RP: YSS Wakaba [YSS Wakaba] Celebration for those who made it, and for those who didn't

[Cowboy]

RP Date

45.5

RP Location

Yamatai

YSS Wakaba dry dock around Yamatai

After nearly two years the Wakaba and her crew had made it back to Yam space. They had endured hardships from lack of supplies to low personal. They had fought off pirates and Mishhu, a lot of Mishhu. They had had losses, lots of losses. Over half of the Wakaba crew had been lost. They had even lost their ST backups. Which meant even though they had returned to Yam where there were backup STs. But that meant that those who died had lost 2 years. There were also a few perinate deaths. Those crew that had been born on the Wakaba had never had a backup. In the last fight 15 crew had been killed who had no backups.

So before the Wakaba was emptied of all her crew to be rebuilt, there was would be a final get together for the crew in the Hanger Bay. Class A uniforms, white tablecloths all the trimmings. This would not only be a time to eat, this would be a time to celebrate their return home. There would be music, dancing, and probably a few speeches. There were a few people who would be honored for their unflinching courage.

Captain's Quarters

Thomas sat at his desk jotting down the a few notes. His dress uniform coat was hung over the back of his chair. The girls were in the other room, practicing a song they were going to preform during the ceremony. Ryoko had her bagpipes out and Hotaur her guitar. Thomas smiled. His daughters were really looking forward to the party, but honestly they were probably more excited for when the party ended. They had only ever lived on the Wakaba or briefly on the planet the Wakaba had crashed on. They were really looking forward to getting out and seeing the bigger world outside the ship. Thomas had promised them that the first chance they got he would take them to Nepleslia to meet his clan. Ryoko was especially excited about that because there she would take her right-of-passage trials and earn the right to get her tattoos.

Setsunu walked in. She was immaculate as ever. Every ribbon and patch exactly where it was suppose to be. Every hair in place and her boots shined to the point that you could see your reflection in them.

"The hanger is all set up. The chefs are finishing the last touches on the food. Everything is ready." Setsunu reported.

Thomas set down his notes and sat back in his chair. He looked up at Setsunu. She was so beautiful. When they had been assigned to this ship Thomas would never have thought that their relationship would have grown to what it was now. They weren't married. Setsunu would always be married to the Star Army, but they were about as close as two people could be. They had had two beautiful daughters as well who were both developing into professional soldiers. "It's been a journey hasn't it?"

Setsunu smiled knowingly. "It has. Despite the challenges and the loss..." She glanced over at the girls. "I don't think I would have changed a thing."

Thomas raised an eyebrow. "Nothing?"

Setsunu walked around the desk and kissed Thomas on the forehead. "Nothing." She stood up at attention and said "It is time to go Captain."

Thomas stood and put on his coat. Setsunu helped him straighten it, giving him another peck on the cheek. "Alright. Lets go."

Across the ship, the announcement was made. All crew report to the Hanger Bay. All crew report to the Hanger bay.

 

[BloodyScarlet]

Calandri's quarters

Calandri was getting ready for the party, her mind not really fully there as she was thinking back to the last 2 year and what she has witnessed. She looked over the dress she was planning to wear as she checked over it slowly "hmm it is almost the same, but I can't put a finger on what is different." She shrugged as she started to to put it on, it was a long sleeveless ice blue dress that had a cut up to the thigh as she looked in the mirror she smiled a little "Well at least I can wear something similar once in my life."

She made sure she had everything she needed as she looked at her horns and sighed as the break in one, it would take a while for it to grow back and asymmetry looked alright. She was happy her fur had regrown and hidden her scars as looked at the make up in front of her "hmm a little should work alright, the girl showed me how to do it, this will be good." She had to give herself a pep talk to apply some lipstick and some mascara as she never did it before the crash and had been given some stuff that wouldn't mess with her fur. Now her mind was on her outfit, traditionally her species wouldn't be wearing leg wear underneath it, just undergarments but she thought it was the right thing to slide some of her shear stocking on, she remembered some people said it was cute seeing the fur of her legs fluff up around the top of them. Then the alarm went..

Hanger Bay

Calandri had snuck through the hallways, she didn't want the others to see her outfit before she was with everyone, it was a special surprise but really just for herself and them, she had made it herself on memory alone, to look like her wedding dress. It was an outfit she never wore but it was always their in her room taunting her for the last few days on her own planet, the wedding was the day after the attack, she was happy it never happened but was also sad she couldn't wear it, since it was her mother's wedding dress.

She bowed to the group, lifting up the dress a little as she did so "Val tonka nash." She paused and laughed as she looked at them and sighed "Sorry I just realised best translation of that would be pleasure day."

 

[iaincarter]

Orbital Dry-Dock, Yamatai
YSS Wakaba, Hangar Bay

"Tch! I'm late!" Shoi Kohosei Shima Hoshiko muttered to herself, slowing from her jogging pace to a stop just outside of the entry into the Wakaba's Hangar Bay. It had taken longer than she had wanted to reach the Hangar Bay, despite her quarters not being too distant. The reason for her unintended delay was quite simple and took the form of her three sisters. As it turned out, during the fighting that pretty much defined the Wakaba's return to the great sea of space, there had been some structural damage within the ship. One such occurrence had taken place in her mother's assigned quarters when a tertiary support strut had sheared itself loose and dropped through the ceiling into the room below.

From the incident report, it appeared that her mother still did in fact have the capacity to care for someone other than herself, as the older nekovalkyrja had thrown her body between the strut and the barely-a-fortnight-old twin younglings Seiya and Seira. Shima Haruto had died in the act of protecting her progeny who had survived unharmed. As for Shima Hoshi, who had herself been born almost exactly three months after Hoshiko had reached adulthood, she hadn't been present as she was busy working her way through SAoY Basic Training and was quartered in an assigned barracks for the duration.

So, the net result? With no idea of the identity of the father of her sisters, Hoshiko suddenly found herself the primary caregiver of two very young girls who had seen their mother die in front of them. Fortunately she knew her mother had older ST backups from before the Wakaba went missing years earlier, so it was only a matter of time until Haruto would turn up to reclaim her children. Or so the young navigator hoped, at least, unable to fully silence that quiet voice in the back of her mind that whispered to Hoshiko- with no memories of her children, would their mother even care to meet them, let alone claim them?

Regardless, that was a problem that future-Hoshiko would have to deal with. For now, the Shoi Kohosei was far too busy to really worry terribly much. She had had absolutely no idea just how much time and dedication younglings could require, having herself always been much more independent than the apparent norm. As an example, the twins had known an hour ahead of time that she had to leave for a while and had been left in the care of one of the ship's caretakers who had taken to operating a nursery creche of sorts. Everything had been going fine until Hoshiko went to leave, when suddenly the twins started causing a fuss. Upon thinking about it, it made a sort of sense - after all, they were developed enough to understand that their mother had left and wasn't coming back and obviously retained some not-entirely-unreasonable fear of a repeat scenario.

By the time they had been sufficiently reassured and calmed, with no small help from the caretaker, the twins had fallen asleep. And Hoshiko was running late. So she had quickly returned to her quarters and switched to the as-yet-unworn Type-35 Duty Uniform that the young navigator had needed to requisition for the party, having only ever had a need to wear the type 42 previously. At any rate, she had carefully studied the Star Army Regulations regarding Uniform and had ensured each component of her dress uniform was fully compliant. From jacket to skirt, belt with polished buckle, glossy black heels freshly-shined, smooth tights and gloves - all of it carefully prepared to regulations, including unit patches, rank insignia and grey panelling. Hoshiko had completed the ensemble by adding her Neko Service Pistol, holstered on her right hip. The shoi kohosei had really wanted to wear her Type 40 Officer Sword on her left hip, but the regulations clearly stated that would have to wait until she was promoted to full Shoi rank. A pity, but it wasn't as if she could ignore the Regulations just to indulge a personal desire.

Having intended to arrive a few minutes early, the year old neko now found herself running several minutes late by the time she reached the Hangar Bay. Squelching the small irritation she felt at the way her sisters had unintentionally ruined her exacting timetable, Hoshiko took a moment to straighten her uniform out so that it all fit to parade standard. She would not be the one to shame the Wakaba with a slovenly appearance! Now satisfied, Hoshiko stood up straight, pushed her shoulders back and calmly and confidently crossed into the Hangar Bay with an appropriately neutral expression.

 

[demibear]

Hiroshiko's Hole in a Wall

"Mother! If you don't get out of that soon we are going to be late to the ceremony!!! What was it that grandfather said? 15 minutes to the 15 minutes, if you show up on time you are late?" Reiko tried to remember one of Mikael's memories. Between Hiroshiko's memories and the parasites' vague concept of life, she was having a hard time keeping anything that wasn't exactly her memories right. At this point, they were vague concepts that she could look to and understand the world with.

A near mirror replica of Mizumitsu Hiroshiko, the tall NH-33a with lightly tanned skin woman with black hair kept in a bob cut looked at the makeshift door annoyingly. Despite being a Yonto Hei with absolutely no rewards or ranks to make her unique, the Class A Type 35 uniform looked like it was well taken care of.

The difference was much more apparent when Hiroshiko finally made her out to join her uniform. While Hiroshiko's Type 35 Class A's were not unclean or in disrepair, it certainly looked like Hiroshiko only put minimum effort to maintain the standard. Hiroshiko was never one for ceremonies and much rather simply put all of her energy into her work. Like Nepleslians drinking the "social juice", it helped her forget about events in life that led to her to where she was now.

After some adjustments of the physical ribbon rack by Reiko and the occasional sucking of teeth as the concepts of Mikael wanted to dig into her mother, the pair finally made their way.

Hanger Bay
The pair made their way, with Reiko standing on the left side of her mother. They were both just simple hei, but her mother still outranked her. Hiroshiko looked around and motioned her daughter to follow her to a spot where they will get the least amount of attention. At least so she hoped.

 

[Charaa]

Orbital Dry-Dock, Yamatai
YSS Wakaba, Hangar Bay

It was an odd thing to know that she was back in Yamataian space. She’d gotten used to their new home, after the realization that they’d never see Yamatai every again, and she felt calmer. She did get the idea of taking Crysta and forming a band of Drake riders a new branch of her old gang. They’d even found an awesome place for their new base of operations. Besides Her daughter as a technician so it wasn’t like Runa couldn’t count, on her to build things they’d need. Runa was brought out of her thoughts due to the announcement, and she moved from lounging on Exyrus’s back to proper riding position. “Hey sweetie, looks like we’re needed in the Hanger bay, meet you there!” Runa sent her daughter and flew off towards the hangar bay.

 

[Cowboy]

YSS Wakaba, Hanger Bay
Although their quarters were not very far from the Hanger Bay it still took Thomas and his family awhile to get there. Almost as soon as the Wakaba had arrived in Yamatai space the ship had been crawling with techs and engineers. They were giving his crew a much needed break although some were feeling very territorial. They had worked very hard keeping the ship in fighting shape, or at least going, and they had a hard time letting go to outsiders. With all these new people on the ship the hallways were filled with broken equipment that had just been taken out and new equipment waiting to be put in. Thomas and his family had to be on the alert not to get their dress uniforms dirty.

Ryoko and Hotaru followed their parents talking quietly together about the song they would be preforming during the ceremony. The whole family would be playing a traditionally Nepleslian song that was a favorite of the Canterbury Clan. Thomas thought it would be appropriate to play in remembrance of all those that had fallen in the service of the Wakaba. Their interments had been sent ahead so they wouldn't have to carry them in themselves. Thomas' violin, Setsunu's cello, Ryoko's pipes and Hotaur's guitar. Ryoko was also trying to convince Hotaru to play the ballet they had come up with when they were very young about the fight between the Wakaba and the five Cruisers. Hotaru was a little shy about playing in front of the whole crew, even though everyone had heard the song before.

As they arrived one of the officers was about to yell 'Captain on deck' when Thomas stopped her. He didn't want things to be quite so formal starting off. Let the crew mingle and enjoy some of the refreshments first. He glanced around the Bay. It looked nice, even though he could still see some of the damage from the many fights that had taken place in there. He noticed Fletcher and made his way over to his second in command. "Well Doc did you ever imagine we'd make it home? I can tell you I had some doubts a few times." Thomas chuckled. When you stopped and thought about all they had overcome, it was really nothing short of a miracle. "What are you looking forward to doing? Now that we've returned." Thomas asked.

Setsunu spotted Calandri and moved over to her. She smiled and said hello in Calandri's own language. Setsunu had made it a point to learn a little of the four armed woman's language. She was also quite interested in the other woman's dress. "That is beautiful. It looks very special. Does it have any significance?"

Ryoko had gone over to the drink table to get herself some punch. As waved over Crysta and Runa as soon as she saw the mini Neko's ride in on their drakes. "Sup my dragon's. What do you think of this? Pretty fancy."

Hotaru stood off the the side, quietly watching everything that was going on. She was much quieter than her sister and preferred not to be the center of attention. But it gave her a good view of Shima when she tried to sneak in unobserved. Hotaur went over to her friend. They were the same age, one of the 'Firstborns'. They had also spent time training together under her mothers instruction. Shima was quite skilled with a katana. "Hello Shima. How are the little ones?"

 

[iaincarter]

Orbital Dry-Dock, Yamatai
YSS Wakaba, Hangar Bay

Hoshiko often found herself confused by her Captain's behaviour. First there had been that whole 'smoking a pipe' thing he was known to do, which was of course an illegal activity in Yamataian territory, which of course the YSS Wakaba counted as. However, given all the Taicho had done to get the crew and the ship through their long ordeal, Hoshiko had decided that it wouldn't be her who would go reporting his criminal actions, no matter how much the rule-abiding officer within her really wanted to. But then you take moments like now, here she was, having entered late and expecting to be seen doing so by everybody already stood to attention and listening to a speech...and no. Everyone was acting all relaxed, well, as relaxed as any of the crew really got - Hoshiko was sure the fact that they were safe now had still not really settled in yet for most of them. Maybe Shoi Kohosei just weren't supposed to be able to understand the minds of senior officers?

Having taken a quick look around those gathered, Hoshiko gave a quick nod to those she recognised - mostly bridge officers and other members of the Firstborn - although there were also a few others she knew from bartering lessons from them. The young navigator had had to put in a lot of extra hours in order to get her training competencies signed off on. Even if she knew how to be a Star Army Navigator, there was no way they would let her be one until she had proven that she was just as qualified in every needed aspect as her mother had been. Sadly, all that extra studying and assessment had left little time for socialising and her disciplinarian nature had pushed away many of those who had tried to befriend her in the past year.

Fortunately though, she did have a couple of friends she believed she could rely on and one of them, Hotaru, was quickly approaching her. A fellow student of swordsmanship under the instruction of Setsunu Meiosei-Heisho, Hoshima found she quite liked Hotaru, who was quieter and calmer than her rambunctious sister. The two had bonded over their similar natures, although whereas Hotaru preferred to avoid the limelight, Hoshiko didn't particularly care whether she was the center of attention or not. It wasn't just that she was the daughter of the Captain, and more importantly, the Angel of Death, but the fact that Hotaru could reliably take Hoshiko whenever they tested their blades against one another that led to her respecting her science-focused friend.

Hoshiko allowed the corner of her mouth to smile in response to the question. "Seiya and Seira are healthy and developing well, thank you Hotaru-san." She let out a small tch of irritation. "Of course, they refused to let me leave the nursery creche on schedule, hence my tardiness." She looked around for a moment, making sure there wasn't anyone stood too close. "How are you doing though, holding up okay?" After all, it wasn't the young navigator who had been kidnapped away from the Wakaba by the Mishhu's Warrior only a few weeks earlier.

 

[Damaske]

Orbital Dry-Dock, Yamatai
YSS Wakaba, Hangar Bay

Crysta struggled with her dress uniform, her hands clumsily adjusting it while Lou, her faithful drake, emitted an exasperated huff before cracking a small smile. She gently reached out to pet his head, murmuring, "I need to make sure this looks perfect, Lou."

Confusion swirled within Crysta as she grappled with her identity and the unfamiliar places she now called home, fragments of her mother's memories still echoing in her mind. Her adopted mother, Runa, had dropped hints about something important, but Crysta couldn't quite grasp the full meaning, tilting her head in contemplation.

As the news of Runa's imminent departure reached her ears, Crysta couldn't contain her urgency. She called out, "Wait for me, Mum!" in a voice filled with determination. With a graceful leap, she mounted Lou, and together they soared off towards the hanger bay to catch up with Runa and join Exyrus on their journey.

 

[Soban]

YSS Wakaba, Hanger Bay

Will was there with his wife and both of his daughters, the youngest still in her mother's arms. He smiled sadly at Thomas, "No, I was pretty sure we'd all bought the farm once or twice. However, thanks to our crew, we made it back home." He said somberly. "After this, well, I'm still trying to figure that out. I could get posted to captain my own ship, a small one, or be the actual XO of a bigger ship. I've still got a lot to learn and we work well together, so if I had a choice, I'd like to stay as your XO."

 

[Charaa]

Orbital Dry-Dock, Yamatai
YSS Wakaba, Hangar Bay

As she heard her daughter call to her, requesting that she wait for her, Runa commanded Exyrus to slow its flight to a stop, and waited for her. “Issues with your outfit?’ she asked her daughter with concern in her voice. Before the two flew off to join the others in the Hangar bay where the party was happening. It was an odd thing to see the Hangar Bay looking like this. It was really fancy to the Mini Neko, and Ryoko was the first to greet the two dragon riding Mini Neko“Yo! yeah pretty fancy!” She said in reply as she looked around again.

 

[Damaske]

As Crysta hurried to catch up with her mother, who was riding atop her drake, she couldn't help but let out a weary sigh. She tugged at the fabric of her outfit, her expression betraying her discomfort. "You know, Mom," she began, "this outfit feels a bit off like it doesn't quite fit me properly. I'm not sure what to make of it."

Together, they made their way into the bustling hangar bay. Crysta's eyes widened as she took in the futuristic surroundings, emitting an audible gasp of astonishment. "Whoa, this place is completely different!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with awe.

Suddenly, a voice called out from the crowd, prompting Crysta's mother to turn and respond with a warm smile. "Hey there! Yes, it's quite fancy, isn't it?" she replied.

Turning to look at Ryoko after she spoke, they went over to her and said, "Hi, hi, yeah, it is pretty fancy!" Then, looking around for Hotaru, she asked, "How is the family doing? Your mom recovering well, I hope?" She looked back at her friend with concern after all she had to do to save Setsunu.

 

[BloodyScarlet]

Calandri almost dropped her drink when asked the question from Setsunu about her dress, as she was surprised someone would ask about a dress, but then again girl talk was a thing she had learnt about as she nodded "Your pronunciations of my language is very good, if we ever find more of my people, you would fit right in." She paused for a moment and took a sip of her drink as she tried to find the words "I fashioned this myself, it took quite away because what it was based on, I haven't seen for a long long time" She gave a little twirl and corrected the dress "this was based on my wedding dress, but something was missing, I can't tell what, it is just a feeling."

 

[Cowboy]

Hotaru suddenly grew quite and had a distance look in her eyes. Her mind had flashed back to that horrid time aboard the Mishhu ship. The worse nightmares imaginable paled in comparison to what it actually was. Hotaru had suffered night terrors after returning to the Wakaba. She had been visiting a counselor to help her cope with what she had experienced. It was still early days, but it seemed to be helping. But at the moment the memories came flooding in so fast that she was on the verge of another panic attack. She fought to control her breathing. Across the room, her mother and sister turned and looked towards her. Their bond with her was strong, Setsunu as her mother and Ryoko as her twin sister. The moment passed and Hotaur composed herself. She managed a weak smile. "I'm doing alright. The counseling sessions are helping. And I'm really excited to be going to basic training and taking special courses to become a science officer. Although, it seems there is a new directive that all science officers have to become actual officer. So it looks like I may also be heading to officers academy."

Over by Runa and Crystal, Ryoko smiled. "Yep this is quite the party. But I'm looking forward to getting out and seeing the sights." She got herself a glass of punch. "So Runa tell me, what are your plans? Crystal and I and all the other Firstborns are required to do 3 years of service just because we're Nekos. Even though Neko's are considered people and not property, seems we still have to serve are time just because our mom's are Nekos. But your time is almost up isn't it? What are you planning on doing?"

Setsunu smiled at Calandri. "It is beautiful. And because it's part of your culture it makes it even more special." Setsunu glanced over to where Thomas was speaking with Doctor William. "I wonder if I'll ever wear a wedding dress." She said. She suddenly turned back Calandri a little embarrassed. Setsunu considered herself married to the Star Army of Yamatai. That would always be her primary concern and duty, despite how much she loved Thomas. She shook the thoughts away. "So will you be attending the officers academy? All Science officers are now required to become actual officers. I'd love to keep you as part of the Angels of Death, even if you do become an officer."

Thomas nodded. He understood the doctor very well. Most officers once they got to the upper ranks usually were looking to command their ship. It had been something that Thomas had been desiring himself for years. "You would make a fine Captain, William. And I will fully support you if you seek your own ship, just as I will also support your decision to remain aboard the Wakaba." Thomas smiled.

 

[BloodyScarlet]

Calandri looked over to Setsunu with probably more shock than she should have, at the notation that the marriage and smiled as she noticed the look. She gave a bow at the request and nodded "Yes I would love to stay as part of the angels of death, I have enjoyed the time together." She then leaned a little closer so no one else could hear what she would say next as how she understood it, this stuff could be weird for other species "where I come from, marriage was completely decided for you, but here you go for your heart, a word of advice from a friend who wished they had followed their heart, follow it now before it is too late." With this she moved away and made a motion towards Thomas "I could tell him for you, but I think with my grasp of courting rituals of your people, I would either fail horribly or they would think I am trying to court them." She chuckled a little at the idea and shook it of "besides I don't think my species would be someone's type around here, or is that one of those romance novels the girls told me to read messing with perspective."

 

[Cowboy]

Setsunu nodded. She was pleased that Calandri was going to stick with her Angels of Death. The tall Neko smiled as she remembered when she had invited the taller four armed woman to join the Angels. Calandri had used a word in her language, Shovosha. Calandri often slipped into her native tongued, especially when she got excited or was unsure of what was going on. It had been then that Setsunu had started to learn some of the alien's language. She had really liked that word, Shovosha.

Setsunu smiled and blushed slightly at Calandri's offer to inform Thomas of Setsunu's feelings. "That won't be necessary my friend." Switching to Calandri's tongue for the word friend. "Thomas has been in love with me for years." She looked across the room to where Thomas was talking with Doctor Fletcher. "We have know each other a long time. He was a young Chui and I was a just a Nito Hei. We first bonded over our shared love of music. Then a few years later, towards the end of the second Mishhu war, when I was first promoted to Nito Heisho, we were sent out to board an enemy ship. It was a trap. I lost my entire squad. I was devastated and went to a dark place. Thomas helped me through it." Setsunu shared with Calandri what she had hardly ever shared with anyone before. Only Haruka and Michiru, the two nekos whom had help formed the Angels of Death, had been privy to such knowledge.

"We... we were both vulnerable with one another. Sex of course, but more than just sex. But after a week of intense passion I realized that there was still a war going on. My duty and loyalty was to the Star Army of Yamatai. Nothing was going to come between that. I asked for a transfer to another ship and just left without giving him any explanation." Setsunu again looked towards Thomas with love and admiration. "I didn't seem him again years. Not until the middle of the Kuvexian war. We worked well together and continued our love of playing music together. It wasn't until the Battle of Glimmergold that he shared his feelings towards me. He still loved me. Would always love me, but understood my love for the Star Army and wouldn't never come between that."

Setsunu looked over at her daughters and shook her head. "And then, as you know, the Wakaba disappeared. We were in a nonstop fight with moral dropping every day. We were looking for strength and we found it in one another." The green haired neko grinned and lowered her voice. "That's how we came up with the idea to increase our crew." Setsunu sighed as she thought about it. "Those months after the Wakaba crashed onto that planet. They were wonderful. We had a family. At the end of the day I could almost imagine what it would be like to not be part of the Star Army and have a peaceful life. But since we've returned to Yamatai, I can't forsake my duty. It is who I am. Who I was created to be. And until my duty ends, I can not marry the man I love more than anyone else in this galaxy, safe my daughters." Setsunu took a deep breath. It was as if a burden had been lifted from her shoulders. She looked at Calandri apologetically. "Sorry for dumping all that on you. I guess that was something that just needed to come out."

 

[Charaa]

Runa turned as Crysta came up beside her, and gave a smile to her daughter. She’d always been proud of her daughter’s skills, but now she focused on what her daughter was saying, and chuckled. “You are your mother’s daughter,” she said to Crysta, with pride in her voice. “I know the feeling, since I’ve felt the same way myself,” she said to her. “I’m not one for formal attire, shit, even wearing the uniform felt off. “ She told her daughter before they made their arrival, and beside her, Crysta reacted verbally. Ryoko spoke and they each gave their reactions to her questions.

Then the big question came, and that was a good question to be sure. “Not sure, maybe find my old friends go out into the galaxy and conquer a system in the name of Mini Nekos, maybe kidnap a scientist, but not sure like I said, first have to find where they were stationed first,” Runa told her, before she commended, on Ryoko’s statement about Crysta and the other firstborns having to serve 3 years in the army. It caused visible anger to appear on her face, “Not if I fucking pay off her damn contract or whatever!” She said with more venom than she intended. Though it was true if she paid off her daughter’s contract Crysta wouldn’t have to serve, that’s if she didn’t want to.

 

[Cowboy]

Thomas glanced at his pocket watch. It was almost time to begin the ceremony. He glanced around, Setsunu was already moving towards the stage. He sent a quick message to his daughters for them to begin heading that way as well. "Well it's time to get things started." Thomas said to William and made his own way towards the stage.

Ryoko raised her eyebrows at Runa's sudden fury and took an involuntary step back from the fiery mini neko. She knew that Runa wasn't exactly a volunteer but her anger against the Star Army was surprising. Ryoko would be the first to admit she wasn't as blind loyal to the Empire as her mother was but all in all it wasn't that bad of a gig. She had access to some amazing tech that she couldn't find anywhere else. Besides, she knew her sister Hotaru was staying in and she couldn't let her little sister go it alone. Before she had a chance to respond she received a message from her father saying it was time. She said, "See you guys after the ceremony."

Setsunu walked up onto the stage. She was dressed in the white dress uniform as the Senior Enlisted on the ship. She had her dress uniform katana strapped to her side but still she carried her spear, Kuronosu. When she got onto the stage she took her spear and tapped the ground three times. The sound echoed throughout the hanger bay. Conversations stopped and people made their way to their seats. She looked around the bay for a moment then came to attention as she called out "Captain on Deck!" As one, everyone got to their feet and also came to attention as Thomas made his way onto the stage. He didn't say anything, but came to rest beside Setsunu. Thomas also looked around the bay for a moment then said, "At ease."

Setsunu made her way to the side where Ryoko and Hotaru were already seated with their instruments out. Thomas began, "Friends. Shipmates. Family. Wakabans. We have returned." There was applause and shouts of agreement. "Against all odds, after almost 2 years we have returned to Yamatai space. It wasn't easy, I don't have to tell you that. You all know all to well of the hardships and sacrifices we all had to make. The comrades we lost." He let that hang in the air a moment. "Tonight we honor those we lost."

It was a strange thing to do, especially in Yamatai where ST technology was so advanced. But the Wakaba had been gone nearly 2 years. During that time, their ST backups were hacked and corrupter. Once they returned to Yamatai space anyone who had died could be backed up, but they would lose two years worth of their lives. It was the saddest for those who had died at the very end as the Wakaba was being rescued by the Resurgence. Some of them had had kids or new lovers that they didn't remember now.

Thomas sniffed and looked over at his two daughters. "For all of our hardship, some good things came from it. I wouldn't change any of it. In my Clan we have a tradition for when we lose someone. You all are as much part of my family as my clan is. There are many versions of this song. Some are slow and sad, others are light and quick. Nepleslia has its own version and so does Yamatai. My family will play a combined version for you all, to honor our fallen brothers and sisters." Thomas walked over to the side of the stage with Setsunu and their daughters. Picking up his violin Thomas nodded to the others and Setsunu began playing her cello. The deep rich sound filled the Hanger. A moment later the violin joined the cello. Then Ryoko's pipes and Hotaru's guitar. The family played beautifully together. Then Hotarua began to sing.

"By yon bonnie banks and by yon bonnie braes
Where the sun shines bright on Yamatai
Where me and my true love will never meet again
On the bonnie, bonnie banks of Yamatai"

She continued singing, alternating verse versions between Yamatai and Nepleslia. On the third verse, Thomas stopped playing and sang with her. His deep voice echoed through the room as they sang together. Tears began to run down his cheeks but his voice never wavered.

"The wee bird sing and the wildflowers spring
And in sunshine the waters are sleeping
But the broken heart it kens, nae second spring again
Though the woeful may cease from their grieving."

Everyone joined in on the final chorus.

O you take the high road, and I'll take the low road
And I'll be in Nepleslia afore ye
But me and my true love will never meet again
On the bonnie, bonnie banks of Nepleslia.

 

[Wes]

YE 45.8

Hangar Bay - YSS Wakaba

The room was oddly quiet after the Canterbury clan finished their song. Most of the crew were reflecting on the past two years and those that had lost their lives. Thomas made his way back to the center of the stage as Setsunu, Ryoko and Hotaru packed away their instruments and returned to their seats. Thomas waited a moment longer to allow everyone to quietly grieve and remember before continuing. "I am happy to say that thanks to Yamatai's advanced ST technology, most of our loved ones, friends and fellow crew mates will be brought back tomorrow, although they will have no memory of our journey together over the last 2 years. Many of them fought and gave their lives for the ship and I will see that they are each awarded with the citations that their heroism deserves."

Taisho Ketsurui Yui, commander of the Star Army of Yamatai, stood from her seat and approached the podium."Good evening," she began. "The Star Army of Yamatai is a force for good in the universe because it is made of good people who put in the work and effort every day to protect their Empire against our enemies, who, if unchecked, would bring only slavery and death. Its success is no accident. All of us have vowed to put our very lives on the line to fight back the evil that constantly emerges from the darkest corners of space. Everything good in this universe is something that cost blood to keep it. Our rights, our freedoms, and our families. There is no higher honor than being the ones who take up that task of their own free will and make the protection of our people their personal responsibility, especially when times are hard."

Thomas was startled. How had he missed the fact that Mistress Taisho Yui was present? He glanced over at Setsunu who looking just as surprised as he was. If Setsunu was said to have a hero or an idol, it was Mistress Taisho Ketsurui Yui. She was the Star Army personified.

Hotaru and Ryoko listened silently, watching their parents closely. Hotaru realized that this was a very important person and so paid close attention to what she was saying. Ryoko, ever the rebel and freeier spirit, just watched suspiciously. She had no idea who this was or why they were seemingly crashing their party.

"Today we honor those who demonstrated the qualities that make the Star Army what it is, pursuing victory in the face of adversity and refusing to give up or give in," Yui continued, "It is my pleasure to be here and welcome the YSS Wakaba home after her ordeal, and her crew. I am proud of you all. You set an example of what it means to be a Star Army soldier, ready for any challenge. You literally charged through an entire Mishhuvurthyar fleet, and were witnesses to the start of the Third Mishhuvurthyar War. As we enter a new era of battles and exploration, I am comforted that the Wakaba will be out there, making a difference."

There was thunderous applause to the high praises Yui was giving the Wakaba. Every crew member beamed with pride. It was one thing to have Thomas up front telling them what a good job they had done. But when the leader of the Star Army gets up and says she's proud of you that was something else.

"Thank you Mistress Taisho." said Thomas. "We look forward to getting the ship repaired and back out into the fight." He paused a moment, unsure if he should ask then decided that it wouldn't hurt. He leaned down slightly and asked softly. "Ma'am, we are very honored that you are here... I have some special citations to give out. Would you please do the honors?"

"Yes, I would be delighted," Yui told Thomas.

"Thank you Ma'am." Turning to the crowd, Thomas began listing some names. Shosa William Fletcher, Joto Heisho Setsunu Meiosei, Santo Hei Calandri Valtok and Santo Hei Runa Seo. Please come up to the stage."

Hotaru and Ryoko looked over at their mother in surprise. What was going on? Setsunu looked a little confused as well but she hid it better than most. She stood, her spear Kuronosu, coming to her hand and looking like the most natural thing as she headed up to the stage. She stood before Yui, towering over the smaller Neko. She saluted and then bowed. "Mistress Taisho."

Yui returned the salute and the bow. She looked to Thomas for the awards to present and the documentation. After getting the first one, she read it aloud: "Group, attention!"

"For exceptional serice from YE 43.8 to YE 45.5, Joto Heisho Setsunu Meiosei showed extrodenary heroism and valor aboard the YSS Wakaba. Leading the famed Angels of Death, Heisho Meiosei was at the forefront of every fight the Wakaba went through. From the First Fight of the Hanger Bay where she single handedly destroyed 3 Mishhu Crabs and countless Rippers to the leading a boarding team aboard a Cruiser and disabling it durning the fight that brought the Wakaba down to a nearby planet, Heisho Meiosei never wavered in her duty. Despite adverse conditions and the lost of ST backups, Heisho Meiosei showed heroism and valor above and beyond her duty. For this Joto Heisho Setsunu Meiosei is awarded the Order of the Blazing Sun."​

Yui then stepped forward and put the award around Meiosei's neck.
Next, Yui read the award citation for Fletcher:

"For exceptional service from YE 43.8 to YE 45.5 Shosa William Fletcher II worked tirelessly to save the wounded and injured aboard the Wakaba. After the loss of the Captain and temporary loss of the XO, Fletcher stepped up to take command of the ship. During that time he led the fight against a Mishhu Dreadnought and led the counter attack against overwhelming numbers of Mishhu boarders. Even though primarly a doctor dedicated to savings lives, Shosa Fletcher fought with uncommon valor and heroism above what his duty dictated. For this reason Shosa William Fletcher II is awarded the Order of the Blazing Sun."​

After giving Fletcher his medal, she continued with Calandri:

"For exceptional service from YE 43.8 to YE 45.5 Santo Hei Calandri Valtok. Valtok multiple times engaged the enemy alone. Unarmored and against enemy Rippers she never hesitated to engage with the enemy with utter disregard for her own safety. Her actions saved over 30 wounded crew members who were helpless to defend themselves. She was present for every major engagement the Wakaba was in and was part of the team that boarded and disabled a Mishhu Cruiser. Her heroism and valor was beyond what is expected. For this reason, Santo Hei Calandri Valtok is awarded The Order of the Blazing Sun."​

Finally, she awarded a medal to Runa:

"For exceptional service from YE 43.8 to YE 45.5 Santo Hei Runa Seo showed true heroism by piloting one of only two remaining fighters as the Wakaba was trying to make its escape after we were found by the Resurgence. Seo, shot down over 40 fighters and 20 bombers single-handedly. She showed heroism and valor above and beyond duty. For this reason Santo Hei Runa Seo is awarded The Order of the Blazing Sun."​

"At ease," she told the formation, so that everyone could clap.

Setsunu could not believe what she was hearing. She was being awarded the Order of the Blazing Sun by Mistress Taisho herself? She glanced at Thomas who was absoulutely beaming at her. She bowed her head low so that Yui could place the award around her neck. She had never flet so proud. Aside from the day she gave birth to her two daughters this had to be the greatest thing that had ever happened to her. She wished that Michiru and Haruka could have been brought back to see this. They deserved this award as much as she did. "Thank you Mistress Taisho. I'm not sure I am worthy of such an high honor."

"I am," Yui simply responded. After giving the award recipients a handshake, she turned things back over to Thomas.

Setsunu smiled and bowed again. "Thank you Mistress Taisho." She could here her daughters, especially Ryoko, cheering and shouting.

= = =
OOC: JP by Wes and Cowboy

 

[Charaa]

Runa took a deep breath, attempting to calm the fiery emotions swirling within her. The mention of the ceremony brought her focus back to the task at hand. She couldn't let her anger jeopardize the mission or her relationships with those around her. Runa turned to the others in the room, rubbing the back of her head in a sign of remorse. "Sorry about that,. Got a bit carried away there.."

She glanced at the time and realized they needed to make their way to the ceremony soon. "We can't afford to be late. We'll discuss this later, alright?" Runa's tone softened as she addressed the remaining group members, hoping to maintain a sense of unity despite the tension.

As Hotaru's voice joined the instrumental ensemble, her Yamatai version of "Loch Lomond" added a poignant touch to the performance. The lyrics, though in a different language, conveyed a deep sense of longing and connection, echoing through the hangar and resonating with the audience.

Runa found herself drawn into the music, the earlier tension dissipating as the beauty of the performance took over. The family's musical prowess, combined with the emotional weight of the song, created a moment of shared understanding and appreciation among those witnessing the ceremony.

After the last note lingered in the air, there was a moment of silence before the applause erupted from the spectators, acknowledging the talent and emotion that the family had poured into their performance. Runa joined in the applause, her earlier concerns momentarily forgotten in the magic of the music.

Runa listened intently to Taisho Ketsurui Yui's words, her eyes fixed on the commanding figure at the podium. As the commander spoke about the noble cause of protecting the Empire against external threats, Runa couldn't help but feel a twinge of conflict within her. While she understood the importance of defending the Empire, her personal experience of being forced into the Star Army was a reminder of the less-than-voluntary nature of her service.

Yui's words about sacrifice, the cost of maintaining freedom, and the responsibility each soldier bore resonated with many in the audience. Runa, however, couldn't shake the involuntary nature of her own involvement. She glanced around, wondering if others shared her mixed feelings.

Despite her internal conflict, Runa maintained a composed exterior. The ceremony continued, and she reminded herself that her focus needed to be on the mission at hand. As the Taisho's speech concluded, the hangar filled with the sound of applause once again, echoing through the space and signifying the unity of those gathered for the common cause.
Runa felt a flutter of nerves as her name was called. She exchanged glances with the others on the list, wondering what this special citation entailed.

As they gathered on the stage, Taisho Ketsurui Yui took the podium once again. The air in the hangar became charged with a sense of formality and importance. Yui began to speak, her words carrying weight and authority.

The announcement of Runa's exceptional service and the awarding of The Order of the Blazing Sun left the hangar momentarily hushed. Runa, in particular, stood on the stage in a state of surprise, the weight of the medal in her hands serving as a tangible acknowledgment of her actions.

Runa, still processing the moment, managed a humble nod of gratitude toward Taisho Ketsurui Yui. The conflicting emotions within her were momentarily set aside as she absorbed the unexpected honor. The cheers and applause echoed through the hangar, a communal celebration of Runa's bravery and the sacrifices made by all in service of the Star Army of Yamatai.

The weight of The Order of the Blazing Sun medal hung on Runa's chest, both literally and metaphorically. Despite the lingering discomfort of being conscripted into service, the recognition and honor bestowed upon her by the prestigious award were undeniable. The conflicting emotions within her mirrored the complexities of her journey in the Star Army.
As the applause continued and the hangar buzzed with a mix of celebration and camaraderie, Runa took a moment to reflect. The medal, with its symbolism and significance, was a testament to her individual actions and sacrifices. It also hinted at a potential path forward—a way to reconcile her involuntary service with moments of genuine heroism and valor.

Perhaps, in time, the honor she had received would serve as a bridge between her personal reservations and the sense of duty instilled by the Star Army. For now, amidst the applause and acknowledgment, Runa allowed herself to appreciate the recognition and the unexpected turn of events. The journey ahead remained uncertain, but in that moment, she stood on the stage, a recipient of The Order of the Blazing Sun, a beacon of light in the darkness of conflict.

As the ceremony unfolded and emotions continued to ebb and flow, Runa's thoughts turned to her adopted daughter, Crysta. The idea of discussing Crysta's aspirations and feelings regarding the Star Army and their shared experiences lingered in Runa's mind. The connection between them went beyond bloodlines, forged through the challenges they faced together.

 

[Damaske]

Crysta looked over at Ryoko and smiled some as she also moved to get a mini-neko sized glass of punch and flew back to her mum's side offering her a glass also. Hearing that she was to look forward to 3 years of service and asked. " Will they count the time we have already served aboard the Wakaba as part of those 3 years? Eeep!!" hearing her mother's outburst she looks over at her mother worried a little.

Then hearing that the party was starting she smiled and moved to follow her as she moved about the hangar. Wishing Ryoko good luck as they parted. Coming to attention as best she was able to atop her havoc drake. cheering and clapping like the rest of the crew even Lou got into it as he happily roared in celebration

Seeing Mistress Taisho Yui stepping up to the podium she blinks this is not good or maybe it was going to be good. Paying attention to the speech that she gave and smiling with the rest of the crew. then as the names were called out she blinked hearing her mother's name called and then looked over at her. She was wondering what was going to happen and what was going on. but after the award was given out she she yelled out " YAY! WAY TO GO MUM!", and again Lou roared in celebration!

However, there was one thing that bothered Crysta the most, and she would have to face it the next day. Her parents would both be returned to life using their older ST backups. How would she be able to deal with that? Will they even understand the personal logs that she had protected so carefully of the three, and how her parents fell in love with each other? And what will Runa her adopted mother do?