the RAF."

Kyou blinks, then looks over at you. "So you believe that you have to continue to do that now?"

Wendy looks a little uncomfortable. "I had assumed-" She says, then blinks and smiles. "I do suppose that's rather foolish of me, now that I think about it." She says. "You're pleased with me regardless?"

Kyou nods. "As I said, simply leashing you to our aircraft is a horrible waste of your ability. Morgan agrees with this, do you not?"

[] "That's right, but it sounds like you get that already, Wendy"
[] "It's nice to have you watching our backs, but like Kyou said, we'll do better overall with you having more firepower."

>>4226905
>[X] "It's nice to have you watching our backs, but like Kyou said, we'll do better overall with you having more firepower."

>>4226905
>[x] "That's right, but it sounds like you get that already, Wendy"

>>4226905
>[] "It's nice to have you watching our backs, but like Kyou said, we'll do better overall with you having more firepower."

>>4226905
>"It's nice to have you watching our backs, but like Kyou said, we'll do better overall with you having more firepower."

>>4226905
>[x] "That's right, but it sounds like you get that already, Wendy"

>>4226905
>[X] "It's nice to have you watching our backs, but like Kyou said, we'll do better overall with you having more firepower."

Ok, votes called!

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[x] "It's nice to have you watching our backs, but like Kyou said, we'll do better overall with you having more firepower."

"It's nice to have you watching our backs, Wendy." You say, "But like Kyou said, we'll do better overall with you having more firepower."

"And possibly a little more operational freedom." Kyou adds. "Though, I think in that regard, we are already operating more than sufficiently. Regardless, a retainer's role is to see their lord's goals accomplished, moreso than merely defending them."

You frown the phrasing of that- though part of you says that that's probably just because of a cultural aversion to the concept of nobility and 'betters'. It's hard to argue that Wendy has- happily- taken up the role of Kyou's retainer, and that, despite the phrasing, Kyou's not wrong, at least not in this case.

Wendy frowns. "If you say so, but if I may, it's rather difficult to see how I could be granted more operational freedom than I already have." She points out. "I have access to all of the same mission data via Tessa's uplinks, and I no longer even have to wait for a verbal command to break formation and attack at will, because the MIU network relays your intentions to me."

Kyou pauses. "That's an excellent point." She says. "Regardless, I must change before our guests arrive." She smiles as she stands up. "While I'm sure you'd both be just as happy to let me remain in little more than a shirt and my undergarments, one must present the proper image to others outside the privacy of their home." Still, you note, she manages to sway as she walks in just the right way to accentuate her hips and long legs- which, you know, she did entirely on purpose.

Wendy seems pretty happy as she cleans up the little bit of trash there's left to manage- the Kaga uses an onboard incinerator, normally, though you're also told they can compact trash into small, dense cubes and then either store it till it can be offloaded ashore or dumped overboard. Wendy bundles it up into one of the containers set aside for the purpose and sets that in the trash chute before closing the hatch and sealing it, letting the vacuum tube do it's job and pull the trash down to the right place. That done, she sets the used dishes aside. You can't clean them here, but you'll send them down to the galley crew, and they'll be washed there on the powerful steam machines.

You go to sit down as she does, taking a seat watching the door- one that has space next to you, but wouldn't require Kyou to sit there to maintain her presence. Wendy joins you shortly after, taking one of the lone seats nearby. She smiles contentedly. "This is all rather nice, isn't it?" She says, closing her eyes. "I should live like this forever, if I could."

[] I could do without the war.
[] Seems to me Kyou intends that you do.

>>4227084
>[X] I could do without the war.

>>4227084
>[x] I could do without the war.

>>4227084
>[] I could do without the war.

>>4227084
>[x] Seems to me Kyou intends that you do

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>>4227084
>[x] Seems to me Kyou intends that you do.

>You frown the phrasing of that- though part of you says that that's probably just because of a cultural aversion to the concept of nobility and 'betters'.
'Murica

>>4227107
I always suspected that was part of why Frank could never really *save* wendy without waifuing her - As a Brit she's culturally predisposed to a class system, and as such she's more inherently comfortable having someone "above" her, so to speak.

Frank, as an AMERICAN, wasn't really psychologically equipped to fill that role - IIRC there was a lot of internal handwriting about Wendy getting to make her own choices and decisions in '89 because Frank wasn't inclined to straight up order her around.

Kyou, on the other hand, coming from a Royal/Imperial background understands her needs in that regard a lot better and thus is managing wendy's predispositions a *lot* better.

>>4227117
*handwringing

Internal Handwringing. Fucking autocorrect.

>>4227084
>[] Seems to me Kyou intends that you do.

This wolf is possessive

looks like we've got a tie here, gents. I'll let it go another ten minutes or so to get that broken, then we'll get the week wrapped up!

>>4227084
>[X] I could do without the war.

ok, votes called, thank you >>4227171
for the tiebreaker!

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[x] I could do without the war.

"I could do without the war." You say.

Her face falls a little, but she nods. "Yes, that is the rather troubling part." She admits. "Still, I can't help but feel that this is the most content I've been in quite a long time. It may be a bit forward of me, but I feel with you and miss Kyou and Miss Wells here together, we're all where we ought to be."

You nod as Kyou steps out of your shared room, clad in an IJN duty uniform, though she, like Wendy, has on a pair of thighhigh socks, their black material ringed at the top by a lighter gray cuff. She crosses the space to take a seat next to you, crossing one leg over the other as she does so. "I'm glad you left this seat open, Wendy." She says, smiling. "I hadn't expected you to."

Wendy blushes a very, very little. "It wouldn't have been proper of me, mum." She says, and Kyou laughs.

"With all the things we've discussed, I don't see it as improper in the least." Kyou responds. "Still, it's probably better for now that we keep it as it is, yes? This helps reinforce the image I wished to project."

There's a knock at the hatch out into the passageway a few minutes later. "Enter." Kyou says- it swings open and the two imperial witches, both in uniform, step through. They both pause by the hatch to bow.
Kyou smiles at them, though it's a public smile- it never reaches her eyes. "Please, be seated." She says, indicating the open chairs.

Both witches nod and step into the room, removing their slippers by the hatchway. "I wish to begin by congratulating both of you on your performance." Kyou says. "My pilot and our wingmate were both impressed, despite the relative lack of targets to engage."

"It is a pity there weren't more of them." The IJA witch- Yuki, was her name, says. "I had heard their aircraft would black out the sky, yet only a single squadron tried to challenge us."

Kyou nods. "That may have been due to intrusion equipment we had at the time." She says. "Rest assured that most of our sorties aren't so easy."

1/2

"It is interesting, attempting to do ground attack." The other witch offers. "I had no idea it was so difficult to damage ground targets as it is. Our training focused mostly on being able to destroy tanks and infantry, neither of which is very well protected against an enhanced rifle round."

"It is one of the challenges of the program." Wendy says. "It helps that you can draw on the wyvern crew's experiences though."

"I see. Is that a function of the MIU network?" She asks, and Wendy nods.

"Yes, largely." Wendy says. "I will admit to having a slight advantage, in that I received some fixed wing training shortly after the war, and, of course, I have an excellent crew to learn from, so it's going rather smoothly."

Both witches nod at that- you see Kyou smile, very faintly, out of the corner of her mouth. Wendy's talking you up, you think- and you don't know if Kyou coached that or not, she didn't with you either way- but she's not selling herself short, either, which is an improvement.

As you continue interviewing the witches, you realize the decision is going to be much more difficult than you'd thought. Yuki is razor sharp and is more controlled than Kyou, you think- but her aggression is born of hate, very evidently. Maman always said that you had to be careful with hate- it could keep you warm just as easily as burn you up. Still, she's smart, as well informed as can be- and very skilled. The other witch, Hoshiko, is by no means any worse- she doesn't have the hate, and has a manner that, in some ways, reminds you of Lotus- surprisingly easygoing and maybe a touch out of place where she is. You suspect politics there- which wouldn't be unusual in the least, really. You have to remind yourself, though, that any politics there are going to revolve around Kyou- not you- which makes it much, much worse, since it's both coven and national politics.

Still, both Kyou and Wendy seem to be warming to the two witches as the evening goes on, and the atmosphere becomes more relaxed, which you're thankful for. This isn't your style, of course- you'd rather talk over food- but making enough gumbo for five witches might take a bit long, even for your taste.

and that's it for the week!

I think the pacing is getting a bit better again, what do you gents think? Still room for improvement, I'd like to get the update cycle down to around an hour again, but better than the 2-3 hours we were doing not too long ago.

Supposed to get some storms here, so I may be around to answer questions and comments or not anymore this evening, but if i'm not, I'll be around over the rest of the week and through the weekend. So till next week gents, cheers!

>>4227258
>It may be a bit forward of me, but I feel with you and miss Kyou and Miss Wells here together, we're all where we ought to be

Wendy supports 4-way route

>>4227263
Thanks for the run Ghost! Pacing was pretty great this thread, definitely better then what we've been at lately.