>>1244256
“Well.” Burkett shrugs. “The original flag far as I know actually got faded white from solar radiation. So the Federation decided to just replace it with their own flag when they got to preserving the site. Show people what it meant when those guys walked on the Moon.” He looks at Olga, quirking his brow. “Do you know who walked on the Moon?”

“Uh...” Olga blinks. She looks to Rosalie. She shrugs in confusion. Rosalie looks to Stacy. She shakes her head. Stacy looks to Charlie.

Charlie looks to you. “Lieutenant. It's really sad when all the girls have to go to me because I didn't get to go to school.” Oh? Why? She quirks her brow. Oh. Wait. War. Right. “Do you know who walked on the moon?” Naka raises her hand, she knows, but it seems she doesn't want to be obnoxious.

> “Of course I do!” No you don't.
> “No. Naka, enlighten us.”
> “No. It really doesn't matter anyway.”
> Other

>>1244258
>> “No. Naka, enlighten us.”

>>1244256
> Other

Yes, but Naka wants to answer. Naka?

>>1244258
>> “No. Naka, enlighten us.”

>>1244258
>“No. Naka, enlighten us.”

> “No. Naka, enlighten us.”

You sigh. Honestly, they probably did teach you this in OCS. But OCS goes way back and covered more important topics anyway. “No. I don't. But Naka seems to.” Naka grins happily. “Naka, enlighten us, please.”

Naka bonces up and down. “Neil Armstrong! Buzz Aldrin! Michael Collins! Michael Collins though technically didn't get to walk on the moon. He had to stay in the Lander.” Naka stops bouncing, then turns around to the Lander. “Shame really about Collins though, he's probably the lesser known of the Lunar Lander crew since he never actually get to step on the moon.” Indeed. There's something cruel about spending half your life dedicated to achieving something then falling just short of it.

“What else do they teach you in the Fleet Academy?” asks Charlie.

“All kinds of stuff!” says Naka. “We're expected to know how to maintain ships and fighters, all that, along with manning heavy weapons and equipment and radios, it's a big catalog of things to learn! Really depends on your service job though.”

Stacy turns around. “Are we going to visit the Fleet Academy?”

“The Fleet Academy actually is our venue,” you state. Naka gasps. “More specifically, we're going to be performing at the Academy's annex here on Apollo City. The audience is going to be mostly comprised of people who already enlisted, but we're banking on word of mouth spreading and getting some more tushes in the cushions.”

Olga asks you, “Can we go visit!?” She grins excitedly.

> “Sure.”
> “Not right now. Let's head back to the hotel and let Azuma work things together.”
> “Not right now. Let's just explore the city a bit.”
> Other

>>1244492
>> “Sure.”

>>1244492
>“Sure.”

Call it recon training.

>>1244492
> “Sure.”

>>1244492
>> “Sure.”

> “Sure.”

-

-

The Academy's annex used to be a hangar for the monumentally massive SSTO shuttles that used to be pervasive in early space travel before the advent of the Space Elevator. Now it serves primarily as a theatre, lecture hall, simulation chamber, etc. Depends on whatever the Fleet Academy needs that particular day. It say on the far reaches of the HabDome of Apollo City, but its sheer height was visible from miles away.

You arrive to find the hangar roof opened up, and with light shining down on the audience hall. The set on stage was being assembled with the help of some Fleet students, hired hands, Annex employees, etc. Naka was beside herself, as if experiencing a rush of nostalgia. “Wow, look at that!” She steps up to the walls, showing off the murals of Federal Fleet ships through the centuries. From the old Conestoga-class ships to the modern Pacific-class battleship.

“Lieutenant!” Azuma looks over at you, headphones resting around his neck, a clipboard on his arm. “What are you all doing here?” You all walk up to him.

“We came to visit,” says Stacy. “How's the set coming?”

“Going along nicely,” says Azuma. “Nonon was very uh... particular about the set. As was Naka.” Naka grins happily at being acknowledged. “We'll test how the secondary stage that Naka will come down on will work later. We're just fitting the lights and sound.”

“Alright,” you say. “Anything you need help with?”

Azuma shakes his head. “Not really, no. But if I'm honest, I'm kind of swamped. I've got dozens of people to work with, I gotta get as much done as possible before the concert. It's kind of a mess.”

“I can help.” Of course you can! You're his Lieutenant!

Azuma blinks. He tilts his head slowly. “Okay. So, on stage left I need you to talk to Grant. Grant's working spotlights and he needs someone to run the LEDs along the rig upstairs so we can get good lighting on the stage. He wants to compare the LEDs in our 20 inches and see if-”

“You're already losing me,” you say quickly.

“I figured. Maybe you can just sit around, look cute I guess?” he says thoughtlessly. When he realizes what he just said, he quickly looks back at his clipboard. The girls giggle at him.

> Sit around and look cute.
> “Actually, Naka, think you can take us on a tour around the Annex?”
> “Come on, there has to be something I can do.”
> Other

>>1244721
>> “Actually, Naka, think you can take us on a tour around the Annex?”
Say it cutely.

>>1244721
>> “Actually, Naka, think you can take us on a tour around the Annex?”

>>1244721
> “Actually, Naka, think you can take us on a tour around the Annex?”

>>1244721
> “Actually, Naka, think you can take us on a tour around the Annex?”

That'll get her built up for her premier tonight.

>>1244721
>“Actually, Naka, think you can take us on a tour around the Annex?”

>>1244721

> “Actually, Naka, think you can take us on a tour around the Annex?”

Walk off swinging them hips

> “Actually, Naka, think you can take us on a tour around the Annex?”

“Actually, Naka.” You turn around, smiling at her. “How about you take us on a tour of the Annex? It's your home territory after all.”

Naka beams. She holds up a hand. “Fall in, everyone! Naka is going to lead you all on a tour of the Annex!” She points back the way you came. “All speed that a way!” The girls bemusedly fall in behind Naka. You follow behind as well, but before you go, you look back to Azuma. He turns back, quirking his brow at you. You shake your hips, smirking. He huffs. Ha! You keep on walking.

-

-

“Whoa!” Behind the Annex kept in pristine condition was one of the original SSTO shuttles, the Mark I Charon. It was a black and white spaceplane the size of the RMS Titanic. Enough space for several thousand people and a whole lot of cargo. It was very fuel inefficient however, and it was very slow, but for a time it was the only way to regularly get things from the Asteroid Belt to Earth. That SSTO turned decades of travel in the Solar System into months. And of course the Cherenkov Drive turned months into days. “Look at that!” says Olga. You all viewed it from a window atop one of the Annex catwalks. The hangar rooms were mostly gathered around the sides of the ceiling, with the catwalks serving several support functions. Lights for instance.

Naka says, “The first responsibility of any student in the Fleet Academy is always making sure the Charon is kept in top condition. The Federation Fleet descended from the United States Merchant Star Fleet who kept up a fleet of fifteen of those Charons.”

“Is it in running condition?” you ask.

“Of course,” says Naka. She leads you on through one of the Annex catwalks and opens a door. Inside you all see a class of Fleet students in a Virtual Reality dome, with goggles over their eyes and gloves on their hands, they mimic the work of a Fleet ship without actually being in one. An instructor turns around and smiles at you all. “This is one of the VR domes. Fleet usually has a lot of practicals in these before you actually get to work in a ship.”

“What kind of simulations do they do?” asks Stacy.
[1/2]

>>1244980
[2/2]

“All kinds! You have naval battles, you have orbital bombardment, you have search and rescue, there's even some strange test that nobody ever seems to win. But that's only for Officers,” she explains. “Past that, there's also a lecture hall too, and-”

“Naka-chan!” You all look ahead and see a Japanese girl like Naka running over in Fleet utility blues. Naka gasps, then immediately runs at her. The two hug each other, laughing and communicating in their native Japanese language. They touch their foreheads, hugging each other tightly. “I heard about you becoming an Idol! I'm so happy!”

“Thank you, thank you!” she says with some tears in her eyes. She turns around to you all. “Lieutenant! This is Daiko-chan! She and I were classmates!” Daiko pumps her chest, looking a lot more stronger and willful that Naka already.

“Pleasure to meet you!” she says. “I've heard great things about you all!” She gasps, looking at the Idols. “These must be your fellow Idols!” She holds out her hands, to which Olga happily shakes them. “I am honored! Truly!”

Naka explains it as, “Daiko unfortunately is a bit of a delinquent in the Federal Service.” Daiko freezes, hesitant. “But! She's doing her best, ne?” Daiko nods slowly, her smile becoming forced. “So what are you doing in the Annex? I thought you were preparing for a job as a pilot.”

Daiko blinks. “Ehehehe... Um! It was good to meet you!” She starts trying to push her way past. “But, I have to go-”

> Catch her. “Explain.”
> “Um. Bye.”
> Other

>>1244983
>“Um. Bye.”
Wouldn't want her to be late.

>>1244983
> Catch her. “Explain.”

>>1244983
>Catch her. “Explain.”

Give her the Officer Quirked Eyebrow! The one that makes lesser ranks quiver in dread!

>>1244983

> Catch her. “Explain.”
Offer her a spot to back up the other fleety

>>1244983
> Catch her. “Explain.”

> Catch her. “Explain.”

You grab her collar, stopping her. “Explain.” You give her a very curious look. What lass just goes 180 from being a pilot? Most girls you know would take the chance to brag about it. You even knew a cadet who was bragging about being a pilot while giving birth to a child.

Daiko blinks, then sighs. “I flunked out.” Naka gasps, as does Olga sympathetically. “Fell asleep in class too many times. Did the wrong things here and there and now they've reassigned me to the Annex until I can get my FSO reworked. But I'm not exactly confident.”

“Oh dear.” Naka hugs Daiko again, more softly, warmly. “You poor thing, Daiko-chan.” Daiko nods, frowning incredibly sadly. “But you have to admit, you being a night owl and everything, those late night parties really killed you.” Daiko grumbles, folding her arms. Naka looks to you and explains. “Daiko likes staying up extremely late. Bad habits you know?” You nod. Most FSO beat that out of you from day one. Real wonder how Daiko still retains it.

“Yeah.” Daiko sighs. “But I'm glad you're an Idol now, Naka-chan! And you have such cute friends too!” She shakes hands again with Olga. “I know you are Olga. And that is Rosalie. Stacy. And Charlie. And those two men following you are their bodyguards, yes?”

“Sort of,” you say. “Mills is my assistant, Burkett is their Sergeant.”

“Ah, I see!” Daiko sighs deeply. “Well, I should be off.”

“Wait, Daiko!” Naka steps in front of Daiko before she can leave. “You should come with us! I can get you a free ticket to the show!” She gasps. She grabs Daiko, then looks to you. “Lieutenant! She can be an Idol like us!”

“Naka. We're not a charity. What does Daiko have to offer?” you ask bluntly. You hate to be the bad guy, but you'd really rather not carry on an Idol who has no skills or anything else. Daiko appears to be even more of a delinquent than Stacy. Stacy at least can dance and sing.

Naka blinks. “Uh. Um.” She looks to Daiko. “Come on, Daiko-chan, help me out!”

Daiko blinks. “... I bake?” she whimpers.

…

Olga grins. “Well, I'd take her in.”

> “Sorry. We'll have to pass you up.”
> “Maybe we can find a use for her.”
> “We'll consider it.”
> Other

>>1245187
> “Maybe we can find a use for her.”
If she's willing to put in the hard yards that is.

>>1245187
>> “Maybe we can find a use for her.”

>>1245187
>“Maybe we can find a use for her.”
Federal Service means that as long as you're willing, we'll find you a job. It's the willingness that counts more than the service itself.

>>1245187
> “Maybe we can find a use for her.”

Even if its just grunt work.

>>1245187
> “Maybe we can find a use for her.”
You're not going to be starting off as an idol, though. Have you considered trying out for Fleet Groundside Liaison?

>>1245187
> “Maybe we can find a use for her.”

> “Maybe we can find a use for her.”

“Who's your CO?” you ask.

“Lieutenant Yeager,” says Daiko. She tilts her head, confused. “Why? Why do you ask?”

“Maybe we can find a use for you.” Daiko blinks in surprise. She looks at Naka, who is positively beaming like the epicenter of a magpulse explosion. “It won't be fighter pilot duty. But, you'll learn how we operate, and eventually you might become an Idol too. Okay? Federal Service isn't about the job you want, it's about the work you can put in. And I'd like to see that, yeah?”

“Yeah!” Daiko nods violently. “I'll do anything! I'll carry your bags! I'll wash your clothes! I'll clean your weapons! Anything!”

“Good.” You motion to Mills. “Mills, go find Lieutenant Yeager. Set up the transfer.” Mills salutes you, then walks off. “Right, go pack your things, Daiko. Alright?”

Daiko nods quickly. “Okay, okay!”

“And meet us back here when you're ready.”

“Okay!” She looks at Naka. The two hug each other again, excitedly squealing. Daiko hurries off.

Charlie folds her arms, quirking her brow. “Uh. We're not exactly a charity like you said, Lieutenant. What are we going to do with Daiko? We barely find things to do for Saki.”

“We'll see,” you say. “I'm sure she'll prove herself considering Naka seems willing to speak on her behalf.”

Naka nods. She sternly lectures the others. “Daiko is hard working when she wants to be.” That... that's not the best speech about Daiko. “She will be a good fit for our team!” Right. Okay. “Ooooh!” Naka places her hands on her cheeks, grinning. “The thought of performing in front of Daiko now! How embarrassing! She always used to tease me about my love for Idols! Now look where we are!”

“Embarrassing?” says Stacy. “I'd figure this'd be a I-Told-You-So thing.”

“Oh, I'm too nice for that!” Naka shakes her head, waving it off. A roadie comes over to Burkett, whispering in his ear. Burkett's eyes widen, then he nods. You look at Burkett for a few seconds. Hm?

“Burkett.” He looks over, stunned. He glances away, then looks back at you. “Is something the matter?” you ask.

“Uh.” He shakes his head. “No. No. Everything's fine. I can tell you later.”

“Are you sure?” you ask. You tilt your head.

“Yeah. I mean- not when we're in the middle of the tour,” he says. “Right, girls?”

> Eh, you can find out later.
> Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.
> “Hey, anything I know, the girls deserve to know too.”
> Other

>>1245456
>Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.

>>1245456
> Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.

>>1245456
>> Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.

>>1245456
> Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.

>>1245456
>> Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.

girls go on ahead we will follow

>>1245456
> Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.

His crap poker face has already made everyone curious. We should start planning a lie to tell the girls, just in case.

>>1245456

> Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.

>>1245508

Y lie? We naver done that to then befor

>>1245511
Distraction lies. Like telling them some logistic trivia so they don't worry over shit they don't need to worry about.

Like not telling a trooper his dog just died as he's getting ready for a drop.

>>1245570
but we dont even know if the dog has died.
also telling him that the bugs killed his dog would make him fighter harder

>>1245596
Exactly! That's the kind of lie I mean. The kind that doesn't distract them from their duty!

>>1245654
we still have to know what the news is before saying it ether way budy

> Take Burkett aside. Ask what it is.

You step up and take Burkett's arm. He's such a horrific liar you swear. How does a man like this lie about how he got his medal? You motion for the girls to continue on ahead. And with that, they walk on out of earshot, being led by Naka. “What's the problem?” you ask.

Burkett folds his arms, looking incredibly grim. “That was Hightower. It's your parents. They still haven't found them.” Oh. You press your lips together, placing your hands on your hips, nodding. Right. They haven't found your parents. Of course. It's been a few days though. Give it some more, they'll find them. “There's another thing too. It's about Charlie's sisters.”

You blink. Oh. Much worse. “What happened?”

“They're missing,” says Burkett.

…

fuck.

“How long ago?” you ask.

“About two days MIA,” he whispers. “The relief force has already hit Myrmido. MI is wasting the bugs. They're expecting a total victory since the Bugs were slow to set up tunnels and no Queens either. But... Charlie's sisters are as of right now MIA. And her family's been evacuated to FBS Knox.” Shit. You rub your chin, gritting your teeth. “Lieutenant, we can't tell Charlie. Not so close to a concert. Take it from me, one guy in a foul mood will spoil the others. You should know this too.”

“Yeah. Yeah.” You shake your head. “Fuck. Is there any good news?”

“Um. Not really,” he says.

Great. Burkett has a point. You can't just tell Charlie her sisters are missing and that her family are now refugees. That'd break her heart.

> Tell her.
> You'll wait for a better opportunity.
> Other

>>1245791
> You'll wait for a better opportunity.
No use telling her they're missing, especially not in the chaos of an ongoing counterattack where units becoming isolated or lost is common. Once the situation has stabilised, if they're still missing then we'll tell her.

>>1245791

> You'll wait for a better opportunity.

>>1245791
>> You'll wait for a better opportunity.

>>1245791
> You'll wait for a better opportunity.

>>1245791
> You'll wait for a better opportunity.

>>1245791
> You'll wait for a better opportunity.

shes going to hate us for not tellign her

> You'll wait for a better opportunity.

“I need to wait for a better opportunity,” you say. “You're right, much as I hate to admit it.” He shrugs, conceding. “If I tell her now, she'll probably shut down. We don't even know if they're alive or dead. Missing can mean anything at this point.” Burkett nods, agreeing. “Thanks for telling me first, and for trying to keep it out of earshot of the girls.”

“Of course,” he says. “Just trying to make sure they're nice and happy before the concert. Death of a relative tends to put a somber mood on everybody.” That's fair. You sigh, folding your arms. Still... now you wonder about Breckenridge and Joey too. Rosalie and Breckenridge are quite close. What could happen to him? Heck, way things are, Rosalie might not ever know if he's dead long past his actual date of death. “Listen, Lieutenant. I know it's hard to keep secrets, okay? If Charlie finds out, tell her I told you to keep quiet about it.”

You blink. “Why?”

“Well, way I see it. I'm the Sergeant in the squad. Sergeants take responsibility for the enlisted. Officers...” He shrugs again, walking forward. “Officers only duty is to lead us. She can hate me all she wants. But if you want to keep Charlie as an Idol, she has to have your respect and vice versa.”

You nod. Like a company. No good officer ever led their men without first having their respect, else they would perish on the field.

“We should catch up,” says Burkett. You nod, following Burkett. Still, the thought of Charlie's sisters being mission. Your parents being missing.

Missing can mean anything.

File: conestoga.jpg (1.72 MB, 1675x1077)

1.72 MB JPG

>>1246034
That's it for tonight. Things were slow but I'll try to speed things up tomorrow. Hope you all enjoyed.

Follow at: https://twitter.com/GermanSchteel
Ask at: http://germanschteel.tumblr.com/
Book Tumbles: http://germanschteelbookblog.tumblr.com/

See you next time.

>>1246037
Thanks for running.

>>1246034
thnqk

>>1246037
Thanks for running Schteel.

>>1246037
Thanks for the fun, boss.

File: Stacy.jpg (384 KB, 735x1337)

384 KB JPG

The tour of the Annex went fairly well all things considered. With the day coming to a close, you decided to have Mills drive you all back to the hotel. The hotel at least was a pretty little thing. It wasn't the big massive mountain that your parents had provided so graciously. But it was still a lavish resort. The smooth lines and contours of its architecture made things feel quite state of the art, and yet the warm lights and wood furniture made it feel homely at the same time.

Of course, you can only really appreciate architecture when you're alone in the bar drinking to yourself. Ugh, the stress of having to keep the status of Charlie's family a secret is already piling on you. You remember it was always a tough thing having to write the farewell letters of those men killed under your command. Dizzy's was the hardest. You take another sip of scotch from the bottle, leaning back and resting up against the bar counter. It was relatively empty save for a few patrons here and there.

“I know you're there,” you say. And one other person. She pulls her head back out of the door. “Come on. I won't bite.” She steps in again. Stacy. “Something bothering you?” you ask.

She shrugs, stepping up to you. “Not really.” She sighs, sitting down on the stool next to you. “If anything, the only real thing bothering me is going turkey on cigarettes.”

“We can't have Idols who smoke, it's not wholesome,” you explain.

“Yeah, yeah.” Stacy pats her knees a little, looking around. “Lieutenant. You seem a little...” She squints a bit. “Is something bothering you, Lieutenant?”

You look to her. Oh? Nothing's bothering you expect Charlie's family, your parents being missing, Dizzy still haunting your nightmares, and the fact that again this war seems to be dragging on way past its welcome. “Why do you ask?”

She shrugs, looking to you with concern. “I remember when you first came to me asking me to be an Idol. You seemed a lot more confident then. You don't seem-”

“The reason I was more confident then was because I was partially drunk when I was recruiting you,” you say simply.

Stacy blinks, then snickers a little. “Hehe! You're-... you're a right bitch sometimes, Lieutenant.” You roll your eyes. “Seriously. You can tell me, I don't mind.”

You sigh. “Stacy, listen. Some-”

“I'll pay for your next round of drinks.”

> Spill everything. EVERYTHING.
> “Tempting, but no.”
> “Why do you want to know so badly?”
> Other

>>1247522
>Other
>It hits home being on the end of the letters, I'm just bracing myself for when they find the bodies of my parents. Like all those who braced themselves for the letters I wrote home about the fallen.
>Now pay up you runt.

>>1247522
>> “Tempting, but no.”

>>1247522
>> “Why do you want to know so badly?”

>>1247522
>“Tempting, but no.”
>"Seriously, I'm not an alcoholic. I just have a healthy appetite."

> “Tempting, but no.”

For a second, you almost say yes. “Tempting, but no.” Stacy giggles a little at that. “Seriously. Stacy, you shouldn't concern yourself too much about what I think. I'm in charge of you. It's my job to take care of the big details. You, you as an Idol, sing and dance and that's really about it. Occasionally you have to go into a war zone too. Maybe you'll die.” Stacy's stops giggling, blinking in apparent stupefaction at that. “But overall, what I do is none of your concern.”

Stacy tilts her head. “You're just saying that because you got something to hide.”

“Pffft. No.” You look away. “What makes you say that?”

“My parents used to say that a lot to me,” she says. “'It's none of your business,' or 'it's none of your concern,' and 'just be a little girl for me', yeah?” Oh. Stacy leans on the counter, resting her head on her hand. “You know. I'm sure you didn't see my parents at the Graduation. Me and them are not exactly on good terms. They're always spending their time doing something I can't be part of because I'm too young or they don't want to involve me. Sometimes I think they just had a kid just to complete the marriage. Hate them.”

“Now, Stacy.” You lean close, petting her head a bit. “Parents are one-of-a-kind, everyone gets them. You shouldn't squander them.”

“Oh, like they squandered me?” asks Stacy. Now that stupefies you. She grunts. “I'm sorry, Lieutenant.” She looks down at the bar, scratching her finger against the wood. “I know your parents are... but-...” She sighs.

Well. At least you're off the topic of secrets.

> “You should head back up to your room, Stacy. Good night.”
> “How about a drink, on me?”
> Tell her a funny story about your parents.
> Other

>>1247694
>> “You should head back up to your room, Stacy. Good night.”

>>1247694
>> “You should head back up to your room, Stacy. Good night.”

>>1247694
> Tell her a funny story about your parents.

>>1247694
> Tell her a funny story about your parents.

>>1247694
> Tell her a funny story about your parents.

> Tell her a funny story about your parents.

“You know, I remember the time that I took home my first boyfriend.”

Stacy looks over. “You had a boyfriend?”

“Of course!” You smile at her. “Back in middle school, his name was Tim.” Stacy laughs a bit. “... what's so funny?”

“N- nothing!” Stacy waves it off. “Go on.” Is she mocking the idea that you've had boyfriends!? You've had like... eight! Or maybe nine. Whatever number it is, you've had boyfriends! And they all found you lovely! “Oh, don't get mad, Lieutenant!” Stacy grabs your arm, snickering quietly. “I'll listen! Haha! I'll listen!”

You sigh. “Okay. So anyway, I bring Tim home. Dizzy's already at my house, so are my parents. Dizzy had tipped them off that I had a boyfriend. Now, my father, you haven't known him for long, is a very protective man. He once almost killed a man because the man shoved me into a street when he was running late somewhere.” Stacy nods, attentive. “So. My dad obviously had a surprise set for Tim.”

“What did your Dad do?” asks Stacy.

You smirk, taking a sip of scotch. “Well, we found my Dad sitting down on the couch. He was polishing his shotgun.” Stacy nods slowly. She can see where this story is going. “He was very cordial to Tim all things considered and Tim took it in good stride. 'Is that a Mossberg?' asks Tim. And Dad says, 'Yeah, it is, boyo.'”

“And that scared Tim off?” asks Stacy.

“No.” You shake your head. “What started scaring Tim was that my Dad took his shotgun and aimed it all over the place. My Dad says, 'good gracious, this is a good shotgun. And the safety as well! I could pull on this trigger all day and the safety would never fail!' And he points it right at Tim and pulls the trigger!”

“He shot Tim!?” Stacy shouts.

“No! Of course not! He only shot the wall out. Scared the living daylights out of all of us. And my Dad, with the biggest shiteating grin on his face says, 'Oh. Oops. I was sure this gun wasn't loaded.' And that. That is when Tim decided he had a stomach ache and left the house.”

Stacy blinks. “Your Dad sounds like a psycho.”

“Nah, he was only joking. He'd never kill anybody accidentally,” you say simply. Stacy nods at that. Then realizes something in what you just said.

[1/2]

>>1247943
[2/2]

Then she laughs a bit. “Haha! Oh... Lieutenant, your Dad sounds like a complete monster of a man.”

“It takes a monster to help build a galaxy spanning company devoted to growing fruit,” you explain. “Of course... well-... that's why I really don't believe he's dead. He can't be.”

Stacy pats your back. “I hope your parents are fine, Lieutenant.” You nod thanks to Stacy, taking another drink of scotch. You hear the door open again. You two look to see Azuma with his coat on his arm, looking completely tired and swamped. “Eh. I'll leave you two alone, alright? Thanks for the talk.”

“Bye, Stacy.” Stacy smiles, then waves at Azuma. Azuma pats Stacy's head, walking past and setting himself down at the bar. Far away from you.

…

“What, am I diseased or something?” you ask.

Azuma groans. “I'm tired, Lieutenant. Save it.” He calls for a scotch, same as yours.

> “Come on, let your pretty little Lieutenant hear all about it.”
> “Well fuck you too you mink.”
> “I should head to my room then. Have a nice night, Azuma.”
> Other

>>1247946

> “Come on, let your pretty little Lieutenant hear all about it.”

>>1247946
>> “Come on, let your pretty little Lieutenant hear all about it.”

>>1247946
>Other
Fine then, I'll go drink with Nonon.

>>1247946
> “Come on, let your pretty little Lieutenant hear all about it.”

>>1247946

> “Come on, let your pretty little Lieutenant hear all about it.”
Tell me tour woes

>>1247946
>“Come on, let your pretty little Lieutenant hear all about it.”

> “Come on, let your pretty little Lieutenant hear all about it.”

“Come on...” You slide on over, leaning over onto his shoulder, grinning at him. “Tell your pretty little Lieutenant about all your little foibles today, Azuma.”

Azuma sighs. “The stage is set. For now. We're still settling the FX, hopefully that gets done tomorrow. I'm just stressed as all. Putting together shows like these is hard work, Lieutenant. I just need a drink.” He takes his scotch and takes a deep chug. “Way I see it, Lieutenant. I think the next show on Earth is going to be even more of a tough job. Cuz then you got all the Idols, you've got a bigger audience, you've got more expectations, all that stuff.” He huffs, leaning on the bar counter.

“That's not it though, is it?” you ask.

He shrugs. “I have to say. I am kind of... I am kind of concerned about the things that we do.” You tilt your head. “I don't like the idea of us being recruiters. I mean, I never thought of you being a glorified recruiter, but here you are producing an Idol group whose sole purpose is propaganda. Now...” He shakes his head.

You take another swig of scotch. “Guilt?”

“Guilt,” he says simply.

“Don't be too guilty. It's for a good cause,” you say.

“A cause being fought twenty years for?” he says. He takes another drink, sighing.

“Yes.” You gently punch him, pouting. “Sometimes I think deep down you're some massive coward, Azuma. Jeez. I bet Nonon didn't have to deal with stuff like this.” Though, you do remember Nonon telling you about his nightmares and stuff. Not fun.

“Nonon wasn't a drunkard Lieutenant with delusions of grandeur,” he states bluntly. Hey. Delusions of grandeur!? Please! You roll your eyes. He takes another drink of scotch.

“You like me though, admit it,” you say.

…

Azuma nods. “Yeah. Yeah, I do.” You snort a bit, drinking some more. “But it's not right. Okay? You're still reeling after what happened to Dizzy. And you're still drinking yourself into a coma. That's- it's not attractive at all, okay? And I gotta...- I mean- it's... I can't. Okay? It's not right.”

“Wow. You're not even drunk,” you mutter. He rolls his eyes.

> “Tell you what. Let's order an entire round, get plastered like statues, see where it goes.”
> “I am not reeling from Dizzy's death. I'm over it.”
> “Hey! I'm plenty hot! Watch, I'll sleep with the next man to walk in here!”
> Other

>>1248293

Oh god each one of those lines is going to couse something hmmm

Hiw about we get a bittle and go find somehwere private to drink and talk....

But grab his hand some how

>>1248293
>> “Tell you what. Let's order an entire round, get plastered like statues, see where it goes.”
Hell with it.

>>1248293
>“Tell you what. Let's order an entire round, get plastered like statues, see where it goes.”

>>1248293
> “Tell you what. Let's order an entire round, get plastered like statues, see where it goes.”

>>1248293
> “Tell you what. Let's order an entire round, get plastered like statues, see where it goes.”

>>1248293
>“I am not reeling from Dizzy's death. I'm over it.”

> “Tell you what. Let's order an entire round, get plastered like statues, see where it goes.”

“Tell you what. Let's order a round for the both of us, we'll get plastered like statues. See where it goes!” You smile at him, holding up your hand. “Garcon! Waste us! Come on!”

Azuma rubs his head in his hands, groaning. “Ugh. Lieutenant, I told you, I-” Too late. Even if he doesn't drink, you'll just drink his share. You snap open a bottle of scotch then take a deep breath. You quickly chug the entire thing in one go, then slam the bottle down on the counter. “Lieutenant!”

“I know, impressive, right!?” you yell. “Another!” You pound your fist on the table. “Come on, Azuma, drink or I drink for you! I can drink your bodyweight three times at this rate!”

After a few minutes of uneasy hesitation, Azuma sighs. “Fine. Just-...” He uncaps his bottle. “But only a few drinks. And I don't intend to-”

> THIRTY DRINKS LATER <

“Right, you lot are cut off!” says the bartender. “Go back to your rooms!” It's waaaaay past bed time for you and Azuma. The two of you stumble around, his arm around your shoulders as you sway to the left and right. He's trying to support you even if he's blind drink. Good man. Good fucking man! Fucking bartender. A couple more drinks out of him you could have Azuma eating out of your rotten crotch. Fuck him!

“Aaahh... Lieutenant!” Azuma blinks, flushed red (that asian flush you heard of). “I- I feel like I'm going to pass out.”

“Fight on ya fooking pussy,” you hiss. “It's just a couple of dirnks!” The two of you walk up to the stairs. Then you decide that's going to kill you both and take the elevator instead. “Fuck me... it's been a while since I had a drinking buddy but now here we are!” You raise up your arms as you almost collapse into the elevator. Thankfully the walls get you. Azuma motions for the buttons, and manages to somehow get your floor. Excellent shot! “Nice one!”

“Th-...” He leans back against one of the walls. “Fuck.”

“I know. Your beer goggles...” You smirk, quirking your brow as you lean up against him. “I must look the Aphrodite right now to ya, huh?”

“I-...” He squints, not letting go of you but clearly still opposed to the idea on his face. “Lieutenant. Look. I've- I've always thought you were hot. Hell, I didn't need porno mags, I just had to think of you in your I-Suit and that was basically enough...” he slurs.

Aw! He jacked off to the thought of you! That is-... actually kind of creepy but your mind is a little too scattered to care at this point. “B-... but listen,” he says. “W-... Ugh. Oh.” He rubs his head.

[1/2]

>>1248667
[2/2]

You press your chest against his. “What?” you ask. He looks away, gritting his teeth. “Come on... big boy. Tell me.”

“I-... I just-” He bites his lip. “Li-... Lieutenant. I-...” You grin at him. “I do- I do want to but I can't.”

“Can't, can't, can't!” You yack at him. “The fuck is your problem!? Did the Arachnids cut your dick off or something!? Lemme check!” You grab at his belt, and he immediately grabs at your wrists, trying to stop you.

“Lieutenant, stop! Stop!” He yells at you, trying to keep you from undoing his belt. You kneel down, trying to tear it off with your teeth. “Get off! Get-”

The elevator door rings, and the doors open to reveal Olga and Rosalie apparently out on a night walk around. They look at you and Azuma with jaws dropped. Azuma goes an even deeper red, now completely lost for words.

…

> Keep trying to undo Azuma's belt.
> “Go away, girls.”
> “Um. He was just escorting me to my bed. Wasn't you, Azuma?”
> Other

>>1248671
>>1248671
>> “Um. He was just escorting me to my bed. Wasn't you, Azuma?”

>>1248671
> Other
"You saw nothing." Close the elevator doors.

>>1248671
>> Other
Press the close button.

>>1248671
This So this. >>1248731

It will distact from them from wondering what Burkett was on about

>>1248671
back this >>1248731

>>1248671
>“Um. He was just escorting me to my bed. Wasn't you, Azuma?”

>>1248731
>>1248788
>>1248854
You're going to be a bad example in front of our girls?

>>1249003
We're not a bad example, They are. They should be in bed.

>>1248671
>> Other
>"You saw nothing." Close the elevator doors.

>>1249003
Not a bad example. A warning to others!

>>1249021
this is what happens when you drink

>>1249092
you get laid.

>>1249112
good times

> Other

You slowly reach for the close door button. “You saw nothing...” you whisper to them as the doors slide in. They still stare at you with that gawking stunned look on their faces. This must be like seeing their parents fuck when they were little kids. Ugh, now you have the image of Rosalie's mother having a shag. Ugh, that's a turnoff. Once the doors close and the elevator travels up again, you look back at Azuma's pants and start trying to pull them down.

“Lieutenant!” He grabs your shoulders, pushing you down and away. You land on your button, feeling your back hit the other side of the elevator. “Lieutenant. Look.” He holds up his hands defensively. “I-... I don't think you're unattractive. You are! You really are! But look at you! Okay?”

“How dare you!?” You stand up, stumble down a bit, then stand up. “I am a perfectly functioning woman! I can take care of myself! I led you into battle, I've had to suffer sending men to their deaths! Heck, the Terran Cross isn't even my only decoration! The Purple Heart is there too!” You snort, looking away from him.

He leans back. He grabs his head, sighing. “Lieutenant.” He rubs his cheeks, squinting. “Lieutenant, we're fucking drunk.”

“No shit.”

“I-... I don't want to do anything I won't regret,” he says. “I- I-... I'm trying to-” The doors open again. Your floor. You grab Azuma's arm then start dragging him to your room. “W- wait! Lieutenant! Stop! Wait! Just listen! Stop!” He grabs your arm, then shoves you against the wall next to your door. Your breath escapes you for a second as he stares straight into your eyes.

…

He looks down, panting. He's close. Quite close. Goddamn, his breath reeks of alcohol. “... I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry we couldn't save Dizzy, okay?” He starts sobbing. “I'm so sorry! I-... I can't...” He presses his face into your chest, wetting your jacket. This is did not turn out as you planned. “Please forgive me. I know how much he meant to you. Please.”

> “I forgive you.”
> Remain silent.
> “Azuma, just... let's just go to sleep.”
> Other

>>1249145
>> Other
there there
and kiss him and keep kissing him as you lead him into your rap i mean bedrom

>>1249145
> “I forgive you. I really do you fucking arse, None of us could and more would've died if we hadn't left.”

>>1249145
> “Azuma, just... let's just go to sleep.”

>>1249145
>Other
"Fuck this. You had to make this about a man I'm finally over. You think I'm some weak-ass little bitch that can't get over the past?
"Looks like you are, at least."

>>1249145
>> “Azuma, just... let's just go to sleep.”

> “Azuma, just... let's just go to sleep.”

You sigh, holding him in your arms. Not like you want to. You do want to. Hugs with Azuma are nice. But he's crushing you with his weight. He's probably going to pass out very soon. “Azuma, let's just...” You open the door handily, then help him in. “Come on, let's just go to sleep. It's okay.” He still cries, face buried into your chest. “It's alright, it's alright, shhhh... it's okay. We don't have to do anything if you don't want to.”

“I'm sorry...” he mutters as you lay him back onto the bed. You pull the sheets back then start stripping down into your nightclothes. Just the tank top and panties for now. You don't feel like wrinkling and dirtying up a perfectly good uniform for now. “I-... I could've done something, I swear to you... I should've-”

“It's alright.” You sit down next to him. You get an idea just then. You pull him up then let him rest his head on your thighs. Yes, your sweet delicious thighs. No, this isn't the time to brag about your assets! Damn it! If only you weren't drunk, you'd probably take this situation more seriously. Ugh. “It's alright.” His face is stained with tears as he looks up at you. “Come on. You feel better?”

He takes a deep breath, sniffling. “I don't deserve any of this... He gave his life for you, for all of us. I don't deserve it,” he whimpers.

“No, no, you do,” you say. “It's okay. You do.”

“I-...” He shuts his eyes, still whimpering.

You can see why Azuma doesn't like to get drunk now.

You hum a little, caressing his cheek a bit. “It's okay. I'm over him. I swear.”

He blinks, then he shakes his head. “... liar.”

…

You sniffle a little, laughing a bit. The two of you start laughing. You lay back, looking up at the dark ceiling.

He's completely right. You're not. Not by a long shot.

File: cpSST01d.gif (289 KB, 704x537)

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>>1249442
That's it for tonight's Starship Idols. We'll return for the conclusion of this week's chapter tomorrow around the same time.

Follow at: https://twitter.com/GermanSchteel
Ask at: http://germanschteel.tumblr.com/
Book Tumbles: http://germanschteelbookblog.tumblr.com/

See you next time.

>>1249447
thanks

>>1249447
we really gotta get a better cock in us.

Mills places a tray of breakfast for the both of you, whistling as he irons your uniform. The two of you nurse quite possibly one of the worst hangovers you can imagine. You didn't even drink that much. You don't even remember if you and Azuma even bumped bodies. All you remember was that there was a lot of crying. Azuma grumbles, sipping on his coffee. You look at Mills. “Mills.” He looks up from the ironing board, smiling. “Is there anything pressing that needs attending to?”

“Not at the moment I don't think,” says Mills. “Danner though needed to see you later to get your approval for a music video.”

“Music video?” you ask.

“Yeah.” Mills folds up your freshly ironed blouse. “He wants to film something with the girls once we get back on Earth. Film it in New Aberdeen. Music video gets released on the net, bob's your uncle, hopefully it becomes viral.” That's not that bad of an idea actually. “I'll tell him you're unavailable though if you're feeling unwell.”

“I'm fine.” You sigh, rubbing your head. “Sorry, if it looks like-”

Mills shakes his head. “Don't worry, Lieutenant. We're all adults.”

“We didn't do anything funny if you're wondering,” says Azuma. He looks positively downcast.

Mills snorts. “What a waste. Though I did hear gossip from the girls earlier when I made them breakfast.” Gossip. Gossip about-

You blink.

Oh. OH FUCK. FUCK.

> … too tired. You'll explain later.
> YOU NEED TO EXPLAIN EVERYTHING NOW.
> “Mills. Do me a favor. Go and set the record straight for me.”
> Other

>>1251476
>> “Mills. Do me a favor. Go and set the record straight for me.”

>>1251476
> YOU NEED TO EXPLAIN EVERYTHING NOW.

>>1251476
>> YOU NEED TO EXPLAIN EVERYTHING NOW.

>>1251476
> YOU NEED TO EXPLAIN EVERYTHING NOW.

>try to be the dependable mom
>hope to be the cool big sister
>end up as the easily flustered klutz of a big sister
>fall down to alcoholic, unreliable mom who needs to be bailed out by/embarasses her daughters.

>>1251508
>Being Lt. Is being Failure.

> YOU NEED TO EXPLAIN EVERYTHING NOW.

You point to the tray. “Mills! Tray! Please!” Mills takes the tray off of your lap. You quickly chug the coffee and let the heat burn at your throat and stomach. Ugh. At least you're not going in with that bad of oooohhh your head that was a mistake. You rub your forehead, groaning as you grab your jacket and a skirt as well. “I have to go explain things to them, now!” You button up your jacket. “Azuma, Mills. It's been nice. Bye!” You wave to them and exit out the door.

You'll have to deal with Azuma later. It's too early in the morning for this. You start jogging down the hallway. Come on, please don't spread those rumors, please don't spread the rumors.

-

-

You find the girls practicing their dance routine in one of the hotel training rooms. Faraday leads them on. “And one, two, statue of liberty! Arms to the front and spin! Plié!” You step inside, brushing your hair back with your hand. There, Burkett is fast asleep on a chair by the door. Ah, you bawbag! You stand at the side. “Right, girls!” Faraday grins at them as they stand at rest. “Five minute break!”

Rosalie sighs, rubbing her forehead. Olga comes over, smiling at her. “You've gotten better!”

“R- really?” Rosalie blinks.

Stacy nods. “Yeah! You're great!” The five of them happily discuss things amongst themselves as they head to the side, then they see you.

…

Their looks on their faces say it all. FUCK. “Oh... hi, Lieutenant!” Rosalie smiles at you, nervously. “Um. Fancy seeing you here!”

Olga nods, giggling a bit, blushing. “Oh yeah, yeah. Hehe. You look pretty fresh.”

“So how was he?” asks Charlie. The girls all glare at her. “... what?”

> “Nothing happened. We just got drunk.”
> “Oh, he was amazing.”
> “Look. We're adults. We do adult things occasionally.”
> Other

>>1251586
> “Nothing happened. We just got drunk. I know, I'm disspointed too.”

Teens and kids will never believe you unless you make it sound convincing.

>>1251586
>> “Nothing happened. We just got drunk.”

>>1251586
>> “Nothing happened. We just got drunk.”
"And in the end we are just... cuddling i think, the mood somehow shifted after that"

>>1251586
>> “Nothing happened. We just got drunk.”

>>1251586
>> “Nothing happened. We just got drunk.”
Remember Whiskey dick is a crime against humanity.

> “Nothing happened. We just got drunk.”

You sigh. “Nothing happened.” They all look at you, with very disappointed, even somewhat disgusted looks. “Yes, I know, I'm disappointed too. Things got a little heated as all. Azuma is quite the gentleman no matter how many drinks you get in him.” Best not to reference Azuma's mental breakdown to the girls.

Olga says, “W- well. That's uh... that's actually a relief!” Eh? “I mean... Azuma and the Lieutenant in a relationship!? Good god!”

“Are you implying the Lieutenant and Azuma wouldn't be the cutest thing?” asks Naka.

“I'm just- I-... Lieutenant deserves a nice guy! Azuma's nice but...” Olga tilts her head slowly, looking to you with a bit of apprehension. “Don't you think you can do a weeee bit better?”

“Are you implying I'm too good for Azuma?” you say. Olga blinks, then nods. “Well, you're right. I am. But goodness.”

“Sorry.” Olga looks down.

Charlie sighs. “If it makes you feel any better, Lieutenant. I can always set things up between you two.” She winks. “Even join in if need be.” Stacy looks at her in disgust.

“Charlie. I appreciate the proposition but I'm not really into that kind of stuff,” you say simply. Charlie shrugs. Worth a shot in her mind it seems. “Anyway, you guys have practice. Get back to it.” They nod, turning back to Faraday and walking on over. You sigh. Goodness. What are you going to do. A boyfriend would be nice but... one the other hand, who could handle a woman as lovely as you?

> Watch the girls' practice.
> Go find Danner.
> Get wasted at the bar.
> Other

>>1251765
>> Watch the girls' practice.

>>1251765
> Watch the girls' practice.

>>1251765
>> Go find Danner.
didn't he got a music video to show to us?

>>1251765
> Watch the girls' practice.

>>1251765
> Watch the girls' practice.

Clearly the Lt. and Nonon are a cuter pair.

>>1251765
> Go find Danner.

>>1251765

> Go find Danner.

> Watch the girls' practice.

“Step step left! Step step right!” Faraday leads them all on a basic warm up routine. They hold their elbows to the side, their hands joining together in front of their chest as they practice simple footwork. “One two, cha cha cha, right step, cha cha cha!” The girls practice in their PT gear, with light socks on their feet. They'll have to learn to do these routines soon with high heels on later. “Okay, girls!” Faraday stops them. “Right, our legs are nice and loose are they?” They all nod. “Good, let's try our splits! Take a partner, Rosalie! Odd one out, come, come!” Olga and Naka pair off while Stacy and Charlie pair off too. The three groups take the time to help each other down into their splits. “Yes, yes, gently! Gently!”

You lean back in your seat. Burkett snores quietly, arms folded, his legs resting on his dufflebag beneath his feet. Rosalie slowly edges down into a full split. “Aaahh...” She looks down, grinning. “Ha! I did it!”

“Excellent work, Rosalie!” says Faraday. “Now back up!” Rosalie slowly eases herself back up. You nudge Burkett, urging him awake. He starts clapping. The girls all look at him, bemused. Burkett stops clapping when he realizes he's just made things awkward. Olga and Naka giggle at him.

You smirk at Burkett. He rolls his eyes. “Hey, at least I clap for them.” You hear the doors open. Probably Danner looking for you.

But no. It's somebody you haven't seen in quite a while. A long while. “Lieutenant.” You look to him, and your breath immediately escapes you. He smiles at you, his single grey eye still as bright as the day you last saw him. “It's been a while.”

“Captain Ruszcyk,” you say. He nods, saluting you.

> Salute him back.
> Hug him.
> “What are you doing here?”
> Other

>>1252026
> Salute him back.

>>1252026
>> Salute him back.

>>1252026
> Salute him back.

>>1252026
> Salute him back.
> Hug him.

>>1252026

> Salute him back.
Then go into the secit handshake you both know

>>1252026
> Salute him back.

> Salute him back.

You stand up, saluting him straight and stiff. “Sir.” Burkett as well stands up, saluting Captain Ruszcyk. He drops his salute, smiling at you. The other girls look over, curiously. They know an Officer's present, but their present job is to practice. Faraday keeps them busy for now.

“As you were, Lieutenant.” Captain Ruszcyk folds his arms. “Sergeant.” Burkett drops his salute, as do you. “It's been a while.”

“You made it through OCS again?” you ask.

“They fast tracked my re-enlistment,” he explains. “Now I'm on leave here for a couple of days. I heard you were in town with the Starship Idols program, thought I'd give it a looksie.” He looks over at the girls, then chuckles a little. “The girls are something.”

“Yeah, yeah. It's just...” Oh Jesus. Your breath probably smells like alcohol right now. Oh fuck! Captain Ruszcyk! You haven't seen him in so long! “How-... it's really great to see you, Captain Ruszcyk. I didn't think you'd care for this.”

“Well. You're not wrong,” he says. “But they seem to be doing fine. I read the papers about Titan Station and Myrmido. They don't look dead to me. They must be halfway competent at least.” You nod at that. “And I think they have you to thank for that.” He looks over at Burkett, offering his hand. “Sergeant Burkett. I've heard good things about you.”

Burkett shakes his hand. “Likewise.” He points to the ribbons on Captain Ruszcyk's chest. “Purple heart, Claw of Courage- they only give that to Big K vets.”

“Indeed.” Captain Ruszcyk places his hands on his hips. “Anyway, I just thought I'd drop by. You look amazing, Lieutenant.” Oh, if only he knew. “If you're ever around, I'm always available for a drink and some talk if you're up to it.”

“Y... yeah,” you say. “So, are you going to lead a new unit?” you ask.

“Yeah, new company of boots fresh out of training. They figure a veteran officer presence will harden them before they even see combat,” Captain Ruszcyk explains. “Most of our NCOs and Officers are veterans with at least ten drops to their names. But our enlisted, not a single drop. But, I shouldn't bore you too much.”

> Introduce Captain Ruszcyk to the girls.
> “Well, it was nice seeing you.”
> “How about we get some drinks?”
> Other

>>1252270
> “Well, it was nice seeing you.”

>>1252270
> Introduce Captain Ruszcyk to the girls.

>>1252270
> Introduce Captain Ruszcyk to the girls.

> Introduce Captain Ruszcyk to the girls.

You motion the girls over. “Girls.” The five of them come on over. “Captain Ruszcyk. These are the Starship Idols.” They all shake hands politely. Even Faraday as well. “And this is their dance trainer, Faraday.”

“Honored!” Faraday smiles happily at him.

“Yeah,” says Rosalie. “That's the Claw of Courage!” She points to the ribbon on Captain Ruszcyk's chest. “That's only given out to veterans of Bughouse! You were there?”

“It was my first drop actually,” says Captain Ruszcyk. The girls all look at him in awe. “You're Rosalie, correct?” Rosalie nods, smiling up at him. “Nice to meet you. And uh...”

“Olga!” Olga happily shakes his hand some more.

“Naka.” Naka nods to him.

Stacy nods as well, her arms folded. “Stacy Elson.”

“Charlie.” Charlie nods to him too.

“It's good to meet you all,” says Captain Ruszcyk. “Rosalie. You actually happen to be my favorite.” Rosalie beams, gasping in glee. Olga giggles, squeezing Rosalie's arm happily. “You look the part of a citizen.” Rosalie giggles, red in the cheeks, now put in the spotlight. “Now, don't let me interrupt your practice. Please, I can watch happily.”

“What was Bughouse like?” asks Rosalie, practice a long gone thing for her now. “I only read about it in the textbooks but was it tough? Was it- did- you have to tell me!” Captain Ruszcyk folds his arms, smiling bemusedly at Rosalie. “And then what happened on Tango Urilla too, and Planet P, all that! You have the service ribbons of Operation Royalty, that's when we first captured Brain Bug! You've got so much to tell me!”

> “Rosalie, don't bother him. Go back to practice.”
> “Captain, I don't suppose you could...”
> “Hey. How come you never ask me for stories?”
> Other

>>1252554
> “Captain, I don't suppose you could...”
> “Hey. How come you never ask me for stories?”

>>1252554
> “Captain, I don't suppose you could...”
> “Hey. How come you never ask me for stories?”

>>1252554
>> “Hey. How come you never ask me for stories?”

>>1252554
> “Rosalie, don't bother him. Go back to practice.”

>>1252554
> “Rosalie, don't bother him. Go back to practice.”
> “Hey. How come you never ask me for stories?”

> “Hey. How come you never ask me for stories?”
> “Captain, I don't suppose you could...”

You look at Rosalie, a little hurt in your eyes. “How come you never ask me for stories?” The girls all look at each other, then smile. Don't smile! Answer! “Ugh.”

“Sorry, Lieutenant,” says Olga. “It's just- he's the new guy! Rosalie is attracted to them like an Arcturian is to shiny objects.”

“I am not!” Rosalie pouts at Olga. “I just- I'm curious! The Lieutenant was too young to serve at Bughouse! I want to hear it from an actual veteran of it! There are so few of them today!”

You sigh. “I don't suppose you could, Captain?”

“It'd be my pleasure. So sorry for hijacking your practice.” Rosalie grabs a chair for herself and Captain Ruszcyk. “Alright, alright. Where do we start then?” They both sit down. With one girl out of the loop now, the rest go back to practicing. Though Stacy and Olga keep close so they can hear the story by proxy. “I was just a young Private serving aboard the transport corvette, the Ypres. Unfortunately, you probably already know what happened to Ypres.”

“Colliding with Valley Forge,” says Rosalie.

“I was one of the few that made it out of the drop tubes. Half my company wasn't so lucky. Of course, if I knew what was going on groundside, I probably would've stayed there.” Captain Ruszcyk takes out a cigarette pack and bungs one out for himself. Burkett lights it for him. “Thank you, Sergeant.” Ah, stories. You shake your head. “Now, we chose the night for our operation, but Klendathu was completely foreign to us. No amount of tactical readouts, no nightvision, sat images, or anything could've prepared us for that madhouse.”

“Lieutenant.” Danner calls to you from the door. Oh, Danner. “Lieutenant, I was looking for you.” You and him meet up at the door. He speaks softly, trying not to be a bother. “Listen, I got in contact with a film group that does music videos. Very reliable people. I'm thinking we can do a music video with them.”

“How do we approach it?” you ask.

“Well, it's all up to you, really,” says Danner. “I'd just suggest keeping it in budget tough. No filming on location. We have holorooms for that nowadays.” You nod, right, right. “Once we get back to Earth of course. What do you think?”

> “Just advertise the song. Prioritize building the Idol name over recruiting.”
> “We'll see when we get there.”
> “I think pure recruitment vid will do us some good.”
> Other

>>1252854
> “Just advertise the song. Prioritize building the Idol name over recruiting.”

>>1252854
> “Just advertise the song. Prioritize building the Idol name over recruiting.”

>>1252854
> “Just advertise the song. Prioritize building the Idol name over recruiting.”

>>1252854
>> “Just advertise the song. Prioritize building the Idol name over recruiting.”

>>1252854
> “Just advertise the song. Prioritize building the Idol name over recruiting.”

> “Just advertise the song. Prioritize building the Idol name over recruiting.”

“We're just going to advertise the song,” you say. “I want to prioritize building our name and reputation right now over the recruiting. Once people know who we are and we become a household name, that is when we start the big recruiting push.”

“Right.” Danner nods, typing that down into his PDA. “I'll let my folks know that. We'll settle on something simple. I think our first song, 'READY' should suffice for our first music video.” You nod. Not like you've shown other songs really besides Charlie's. “Lieutenant, I think we're on the road to a good roll. After these concerts, we'll expect a good cash flow.”

“Really?” You fold your arms. “Explain.”

“Merchandise,” says Danner. “I got into contact with a man who runs a t-shirt company, pretty small. But he's willing to do t-shirts for the Starship Idols. Costs nothing more than hopefully a few shillings for each shirt. But t-shirts are a good start to any fledgling industry I believe. I mean, everyone needs a shirt. And shirts are versatile too! You can use them for anything!”

“... Danner.”

“Hm?”

“I'm not a marketing expert, I have no idea what this means,” you say.

“Oh.” Danner adjusts his sunglasses a bit. “Right, right. Well, to put it bluntly, we have our foot in the door. That's the most laymen I can put it. Now it's time to open that door, expand our possibilities before we get called into combat again.”

“Right.” You smirk a little. “You seem pretty excited.”

“Do I? Oh dear.” Danner places his hand on his heart. “So sorry. I get ahead of myself when good news comes. Lieutenant, I'll be off. You just be you.” He turns around and walks back into the hallway. You smile. Foot in the door.

You turn back around now to see practice now entirely interrupted by Captain Ruszcyk's presence. He tells the grand story of how he escaped from Klendathu to all the girls, Faraday, even Burkett looks engrossed. It's like a school circle listening to their teacher read them a storybook. Takes you back.

And hey, there's room for you too. You sit down and listen.

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>>1253128
That's it for Starship Idols this week. Unfortunately, we will not have LGA2 this weekend as I'll be going down south to visit family. Should be home by late Sunday though. Hope you all enjoyed.

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See you next time.

>>1253132
Thanks for running Schteel.

>>1253132
Thanks for running.

>>1253132
Thanks

>>1253132
Thanks for the fun, boss.

You go have fun with the family. We'll wait warmly.