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So, news! Nothing, really. haven't heard back about that position I put in for yet, but I may not till tomorrow or next week. If ever, haha! most places don't even bother to tell you your application got thrown in the trash can. Might start looking at re-enlisting if this shit keeps up, I'm pretty sure I can get a waiver for the issues I have, and my old man went in at 35, so it's not like I'm too old!

Archive here! http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Strike%20Witches%202016 For anyone getting into the quest, you can ignore the original SW2016 run, only the reboot threads are really relevant here.

I think that's about it!

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

You're lucky that the quarters have a reasonable dinner table, set in a nook to the other side of the kitchen from the entryway, that will seat four, though it's a bit crowded. Crowded enough so that you have to leave most of the food in the kitchen on the counter, just so there's room on the table for everyone's plate.

You're also eating light, leaving enough for Anastasia- you'd planned on three and made enough to have some leftover, but you're pretty sure there's not going to be enough now, and you'll probably end up eating more dessert as a result. Not that that bothers you, of course, just, it's not something you want to get in the habit of.

Kyou, for her part, seems to be unsure of the food in front of her. While Anastasia and Merlin have, thoughtfully, you think, loaded her plate for her- it practically creaks under the weight of chicken, dirty rice, hushpuppies, and greens, the princess doesn't seem to quite know where to start- or what to think of it just yet. At least she's been spared having to deal with the sorry excuse for beer Anastasia brought- stating instead that she'd prefer ice water. Ana seemed almost anxious to show off by chilling a glass for her, but you beat her to the punch with a glass from the freezer, with just a handful of ice dropped in.

Anastasia, however, has been more than willing to lead the conversation, focusing most of her attention on Kyou.

“So what does your family think of all this?” Your sister asks. “I mean, I know there was a bit of a thing when Aunt Jessica and Katsumi got hitched...”

Kyou nods. “And it continues today, despite the emperor's blessing.” She says. “My family has reserved judgment until they have had a chance to meet my pilot, although they are also aware that it much too late to reverse my decision as well.”

Merlin nods. “A-at this point i-it's only the b-board or matrons who could s-step in.” She pauses. “O-or me.”

1/2
>>
“You can nix a crew, auntie?” Ana asks. It's news to you too when Merlin nods.

“I n-never have, b-but if I feel a crew is a bad match for the a-aircraft I can recommend a t-transfer.” She says. “I can a-also recommend a reexamination of a crew b-by the board on t-technical grounds.”

“Have you ever done that?” Kyou asks.

Merlin looks down. “O-once. The board d-disagreed with me and l-left the crew together. That j-jet is one of the top t-three in a-almost every exercise w-wyverns participate in.”

“Ah. Well it is no concern.” Kyou says. “Are there any circumstances in which Morgan and I do not fly together?”

“O-only if there's s-severe complications w-with your implant s-surgery.” Merlin responds. “A-and I know S-Sweet, she's one of the best n-neurosurgeons in the country a-and a talented h-healwitch too. M-morgan is the most t-trouble she's e-ever had.”

“Clearly distracted by him in a hospital gown.” Ana says.

“Clearly.” You respond, dryly- you're going to need to change the subject, here.

[] Ask Kyou about her family- is their trip over purely about this, or is it part of a state visit?
[] Ask Merlin about technical specs- maybe about one of the systems she pitched this morning?
[] Ask Anastasia what's going on with Stasya- she lives in Coronado, doesn't she?
>>
>>3540633
>[x] Ask Kyou about her family- is their trip over purely about this, or is it part of a state visit?
>>
>>3540633
>[X] Ask Kyou about her family- is their trip over purely about this, or is it part of a state visit?
>>
>>3540633
>[x] Ask Kyou about her family- is their trip over purely about this, or is it part of a state visit?
>>
>>3540633
>[X] Ask Kyou about her family- is their trip over purely about this, or is it part of a state visit?
>>
>>3540633
>[] Ask Merlin about technical specs- maybe about one of the systems she pitched this morning?
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] Ask Kyou about her family- is their trip over purely about this, or is it part of a state visit?

“So your family is coming over soon?” You ask Kyou. “Is it part of a state visit, or is it purely because of this?”

“It's a state visit.” She responds. “Of course they'll be spending time with me- us, I should say. Expect my brother to ask you many questions, he has always been incredibly interested in the military, but couldn't serve. My father was a paratroop brigade commander during the war, but left active service several years ago. I expect both of them will wish to talk with you.”

You nod.

“My mother...” She hesitates. “I don't expect her to have much to say to you yet. And my little sister will be rude.” She shrugs. “She is in the academy and is still idealistic. I expect them to arrive tomorrow morning, I imagine they'll be boarding one of the imperial house jets in a few hours.”

“So they'll stay at the consulate here u1/2ntil after you're cleared for flight again?” Ana asks, and Kyou nods.

“Yes. I expect they will stay afterwards too, and wish to observe a flight if they can. Father has indicated he intends to use this trip to advance our case to purchase wyverns of our own to your senate.”

Merlin nods. “I-it's a good time to t-try.” She says. “N-news is already starting t-through the usual channels. You're t-the first imperial Japanese witch s-selected for the program.”

“But not the first foreign witch, right?” Anastasia asks. “Aren't there a few former Valkyries?”
>>
Merlin nods. “A-and two f-former soviet witches t-that defected p-postwar, like Katya, a-and a few E-European witches. A-American witches only m-make up about t-three quarters of t-the witches in t-the program.”

“That seems unusual.” Kyou notes. “And a large security risk.”

Merlin shakes her head. “N-not as much a-as you'd think. O-of course there's more c-concerns, but they're h-handled. And o-once the crew i-is linked, it's h-hardly a problem.”

“oooh, ominous.” Anastasia says, laughing.

Merlin blinks. “I-I don't mean w-we do anything t-to them.” She says, hurriedly. “I-it's just h-how it works.”

“It still seems odd.” Kyou says. “But from my own class, I can see it being right. I was far from the only witch there not born in America. I was the only Japanese witch there, though.”

Merlin nods. “S-sakamoto graduated the rotation b-before you.” She says. “S-she's like you, very aggressive, b-but not as strong. W-will your family be leaving after your father goes b-before congress?”

Kyou shakes her head. “I do not know. I expect so, I know my brother will be sailing home aboard the Kaga.” She smiles. “Any chance he gets to spend aboard a ship, he will take, especially a carrier. It makes up for Father's reluctance to ever be aboard them.”

[] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
[] It sounds like your family stays pretty busy, then.
>>
>>3540743
>[] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
>>
>>3540743
>[x] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
>>
>>3540743
>[X] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
>>
>>3540743
>[] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
>>
>>3540743
>[X] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
>>
>>3540743
>[] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
>>
>[x] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
Information wins wars
>>
>>3540743
>[x] Is there anything I should know about any of them?
>>
ok, votes called!
>>
>>3540808
In this case its trivial information so the saying doesn't really apply.
>>
[x] Is there anything I should know about any of them?

“Is there anything I should know about any of them?” You ask.

Kyou nods. “My brother will be incredibly interested in talking to you. He is always interested in military matters, and claims to enjoy talking to soldiers and sailors and pilots. He is also always eager to be around military equipment- ships, tanks, or aircraft, it makes no difference to him.” She pauses, considering for a moment. “Your father is also one of his heroes.” She says, after a second. “Though I feel as if he has an idealized version of the man in his head.”

“Idealized?” Ana says, sarcastically. “Dad? Never.”

Kyou smiles thinly. “Frank Bishop is usually portrayed in Japanese media as helpful, friendly, and protective, but also rather dim-witted and naive. Too eager to run into the thick of things for the sake of his people, without understanding the situation beforehand.”

Anastasia laughs, while Merlin frowns a bit. “That sounds like dad.” Ana says. “The world's deadliest golden retriever.”

“I-I think your father is s-smarter than that.” Merlin says.

“Regardless.” Kyou says, turning to look straight at you. “I am sure his first action when I told him who my pilot was was to find every book in his collection on your father and to start re-reading them.” She says. “Of course, there are far fewer books about your mother, but I expect he will be searching for them on the flight over. He reads voraciously.”

You nod, though Ana speaks up again. “You said he can't serve? Why not?”

Kyou frowns. “He is unable to walk unsupported due to birth defects. He used to use a wheelchair, and still does very occasionally, but most days he is able to walk with his crutches.”

“Oh, wow.” Says Ana. “I'm sorry.”

Kyou shakes her head. “Don't be. He has done well for himself, despite his infirmity. As I said, he will be sailing home aboard the Kaga, and the navy loves him.” She smiles. “They view him as a lucky mascot.”

“I guess that's not so bad, then.” Anastasia says. “Could be worse, he could be like my brother. Oh hi, Morgan. I didn't see you there.”

“Jus don be forgettin who cook dat shiken for you.” You point out.

Kyou laughs. “No, the problem sibling will be my younger sister.” She says.

[] that sounds like a warning.
[] What's wrong with her?
>>
>>3540917
>[] What's wrong with her?
>>
>>3540917
>[] What's wrong with her?
>>
>>3540917
>[X] that sounds like a warning.
>[X] While you're at it, warn Kyou about *your* sisters.
>>
>>3540917
>[X] that sounds like a warning.
>>
>>3540917
>[] that sounds like a warning.
>>
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>>3540917
>[x] that sounds like a warning.

>Frank Bishop is usually portrayed in Japanese media as helpful, friendly, and protective, but also rather dim-witted and naive
>>
>>3540917
>[] that sounds like a warning.

>>3540942
Does that mean that Frank has an anime/manga about his adventures where everyone is essentially genderbent versions of themselves?

>inb4 an Otome Game of the "Adventures of Francine Bishop"
>>
>>3540917
>[X] that sounds like a warning.

Japanese version of the thirstiest of sisters?
>>
>>3540917
>[] What's wrong with her?
I'm gonna take a wild guess and say... overprotective of her big sister?
>>
>>3540917
>[] that sounds like a warning.
>>
>>3540917
>[] that sounds like a warning.
We just handle her like a snek and we'll be fine.
>>
>>3540917
>[x] What's wrong with her, is she after me too ?
>>
ok, votes called!

haha, I think we've managed more updates tonight alone than all of last week!
>>
>>3540989
It's been an effective night!
>>
[x] that sounds like a warning.

“That sounds like a warning.” You say.

Kyou nods. “It is, after a fashion.” She pauses, then sighs. “It is no secret my younger sister has fallen in with a very nationalistic element of our national politics. She appears with their elder statesmen at their rallies and meetings, and holds a fairly high post in their political organization despite her age. While my father could forbid her from associating with them, it would be considered a violation of imperial neutrality in the politics of the nation.”

“But your sister being involved with them isn't?” Anastasia asks. Kyou shakes her head.

“Neither my sister nor I are in line for the throne.” she says as an explanation. “My father and brother are, and so they do not involve themselves in politics.”

“And here I was hoping it would be something simple, like you were worried she was going to end up like Cassie.” Anastasia says.

“Cassie?” Kyou echos. “I am afraid I don't understand.”

“Our sister, Cassiopeia, the one on the Kaga?” Anastasia says, then motions to you. “Has a massive crush on our brother over there. It'd be a lot funnier if it wasn't honestly a little creepy.”

“Ah.” Kyou says, her voice neutral. “She persists in this despite being told to stop?”

Ana smiles. “Morgan's never told her to stop.”

“I see.” Kyou says. “If I may, why?”

[] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
[] Ana's blowing it out of proportion, I'll explain later.
>>
>>3541079
>[] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
>>3541079
>[] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
>>3541079
>[x] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
>>3541079
>[] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.

The other one feels kinda dodgy
>>
>>3541079
>[X] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
>>3541079
>[X] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
>>3541079
>[] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
>>3541079
>[] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
>>3541079
>[X] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
>>3541079
>[X] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] No need to- she'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.

You shrug. “There's no need to.” You say. “She'll never make a move without my going along with it anyway.”

“I see.” Kyou says. “So there is no danger of her acting on this?”

You shake your head. “None at all.”

Kyou nods, ignoring Ana's exaggerated grin. “I see. I can, perhaps, sympathize with her. It is easy to idealize one's brother overmuch.” She pauses as the grin falls off Anastasia's face. “Though, perhaps, it is different because mine is both younger than me and has always been a joy.”

“Maybe.” Anastasia says with a shrug. “I wouldn't know. We only have the one brother and he's older than all of us.”

“No I'm not.” You point out. “Stasya, Lilya and Natalya are all older than I am.”

“They're adopted.” Ana says.

“So?” You ask. “They're still our sisters.”

Anastasia shakes her head. “It's not the same.” she insists. “But let's not get into this again.”

“P-probably a good idea.” Merlin agrees, the first she's spoken in a bit. “S-speaking of, though, Morgan, I t-talked to S-stasya and N-natalya both. T-they both plan to come by this w-week while I-I'm getting my u-upgraded plugs a-and Kyou is getting hers installed.”

“And there's the other shoe,” Anastasia sighs- she and Natalya don't get along very well. “Well, it's alright, it's not like I'll be up this way much anyway. I'm probably headed out to the Saratoga when she puts in at Pearl this week.”

“The Saratoga?” Kyou asks. “Is that your mother's ship?”

Anastasia nods. “Yeah, that's mom's ship. I'll be doing another stint with VF-3, Rebecca and Lindsay are both cycling off.”

“More sneks.” You observe, mostly for Kyou's benefit.

[] Where are they going?
[] So you leave this week?
>>
>>3541223
>[] Where are they going?
>>
And that's it for the night! I feel like the run was a little better today than it was at all last week, haha. Still room to get back to where we were though- lot more distractions here than there were at the apartment, but I'll keep working at it.

Anyway, I'll be around a little to field questions and comments, if you guys have any, though I do plan on getting up a little early in the morning to go break in the barrel on my rifle (13 months after I built it... haha) so I probably won't be around too long. Till tomorrow guys, cheers!
>>
>>3541223
>[x] Where are they going?
>>
>>3541223
>[X] Where are they going?
>>
>>3541223
>[] Where are they going?
>>
>>3541223
>[X] Where are they going?

So are Slider's girls all constrictors like her?
>>
>>3541223
>[X] Where are they going?
>>
>>3541223
>[x] Where are they going?

>>3541226
Thanks for the run Ghost!
>>
>>3541223
>[x] So you leave this week?
>>
>>3541223
>[] Where are they going?
>>
>>3541232
No. 3 are constrictors, 2 are venomous.
>>
>>3541258
any Red Belly Black sneks?
>>
>>3541223
>[X] Where are they going?

>>3541226
Thanks for the run boss.
>>
>>3541223
>[] Where are they going?
>>
>>3541223
>[x] Where are they going?
>>
>>3541223
>[] Where are they going?
>>
>>3541270
Nope. You have Cass, who's familiar is the emerald tree boa, Samantha, Who's got a dragon snake familiar, Rebecca (Not to be confused with your other sister Rebecca on your mom's side) who's is a diamondback rattlesnake, Lindsay, With a ringneck snake familiar, and Ashley, spiny bush viper.
>>
ok guys, votes called!
>>
>>3541972
>bush viper.
heh
>>
[x] Where are they going?

“So where are they going?” You ask, and Ana grins.

“Oh no.”

“Oh yes.” She responds. “Both of our sisters are coming here as part of the workup cycle for this year's academy graduates. They'll be practicing takeoff and landing at san Nicolas NOLF till the Enterprise finishes her overhaul in July and heads down to the gulf for carrier qualifications.”

“That's n-not that long.” Merlin notes. “A-about three weeks, I t-think. Morgan a-and Kyou w-will be doing their carrier q-quals on the enterprise too, a-and there's going to b-be a training rotation a-abord in Goshawks. B-but that w-won't take more t-than a week. I-I won't even be going w-with.”

“Letting Morgan and your Jet out of your sight, huh?” Ana asks, and Merlin nods.

“T-there's plenty to do h-here.” She says. “And t-they won't need me a-aboard for carrier q-qualifications. I-I still have to help w-with Sorenson's w-workup, a-and the a-admin work f-for a-activating my t-team again.”

“Wish I could hang around for that.” Anastasia says. “You know how the girls in the fleet treat a pair of Merlin-tuned strikers.”

“O-oh, speaking of t-that. I-I've got your strikers s-set aside in the h-hangar. I plan t-to go over them a-again Monday m-morning.” Merlin says, looking over at Anastasia. “I-If you want any c-custom tuning done let me k-know. I've got t-to be at the hospital by noon.”

She looks over at you. “T-the same goes for you a-and Kyou, Morgan. I-if there's any changes to what we discussed, I-I need to know before noon Monday. A-and if you've changed your mind on the VLS or t-the guns, I need to know before t-tomorrow evening.”

“I had hoped to talk about those systems in greater depth.” Kyou admits. “I may have made my initial assessments in haste, and I have been thinking on them some since then.” She looks over at you. “Unless, of course, Morgan disagrees with me, and is happy with them as they are?”

[] I think we should talk about them some more, yeah.
[] No, I'm happy with the setup we've got laid out.
>>
>>3542679
>[x] No, I'm happy with the setup we've got laid out.
>>
>>3542679
>[X] No, I'm happy with the setup we've got laid out.
>>
>>3542679
>[] No, I'm happy with the setup we've got laid out.
>>
>>3542679
>[] I think we should talk about them some more, yeah.
Anon a thread or two ago made a good argument for MACROSS MISSILE with the VLS. It would be nice to get some more info on the logistical needs to keep it from detonating on us.
>>
>>3542679
>[] I think we should talk about them some more, yeah.
>>
>>3542679
>[X] I think we should talk about them some more, yeah.
I want some more info on the logistics of those VLS launchers. Sell us on them, Merlin.
>>
>>3542679
>[] I think we should talk about them some more, yeah.
I for one was sold on the VLS
>>
>>3542679
>[x] No, I'm happy with the setup we've got laid out.

I'd rather not have pure nitroglycerin in a combat plane, thanks.
>>
>>3542679
>[X] I think we should talk about them some more, yeah.

Going over all the options again can't hurt.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
>>3542679
>[] I think we should talk about them some more, yeah.
I want more info on the logistics of maintaining the VLS system.
>>
Hasn’t the discussion for the past week been about the loadout? How much time do you really want to spend?
>>
[x] I think we should talk about them some more, yeah.

You nod- the VLS system, in particular, you feel, needs a second look at. “I think we should talk about them some more.” You say with a nod.

Kyou looks pleased with your agreement, and Merlin nods. “A-after dinner, then?” She asks.

“I think that would be best.” Kyou says, and you nod again.

“Well, that's that then.” Anastasia says, laughing. “What's for dessert?”

“Fruit cobbler.” You say- you went for something simple and quick, having poured most of your energy into the meal. “Cherries and Peaches.”

“Ooh, that sounds good.” Ana responds, leaning back in her chair. “Is it ready yet?”

You nod, standing up. “Here, give me your plates.” You clear enough of the table to set out the dessert plates and a tub of ice cream, then set the cobbler, still in a hot baking dish, in the center of the table. Kyou sniffs the air, interested- you notice she cleaned her plate twice over and may have gone for another serving, but waited. You quickly pass out the dessert, leaving the dish out for anyone to have a second piece if they want- though, judging by their expressions as they finish, they're all full enough.

Anastasia sticks around long enough to watch you clean the table and the kitchen, though by the time she leaves, it's getting to curfew anyway. Merlin looks at her watch as your sister leaves and sighs. “I l-lost track of time.” She says, sadly. “I-I'll have to come back t-tomorrow, u-unless you're ok w-with me staying h-here.”

“I was under the impression they don't allow overnight visitors.” Kyou says, and Merlin nods.

“N-normally, no. I-I get an exception b-because of my rank a-and history with t-the Bishops.”

“And that the navy would do anything you ask them to.” You point out.

“A-and that. I c-can come back again a-around breakfast time i-if you'd rather do that.” She says.

[] I think that's a good idea, yeah.
[] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?
>>
>>3542807
>[] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?
>>
>>3542807
>[] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?

LAZIEST CATTE BOY
>>
>>3542807
>[X] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?
>>
>>3542807
>[X] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?
>>
>>3542807
>[x] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?
Better to get it out of the way now.
>>
>>3542807
>[x] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?
Pool day with awoo-tch and best aunt?

Pool day.
>>
>>3542807
>[] I think that's a good idea, yeah.

Who knows what Merlin will do if we give her an opening.
>>
>>3542807
>[x] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?
>>
>>3542807
>[] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?
Let’s get the revote shenanigans over with...
>>
ok, votes called!
>>
>>3542829
The answer is obviously "Merlin Magic" which is always a good thing.
>>
>>3542859
You mean getting the VLS system because it's infinitely superior to the not-VLS system.
>>
>>3542883
Honestly, this may be because I’m fine with either option, but I really don’t think pushing revotes is a good idea in quests. It just sets a bad precedent. There was a lot of this over the reflights too. I don’t want the story to be impacted by a potential pattern of second guessing. Unless we are playing an indecisive character now? It’s starting to feel that way.
>>
>>3542883
It really isn't. Exploding into giblets is not a good or superior thing.
>>
>>3542881
You're fixing to get us raped, anon
>>
>>3542909
You say that like it'll explode in flight or if we use it which isn't true at all. It just explodes if proper maintenance isn't done. And a lot of things explode if proper maintenance isn't done. Like jet engines and missiles and guns. All things on the aircraft already.
>>
>>3542910
Yeah... I see what you mean... maybe I shouldn't have used "Merlin Magic." Perhaps "Tech Magic" is better?
>>
>>3542920
Yes, but none of those explode the entire plane into gibs.
>>
[x] I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?

You shrug. “I'm fine with sleeping on the sofa. Why don't we sort this stuff out now, and then we can take it easy Sunday?” You say- you'd kind of like to be able to spend a day dozing in the sun down by the pool, especially with the weather around here. You haven't had a proper off day in a few weeks now, it seems, and, while you've never been adverse to hard and prolonged work, you feel like you're overdue a breather.

Part of you, in the back of your head, cautions you, as it always has, to not get too used to it- a day will come where there are no down days and the only easy day was yesterday.

Merlin nods. “L-let me go n-notify the duty desk.” She says. “T-they lock the outer doors a-at twenty o-one sharp, a-and they'll w-want my keys.”

“The security in this place is odd.” Kyou notes. “It seems poorly designed either to keep control of us or keep people out.”

Merlin nods. “I-it is poorly o-organized. T-they've been talking about c-changing it for years, but h-haven't because the c-current system works w-well enough.” She shrugs. “D-don't fix it i-if it isn't b-broken.”

Kyou nods, and watches your aunt go with a curious expression. “It is amusing, though.” She remarks. “That she should phrase it like that.”

“How so?” You ask.

“The Guard was quite insistent I maintain a personal bodyguard while in the program, and on through my time in America and the navy.” She smiles. “I pointed out that, according to their files, I would be in no better hands than yours, and that your father was appointed as a guardian of witches.” She turns. “Do not fix that which isn't broken, yes?”

[] Maybe not, but I'm not dad.
[] Pretty much, yeah.
>>
>>3542920

Yeah, but none of those requires the personal attention of the one super-tech witch to maintain.

If you don't properly maintain a gun, it'll jam, a missile can be dumped if it breaks and an engine can be turned off.

What's going to happen if the magic device letting us haul our own weight in SM-2's breaks and has to be turned off? Do the missiles just vanish, are they all suddenly compressed into a way too small of a space, or do they just all end up spilling out of the tubes like an over-filled balloon?
>>
>>3542951
>[x] Pretty much, yeah.
>>
>>3542951
>[x] Maybe not, but I'm not dad.
>>
>>3542951
>[x] Maybe not, but I'm not dad.
>>
>>3542951
>[X] Pretty much, yeah.
>>
>>3542957
That was actually explained. The answer is that we explode.

Whoosh. Plane gone. Witch gone. We gone.
>>
>>3542951
>[] Maybe not, but I'm not dad.
>>
>>3542951
>[X] Maybe not, but I'm not dad.
>>
>>3542957
I don't believe it requires Merlin specifically. it just requires A witch to charge the foci, IIRC.
>>
>>3542951
>[X] Pretty much, yeah.

On the one hand, Morgan is not Frank.

On the other hand, Morgan does have the skills for the job.
>>
>>3542951
>[] Pretty much, yeah.
>>
>>3542951
>[x] Maybe not, but I'm not dad.
We're a lot better at CQC.
>>
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>>3542983
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>>3542938
>>3542957
It doesn't require Merlin's personal attention. It just requires A witch to power. And looky here, we have a Super Witch with nearly unlimited power to spare who can power the system. And nobody has said whether or not we can pre-charge this stuff, so can we have a brief-case of Pre-Charged focii to change out so it only has to be charged once a week or so. Can a trickle-charger type thing be established where it can be charged in flight? Etc. etc. It's a logistical issue, and Merlin wouldn't have offered it to us if she didn't think it was safe for use.
>>
>>3543013
It has no redundancies. It's not technology that should be in a machine of war.
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>>3542951
>[x] Pretty much, yeah.
>>
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>>3542703
I posted some details about how our potential VLS system could work in the last thread. I think it's still up in the archive and you should be able to read it here: >>3532332

I really think we should reconsider adding the VLS because it offers a greater than 100% increase in missile payload. Our wyvern can carry 32 sidewinders in its stock configuration, a VLS would replace the two dorsal bays at the cost of 8 sidewinders, but provides up to 24 missiles worth of hammerspace. That means that we could potentially carry 24 sidewinders AND 24 amraams at the same time for air superiority. For other mission types being able to offload missiles from our other bays into the VLS would open up room for secondary equipment like anti-ground munitions or fuel without reducing our a2a capability.

>>3542938
>Yes, but none of those explode the entire plane into gibs.
Dude our wyvern already carries enough fuel and high explosives to VAPORIZE itself ten times over. Adding a new system that requires a minimum a 3-day maintenance cycle is peanuts compared to everything else the ground crew already handles with painstaking care.

>>3542957
There are three different magical foci in the system that can keep the system charged for 24 hours each. We don't even have the fuel to fly for 72 hours and it sounds like Kyou could recharge the system at any time, so it's really not a big deal. Certainly not as big a deal as I initially though which is why I'm reconsidering my initial knee-jerk vote to pass on the VLS.

An uncontained catastrophic failure would require the destruction of all three foci, and anything that can deal that much internal damage to the wyvern (through Kyou's shields) will blow us to pieces anyway, so it's a bit academic.
>>
ok, votes called!
>>
>>3543021
Then we ask her if there are/if she can put in some additional redundancies to prevent the system from exploding. The sheer amount of increased capacity is WELL worth that potential risk, especially since it's fricking Merlin and she's gonna be working on it around the clock to try and figure out a way that it doesn't explode if we forget to charge the battery AND making sure that said battery is charged. Literally DOUBLE the missile capacity with the hammerspace bays, PLUS we can take SM-2s and LSRAMs and other stuff that normally only go on Burke's and Ticos.

>>3543037
This guy gets it.
>>
>>3543037
Wrong. It needs two foci to work. Two of the three go and the plane goes.

Fuel and HE aren't as easily damaged in a way that explodes the entire plane.

>>3543044
It really isn't. I'd rather not get gibbed by a lucky 9mm.
>>
>>3543053
>Wrong. It needs two foci to work.

You are 100% wrong.

>“O-Only mostly.” Merlin explains. “I-it's an out g-growth of my w-wartime work. T-the trouble i-is it requires a c-charged foci to work.” You turn back to the sink in time to see her frown. “W-well, that's not t-true. I-if we can't keep a charged f-focus in t-there, it'll explode and d-destroy the mount.” She pauses. “A-and the aircraft.”

Relevant link: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/3509831/#p3514563

So A charged focus. Not two. A SINGLE charged focus needs to be in the system at all times.
>>
>>3543053
>It really isn't. I'd rather not get gibbed by a lucky 9mm.

We aren't going to get gibbed by a lucky 9mm shell, stop blowing crap out of proportion.
>>
[x] Maybe not, but I'm not dad.

“Maybe not, but I'm not dad.” You point out. “Not going to go to bat against the world for someone just because she's a witch.”

“But your crew?” Kyou presses. “The guard's files indicated you spent more than a little of your free time for your teammates in your high school, does the same not apply?”

“Looking out for my team didn't involve making enemies of half the nation's matrons.” You point out, without admitting that it did get you involved in a few situations you'd have otherwise avoided. Thankfully it all worked out, but maman was not happy when she found out.

“I see.” Kyou says, looking contemplative. “Then perhaps I was wrong to dismiss a close guard so quickly?”

[] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
[] Anyone coming after you is going to come after me now anyway, so it's not like either of us has a choice.
>>
>>3543077
>[x] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543077
>[] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543077
>[x] Anyone coming after you is going to come after me now anyway, so it's not like either of us has a choice.
>>
>>3543077
>[x] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543053
>It really isn't. I'd rather not get gibbed by a lucky 9mm.
What...? Anything that hits the Wyvern hard enough to compromise the VLS system will certainly hit hard enough to kill our heroes. A 9mm isn't going to punch through Kyou's shields.

The real issue is that we don't understand the logistics well enough yet to trust the system.
>>
>>3543077
>[] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543077
[]All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543077
>[X] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543077
>[X] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
I think Kyou's better set to fight political battles than Morgan regardless...
>>
>>3543077
>>[x] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543077
>[] Anyone coming after you is going to come after me now anyway, so it's not like either of us has a choice.
>>
>>3543077
>[x] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
"If there is a threat, I'll handle it. You can't be the son of the mother of the night without knowing how to handle a fight."
>>
>>3543077
>[X] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
"That seems more in your wheelhouse anyway, your highness."
>>
>>3543077
>[] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543077
>[] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
Sorry hun, we're a catteboy not a big dumb golden retriever like dad. Political battles are outside our purrview.

Now if it's PHYSICAL protection you require, that's another matter. If anyone comes after you we've got a tomahawk to sell them....
>>
>>3543077
>[] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.
>>
>>3543148
Plus [insert magazine capacity+1 of your preferred handgun here] rounds of [insert caliber of your preferred handgun here].
>>
Votes called! Sorry about the delay.
>>
[x] All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.

You shake your head. “All I'm saying is I'm not fighting political battles for you.” You respond. “And I don't plan on steamrolling all over everyone who ever wrongs you.”

Kyou looks relieved, then smiles. “Nor would I want you to.” She says. “Forgive me for saying it, but your father made things very difficult for Tabitha politically. If he hadn't, she would perhaps be a very highly placed matron, or admiral now as well.”

You shrug. “She's been offered it a couple times. Says she doesn't want it.” Tabitha swears up and down, every time you've ever heard her talk about it, that she has no desire for any command higher than her current post as captain of the Saratoga. Even then, she's made noise about getting out of the active duty navy for the last few years- and if she were to do so, your mother is certain she'd wind up at least a major regional matron, if not a national one.

Kyou nods, and retreats to the sofa, taking a seat on one side, turning on the wall-mounted TV with the remote. She channel surfs for a moment before there's a knock on the door. She turns around as you open it for Merlin, who walks in. “S-sorry that took s-so long.” She says. “T-they wanted to c-confirm I was ok to s-stay with the officer on d-duty.”

“I assume that the officer allowed it?” Kyou says, and Merlin nods.

“O-of course.” She says, walking in. You close the door behind her, and she walks over to the couch, taking the other side of it. “S-so you wanted t-to talk about the s-systems I proposed?” She asks.

You nod, taking a seat in one of the nearby chairs- leaving them both the couch. Something about sitting in between them seems... off.


“ I have been reading on your proposed VLS.” Kyou says. “And I am curious to learn more about it. I am afraid I rejected it out of hand without learning more deeply about it. Do you agree, Morgan?

[] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
[] No- you had questions about the other systems. (Write in what you wanted to ask about!)
>>
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>>3543153
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>>3543235
>[x] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
>>
>>3543235
>[X] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
>>
>>3543235
>[x] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
>>
>>3543235
>[X] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
>>
>>3543235
>[] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
>>
>>3543235
>[X] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
>>
>>3543235
>[] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
>>
>>3543235
>[] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
If we were with Danielle or Lotus things might be different but the navy is going to send us into all of the thickest furballs precisely because they know it plays to our strengths. This is the exact situation where we would want to fill our pockets with macross memes.
>>
>>3543235
>[] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.
>>
>>3543235
>[X] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.

Well, if we're going to have the premium magical battery pack, might as well take another look at the thing that lets us carry even more boom.
>>
Ok, votes called! This'll probably be our last update for the night.
>>
[x] Nod. You want to know more about this thing- with Kyou in the back seat, you get the feeling you're going to be in the thick of any fighting.

You nod.

“W-what did you want to know?” Merlin asks.

“I have some questions regarding the stability and redundancy of the magical systems holding the VLS cells suspended in Dirac space.” Kyou says. “Especially if the system must be charged on land, or if there is a constant draw in flight.”

“A-ah.” Merlin says, nodding. “T-the foci are mutually r-redundant, the system can o-operate with only one w-working. My assistant had m-made the project her focus, a-and was working on a w-way to link the foci m-more efficiently, but she's b-being stopped by resonance l-limits. T-the diminishing returns a-are prohibitive p-past three.” She pauses, and blinks heavily. “M-morgan, I'm s-sorry, but can I h-have another cup of tea?”

“of course, auntie.” You say, standing up.

“So there are three foci, and any one of them can run the system?” Kyou says, nodding. “I assume they're located in such a way that they cannot all be disabled or destroyed by any damage the aircraft takes.”

Merlin nods. “Of c-course. W-we've also linked i-it to the computer. I-if it detects a failure in the f-field, it initiates t-the ejection sequence f-for the crew and it's d-datacore.” She pauses. “O-of course, in the c-case of combat damage disabling t-the system, the a-aircraft is most likely i-inoperable and unflyable a-anyway.”

“Which makes the point academic.” Kyou says, nodding. “But what of a golden BB?”

“T-there would have t-to be three.” Merlin says. “O-or at least two l-large ones. T-the foci a-aren't clustered, they're s-spread laterally across t-the airframe. T-there's one near each c-cluster of cells a-and another just behind t-the avionics bay.”

1/2
>>
You listen in as you prepare yet another cup of the tea, watching the brownish-red cloud as it spreads out from the battered old stainless mesh holder. You cut a slice of lemon off of one from the fridge and grab the little honey bear you picked up, setting all of them on a saucer with a spoon before walking back out to your aunt, handing her the whole thing.

“T-thank you, Morgan.” She says, smiling up at you.

“So the foci must be charged on the ground?” Kyou asks.

Merlin takes a sip of tea, then squeezes in the lemon and shakes her head. “N-no.” She says. “I-it will draw off of y-you in flight, but it shouldn't b-be noticeable a-at all. It's n-not like charging a w-weapon or p-projecting a shield. W-we strictly limited it t-to residual draw. G-ground charging was only added a-as a requirement due t-to the inability to r-remove the system when not in use.”

“I see. So once it is installed, there is no way to deactivate it and remove it for long term storage?” Kyou asks.

Merlin shakes her head. “N-no. It's part of w-why we developed the GSI cart. W-with that available, a-any witch can provide c-charge to the aircraft, j-just like charging test foci for s-strikers. A-and in a pinch, w-we can use those, b-but three of them w-will only last t-twelve hours.”

Kyou nods, looking contemplative, then looks over at you. “I am still unsure.” She says, finally. “What do you think?”

[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
[] I still don't like it, there's too much risk in it for where we'll likely be.
>>
>>3543386
>[x] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
And that's gonna be it for tonight! Sorry about the delays there, I started to get real hungry, but decided against leaving out to get food, haha. Probably gonna go hit up taco bell, though- one of the nice things about moving back down this way is that the town doesn't close up shop at midnight, and the fast food stays open, haha!

Anyway, I'm going to do that, then I'll be around as usual to field questions or comments if you guys have any! Otherwise, till tomorrow guys, cheers!
>>
>>3543386
[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
>>3543386
>[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
>>3543386
>[X] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
>>3543386
>[X] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.

It looks like if all the foci are compromised the plane is probably beyond fucked anyway. Not to mention the automatic ejection in the case of device failure.

How well does it handle engaging close (IR shot) range targets? I'm getting the impression that this thing slings missiles at what's effectively 90 degrees off bore and letting the missiles self-correct after punching clear of the plane.
>>
>>3543386
>[X] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
Let's face it: we're gonna need those extra missiles, and its less power-intensive than feared.
>>
>>3543386
>[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
Got a question about the VLS: is it six cells overall, or six per converted bay?
>>
>>3543386
>[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
While I REALLY don’t like the revoting, I don’t see why we’d be in the air long enough to need to worry about needing a recharge without a support system.
>>
>>3543386
>[X] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.

>>3543391
Thanks for the run boss.
>>
>>3543386
>[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
That power draw and level of redundancy is better than I expected. I don't see any reason why we shouldn't do it.

>>3543399
Well the latest model of sidewinder has a seeker that can turn 90 degrees sideways and the missile can lock onto a target post-launch. So we can already launch them backwards, but the VLS makes the missile more responsive because it can see the target as soon as it launches by looking behind us, it also saves time and fuel because it doesn't have to turn the full 180 degrees.

>>3543413
Merlin said "6 cells" so I'm assuming that means 3 per side. Each cell can contain one SM-2 or other large naval missile, 4 ESSMs or 4 of "any a2a missile in inventory". This is great because usually amraams take up twice the space that a sidewinder does, a normal wyvern could only take 16 and with the VLS we can take 36. But typically we'd want to take a mix.
>>
>>3543442
>Merlin said "6 cells" so I'm assuming that means 3 per side. Each cell can contain one SM-2 or other large naval missile, 4 ESSMs or 4 of "any a2a missile in inventory". This is great because usually amraams take up twice the space that a sidewinder does, a normal wyvern could only take 16 and with the VLS we can take 36. But typically we'd want to take a mix.

Even with only six cells overall, we can carry 24 AMRAAMs and another 24 Agiles at once... I forget, are the other mounts magically expanded as well? I remember something about Merlin changing her and Frank's Wyvern to have expanded missile capacity late in '89 Quest, but I don't remember the details.
>>
>>3543448
They are not, the hammerspace bays were kind of a one-off, and are not standard on Wyverns. although... if it came to it, Merlin may be able to hook us up...
>>
>>3543448
> forget, are the other mounts magically expanded as well?
No, they only made a few sets of the hammerspace bays and only install them when necessary.
>>
>>3543464
>They are not, the hammerspace bays were kind of a one-off, and are not standard on Wyverns. although... if it came to it, Merlin may be able to hook us up...
She mentioned something about changing the bays earlier...
>>
>>3543386
>[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
>>3543468
She was talking about changing them back to the wartime configured bays which would allow the nacelle and dorsal bays to carry AMRAAMs, since Navy changed them because the Air Force got the B-1Rs.
>>
>>3543468
That would be the "Merlin maybe hooking us up" I spoke of.
>>
>>3543475
I'm pretty sure she was actually talking about her old school hammerspace bays which they removed from the peace-time config. So with the hammerspace bays+VLS dorsals we're carrying upwards of 70 A2A missiles if we don't take any of the BIG BOIS.
>>
>>3543386
>[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
Let's make Itano proud.
>>
>>3543386
>[x] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
>>3543386
>[x] I still don't like it, there's too much risk in it for where we'll likely be.
>>
>>3543386
>[x] I still don't like it, there's too much risk in it for where we'll likely be.
My estimation is that with Kyou on board we have enough oomph. Lets not go full guinea pig in the middle of a conflict.
>>
>[x] I still don't like it, there's too much risk in it for where we'll likely be.

I agree, we shouldn't go full x-project just yet.
>>
>>3543386
[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
>>3543386
>[] I still don't like it, there's too much risk in it for where we'll likely be.
>>
Hey guys, just changed browsers away from Chrome, so I'm just posting real fast to get my ID for the run this evening.

>>3543413
Six total, three per side. She may work out a way to get more in later, in which case having the work already done will be a benefit to you.
>>
>>3543386
>[x] I still don't like it, there's too much risk in it for where we'll likely be.
Not exploding is good
>>
>>3543386
>[X] I still don't like it, there's too much risk in it for where we'll likely be.
>>
>>3543386
>[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.
>>
>>3544744
Seriously, what part of "We're not going to explode unless the plane is completely fucked anyway" is too hard for you to comprehend?
>>
Ok, votes called! Sorry about the delay, was eating dinner with the folks.
>>
[] I think we ought to go for it. You and I both know if it comes to a fight, we'll be in the middle of it.

“I think we'll be in the middle of any fight.” You say, nodding at Merlin. “Ok, auntie. I think we should go for it.”

“I agree” Kyou says, as soon as you're done. “I fear if it does come to conflict, we will need every advantage we can get.”

“W-well, don't forget t-that with the n-newer datalinks, you a-also can call f-fire from B-1Rs and Ws, and a-any warship in range, too.” Merlin points out.

Kyou nods. “Yes, but with the VLS installed, we have more of our own weapons to use, as well.” She says. “And combat data from the soviet war indicates that was a critical factor in several engagements. And IJN data indicates the Chinese military prefers swarm and wave attacks, to saturate defenses.” She pauses as Merlin nods.

“Of course, you knew this when designing the wyvern, didn't you?”

“I-I didn't design it, originally.” Merlin points out. “B-but most people call it mine b-because I've worked o-on it so long. A-and most of the systems aren't designed as h-hard counters to anything. W-we keep updating the w-wyvern to make sure it's the t-threat other people have t-to adapt to, not the o-other way around.”

Kyou nods. “I see.”

Merlin finishes her tea, then yawns. “B-but if that's the only change, I-I think I need to go to bed.” She says.

“That is the only change I wished to discuss.” Kyou says. “Morgan?”

[] that was it for me, too.
[] I did want to talk about another thing, actually.
>>
>>3545198
>[x] That was it for me, too.
>>
>>3545198
>[x] that was it for me, too.
Swapping the FAST pack is the only other thing I can think of but that's not too big of a thing
>>
>>3545198
>[X] that was it for me, too.
>>
>>3545198
>[X] that was it for me, too.
>>
>>3545198
>[X] that was it for me, too.
I think that was the only issue, since Morgan already okayed switching the standard cannons for Gauss Cannons.
>>
>>3545198
>[] I did want to talk about another thing, actually.
Switch FAST to either fuel or Sensors
>>
>>3545198
>[x] That was it for me, too.
>>
>>3545198
>[] that was it for me, too.
>>
>>3545198
>[] that was it for me, too.
Later on when we get more used to using the VLS system we can switch our FAST packs to something else, like sensors + fuel or pure fuel. I think we should also try the GOTTA GO FAST engines at some point instead of the IR reduction ones, but both of those things can wait till later when we have a better picture of our upcoming mission parameters.
>>
>>3545254

Agreed, of course, what aircraft could legit threaten us once we get into a visual range dogfight? The J-11 and Su-30 comes to mind, though they would have to be one hell of a pilot or a sparkle.
>>
>>3545198
>[] that was it for me, too.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] that was it for me, too.

You shake your head, standing up. “That was it for me too.” You say.

Merlin nods. “I-I'll send an email to m-my team and l-let them know.” She says, standing and yawning.

“Let me go get my things, real fast, auntie.” You say, heading into your bedroom and pulling a pair of PT shorts and your hygiene kit out- you'll shower after a morning run, but you know you'll be up long before she will be. You think, briefly, about straightening out the sheets and rearranging the pillows, but considering that she left them that way after her nap anyway, you decide against it.

She's waiting by the door as you step back out, and smiles at you as she brushes by. Kyou is still on the couch, though the TV is on again, and she's surfing through the channels, a frown on her face. “American Television is odd.” She says, after a moment, turning to look over at you.

You shrug. “Never watched it much, myself.” You say. You never really have, either- there's always something else to do. Through school it was homework and work for the football team, or even going out with your friends around town. Part of it may have been your mother- who never stood much for TV herself. You have always had access to an excellent library, though- one, according to your mother, that has been built over several generations of the family. It's certainly extensive, with thousands of books, and you probably haven't gotten through a tenth of it.

Kyou shuts the TV off after another second and stands, stretching and yawning as she does so, arching her back. “I think it is also time for me to go to sleep.” She says, after a minute, then pauses and smiles. “If I can. I keep expecting to be called and told this is all a mistake, and I will not be part of a wyvern crew.”

“Little late now.” You point out, and she nods again.

“It is, isn't it? Though what your aunt said does worry me. What if the board decides we will not be able to work together over the long term?”

[] I don't think that's a concern.
[] If they haven't by now, they're a little late to do so anymore, don't you think?
>>
>>3545441
>[x] I don't think that's a concern.
>>
>>3545441

[] I don't think that's a concern
>>
>>3545441
>[] I don't think that's a concern.
>>
>>3545441
>[X] I don't think that's a concern.
>>
>>3545441
>[x] I don't think that's a concern.
>>
>>3545441
>[] I don't think that's a concern.
>>
>>3545441
>[] If they haven't by now, they're a little late to do so anymore, don't you think?
>>
>>3545441
>[X] I don't think that's a concern.
>>
>>3545441
>[X] I don't think that's a concern.
>>
>>3545441
>[X] I don't think that's a concern.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] I don't think that's a concern.

“I don't think that's a concern.” You say, throwing your poncho liner on the couch and sitting to take off your shoes.

Kyou pauses, looking at you for a minute, then smiles. “I think you are correct.” She says. “Goodnight.”

You nod at her as she turns, and throw your poncho liner on the couch as she closes the door to her bedroom, pulling off your shirt and changing into your PT shorts before flipping the TV on and channel surfing for a few minutes yourself. Finding nothing interesting, you turn it off and hit the lights, falling rapidly to sleep as you close your eyes.

You're woken sometime in the night by furtive noises in the kitchen- someone getting a midnight snack, you suspect. You grin, hoping vaguely for a chance to tease your aunt a bit- after her slip up earlier, she kind of deserves it.

Sliding as silently as you can off the sofa, you move, as quietly as you can to the counter looking into the kitchen and lean over.

Kyou, clad in a T-shirt only just barely to the top of her thighs whips around from rummaging in the fridge, a chicken thigh clenched in her teeth and another in her hand, the massive triangular ears of her familiar forward and alert. The look on her face is priceless- and she pauses for a long moment before biting off a mouthful of chicken and chewing for a minute, holding the tub of leftovers in the crook of her arm. “ I feel as if I have been caught in an elaborate trap.” She says, quietly. It's all you can do to not laugh.

[] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
[] If I was prone to hunting, I'm sure I'd be quite successful, yes.
>>
>>3545591
>[] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[X] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.

I miss Rufus, he was such a good doggo. :(
>>
>>3545591
>[X] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[X] If I was prone to hunting, I'm sure I'd be quite successful, yes.

Watermelon isn't for wolves, Ghost. It's for capybaras.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YaYwasi72K8
>>
>>3545591
>[] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[X] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[x] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[x] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[x] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3545591
>[] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.
>>
>>3540632
I just got a cushy office job fresh out of college, and I gotta tell ya. It's ALL about connections when it comes to jobs. My grad school classmate was the once who let me know about the opening AND the one who interviewed me.

Hit up your old friends or co-workers, relatives even. You'd be surprised what you find that way.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] Ah, oui, de shiken, it do dat to de ladies.

“Ah oui.” You say, chuckling quietly. “De shicken, it do dat to de ladies.”

She offers you a piece and you both head into the darkened dining nook, where she sets the plastic tub between you.

You frown as you finish the wing. “Dis not my best, non.” You say, regarding the bones. You're not sure what's off about it- not enough pepper, you think, but there's something else to it.

Kyou silently stares for a second, then blinks. “It gets better than this?” She asks, sounding doubtful.

You nod. “Dis pretty weak, by my standard, oui.” You respond.

“Truly, this must be a dream.” Kyou mutters. “I have a wyvern posting with a pilot who is not only capable and highly tested, but he can cook? Merlin herself, the mother of modern air combat is talking about allowing me to learn under her? I have done something right in this life or another.”

You laugh, still working to stay quiet, so as to not wake your aunt. “You say dat, wait till you have to meet my family.” You say.

“Oh? That sounds like a warning.” Kyou says with a slight smile, echoing your words at dinner.

[] Maybe a little, yeah.
[] Not really. Maman might try to intimidate you, but she's just protective.
>>
>>3545833
>[X] Not really. Maman might try to intimidate you, but she's just protective.
>>
>>3545833
>[] Maybe a little, yeah.
>>
>>3545833
>[X] Maybe a little, yeah.
>>
>>3545833
>[] Maybe a little, yeah.
"Maman is *exactly* as scary as they say she is. When she wants to be."
>>
>>3545833
>[] Maybe a little, yeah.
>>
>>3545833
>[x] Not really. Maman might try to intimidate you, but she's just protective.
This is probably the point where maman will speak up from her hidey-hole.
>>
>>3545856
She is, but Kyou's a good awoo and shouldn't have too much to worry about.
>>
>>3545833
>[x] Maybe a little, yeah.
>>
>>3545865
No but she gave us fair warning on her family so we should do the same.

I think the Bayou Coven probably counts as an extended family as well, so any "protective" people aside from Cass who we've already mentioned should come up.

Plus Stasya and the rest of the girls she hasn't met yet. Morgan has two family's with no small amount of soft power themselves, so Kyou needs to learn about any potential issues.

It's not likely Kyou would cause any issue but neither is Morgan actually bungling in front of the Imperial family.
>>
>>3545833
>[] Maybe a little, yeah.
>>
>>3545833
>[X] Maybe a little, yeah.
>>
>>3545833
>[] Maybe a little, yeah.
>>
>>3545833
>[X] Maybe a little, yeah.
Honesty for honesty
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] Maybe a little, yeah.

You nod. “Maybe a little, yes.” you say.

“How so?” She asks.

“Well, my father's side isn't going to be too bad.” You say. “My sisters may get defensive, but you don't have to worry much about them. Cass will probably be the worst, but I'll help deal with her.” You say. “Natalya is a bit... odd, for most people, so be warned.”

“Natalya- ah.” Kyou responds, nodding. “She is one of the soviet bioweapons?”

You shake your head. “She's my sister.” You say, correcting Kyou. “We don't talk about her past, she's Natalya Bishop. That's all.”

Kyou nods. “I understand. I apologize if I offended.”

“You didn't but it's not something we talk about.” You say. “The same goes for Stasya and Lilya. They're as much my sisters as any of the rest of them, and we don't talk about their past. Don't bring up Crete or anything before it.”

Kyou nods. “I understand.”

“Other than that, there's no off limits subjects. Dad doesn't like to talk about Eastern Poland, he was at ground zero when Stalin's wall went up, but it's not taboo. Ice gets embarrassed talking bringing him back after Crete, but you can ask.” You pause. “My younger sisters will ask a lot of questions, but don't worry about them. Most of them are active duty except Tatyana, She's graduating from this year's citadel class.”

“So we may see her soon?” Kyou asks. “Will she be with the training rotation coming here?”

You pause- you hadn't thought of that. “I guess so, yes.” You say after a moment. Your youngest Bishop sister, Tatyana, is a bit of a troublemaker- though, unlike the far more boisterous sneks, she tends to instigate trouble between your other sisters, then sit back and watch the chaos. You hope she's learned to control her urge to do so- but you haven't seen her in quite a while. Still, the citadel is noted for being a fairly hard school, even by military academy standards, and it's witch academy is no different.

1/2
>>
“And your Mother's side?” Kyou asks.

You pause. “Maman can be every ounce as scary as anyone says, when she wants to be.” You answer carefully. “She usually doesn't want to be, and you have to be very rude to get her to be.”

“I do not think I wish to see that.” Kyou responds.

You nod. “Safe bet. Elizabeth is my sister on that side. She's...” You pause, looking for a good way to describe your younger Laroux sibling. “She's a lot like aunt Jessica, but toned down.” You say, eventually. “She's still in the academy, but we won't be seeing her. She's class of twenty-eighteen.”

“I see.” Kyou says with a light laugh “It appears I'll have much to remember.”

You shake your head. “It's not as bad as it sounds. Maman is easy to get along with most of the time, and the old ladies of the bayou are just going to be interested in you the way grandparents are.”

“I see. So the bayou coven functions as a large extended family?”

You nod. “Mostly.”

“I look forward to meeting them, then.” Kyou says, standing up from her chair- she's cleaned out about three-quarters of the leftover chicken. “I think I will return to bed, however. What shall we do today? I had hoped to use the pool.”

“Me too.”

Kyou smiles again, taking her trash into the kitchen and throwing it in the can by the door. “Excellent. I think a day under the sun will be nice before the real training begins.”

You agree- especially with the part about a day under the sun. You're already looking forward to the nap.
>>
And that's going to be it for the week! Didn't hear anything back yet, so the job search continues, haha. I think I'm going to give it another couple weeks, then I'll start really looking at dropping papers and going back in. We'll see, haha!

Anyway, since there's been no news, the run should be normal next week, but keep an eye on the twitter anyway- sometimes things can come up, afterall.

I think that's all there really is for now, so I'll stop, haha! As usual, I'll be around on and off till next week to field questions and comments if you guys have any, otherwise, till next time guys, cheers!
>>
>>3546032
Thanks for running Boss, fun times as always.
>>
>>3546032
Thanks for the run man!

Good luck with your job search!
>>
>>3546032
Thanks for the run Ghost!
>>
>>3546032
Thanks for the run boss.
>>
>>3545591
>
Kyou, clad in a T-shirt only just barely to the top of her thighs whips around from rummaging in the fridge, a chicken thigh clenched in her teeth and another in her hand, the massive triangular ears of her familiar forward and alert. The look on her face is priceless- and she pauses for a long moment before biting off a mouthful of chicken and chewing for a minute, holding the tub of leftovers in the crook of her arm. “ I feel as if I have been caught in an elaborate trap.” She says, quietly. It's all you can do to not laugh.
>Kyou silently stares for a second, then blinks. “It gets better than this?”
We've created a monster.
>>
>>3546415
An easily bribed monster.
>>
>>3546415
Ah, a dog is her familiar ? We can say "Bad dog, bad!" to Kyou in the future ?
>>
>>3546568
wolf, not dog
>>
Just for fun, list of (biological) Bishop daughters:
Katya: 1 daughter (Tatyana) born in 1998 (18 yrs old)
Slider: 5 daughters (Cass, Samantha, Rebecca, Lindsay, Ashey) born in 1993 (23 yrs old)
Ice: 2 daughters (Anastasia, ???) born in 1991 (25 yrs old)
>>
>>3546568
“Dog” is the root of some the worst insults in East Asian cultures.
>>
>>3547660
Good. Worst girl deserves it.
>>
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>>3547711
>Worst girl

Look at this pleb. Look at him and laugh at his shit taste.
>>
>>3547711
beep boop, your opinion is moot.
>>
>>3547722
Not yet! Still holding out for Merlin!
>>
>>3547735
Gross.
>>
>>3547735
Based.
>>
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So how are we going to paint our bird?
>>
>>3547772

Gotta go for that intimidation factor. Nothing quite like mottled black/dark grey with blood red edges.
>>
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>>3547735
>>
>>3547780
Too soviet looking. Nix the red and the mottling and now we're talking.
>>
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>>3547772
I say we go full PHOENIX
>>
>>3547941

Seconded, its outright awesome!
>>
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>>3547780
SHUN THE "OW THE EDGE" BLACK AND RED

>>3547941
PHOENIX BROS UNITE
>>
>>3547941

Ew. The 90's called, they want their shitty flame decals back.
>>
>>3548015
Indeed. Why not just keep it nice and clean and however it came?
>>
We could just ask the AI to come up with a few designs once s/he/it becomes fully aware.
>>
>>3547772
>>3547772
Titans colors.
Dark blue, with black around the cockpit, and red and gold highlights.
>>
>>3548050
Now see, dark blue, black, red, and gold are a great combination, but do we REALLY want to announce our presence on every single battlefield? sure eventually they'll recognize the markings, but markings take more than a cursory glance to distinguish "Oh, that's that guy that splashed a bunch of our dudes"

Don't salute the officer, don't fancy up the plane
>>
>>3548062
>don't fancy up the plane
>laughs in OG fighter ace
>>
>>3548062

We're in a Wyvern, we're going to be the priority one target the moment we fly onto the field regardless of what paint job we've got.
>>
>>3548062
>>3548069
But seriously, you don't want that Ace Combat "oh fuck, it's THEM" reaction when an enemy gets visual on us?
>>
>>3548071
>>3548079
>>3548069
good point... I forgot that there were so very few Wyverns for a bit there. in that case, I'm all for the dark blue and black with red and gold highlights.
>>
>Not just going for the All Metallic Red option

IT'S LIKE YOU GUYS *WANT* TO BE COUNTERFEIT AND HOMOEROTIC
>>
>>3548092
Weren't there like 50 or so ?
>>
>>3548807
compared to a couple hundred raptors and variants, plus however many hundreds/thousands of F-35's and hornets and everything else, yeah Wyverns are rare and priority targets
>>
>>3547941
It's like black, it goes with everything.
>>
>>3548889

Yep, I find myself agreeing as well.
>>
>>3547735
Gross and based.
>>3547772
If you want to honor Merlin as the "mother" of the wyvern ( and best waifu), which I prefer, some reference to her, like a decal of her familiar on our bird.
>>
>>3548807
I think the exact number was 42 or 44, but yeah, see >>3548826
>>
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>>3547941
My buddy right here.
>>
>>3547772
Put one of Cass' lewd photos as the nose art.
>>
>>3550482
>>
>>3550509
She sent them to us. What did she think we would use them for?
>>
>>3550549
Nothing. If I had to take a stab at amateur psychoanalysis, I'd say that she's latched onto Morgan as a "safe" object of romantic interest. Someone who won't ever push her boundaries.
>>
>>3550482
THIS. edit it a bit so she at least has panties on.
>>
>>3551509
I mean, she did have panties on though. At least, kinda. That is, assuming you guys are talking about the pictures she sent from her quarters aboard the Kaga.
>>
>>3552391
...there are other pictures?
>>
>>3552864
She sent the one, and then several others over the course of the night. This is not exactly new behavior from her.
>>
She probably did that meme selfie thing where she used her hand to cover up the naugty bits in perspective using a mirror.
>>
>>3547941
Absolutely this.
>>
Here's a thought, instead of just black and red or phoenix coloration, why not go full GILDED BAROQUE, ala the Sisters of Battle.
>>
>>3553507
With something kinda like this?
>>
>>3553507
I much prefer that to that gaudy phoenix paint job, if we want to stand out, let it be unique, and not a ricer from Fast and the Furious 2.
>>
>>3553507
how bout something like this? ignore the ivory, but that kinda paint scheme would be neat
>>
>>3550549
I think she hoped for vigorous onanism.
>>
>>3553507
>>3550482
Combine the two.

Sister of battle.
>>
>>3550482
THIS.
>>
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>>3553507
>>3553523
>Black with red and gold trim
Something like this then? Not sure where to put the gold but we shouldn't go overboard.

Not a fan of the white and purple with red flames, looks too much like clown makeup to me. Schemes like that don't look good outside of an anime unless everyone uses them.
>>
>>3555048
At least it isn't as ostentatious as etching an intricate design onto the cockpit canopy.
>>
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>>3547772
Martian War retro, either the mid-war color scheme or the early war blue gray on light gray.
>>
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>>3555073
An example of both on a Prowler and Growler from a few years ago.
>>
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>>3555073
>>3555075
Considering when the balloon goes up we're probably headed to China? Flying Tigers green and brown camo with sharkmouth, and art amidships?
>>
Thread hasn't been archived yet...?
>>
>>3555938
Usually isn't archived until the end of the second part of the thread.
>>
>>3555413
>>3555075
>>3555048

Those are very good looking paint scheme, honestly I think that a mixture of the three should do the job nicely. Gold tinted canopy, sharkmouth and flying tiger art amidships, with the overall paint scheme being that of the Prowler. I'd say that screams pretty badass.
>>
>>3555413
>>3556532
>sharkmouth
Consider this, Kyou's familiar is a large black wolf so why not do our own spin on it make it a wolfmouth?
>>
>>3556558
Should just make the plane a giant black wolf homage.
>>
Ok guys, sorry for the late start! Dinner took me a bit longer to eat than I thought, and I was making some sweet tea. It's summer, I need sweet tea, haha.

No news worth worrying about, so let's get right into it!

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

Sunday, such as it was, came and went too far too quickly. You spent most of the day dozing in the sun, perfectly content to burn- and only slightly annoyed by Kyou and your aunt's attempts to prevent that by making you wear sunscreen.

Of course, Monday morning found you up for the usual routine, only partly changed by Kyou's presence the entire time. She was up at the same time as you, did the same morning run as you, and sat down for the early morning news the same as you. You're not sure if it's a case of convergent schedules- this may well be normal for her, too, and she hasn't said- or if it's a case of her trying to get into the same routines as you.

Either way, both of you, dressed in clean, and in Kyou's case, full, flight suits, are at operations for the morning muster, getting little more than a nod and a sign off. You'll be greeting her family shortly, and a few hours after that, Kyou will go in for her plugs.

She's maintained the same air of imperial bearing the entire morning, though the smile finally breaks through as the two of you are escorted to the same corner office where you made your final selection and have a moment to yourselves again while your ride to the airport is arranged.

“Ah, I can hardly wait!” She says as the door clicks closed, walking over to the windows overlooking the flight line. There's a quartet of Tomcats rolling off the tarmac out there, their lights still visible in the weak dawn light. “I have requested expedited healing.” She says, turning back to you as you take a seat.

1/2
>>
“They offer that?” You ask, surprised- this is the first you've heard of it.

Kyou smiles again. “No, but the captain of the Kaga and the ship's matron have agreed to send one of the ship's witches to assist, and no one has objected. I should be able to fly by this evening.”

You blink- that's much sooner than had been anticipated, you know, and you're pretty sure your aircraft is grounded for the majority of the week anyway, owing to Merlin's team's work on it. Even now you can see the big blue vought factory transport aircraft squatting on the pad near the wyverns, it's tailfin visible over the top of the hangars.

“Oh, I know, they're performing the modifications to our aircraft.” Kyou says, with a nod, answering your thoughts. “But I would feel much better if I was available to assist, as I'm sure you will be, and it is my duty to as well.”

You shrug. “If they're ok with it.” You say, simply.

“They have not complained or opposed it.” Kyou responds, turning back to the windows. I expect you will end up spending much of the day with my family. Is there anything you feel you need to know before you meet them?”

[] Not really, I think our discussion over dinner was enough.
[] Nothing I can think of, is there anything you think I need to know?
>>
>>3556729
>[x] Not really, I think our discussion over dinner was enough.
>>
>>3556729
>[X] Nothing I can think of, is there anything you think I need to know?
>>
>>3556729
>[x] Nothing I can think of, is there anything you think I need to know?

>only slightly annoyed by Kyou and your aunt's attempts to prevent that by making you wear sunscreen.
I'm sure they were very worried about our skin.
>>
>>3556729
>[x] Not really, I think our discussion over dinner was enough.
>>
Remember to update your twitter Ghost
>>
>>3556729
>[x] Nothing I can think of, is there anything you think I need to know?
>>3556746
You're a saint chap!
>>
>>3556729
>[X] Nothing I can think of, is there anything you think I need to know?
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] Nothing I can think of, is there anything you think I need to know?

You shake your head. “Nothing I can think of.” You say. “Is there anything you think I need to know?”

“No.” She says, not turning away from the window, but shaking her head. “As I said, I believe my sister will be very curt and formal, and my brother may become a bother, and may ask too many questions. Do not think poorly of him for it, he has never quite been at peace with his infirmity keeping him from military service. My father was a military man, I expect he will keep most of his conversation along those lines.” She smiles. “Of course, he is also here to present a further case for wyvern sales to the imperial military, so he may ask you about your opinion on the subject. However, he will also understand if you have no opinion, or don't wish to discuss it.”

You nod, looking over as the door opens. A sailor from the base, dressed in NWUs, stands there. “Sorry to interrupt, sir, ma'am, but the skipper sent me to get you.”

You nod, standing up, turning to wait for Kyou and waiting for her to exit the room before you do. “Sorry for the wait.” The sailor says, as you follow him downstairs and out of the back exit to the flight line- you'll be flying over to the airport in a navy seahawk, then from there probably back to the base. Why you're flying you have no idea, though you don't worry about it. Helicopters have never bothered you, honestly- sometimes you think you'd have liked to learn how to fly them. They're nowhere near as fast, of course, and there's no such thing as a super helicopter, at least not officially- there's rumors, of course, but there always are. Still, you've always thought them interesting.

The chopper, spooling up on the pad, is a light gray Seahawk, though you don't recognize the squadron markings on the tailboom. Climbing inside, you and Kyou both take a spot on the seats on the rear bulkhead, putting on the offered headsets to communicate with the crew and buckling the simple lap belt. The chopper spools up with the same familiar rising whine as your wyvern, though the thud of the rotorblades in the air is different, of course.

1/2
>>
Oddly enough, the helicopter taxis along the tarmac and executes a rolling takeoff from the shorter runway on the base, climbing up to what you make to be a couple thousand feet and cutting south, across the city. They follow a circular route around to the helicopter pads at the coast guard station, where they land, and a state department SUV is waiting.

You're not surprised to see the same state department officer inside that you met before dinner with Kyou. He nods from the front seat, but doesn't say anything on the short ride over.

The tarmac is cleared in the area of the Japanese VIP aircraft, though you note the presence of countermeasure pods on the fuselage and the distinct openings for decoy launchers near the rear of the wingroots. There's also a handful of imperial guard troops, no doubt ones that flew over on a military aircraft before the imperial family landed nearby- their heads swivel almost in eerie unison as they track the SUV for a moment.

Kyou smiles. “Steve,” She says, addressing the state department man by his first name. “I will be keeping my pilot with me to greet my family.”

The man blinks. “Uh... “ He says, clearly wrong-footed. “Um. Well, if you want to. We had assumed you'd want to greet them yourself, first.”

Kyou smiles as the SUV pulls to a halt out of sight- you'll walk across the pad to greet them, though the motorcade to transport them is no doubt nearby. “I think in this instance that will be unnecessary.” She says, nodding to the driver who opens the door on her side.”

“If that's what you want.” Steve says, turning to look at you before shrugging and stepping out of the vehicle.

Kyou looks a little tense as you walk next to her. A pair of IG troopers have detached themselves from the rest, and are approaching the two of you.

[] Nervous?
[] Don't worry. I got your back.
>>
>>3556870
>[x] Don't worry. I got your back.
>>
>>3556870
>[X] Don't worry. I got your back.
>>
>>3556870
>[] Don't worry. I got your back.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[] Don't worry. I got your back.

“Don't worry.” You say quietly as the men approach. “I got your back.”

Kyou nods. “I know. I am not worried, merely... “She pauses. “Apprehensive. My decision was quite sudden for my family, and I have avoided talking to them at length since then. I doubt I will be able to avoid it now, though.”

You'd respond, but the two IG troops reach you, and, recognizing Kyou, bow low. She greets them formally, and introduces you as her companion, and while neither of them makes any moves except to fall in near you, their body language both indicates a bit of confusion about your presence.

Kyou's family is descending the built-in stairs of their aircraft as you approach, her father first, followed by her brother on his crutches and a woman you make to be her mother- the resemblance is pretty clear, honestly. Given that her mother doesn't look to be but a few years older than you marks her as a witch, as well. Lastly, a younger, severe looking teenage girl, who scowls slightly at your presence next to her sister.

Kyou's father reaches the bottom of the stairs and waits for the rest of his family, smiling and exchanging a few short words with an older Imperial guardsman near the bottom of the ramp. He turns to look at you for a second, saying something else to the guardsman as he does so.

Kyou herself waits at the end of the corridor of IG troops, allowing her family to cross the distance to you at their own pace- which, you note, doesn't seem too hindered by her brother. He uses both legs, but they look strangely shrunken and atrophied, even given his slight build. Still, he doesn't seem to be bothered keeping pace with his family.

1/2
>>
Kyou's father draws up in front of you, separated by a short space. He's an imposing, stern looking guy, you note- the left side of his face bears several pockmark scars, like craters on the moon, hints of his service during the war, you imagine, and his hair is a salt-and-pepper mix. He's dressed in a business suit, as is Kyou's brother. Her mother wears a white IJN service uniform, though you doubt the sword at her side is merely for show, and her sister is in what you assume is her academy uniform, though it includes a mid-length skirt, one that covers her leg to the knee.

“Kyou.” Her father says, in Japanese- you see a twitch of his hand that you assume is an instruction to the interpreter nearby to not say anything. “Under normal circumstances, I would be rather angry. Instead I will save that discussion for later, and only ask what you mean by this.”

Kyou hesistates, shooting a short glance over to you that indicates you need to keep quiet for the moment. “A thousand apologies, father.” She says, bowing. “but I could not simply allow this opportunity to escape me.”

“Hmph. Well, at least you settled for no less than the best.” He says, shooting a glance at you. “The only son of Frank Bishop. And his academy scores are similar to your own.”

“He's a capable pilot in his own right, father.” Kyou says, in defense of you.

“And, the guard tell me, an incredibly dangerous man, as he is also the son of Brigitte Laroux, the mother of night.” He finishes.

“And he's gorgeous.” Kyou's mother supplies with a smile. “Tell me, am I to be a grandmother soon?”

Kyou looks over at you with a very, very slight nod- a go ahead sign.

[] “We hadn't planed quite that far ahead, ma'am.”
[] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.
>>
>>3556958
>[] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.

PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD
>>
>>3556958
>[X] “We hadn't planed quite that far ahead, ma'am.”
>>
>>3556958
>[X] “We hadn't planed quite that far ahead, ma'am.”
>>
>>3556958
>[] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.
>>
>>3556958
>[x] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.
Let's surprise them with the whole "I know what you're saying" bit for later. It'll make things more... entertaining.
>>
>>3556958
>[x] “We hadn't planed quite that far ahead, ma'am.”
>>
>>3556958
>[] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.
>>
>>3556977
Well at least we know that her mother approves. Now we just need to impress her father.
Little sister can go fuck herself.
>>
>>3556958
>[X] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.
Save that bounce for when they won't expect it
>>
>>3556958
>[x] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.
>>
>>3556958
>[] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.
>>
>>3556987
While I'll agree with the first two statements I'll withhold my judgment of the imouto until such time as she actually opens her mouth.
>>
>>3556958
>[x] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.
>>
>>3556958
>[X] “We hadn't planed quite that far ahead, ma'am.”
>>
>>3557019
She scowled at our very presence.
She can get fucked, until and unless she proves otherwise.
>>
>>3557041
She's also like, Sixteen And Retarded. Cut her some slack.
>>
>>3556722
>You spent most of the day dozing in the sun, perfectly content to burn- and only slightly annoyed by Kyou and your aunt's attempts to prevent that by making you wear sunscreen.
Pfff, imagine the spaghetti if we insisted that they apply the sunscreen themselves.

>>3556729
>Kyou smiles again. “No, but the captain of the Kaga and the ship's matron have agreed to send one of the ship's witches to assist, and no one has objected. I should be able to fly by this evening.”
Nip healwitch? I wonder if she's a Miyafuji.
>>
>>3557053
I'm not suggesting we directly antagonize her. Just that she and her opinion of us can go take a flying fuck at a rolling donut, a flying fuck at the moon.
>>
ok, votes called!
>>
>>3557067
Lol, all she's done is mean mug us and you're already at "Fuck this bitch". How do you deal with people in real life with an attitude? Try and out-fuckhead them?

Fucking chill.
>>
[x] Let Kyou handle it- not quite the part to be letting that go just yet.

You give the tiniest shake of your head- timing, you're learning, is something you're really going to have to help Kyou learn. Anticipation can get the best of a person easily, but proper timing yields far better rewards, sometimes.

“Not yet, mother.” Kyou responds. “We have scarcely had time had time to discuss such personal matters.”

“I see, I see.” Her mother responds. “We will have to talk about this later, then. I do expect grandchildren soon.”

“Mother, please.”

“And is it true?” Her brother asks. “That Samantha Wells herself is taking a personal interest in your aircraft?”

“It is our aircraft.” Kyou corrects him. “And yes. As you no doubt know, Morgan's family-”

“Morgan?” Her sister interrupts. “You're already addressing him by his name?”

“Of course.” Kyou responds, smoothly. “We are a team, and will be for the rest of both of our careers.”

“Certainly you don't allow him the same privilege?”

“Of course I do.” Kyou says.

“Hmph.” Her sister responds, turning up her nose slightly at the thought.

“Enough.” Her father says. “You interrupted. Kyou, is this true? You are working directly with Samantha Wells?”

Kyou nods. “Yes, father. She has indicated she may take me as an apprentice.”

That, at least, looks like it impresses the old man. “Really? If so that is quite an achievement, and would go a long way to mollify the Matron Kyoto. They are still displeased at your decision to not only refuse apprenticeship, but your decision to take a position with the American coven.”

“It was required for the wyvern program, father.” Kyou says. “And it is as a guest of the coven. I am still a witch of the empire first.”

“But you're the first Japanese witch to ever fly in a wyvern!” Her brother exclaims. “Ah, that is so exciting! I hope Morgan will allow me to talk with him.”

Kyou smiles. “He has been warned, little brother. He's agreed to talk with you during your visit.”

Her brother smiles. “Excellent! Can you introduce us? I've been practicing my English.”

“I have not.” Her sister says, looking over at the interpreter.

Kyou nods. “Father, Mother, may I present the Lieutenant Morgan Laroux-Bishop, United States navy.” She says, in English. “He is the pilot of our fighter aircraft and my crewmate.”

You bow deeply when introduced.

“Lieutenant, this is my father, the crown prince Takashi, My mother, the princess consort Mizuki, My brother, the prince Hohiro, and my sister, the princess Akemi.”

“An honor to meet you, Lieutenant.” Kyou's father says, his English accented, though not heavily. “Forgive my wife and younger daughter, they do not speak English.”

[] It is no concern, highness.
[] If you wish, we can conduct our conversation in Japanese.
>>
>>3557183
>[X] If you wish, we can conduct our conversation in Japanese.
>>
>>3557183
>[X] It is no concern, highness.
NOT YET
>>
>>3557183
>[] It is no concern, highness.
Wait for the right time to bounce
>>
>>3557183
> [X] If you wish, we can conduct our conversation in Japanese.
I think it would be rude to not let the cat out of the bag at this point.
>>
>>3557183
>[] It is no concern, highness.

KEEP TALKING, I'M RELOADING
>>
>>3557183
>[x] It is no concern, highness.
>>
>>3557183
>[x] It is no concern, highness.
>>
>>3557183
>[X] If you wish, we can conduct our conversation in Japanese.
>>
>>3557183
>[x] It is no concern, highness.

STEALTH MODE: ENGAGE
>>
>>3557183
>[x] If you wish, we can conduct our conversation in Japanese.
>>
>>3557183
>[] It is no concern, highness.
>>
>>3557183
[] It is no concern, highness.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
>>3557183
>[x] It is no concern, highness.
Steady men! Steady!
>>
[x] It is no concern, highness.

“It is no concern, highness.” You respond, keeping it limited strictly to English.

He nods. “My son, however, does speak English, and is most eager to talk to you. If it is permitted, I would ask you to allow him to inspect your aircraft personally. Wyverns are a rare sight on the home islands, and he is eager to see one closely.”

“I believe that will be permitted, father.” Kyou answers for you, before looking at her watch. “However, we should continue our conversation on the way to the Hospital. I must check in before oh-nine hundred.”

Her father frowns and checks the watch on his own wrist. “I see. We will accompany you, of course.”

She nods. “Of course. Morgan will ride with me.”

“Your mother and I had intended to discuss matters with you on the way.” He says. “I imagine that would be a rather poor ride for your pilot. Perhaps he should ride with your younger brother, instead.”

Kyou shakes her head. “Unfortunately, regulations prevent that. My pilot and I are not permitted to separate from each other while off post unless we have a Marine guard with us.” She looks around at the imperial guardsmen- and women, you note the presence of a few witches among them, now. “The imperial guard, sadly, will not suffice in this role. The navy is rather serious about it.”

“I see.” the crown prince says with a frown. “Then he will have to ride with us. My apologies, Lieutenant.”

“None necessary, highness.” You say, turning to follow Kyou as she walks alongside her mother and father towards the vehicles sent by the state department, now arrayed as a small, three vehicle convoy. A pair of nearby, blacked out SUVs mark the presence of a security element, though the imperial guard witches, now fitting into strikers, are no doubt intending to follow along as well. You make them out to be a wheeled fighting vehicle of some kind, though you can't quite identify it- though the massive tank rifle marks it as a wheeled tank destroyer.

“Type sixteen maneuver combat vehicles.” Kyou's brother supplies, noting your gaze. “Brand new, the army only just started fielding them this year.”

You nod. “They remind me of the XM Eleven twenty-eights Mom tested for SOCOM.”

“Ah! Your mother tested the MGS?” He asks. “I didn't know that.”

You nod. “She favored light armor during the war, so they had her test them out.” Your mother, of course, was qualified for anything in inventory- and stays current on a half dozen types of strikers, last you talked to her. Privately, you suspect she's still fully qualified on everything, barring, maybe, Merlin's Valkyrie project.

1/3(?)
>>
“Over here, Lieutenant.” One of the guardsmen says, indicating the vehicle Kyou and her parents are entering. You nod, walking over and climbing in, taking a seat next to Kyou in the back. The rear seats face each other, you note- an odd change, but probably one the imperial family requested for their use here in the states.

The door closes and the convoy starts moving shortly afterwards, a pair of police vehicles providing a road escort. Kind of superflous stacked against the witches, you think.

“I am told you dismissed your bodyguard.” Kyou's father says, again in Japanese. “Am I to take this to mean you assume this American is their equal?”

“Father, they are terrified of him.” Kyou responds. “Notice how close the witches remain, how often they look into the vehicle.”

He pauses, looking out, catching one of the witches as she glances at the window of the SUV. “That seems flimsy.”

Kyou shakes her head. “Father, if Morgan had intentions to harm any of us, I doubt he would take so long, or act so indirectly. The mother of night taught him.”

That gives him pause. “Very well. Now, about this. Do you really mean to do this? I am told you will effectively become inseparable, each entirely dependent on the other. I understand it is not as controversial as what your aunt has done, but another American? Another Bishop?”

Kyou looks over at you, then back at her father. “I do not feel it will be a problem.” She says.

“Not now, but twenty years from now when you enter politics?” Her mother retorts. “Your aunt was almost entirely sidelined after her marriage, and you have made clear you do not intend to merely retire to your apartments once your military career is over.”

“It will be a challenge, but I believe I can overcome it.” Kyou responds.

“Is this all worth it?” Her father asks, quietly. “I understand why you may think it is, as I am sure your mother does. But I am told this is not something that you can decide you want no more of. After this, it is permanent. You will be a witch for the American navy, reliant on an American aviator for the rest of your life. Is that what you want?”

Kyou barely hesitates. “It is.”

“Then I have no alternative but to accept your decision.” Her father says, turning to look out the window again.

2/3
>>
“You are not basing this decision on mere good looks, I assume.” Her mother says.

“Of course not.” Kyou responds, a little heated.

“It would be unfortunate if you were.” Her mother continues, as if she didn't hear. “Of course, I can understand if you are, but a lifetime of dependence is hardly worth it, no matter how good looking. I assume you've enjoyed him, at least.”

“Mother, please.” Kyou responds, exasperated. “Even had I wanted to this soon, we have not had time.”

“A pity.”

“Enough.” Her father says, and that ends all conversation for the rest of the ride.

The Hospital is the same that it's always been- you were here just a few weeks ago yourself. Kyou's checked in, her room near the top floor, with a marine guard posted both near her door and at the elevators up. She seems almost regretful when she changes into the blue, backless hospital robe- out of decency, you wait outside her room for her to change, and then crawl into her hospital bed.

She looks excited when you re-enter. “Morgan, while I am in the hospital, will you kindly show my brother our aircraft?” She asks, then smiles. “I would rather it wait for me, but I fear he won't be able to. It may be best if you left now.”

[] Of course.
[] I think we should wait for you. It's as much your aircraft as it is mine.
>>
Sorry that too so long, gents, that update got a bit away from me, haha!

That's going to be it for the night, I think- it's getting a bit late, and we're at a decent stopping point, I think. I don't really have much to say past that (Other than that rescue events in girls frontline are a lie), so till tomorrow gents, cheers!
>>
>>3557312
>[] Of course.

Thanks for running boss
>>
>>3557312
>[] Of course.
>>
>>3557312
>[x] Of course.
I kind of want to let it slip to her brother we speak Japanese, then let him think through the implications. He seems to type to find the omission humorous.
>>
>>3557312
>[] I think we should wait for you. It's as much your aircraft as it is mine.
>>
>>3557312
>[X] Of course.

>>3557317
Thanks for the run boss.
>>
>>3557312
>[x] Of course.
>>
>>3557312
>[] Of course.
>>
>>3557312
>[] Of course.
>>3557330
This. Let the Brother know. but just the brother.
>>
>>3557312
>[x] Of course.

>>3557317
Thanks for the run Ghost!
>>
>>3557312
>[x] Of course.
Thanks Ghost, highlight of the week
>>
>>3557312
>[X] I think we should wait for you. It's as much your aircraft as it is mine.
>>
>>3557312
>[x] Of course.
>>
>>3557312
>[x] I think we should wait for you. It's as much your aircraft as it is mine.
>>
>>3557308
>None necessary, highness
Conventional form of address for Emperors is "majesty" actually.
>>
>>3557312
>[x] Of course.
Also supporting the whole, let the Japanese our around the brother, but only the brother. Kind of a classic finger to lips and smile moment.
>>
>>3557312
>[X] Of course.
It's official. Unless Ghost states otherwise I'm picturing Kyou's father as Ken Watanabe, and her brother as Hiroki Hasegawa.
>>
>>3557678
her old man is crown price, not the emps
>>
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>>3557748
They're more expies, actually. Based on the names and the description of the crown prince alone, Takashi and Hohiro are both KURITA. I'm now gonna take to calling Kyou's side of the family the Draconis Combine...
>>
>>3557910
You might hope that the Chinese or the next country that starts shit has developed mechs. You can ask Merlin to "Macross "our Wyvern so it can transfrom, but she will just look puzzled.
>>
>>3557312
>[x] I think we should wait for you. It's as much your aircraft as it is mine.
>>
>>3557917
Somebody has forgotten that Merlin was watching SDF (albeit in its butchered, Robotech form) back in '89.
>>
>>3557910
please, her family isn't anywhere near that retarded
>>
>>3558000
Not disagreeing with ya Trips, they seem chill compared to the snakes.
>>
>>3557984
Not puzzled about what SDF is, but the request to add the walker mode.
>>
>>3557312
[x] Of course.

>>3557910
FOR KENTARES!
>>
>>3557312
>[X] I think we should wait for you. It's as much your aircraft as it is mine.
>>
>>3557312
>[] Of course.

BONDING TIME WOO
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] Of course.

You nod. “Of course.”

“I will have them contact you as soon as I am awake out of surgery.” She says, then smiles again. “That is, of course, assuming they refuse to release me as soon as I am able to walk.”

You return the smile as a grin. “Minimum twenty-four hour observation period.” You say. “You won't be out of here till probably sixteen tomorrow, at the earliest.”

“We shall see.” Kyou says.

You nod, turning to leave the room while the rest of Kyou's family take seats in the room, except her brother, who stands as well. “With your permission?” He says, and his father nods. You exit the room after him, closing the door behind you.

“I thank you for this.” He says as you walk to the elevator- you have to slow down from your normal ground-eating pace, but he keeps up well enough. “I have seen the Fandance your father captured many times at the war museum in Kyoto, but wyverns are much more rare.”

You nod, knowing only the barest of hints about the operation- it's still classified enough that the only thing anyone really knows is that your father and Merlin stole a fandance from a soviet base somewhere in the east and flew it to Japan. While it sustained significant battle damage, the intelligence gained proved vital in helping to counter the then-new superfighter.

Exiting the building, a pair of the IG witches, one very distinctly not Japanese, flank you both. Hohiro smiles. “Am I in that much danger, Nadya?” He asks the witch in Japanese.

“I would hope to say no, highness.” She responds, her Japanese hinted with traces of a Russian accent- one of the soviet expat witches, then, you think, or the daughter of one. Postwar, more than a few soviet witches fled to the allied countries, taking asylum there. Many stayed on, becoming part of their new, adoptive, sisterhoods. You're kind of surprised to see one in the guard, but you don't know that it's your business to ask. She shoots a glance at you, though. “I am told the princess Kyou feels she can trust him alone with her life already.”

He shrugs. “She has always been willing to put her faith in her comrades in arms very quickly.” He responds, then smiles. “I am sorry.” He says to you in English. “we were merely discussing our escort. They will have to accompany us, I afraid.”

1/2
>>
You nod, opening the door to the SUV and allowing the prince in first, before climbing in and letting one of the witches close the door. “Flight line.” You say to the driver, who nods and slips the vehicle into traffic, the two witches following closely.

“Nadya is my personal bodyguard.” The prince offers. “Her mother was a soviet witch that sought asylum, Nadya has only ever been part of the Japanese Coven.”

You nod. “I'll admit, I was wondering.”

He smiles. “They are close to celebrities among us, though she is the first foreigner to be accepted to the guard, at least not without marrying into the family.” He looks out the window at the witch. “She has, of course, excelled, though I do wonder if perhaps I forced her to take on more than she wished to by requesting her be posted to my bodyguard.”

You shrug- without knowing anything more about them, it's impossible to say.

“Ah well. Concerns for later.” He says. “What is it like? I cannot fly myself, you see- “ He smiles sadly, reaching over to lightly touch his crutches. “I had hoped that VDNI would allow me the chance, but the navy phased it out when I was younger, and it is difficult for me to pass the required physical standards to even ride in a fighter.”

“Not that I do not try every chance I get.” He says.

[] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.
[] It's just duty. I don't think about it any more than waking up in the morning.
[] Write in!
>>
>>3558996
>[x] It's just duty. I don't think about it any more than waking up in the morning.
This is a fun game.
>>
>>3558979
>[] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.

Sums it up nicely.
>>
>>3558996
>[x] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.
>>
>>3558996
>[X] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.
>>3558996

We are the God of the sky, with thunder in one fist and lighting in the other.
>>
>>3558996
>[X] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.
>>
>>3558996

>[] Write in!

You’d think that between Frank, Merlin, and maman we would have the connections to get him up in a Tomcat during this trip. Might be worth sucking up to the princling, he seems like a solid guy ...
>>
>>3558996
>I'm not really sure yet -- I've only had a few flights in it, and this is still the working up period. Sometimes I get the sense that it's more the plane getting used to me.
>>
>>3558996
>[x] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.
I see no reason to string this one along. He seems fairly reasonable.
>>
>>3558996
>[] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.
>>
>>3559007
The problem is that he is physically too weak/delicate to safely go up in a fighter. Not to mention if something happens that would be one hell of a political shitstorm.
>>
>>3559019
I take your point ... still worth a thought.
>>
>>3558996
>[] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
>>3558996
>He looks out the window at the witch. “She has, of course, excelled, though I do wonder if perhaps I forced her to take on more than she wished to by requesting her be posted to my bodyguard.”
I ship it, and none of you can stop me.
>>3559019
Maybe dad can call up his CAF buddies, get our future brother-in-law some ride-alongs in a few old warbirds?
Honestly though, this makes me think of potential uses for MIU tech. It seems that for the Prince the mind is willing, but the body is weak. Some sort of lower body, powered exoskeleton controlled through a modified MIU could at least give him full use of his legs.
>>
>>3559067
CAF is actually a good idea. Still fun, but a lot less hard on the body. Also probably pretty unique. The issue is getting his guards and parents to approve.
>>
>>3559076
Maybe something like an Avenger? Or a nightfighter? They'd have enough seats for pilot, prince, and guard.
>>
[x] It's hard to describe. In a wyvern, you know everything, can see everything, and nothing can stop you.

You hesitate, shaking your head before speaking. “It's hard to describe.” You say, eventually. “In a Wyvern, you know everything that's going on, all at once, you can see everything, and nothing can stop you.”

“Like being a god, then.” Hohiro supplies.

“Of a sort.” You allow with a nod.

“Ah.” he says. “I have often dreamed about how different my life would be, but for my infirmity. I am fortunate that many fighter pilots I meet are happy to let me hear their stories.”

You nod as you cross into the parking lot and pull to a stop. You're at the main vehicle gate- on the far side of the pad from your wyvern, near the ospreys. You scowl- while it's the right place to park, it's a hell of a walk, probably close to a mile or so, maybe a little over.

The prince looks at the pad, frowning. “These are ospreys?” He asks.

You nod. “We're on the wrong side of the pad.”

“Ah.” He says. “Is it much of a distance?”

“Over a mile, probably.” You say, thinking. “I can get a cart from ops, if you want.”

He nods. “That or Nadya can carry me.” He says, looking over at the witch, who nods once. “It would not be the first time, it will not be the last, I am sure.”

You frown at their strikers. “They're going to have to check those for FOD.” You say. “Pebbles in the tire treads, anything that could come loose and get sucked into an intake.”

The prince relays the command to the witches, and looks over at you. “I do not know procedure here. If you think it would be best to get a cart, then we will wait here.”

[] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.
[] They're not going to leave their strikers anyway, are they? Might as well let her carry you, then.
>>
>>3559087
>[x] They're not going to leave their strikers anyway, are they? Might as well let her carry you, then.
If they aren't getting our of their gear then there really isn't any point right? Also, when in doubt, witch carry.
>>
>>3559087
>[] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.

It would be embarrassing as hell to loose a multi-million or multi-billion dollar fighter to a rock.
>>
>>3559087
>[X] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.
>>
>>3559087
>[X] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.
Better safe than screwed over.
>>
>>3559087
>[x] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.
Though if he wants an excuse for his bodyguard to cuddle him, we'd be happy to help.
>>
>>3559087
>[] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.
>>
>>3559087
>[X] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.
>>
>>3559087
>[x] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.
>>
>>3559087
>[] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.
We don't want to fuck a multi-million dollar engine just because a pebble in a striker tire came out.

Also, a Russian witch princess-carrying a Japanese Prince towards an American Wyvern would probably draw some attention.
>>
>>3559108
You say that like that attention outweighs the cuteness. If it wasn't a safety hazard, I'd totally be for it. Besides, it lets him be all close with a girl he's probably into. He's a good guy, and it's not a big deal for us to wingman a little for him, get some cred with the future in-law and all.
>>
ok, votes called!
>>
[x] Probably better, yeah, but it'll take longer.

You nod. “Yeah, I think that would be best. Hang tight, I'll go get one.” You say. “It gives them a chance to police their strikers, the gate won't let them past without checking either, but this way that goes faster.”

“Of course.” The prince says, sitting on a folding camp stool the other IG witch provides out of a locker on her striker.

You end up having to hoof it the entire way over to your fighter's area to get the cart, where you're intercepted by your chief. “Afternoon, sir.” She greets. “You just missed admiral wells, if you were looking for her.”

You shake your head. “I wasn't. Her team here?”

The chief nods- you note she now also has an ever present coffee cup now. Maybe it's something to do with crew chiefs- like a badge of office. You're not sure, though you kind of want to ask. “Yeah. They said they'd be installing the forties and the VLS cans first, we'll handle the FAST packs and the pods, then the engine swap.” She shrugs. “We're pretty much just supporting them for now.”

Over her shoulder, you can see the decidedly nonuniform members of Merlin's fabrication team working o n your fighter with the ground crew. They've already stripped the port side cannons out of their mountings, and as you watch, they use an overhead crane to remove one of the ammo drums on that side. “Anything I can't show a visitor? You ask.”

The chief shakes her head. “Nothing here you wouldn't see at an airshow, anyway.” She says. “None of the new components are even out of the crates, and the crates are back over there.” She gestures in the direction of the hangar with her coffee mug. “The admiral got the ground systems interface cart out, but I think she just wanted to poke over it, it's an MIU jack, not the old VDNI one.”

“Is that where she went?” You ask, and the chief nods.

1/2
>>
“Yes, sir.” She says. “Off to get re-plugged. Between you and me, I think once would be enough, but I guess that's why I'm not the mother of drakes.” She pauses and looks over her shoulder. “Aw shit. Sorry sir, I gotta go catch this. Hey! Fuckin dipshit!” She yells, heading back to the fighter.

You watch for a second, then go to fetch the electric golf cart, taking it back across the pad to the gate. You have to sit for a second to catch the prince's eye, and it takes them another few minutes before the gate guards clear one witch onto the flight line- the other waits by the SUV that brought you here.

The prince himself gazes at the massed fighters in wonder as you pass them, the parked Echocats on the pad with the few aggressor fighters mixed among them. Of course, as you round the corner of the hangar and your wyvern comes into view, you can hear him gasp in wonder. You still have to stop a decent way back- with work ongoing on the fighter, you can't get too c lose, otherwise you risk the chief's wrath by getting in the way.

“So that is my sister and your fighter.” He says. “It is much more impressive this close. Have you thought about the art? My sister indicated that she had several ideas, but had not had a chance to discuss them with you.”

[] I haven't thought about it, no.
[] I've given it some thought- I think I may put my own sister up as nose art.
>>
>>3559204
>[] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
>>3559204
>[x] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
>>3559204
>[X] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
>>3559204
>[x] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
>>3559204
>[x] I haven't thought about it, no.
NEIGH I SAY! NEIIIIIIIIIIIIGH!
>>
>>3559204
>[] I've given it some thought- I think I may put my own sister up as nose art.
Ahahahaha
>>
>>3559204
>[x] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
>>3559204
>[x] I haven't thought about it, no.
The other option is creepy as fuck, so no. Kyou in her panties is fair game but that may get a lot of angry people with katanas running at us.
>>
You lads are no fun allowed
:^)
>>
>>3559233
Shut up Drusilla.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldtz53LkMac
>>
>>3559204
>[X] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
>>3559204
>[X] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
>>3559204
>[] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
>>3559204
>[x] I haven't thought about it, no.

I wouldn't mind maybe "Could make a joke, nah it'll never work" but yeah, wouldn't want to give him the wrong impression.
>>
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>>3559204
>[] I haven't thought about it, no.
>>
So how good would Frank and Merlin be at DCS World playing the F-14 Tomcat module?
>>
>>3559267
Not very, probably.
>>
>>3559279
>>3559267
Their Tomcat would probably break.
>>
>>3559267
I'm willing to bet Frank has a secret man cave with one of those setups that completely replicate the cockpit
>>
>>3559267
>>3559267

They would probably be exceptionally good at the game, but their main advantage in the seat was that Merlin's amazing tech/magic enabled Frank's magic bullshit at basically destroying the plane to get 200% efficiency out of the airframe. They can't really do that in a computer game.

Now, I'd bet that if you hook up the AI module in his Wyvern she'd be the first one to buy the X-02 Wyvern module and mod it to meet their standards.
>>
>>3557917
Speaking of mechs, what's the status on powered exoskeletons?
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] I haven't thought about it, no.

You shake your head. “I haven't thought about it.” You respond.

“Kyou told me she intends to commission an artist to guide the work.” He says. “She has always had an admiration for the classic styles, though I fear you may have to talk her out of something from Macross or Gundam.” He pauses, with a smile. “She has always held that Char Aznable is very attractive.”

You know who that is, of course- though you've never held much for the gundam series yourself. Japanese hero characters, especially from the ninteys, tend to be far more reluctant and talkative than you can really identify with.

“I see they are doing heavy work on your jet.” The prince remarks. “Is that your initial fitting work? I have read that wyvern crews are often allowed to heavily customize their aircraft before they join the fleet.”

You nod.

“Knowing my sister, she probably pushed for the most firepower and offensive equipment she could.” He says, looking over at you for confirmation.

[] Mostly, yeah.
[] No, she argued for a mostly balanced setup.
>>
>>3559443
>[] Mostly, yeah.
>>
>>3559443
>[x] Mostly, yeah.
>>
>>3559443
>[] Mostly, yeah.
>>
>>3559443
>[X] Mostly, yeah.
>>
>>3559443
>[X] Mostly, yeah.
>>
>>3559443
>[X] Mostly, yeah.
>>
>>3559443

>[X] Mostly, yeah.

No need to rely on a pile of Bones when we can haul a quarter of a Tico's missile capacity.
>>
>>3559443
>[] Mostly, yeah.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[x] Mostly, yeah.

You nod. “Mostly.” You say.

“That sounds like Kyou.” He responds with a smile. You sit in silence for a while, before starting up the cart and rolling around the side, noting that the marine Wyvern is gone from it's place next to yours- sooner than you'd expected, though He'll be back, you're sure. The prince, meanwhile, only has eyes for the navy gray wyvern on the ground now. “Are those the guns?” He asks, indicating the four vulcans, now all pulled from their mounts, waiting on moving pallets nearby.

You nod. “Ah, I see.” He says. “And they will fit the FAST packs soon?”

You nod again. “After they've finished the modification work.”

“I see. And the equipment pods, they will be fit at the same time as the FAST packs?” he asks. “I have read that most crews take antimissile systems, but the Imperial navy intends to develop it's own equipment pods and FAST packs should sale of the wyvern be approved.” He seems to be talking as much to himself as you.

“We will have to return at a later time.” He says, after almost twenty minutes. “I understand that we cannot interrupt the work, but I would very much like to be able to get closer to your aircraft before I must leave.” He smiles. “Of course, perhaps I could do as my sister has, and remain in America slightly longer than planned.”

“You're sailing on the Kaga?” You ask.

He nods. “Of course, they will hold the ship for me, but only with complaint, and I must work to maintain my status with the military.” He says, smiling. “But they do not plan to sail until later in the week.”

“You're staying aboard?”

He nods. “The imperial cabins are empty, and too small for my family. My father and mother and younger sister will stay in the city as guests of the consulate, but it would be rude of us to not use the cabins while we are here.” He smiles. “And the ship's crew allow me access to almost anything. It's one of the few times I have been able to sit in a fighter, one of our tomcats.”

He yawns, then smiles lopsidedly. “But I regretfully admit I am quite tired. I think it is time for me to report to the Kaga.”

1/2
>>
You nod, turning the cart around and driving back across the pad to the gate, where the SUV sits, along with the other guard witch. You walk the prince from the cart to the vehicle, though, instead of entering alongside again, you close the door. The Russian expat witch watches at you as she accelerates past and you return the stare flatly. She blinks first, turning back to the road as she and her cohort power away like skaters on ice.

With the prince gone, you return the cart to the hangar- and run into the chief again. “Tourists gone, sir?” She asks.

You nod. “Kyou's little brother.”

“I wondered. That bitch of his was mean muggin the crew the entire time.” She says. “At least our princess' guards don't do that shit.” She pauses. “Not that I've ever seen them. Whatever. We're about to drop in the forty mike mikes, and we could use a hand, if you're not busy. The Admiral also left a message that she'd like to see you if you get the chance, but she's going under the knife, uh..”

She stops to look at her watch and frowns. “In about an hour, according to her. She said it's not urgent at all, though.” She pauses. “Oh, and before I forget, while you were out, a witch came by, asking for you by name. Civilian.. Strange as hell. Very quiet, very very faint accent, I couldn't place it.”

“Sounds like Nat.” You say. “My sister. Well, one of my sisters.”

“Well, whoever she was, she's got clearances I don't so I just told her to go to operations to try and find you. They ain't called?”

You shake your head.

“Well, she's probably waiting for ya then.” The chief says. “And given the vibes she put off, I don't know if I'd want to keep her waiting.” She pauses again. “Then again, I ain't you. All due respect.”

You smile at it. “I'll take it.”

[] Stay to help the crew- Natalya, assuming it is her, can come looking if it's that urgent.
[] Maybe you ought to go see what Auntie M wanted?
[] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.
>>
I'm gonna call it here for the night, gents! I got woken up pretty early this morning by the construction crew- the folks are having a shop built out back.

I'll be on a short little while for questions or comments, as usual, but probably not quite as late as usual. Otherwise, gents till tomorrow, cheers!
>>
>>3559686
>[X] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.
>>
>>3559686
>[] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.
>>
>>3559686
>[X] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.
>>
>>3559686
>[X] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.

>>3559688
Thanks for the run boss.
>>
>>3559686
[X] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.

We're a good little brother.
>>
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>>3559686
>[] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.
>>
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>[X] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.
>>
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>>3559686
>[] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.
>>
>>3559686
>[x] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.

>>3559688
Thanks for the run Ghost!
>>
>Kyou likes Char
I kinda like Quattro better, I think it's the shades.
>>
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>>3560048
Not sure if joking, or doesn't know...
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>>3559686
>[x] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.
Best to see what the sister that breaks physics wants.
>>
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>>3559443
>“Kyou told me she intends to commission an artist to guide the work.” He says. “She has always had an admiration for the classic styles, though I fear you may have to talk her out of something from Macross or Gundam.”
Ohboyherewego
>>
>>3560085
Definitely something like this to annoy Kyou. Or Merlin/Cass.
>>
>>3560061
What are you talking about? Quattro and Char are two different people.
>>
Alright, votes called! Pretty full from dinner, like "Should take a nap" full, but I got a couple cans of bang, so we're good haha!
>>
>>3561163
The joke doesn't even make sense at ANY point during Zeta. Him being Char is never concealed from the audoence, and is a source of early dramatic irony.
>>
>>3561206
>couple cans of bang
Is that stuff any good?
>>
[x] The chief is right- though even you don't like to make Natalya unhappy if you can at all avoid it.

You think for a moment, then shake your head. “You're not wrong about wanting to keep her waiting, but even I try not to.” You say, after a moment, and she smiles.

“Yeah, I figured you'd say that. Girl like her, oh buddy.” She says, shaking her head. “I ain't gonna say anything, but you got a scary family, LT.”

You grin and shrug. “Only if you didn't grow up with them.” You say. “I'm out, but my phone is on if you need me for anything here.”

The chief nods. “Understood, sir. Catch ya later.” She says, and turns back to your jet while you walk the distance over to the operations building and step in. The air in the building, in contrast to the warm afternoon outside, is pretty cold- and goosebumps run along your arms for a minute as you walk down the hall towards the front desk. As it happens, Natalya only just recently left- headed, according to the desk- up to the training quarters.

A short ride over to the building, provided by a sailor in a humvee headed that direction anyway, finds you checking in at the desk. “You got a visitor, sir.” One of the duty marines says, “Normally we'd deny entry, but she's got the mother of all clearances- and the name. Natalya Bishop?”

You nod. “My older sister.”

“Thought so.” The marine says. “Pardon my saying so, sir, but it's damn unusual how many people you know that can come and go out of secure areas like they do.”

You nod again. “She's really the only other one.” You say. “The rest of them are mortals like the rest of us.”

He snorts. “If you say so, sir.” He says. “She's upstairs in your quarters. Said she'd wait there for you.”

She's probably raiding the fridge already, you think, and cleaning out the last of the leftover chicken. Not that you mind too much, but you were hoping to not have to order out again already- though, with the two of you, you imagine it's not going to be that big a deal. Natalya, no doubt, will want to go eat at Santa's anyway.

Exiting the elevator into the quiet hall, you pause, briefly, by the door- though trying to sneak in would prove- at best- a futile gesture. Natalya seems to have the uncanny ability to know exactly where you are at all times, anywhere within as few hundred feet of her. More than once, you've accused her of implanting a tracking bug in you. She usually denies it.

Usually.

1/2
>>
You open the door to find your sister standing a little back from it, clad in her usual nondescript T-shirt and jeans. She'd look pretty normal and nondistinct, but for her eyes and hair- both of which mark her as a witch, if nothing else. Of course, looking closer, you'd see the almost invisible, faint white lines of surgical scars around her eyes and temples- but as far as you know, no one ever has been able to look too close too long.

“Morgan.” She says, her voice just a bare step above a whisper, and she gives you one of those faint smiles of hers. “How is my beloved little brother?”

“Good, nat.” You say, closing the door and hugging her. “Tres bon. You eat?”

She nods, taking your hand to lead you into the living room as she does so. “There were leftovers. I helped myself.” She says- confirming your suspicions. “We will be eating at Santa's, later.”

You smile, sitting on the couch when she lets go of your hand- she takes a seat on the chair facing you. “I see you have been keeping company.” She says, indicating the few of Merlin's things your aunt left- one of her pens, a pair of socks, small things. “Is our aunt still the same?”

You nod. “You think she was going to change in a few months?”

Natalya shakes her head. “No, but I had wondered if you had. She is not living with you, then?”

“No, Nat.”

Natalya nods, as if she expected as much. “I will not lecture you on it. But it is no secret. Now, this witch you will fly with. Kyou.” She pauses. “She is” She hesitates- which, for her, is almost the same as anyone else visibly breaking down. “What do you know of her?”

[] Only what she's told me. Exceptionally strongly talented, smart, fast. Aggressive to a fault.
[] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
>>
>>3561309
>More than once, you've accused her of implanting a tracking bug in you

W-where did she plant it?
>>
>>3561318
>[x] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
>>
>>3561318
>[x] Only what she's told me. Exceptionally strongly talented, smart, fast. Aggressive to a fault.
>[x] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.

Both. They are not mutually exclusive and she's our sister. She'll get all the information we have, when she is this visibly distraught.
>>
>>3561318
>[X] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
>>
>>3561318
>[x] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
>>
>>3561318
>[x] Only what she's told me. Exceptionally strongly talented, smart, fast. Aggressive to a fault.
>[x] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
Both are true
>>
>>3561318
>[X] Only what she's told me. Exceptionally strongly talented, smart, fast. Aggressive to a fault.
>[X] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.

Also absolutely adorable when you catch her flat-footed.
>>
>>3561318
>[X] Only what she's told me. Exceptionally strongly talented, smart, fast. Aggressive to a fault.
>[X] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
>>
>>3561318
>[] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
>>
>>3561318
[X] Only what she's told me. Exceptionally strongly talented, smart, fast. Aggressive to a fault.
[X] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
>>
>>3561318
>[x] Only what she's told me. Exceptionally strongly talented, smart, fast. Aggressive to a fault.
>[x] I know Merlin and everyone else don't know what her deal is.
>>
Ok, votes called! sorry about that.
>>
[x] Both.

“Only what she's told me.” you say. “She's exceptionally strongly talented, smart, fast. She's aggressive to a fault. And no one, Merlin and Maman included, know what her deal is.”

“Not either of them?” Natalya asks, and you shake your head.

“No.”

“That is... troublesome.” She says, after a moment. “This princess, her documentation is seemingly impossible to come by. I know only of one other case like hers. Me.”

You blink at that. “You don't think-”

Natalya shrugs. “Beloved little brother, it is my duty to be paranoid and assume the worst. It would not be the first time the empire of Japan has taken questionable research data and used it themselves in an effort to preserve their world position. It would not be the first time any nation has.”

“Merlin's also said that that kind of power can run in an imperial bloodline.” You point out. “And that Kyou may just be a once in a thousand years expression of it.”

“How convenient then, that it should appear just as the technology to create witches with that kind of ability appears.” Natalya says.

“So you think she's like you?”

“Created?”

You shrug. “You know that never mattered to us.”

“To you.” Natalya corrects. “And you must admit, little brother, it does look distinctly possible.”

[] If we assume she is, what does that mean for us here and now?
[] Either way, she's still the imperial princess. I can't see how it's going to change anything.
>>
>>3561407
>[x] Either way, she's still the imperial princess. I can't see how it's going to change anything.
>>
[] Either way, she's still the imperial princess. I can't see how it's going to change anything.
>>
>>3561407
>[X] Either way, she's still the imperial princess. I can't see how it's going to change anything.
>>
>>3561407
[X] Either way, she's still the imperial princess. I can't see how it's going to change anything.

It's not like she's any less of a person for being created or modified in a lab.
>>
>>3561407
>[x] If we assume she is, what does that mean for us here and now?
>>
>>3561407
>[x] Either way, she's still the imperial princess. I can't see how it's going to change anything.
>>
>>3561407
>[x] Anything I should be on the lookout for?
>>
>>3561407
>[x] If we assume she is, what does that mean for us here and now?

I'd rather have more information than useless virtue signals.
>>
>>3561407
>If we assume she is, what does that mean for us here and now?
>>
>>3561407
>[X] If we assume she is, what does that mean for us here and now?
>>
>>3561407
>>[X] If we assume she is, what does that mean for us here and now?

Kinda both though, what can we do about it anyway?
>>
>>3561407
>[] If we assume she is, what does that mean for us here and now?
>>
>>3561407
>[x] Either way, she's still the imperial princess. I can't see how it's going to change anything.
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
[Tie vote, I'm using the request for information as the tie breaker]

“So if she is, what will that mean for us?” You ask.

Natalya pauses. “Based on my own experience, nothing.” She says, after a moment. “The technology was banned by the UN in nineteen ninety seven, but any witches created by it before then are impossible to do anything about. However, the revelation would be politically damaging, particularly in regards to their land claims as war reparations.”

She pauses for a second. “She may also injure you during any future intimacy.” She says, delivering the statement completely flatly- She's never, ever had any emotional hang-ups about that sort of thing.

“Nat, please.” You say. “That's really not a concern.”

“It is to me, little brother.” She says. “A witch that powerful could easily lose herself and-”

“Natalya, please.” You respond, standing up. “Can we change the subject?”

She sighs. “If you insist.” She says. “I am only attempting to keep you safe.”

“And when and if it ever becomes necessary, I'll ask you.” You say, turning to walk over to the kitchen. “Do you want a drink?”

“Please.” She says with a nod. “To change the subject, as you asked, I do not believe she poses any safety risks currently. If she did, I would have told you sooner. I do believe she will be able to best keep you from harm when war occurs.”

[] “When? Not if?”
[] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”
>>
>>3561526
>[X] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”
>>
>>3561526
>[] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”
>>
>>3561526
>[] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”
>>
>>3561526
>[x] “When? Not if?”
>[x] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”
>>
>>3561526
>[] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”

>“She may also injure you during any future intimacy.”

Luckily the Japanese already have the solution, Shibari.
>>
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>>3561526
>[x] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”

>“She may also injure you during any future intimacy.”
>>
>>3561526
>[] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”
>>
>>3561526
>[X] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”
>>
Ok, votes called!
>>
>>3561526
>She pauses for a second. “She may also injure you during any future intimacy.” She says, delivering the statement completely flatly- She's never, ever had any emotional hang-ups about that sort of thing.

>“Nat, please.” You say. “That's really not a concern.”

>“It is to me, little brother.” She says. “A witch that powerful could easily lose herself and-”

Stasya might have a competitor for Best Onee-Chan
>>
>>3561671

You mean Natalya, right?
>>
>>3561699
Our Onee-chans are Stasya, Lilya and Natalya. Previously Stasya held the Title of Best Onee-chan, BUT NOW A CHALLENGER APPROACHES!! (In the form of Natalya)
>>
[x] “How do you figure? She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”

You frown at her statement, pulling a couple of bottles of water out of the fridge. “How do you figure, nat?” You ask, handing her one and sitting back down. “She all but ensures we'll be in the middle of it.”

Natalya shakes her head. “That was always going to happen.” She says. “I know you don't like it, but you are still the only son of Frank Bishop. They were always going to make sure you saw more than your share of it. This princess only means that there is little risk of your witch not being able to handle the same.”

“You say that, but she also means we're going to have the toughest mission profiles.” You point out. “Danielle or Lotus wouldn't have made sure we were always in the middle of it.”

Natalya shakes her head. “Their missions would have been no easier, especially Commander Peterson's. Our sister Stasya has indicated that she is already seeing additional electronic warfare aircraft and specialists on cruises. You would have been in great demand, and often operating in areas where friendly support was limited, if even possible. Commander Earhart had the same risks associated with her. While I do not doubt either of them was capable in their own right, the danger to you would have been greatly magnified.”

“You think.” You point out. “I can't see the Chinese not knowing about Kyou, and not already having a plan to drag her down.”

Natalya nods. “Of course they do. It is the same as their plans to counter myself or Konstantina. Bury her in weight of fire until her shield finally breaks, and then she would die as anyone else. This is more difficult with her in a wyvern, but certainly not impossible for them. The unknown factor in this, little brother, is you.”

“If I'm like dad-”

She nods. “Of course, this would be easier to test if Aunt Wells flew with you, as she knows what father is like. However, it is my impression she would only do so if you stop pretending there is no attraction between you.”

1/2
>>
“There isn't.” You say. “She's our aunt, Nat.”

“She is biologically unrelated to us, as I and Stasya and Lilya are to all of you.” She responds. “However, I know this is not a topic you ever wish to discuss, and will drop it. You will do as you always have and pretend that we cannot see your obvious attraction.”

You sigh- she's right in that it's not a good point, and you change the subject, yet again. “So where are you staying?” You ask. “On base?”

“Here.” She responds, and you blink.

“In the building?”

She shakes her head. “With you, at least for now.” She responds. “Aunt Wells indicated I could stay with her at the company house, but for tonight I prefer to remain here. I may change my mind after dinner.”

You sigh. Of course she was going to stay here- she's never been bothered by sharing a room with you, and insisted on it on trips when you were all packed into a hotel somewhere or other. It's an expected imposition, but an imposition all the same, in this case.

“So will it be just us at dinner?” You ask. She shakes her head. “Our sisters Stasya, Rebecca, and Lindsay will also be there.” She says. “They have their own accommodations, however.”

You elect to be thankful for small favors there- Natalya isn't a bad guest, even if she's a little quick to invite herself to stay with you, but two snakes in the dorms with you at the same time? That's asking for trouble.
>>
I was half expecting her to just say something like “genetically engineered witch lifespan might be shorter than yours” right after she mention injuring Morgan in intimacy, proving how oneechan is too pure for this world and everyone a degenerate for thinking lewd things on her statement
>>
And that's it for the week! Sorry about the run starting late today, that was down to dinner being a mess and me having to run to go get it. I never mind doing that, usually, but with late notice it's a bit more of a hassle. Oh well.

Anyway, gents, as usual I'll be around to field any questions that pop up and chat a bit, at least till next week, haha. Till then, cheers!
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>>3561732
>You elect to be thankful for small favors there- Natalya isn't a bad guest, even if she's a little quick to invite herself to stay with you, but two snakes in the dorms with you at the same time? That's asking for trouble.

>tfw no snekpile
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>>3561723
>However, it is my impression she would only do so if you stop pretending there is no attraction between you.
>You will do as you always have and pretend that we cannot see your obvious attraction.
Natalya is the best

>>3561734
Thanks for the run Ghost!
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Archive up.
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>>3561734
Thanks for running.
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>>3561733
So what you're saying, is that we need to ask Kyou the following question.
You’re in a desert walking along in the sand when all of the sudden you look down, and you see a tortoise, crawling toward you. You reach down, you flip the tortoise over on its back. The tortoise lays on its back, its belly baking in the hot sun, beating its legs trying to turn itself over, but it can’t, not without your help. But you’re not helping. Why is that?
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>>3561734
Thanks for the run boss.
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>>3561762
She said what we were all thinking.
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>>3561732
>if you stop pretending there is no attraction between you.”
>“She is biologically unrelated to us, as I and Stasya and Lilya are to all of you.”
Projecting hard.
>“It is to me, little brother.” She says. “A witch that powerful could easily lose herself and-”
Is this an offer of assistance?
>>
Oh sure, lewding the aunt is just part of the story, but even mention teasing Cass and the legions come marching in to quash fun.
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>>3562600
There can be no doubt that most, if not all, of us need to take our fiction less seriously ... there’s a pretty bright line between good natured jocularity and getting butthurt over make-believe and too many go waaaay over that line (myself included). If we’re not here to have fun, then why are we bothering? The real world provides plenty of opportunities to be assholes to each other.
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>>3562600
>>3563022
This. People should chill and have fun. I honestly think it's really cool that there are a few people absolutely sperging about loadouts and tactics. It's great that they're enjoying this to the point of investing that much energy. The only thing that's a little odd to me is when people start applying their own personal social conventions to the only son a pseudo-magical supersoldier anime harem protagonist in an ace combat magical girl crossover setting. This is your chance to live a little with no judgement. Stir that pot, both chili and shenanigans. Or don't, if it's still that big of a deal. Just thought I'd throw it out there.
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>>3563128
Personally, I'm going to un-lurk just long enough to throw our the idea of Natalya crawling into Morgan's bed and dragging Kyou with her. To make sure Kyou "performs" properly.
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>>3563289
And Merlin would totally be taking notes for future enhancements and upgrades to the bedroom department. Just for science, you understand ... totally normal aunt behavior ... nothing to see here ... whhhy are yo-you all staring at me li-like that?
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>>3563368

Merlin can barely function at the hint of lewds. I think taking notes would be well beyond her abilities in that situation
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>>3563958
Of course, but that doesn't make it any less fun to imagine her trying to convince herself its just science.
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>>3563958
Merlin managed enough lewds to have two daughters.
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>>3564001

I mean, yes, but don't think of them as passionate, actual lewds. They were more lewds done because that's something married people do, right?
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>>3564146
Ghost please, your not helping to dissuade the merlin lewders from further pursuing their heresy.
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>>3564146
>SEX IN THE MISSIONARY POSITION FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROCREATION.
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>>3564146
OOOF. Poor guy.
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>>3564158
What the fuck.
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>>3564159

To be honest, her husband is pretty similar- they're certainly not a case of 'opposites attract'. It's part of why there was the comment, some threads ago, about how they act in general.

Plus, ya know. the whole thing back in the 90s with a very public breakup probably didn't do her any good mentally.
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>>3561309
>The rest of them are mortals like the rest of us.
Maybe you could have worder this less...repetitively ?
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>>3564183
hey as long as they're in a happy and healthy relationship committed to each other and their kids then all cool, they don't need to be level 99 karma sutra practitioners.
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>>3562600
Best aunt is not biologically related. and the point is moot, as both Morgan and his family" would know that if any word of their "skinship" got out it would be bad for their careers, and VERY bad for relations with Japan.(unfortunately).
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>>3564197
He probably could have, but if you aren't already shitting gold-leafed high art as a matter of course, you're stuck choosing between writing quickly or writing well.
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>>3564218
>bad for their careers
Unless we literally bend Merlin over the admiral's desk or get her pregnant in wartime I doubt the navy would do anything. No one is willing to mess with the mother of wyverns, she's the navy's golden goose for all things technomagical. Especially not if the potential result is a Fronk 3.0.

>VERY bad for relations with Japan
About that, the japanese matrons seem to be the reason Merlin lost her first love. And now she's stolen a princess from them and plans to make Kyou her successor beholden to neither US or Japanese covens. So it's hard to see how things could get much worse, with the matrons at least. If anything the matrons are going to have to approach Merlin on their knees at some point as any potential wyvern program in japan would be hard to found without her support.
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>>3564274
Adultery is a criminal offense under UCMJ, anon.
People with quite a few years in the military have been booted for it in the past.
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>>3564587
They have, but they were also very expendable in the first place. Middle enlisted trying to fuck privates and getting them out of extra duties has been an easy out in the cases that I've seen. Pretty sure you can find cases of similar situations between junior officers and some higher ups. From the ones I've seen, they all basically follow the same formula. Lt. Thot bones the Col and has second thoughts when the Col doesn't give her special treatment, OR they do crazy shit like dress up in eachother's uniforms at the christmas party and the XO rubs his palms together and calls the IG. What's missing here? The comparatively massive numbers of discrete relationships where undue command influence doesn't rear its ugly head or where it isn't flaunted. Hell, I personally know of a few E-O couples that have gotten married and no one bothers them because they caused zero drama. Oddly enough, most of the successful ones (with at least 1 noteworthy exception) are enlisted male-officer female. Aside from that...

Merlin/Natalya/etc... We don't have to marry them. In fact, they may not even want that. Maybe they just want to experience some real passion in their lives with the quite exceptional only son of their idol. I get that we are most likely going to end up with Kyou and I'm cool with that, but we aren't even in that kind of relationship with her yet. The character we are playing right now is a result of Frank having a passionate night with Bridgitte. It wouldn't exactly be outlandish if something similar happened here. I mean... how else does Natalya reproduce? Parthenogenesis?
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>>3564587
Then all we need to do is marry Merlin, checkmate. The UCMJ doesn't say anything about polygamy, and no one can complain after the precedent dad set.

Joking aside, I'm just pointing out that witches can get away with a lot in this universe.
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>>3564687
The UCMJ defines adultery specifically as when one or both parties are married to someone not the other party. Not the more general "sex when not married" definition.
>>
Something to keep in mind, while discussing the UCMJ, is that in setting, there never was a concerted effort to make the military a more professional body- all the branches retained a lot more of their middle century flavor. As an example, officers can request, by name, specific subordinates they want to work with. It's easier to think of them as being WW2 Forces with modern equipment. That's not true across the board, of course, but for the most part it's less professional than in the real world.
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>>3565092
It would have to be. Going through the real UCMJ in my head at LEAST a third would have to be modified or tossed (meaning it probably never existed in-verse in the first place) just for witches, much less for Fronk’s little harem.

I mean, let’s be realistic, combat eligible teenage females who don’t wear pants, fly, use magic, and can castrate anyone who mistreats then (or a fellow female service member for that matter) kinda changes the game.
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>>3564715
>and no one can complain after the precedent dad set.
He truly is best dad.
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>>3564938
I basically lumped frat in there just because it's typically considered a bigger deal than adultery. In fact, I'd go as far as to say that adultery is just an antiquated charge that they throw in when they are really trying to fuck you for other reasons. Adultery comments get an eye roll compared to frat unless some screaming husband is on the local news calling on the base commander to take action.
>>3565092
Best thing I've heard all day.
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>>3565355
Clearly the frat refs have been modified at least to some extent. All three of our backseater options were full commanders and we’re just a (naval) LT. So under the real-world rules you’d have different rank problems, same chain of command problems, same aircrew problems, etc.
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>>3565670
Witch rules essentially state a witch can screw whoever the fuck they want. Provided it's not hurting somebody in the process. That's been the rule since forever given that witches have been fighting in armies since literally stone age in this setting.
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>>3565692
Right ... but I assume those rules are codified somewhere. Relaxed WW2-like rules or not, they would almost have to be written down to allow for enforcement—or is witch privilege basically just an immunity defense Ghost?
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>>3565829

They're codified, but a lot of it is down to individual judgement on a case-by-case basis, made possible really only through the relatively low number of witches in service. As an example, in a case like Frank's- where a superior witch is sleeping with a subordinate, it's allowed so long as no one else in the squadron feels it impedes the ability of the witch to lead. If she starts playing favorites (or, indeed, is disliked enough) And is called on it, typically she'd be removed from command of the unit and replaced by her XO or the next highest ranking officer in line not involved. This may or may not involve the involved individuals being reassigned away from the unit.

In practice, it's more common to see one party or the other reassigned somewhere in a separate chain of command in cases like those.

In the case of Wyverns, it's a bit different- since crews are assumed to be an item, the pilot is considered to be aircraft commander at all times anyway, regardless of rank, which means that while the witch may rank the pilot, she's not in charge of them- effectively, her rank becomes just a rate of pay. It's part of the reason the posting, while prestigious for pilots, is unattractive to a lot of witches- there's little room for career advancement as part of a Wyvern crew (And unlike striker equipped witches, you don't get to keep your mount when you leave service!)
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>>3566055
>you don't get to keep your mount when you leave service!

Only for one definition of mount.
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>>3566055
>And unlike striker equipped witches, you don't get to keep your mount when you leave service!
They are almost guaranteed a different sort of mount however.
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>>3566055
>unlike striker equipped witches, you don't get to keep your mount when you leave service!
Witches get to keep their strikers after they leave the service? Are they left in a flyable condition or do they just get the casing (fuselage?) and nothing else?
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>>3566055
It might make sense to treat witch units like old-style guards regiments—one rank within the unit and one rank within the greater armed services. Thus, within the Wyvern units the pilots would have higher rank but in the wider Navy the witch would likely have a higher rank (as they start earlier).
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>>3566179
Witches retain their rank, of course, but they have no wider command authority. There could, in theory, be odd situations that find them as ranking officer, which would put them in charge, but almost all of those involve "Catastrophic circumstances" in the description. As an example, Kyou could find herself taking command of a damaged if she was aboard, unable to get to the jet, and every other officer aboard of higher rank was dead or otherwise rendered incapable of commanding the ship.


Functionally, they're subordinate to their pilot in the air and in regards to the aircraft.


>>3566174
And, more often than not, their service weapons. There's exceptions- Merlin's war-era superstrikers, for example. Strikers are fairly cheap, all told- in most cases, witches are taught to view them as expendable equipment.
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>>3566258
So like JAG or the medical corps then? They might have the rank but they won’t be commanding anything unless literally every other office is dead?
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>>3566414
Yep, exactly. They can issue orders in extreme situations, but normally they can't. Even within the Wyvern community, there's no real 'chain of command'- because of how the aircraft are employed, each crew typically operates as the lone wyvern in an area or on a carrier, and even ones with rank are removed from being able to command junior wyvern crews.
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>>3566447
So GC, JAG witches quest when ? There's gotta be some magic powers that are helpful in that branch.
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>>3566797
Great, now I’ve got that damn theme song stuck in my head. Thanks for that ...
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>>3566797
>>3566807
Following in his father's footsteps as a naval aviator Lieutenant Commander Harmon Rabb, Jr. suffered a crash while landing his Tomcat on a storm tossed carrier at sea. Diagnosed with night-blindness, Harm transferred to the Navy's Judge Advocate General Corp which investigates, defends and prosecutes the law of the sea. There, with JAG Witch Major Sarah McKenzie, he now fights in and out of the courtroom with the same daring and tenacity that made him a Top Gun in the air.
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>>3566953
Ofc with a witch hooked to a courtroom or interrogation room VDNI to see the suspect's or witness minute reactions like elevated heart rate, blinking, hertbeat and eye movement.
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>>3566797
JAG?

Honestly, there's a handful- like, less that 10- witches there. And even then, they're only there because the old pacts require a witch to be present at a court martial of another witch. It's not really a job path that attracts them- far more glamorous being a striker pilot or ship's witch.
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>>3567803
Many JAGs are reservists or guards. The major crimes AUSA for Colorado is a NG JAG Colonel for example and works on a few cases each year. I could see older witches who want to maintain a connection to the service doing that.
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>>3567803
>far more glamorous being a striker pilot or ship's witch.
Oh, I'm sure they do. You need a special taste for upholding the law. Courtroom legal battles may be less deadly than actual combat , but no less vicious.
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>>3567851
True dat. And JAG is unique in that officer rotate through defense, prosecution, and judge. So you get to fight three different wars.
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>>3567803
Does a counterpart to the tv show exist in-universe?
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>>3567924

I'm sure. There's probably a lot of TV shows that involve witches, honestly. I'm sure there's plenty that don't, too.
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>>3568543
NCIS is probably a hell of a lot more interesting with witches .
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>>3568556
>Ziva in IFV strikers
Oh lord.
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>>3568556
Teenage girls are not the best choice to interrogate suspects or witnesses. I could see a matron working there though, or one shield witch on call when the team expects their target to resist.
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>>3569096

Oh, there's MP witches- again, not many, (Being a witch 'who hates witches' isn't easy!) but even through all the old agreements, the idea of having basically the combined fighting ability of a platoon of grunts in one teenage female body and no counter to it if she has a psychotic break and needs to be subdued seems like a *really* bad idea. That said, due to their relative rarity, it typically falls on witches from combat arms to assist MPs if there's a witch suspect who isn't cooperating.
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>>3568556
Now I want Gibbs to wrangle witches.
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Are there witch actresses and stuntwomen, or is it all VFX?
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>>3569189

It's largely FX work anymore- there's a few witches willing to work in Hollywood, such as Lotus' mom, but the absolute numbers are tiny- a lot of of US covens had very public splits with the movie and entertainment industry in the 60s and 70s, and that hasn't really changed much in the years since. While the unified US coven is less hostile to the industry, there's a long institutional memory among covens, and they don't always forgive and forget.



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