Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a sunny day at a certain Naval Base in the southern regions of the Royal Isles.

The sky was clear and fading from a burnt orange hue to a darker purple; clouds lazily drifting across the scenic sky above. The way the waning sun gleamed across the languidly-rolling tides let the sun reflect off of it, adding to the pretty view, one that drew more than a few eyes out from behind windows and from the nearby balconies on the dormitory building. Some had even gathered by the seawall, sat around chatting and in one case even hosting a little picnic by the sea.

One group of viewers however weren't there for sight-seeing. Even as the sun began to set the Sirens didn't stop, and thus neither did the Ship-Girls – a sortie fleet waiting to set sail for a routine patrol around the coast. Nothing too major really, just the usual, but nobody knew when the Sirens could strike; sometimes with lethal consequences. Thus the sister-ships of many of those sortieing came to see them off, some just there for moral support and others to give them a hug goodbye. Others, though...

''Ah, here's your bag of snacks to take with you in case you get hungry, onee-chan.''

''T-Thanks...''

''Oh, and don't forgot your good-luck bracelet you got from Cygnet, that'll keep you safe.''

''Mm, I have that...''

''And last of all – a big cuddle from your dearest sister~!''

Norfolk's reply was muffled as Dorsetshire wrapped her shorter sister up in a bone-crushing hug, giggling in joy as she squeezed the life out of her whilst she peppered her cheek and forehead with adoring kisses, earning a whine from Norfolk herself.

Without losing her smile Dorsetshire relinquished her hold on Norfolk and let her drop back down onto her own two feet, a little flushed from the tight squeeze but remarkably unphased by it, beyond a little self-conscious embarrassment.

''Be safe now, okay~?'' Dorsetshire chirped. ''I'll have some cookies baked when you get home~''

''M-Mm. I'll be okay.'' Norfolk smiled bashfully as Dorsetshire petted her hooded head. ''S-See you...''

''Bye bye~!''

With a merry wave Dorsetshire watched as her shorter – yet elder – sister meandered down to the docks, manifesting her ship form and hopping aboard it. Joining her was Hermes and some other escorts, both those of Royal Navy descent, and those from other nations. Given Azur Lane's main enemy was the Sirens international trust was important, doubly so due to the Siren's habit of manipulating them against each other, so most nations exchanged Ship-Girls to help foster relationships and build trust between nations. Harder to turn against someone who you see as a friend or family, after all.

Thus when she saw the form of a couple Z-Class Destroyers dashing out down the docks and leaping onto their own ship forms she wasn't particularly surprised, nor was she surprised by the couple of girls not too far from her getting ready to go, bearing the flag of the Eagle Union. However as their conversation continued she couldn't help but take an interest in it, not least because of the... jubilant tone, in which one of the two sisters spoke.

''I know you'll do your best, but make sure not to get hurt okay Indy-chan~?!''

''Ah... I will...''

''Here, take this, I heard it's a good-luck charm too! Stay safe!''

''Mm... will do...''

With a dry, embarrassed nod a dark-skinned cruiser waved her sister off and meandered down to the docks, joining up alongside Norfolk in her own ship form.

The silver-haired sister however seemed unphased, stood with a dreamy smile and cupping her cheek. ''Ahh, Indy-chan looks so cool on her ship, ehehe...''

Dorsetshire couldn't help but approach. ''Is she your sister, by chance?''

''Mm!'' Without a lick of hesitation Portland agreed, a beaming smile gracing her face – one that paused when she saw her. ''Ah, I'm sorry, I don't think we've met...?''

''I'm Dorsetshire; of the Norfolk-class.'' Dorsetshire introduced with a smile, offering a hand. ''You're... Portland, right?''

''That's me~!'' Shaking her hand firmly Portland sung. ''Lead ship of the Portland-class Heavy Cruisers! Ah, and my sister over there is Indianapolis – though I call her Indy-chan because she's so cute and making her name even shorter just makes her cuter because she's my little sister and calling her little just adds to her charm but she doesn't like being called little and I can't blame her she's not really little aside from being a bit short but she-''

A sudden coughing fit cut Portland's long-winded, babbling praise short; the cruiser coughing out and apology as she whacked herself in the collarbone, getting the irritant out of her throat. Dorsetshire waved off her apology, though internal thanked whatever deity did it, her brain still in the process of comprehending the cruiser's words. Still, she'd met weirder people, so with a smile Dorsetshire didn't immediately try and flee like some might wisely do.

''I saw her go just now. My sister's out there just next to her.'' Dorsetshire helpfully pointed out her sister – though it wasn't hard, given they were the only two Heavy Cruisers in the patrol group.

''Ah? Norfolk, right?''

That was enough to trigger Dorsetshire's not-so-secret siscon tendencies. ''Oh yes! She might be smaller than me but she's the eldest of our class, and definitely the cutest – she works so very hard and does her best to make everyone around her happy and gosh, just look at her! All wrapped up in that fuzzy hood and with a determined look in her eyes, she just makes you want to snatch her up and cuddle her forever and ever~!''

Portland made an understanding 'ohh' sound. ''I see... I'm surprised I've not heard of her yet. I've been here for a couple months now?''

Dorsetshire hung her head with a long-suffering sigh. ''Yes, alas, few seem to understand the depths of onee-chan's cuteness. Such a shame, really, they're missing out...''

''Mm... if only people knew about Indy-chan more too, she's not really sociable...'' Portland agreed with a sympathising sigh.

Until, practically in unison, both girls perked up – landing on the same wavelength, as if they were two kindred souls that had finally found each other.

''Why don't we fix that?!''

Those nearby would later profess to shuddering from a sensation that could only be dubbed as one of foreboding, though none would quite know why.

X-x-X

The very next morning Dorsetshire found herself alongside her new best friend... commencing their genius plan of base-wide sister promotion.

SLAP!

''And with this official document, I declare the Sister Appreciation Club, created!''

Dorsetshire let out a little cheer and merrily clapped her hands together, the sound echoing through the rather quaint storage room they had 'renovated' to use as their club room. Though to call it renovated was admittedly a bit generous; all they'd done was move out all the unnecessary junk that had been shoved into it, dragged in one of the spare tables and a handful of chairs and hauled in an old filing cabinet to store their club papers. Which, presently, consisted of a singular document; one signed by the Commander... which gave them permission to use the storage room for club activities. That was it.

Still, humble beginnings, Dorsetshire reminded herself. First they would start small, then they'd branch out into spreading the word of their adorable sisters and then doing club things like photo-shoot calenders, and soon they'd be holding seminars about how cute their sisters are. Sounded almost like a cult in her mind when she phrased it like that, yes, but if making a cult is what it took for the whole world to know of Norfolk's cuteness, then so be it.

Lost in her own fantasies Dorsetshire remained oblivious to their third member of the club, one whom Portland had nabbed on the way from the dorms – Montpelier.

'Why am I here...?' Montpelier remained deadpan even in the face of such enthusiasm.

The thought was shaken off as Portland began to speak. ''Right! Since this is our first meeting, why don't we start with talking about our sisters?''

''Sure.'' Montpelier idly agreed, cheek resting on her hand.

Dorsetshire was much more enthusiastic, however. ''Great idea, Club President!''

''E-Eh? I get to be the Club President...?'' Portland seemed a little flustered by that. ''Heh, I'll do my best.''

She then coughed, standing up. ''Right. So, my sis is Indianapolis, as you probably know. She's shy, but Indy-chan really does her best for everyone, and she's really weak to hugs~ She doesn't have it in her to escape a hug so she just becomes a big teddy bear, she's got an a-dorable soft voice, and she's even cuter when she gets angry! She's just the biggest cutie on the base~!''

Portland's passionate proclamation left her nearly panting, starry-eyed as she stared into space and, after a moment, started to drool and giggle.

Dorsetshire just smiled, laughing lightly and clapping her hands, getting Portland's attention once more. ''I see~ What are her likes and dislikes?''

''Oh! Um... she likes food, California rolls especially! She likes reading too – I catch her asleep on the bean-bag sometimes with a book in her lap, hehe~'' Portland giggled, the sound trailing off as she put a finger to her lips. ''Hm... as for the things she dislikes... attention, I guess? She's just more comfortable being in the background helping others without getting too much attention for it. She also dislikes it when people rearrange her stuff without asking first; she's neat like that.''

Dorsetshire let out a curious hum, sparing a glance over at Montpelier. The grey-haired cruiser didn't seem all that surprised, perhaps due to having served alongside her, but there was a glimmer of intrigue in her rustic red eyes – betraying the fact she hadn't heard all of that before. Good, Dorsetshire thought; smiling as she realised she wouldn't be the only one learning new things about their adorable sisters.

With that in mind she clapped her hands a little, cheerful. ''She sounds as adorable as you say she is, Portland. Do you want to go next, Montpelier~?''

With a bit of a sigh Montpelier did, slightly uncomfortable as she reached into her capelet and withdrew a couple photographs. ''Thought I should show you these, since I don't know if you know her, Dorsetshire...''

''Oh, why thank you...'' Dorsetshire smiled, accepting the photos. Snapped both with and without Cleveland's knowledge the photos showed the popular blonde cruiser in various locations; from her room here at the base, to the fountain just out in the main plaza eating ice cream, to dolled up in a fancy plaid skirt and skin-tight top in the city; the brightness in her visage not dimming one bit.

Montpelier then coughed, speaking. ''Cleveland... erm... how do I start...?''

''How about her most appealing traits?'' Dorsetshire helpfully suggested, soothing the unsure cruiser. ''Things you admire in her.''

Montpelier paused to think for a moment, humming, before nodding. ''Her bravery. No matter what we're up against she always meets it head-on and with a smile. She cares a lot for her allies too, always checking up on people in hospital and doing favours for people, even if it tires her out. She's really cool as well, wearing a cape all the time like a superhero... which she kinda is, really.''

Though more subdued than Portland's passionate speech the admiration in Montpelier's tone was undeniable, a glint in her rustic eyes that spoke of how much she looked up to Cleveland. Dorsetshire herself wasn't overly familiar with the blonde, but she knew her – everyone did. With a smile as bright as the sun and an unending enthusiasm even when the going got tough, Cleveland had made a reputation for her uplifting attitude across the base.

Sitting down Montpelier then fixed Dorsetshire with an expectant look, clearly content with just the short introduction and no more. ''Your turn.''

''Ah? Oh, right.'' With a bright smile Dorsetshire hopped up to her feet. ''Well, my adorable onee-chan is Norfolk~ She's the lead ship of our class but the cutest of us all, she's nice and compact so you can pick her up and cuddle her easily too!''

Dorsetshire giggled, hugging herself as she envisioned her adorable sister. ''She likes reading books, especially old fairy tales, and making new friends – but she's really a bit shy, so I usually have to help her with making friends. She also doesn't like the dark or loud noises, and she even scares herself with her own guns firing sometimes, hehe~''

Smiling she fished around in her coat for a moment, withdrawing a photo from one of her pockets and placing it down onto the table. The photo in question showed Norfolk licking some chocolate ice cream, smiling bashfully as she looked up into the camera, the setting sun in the distance behind her and leaving the ocean beneath it gleaming beautifully. Montpelier peered down at the photo and hummed whilst Portland twisted it around to her perspective, curious.

''Ah... I think I remember seeing her once, when I was coming back from a commission...'' Portland noted curiously, tilting the picture left and right as if to somehow get a three-dimensional rendering of Norfolk. ''I think Indy-chan said she was showing her how to bake? She never mentioned her after that, though...''

''Ooh, maybe they're friends?'' Dorsetshire's eyes lit up at the prospect. ''Knowing onee-chan, she probably wanted to be brave and make friends without me there – oh I'm so proud of her~!''

''Indy-chan, making friends... ahh~ She's growing up so fast~'' Portland dramatically sniffled. ''I remember when she was so shy she stuck to my side like glue, now she's telling me to go away all the time~! She's getting into her rebellious phase now!''

''Maybe we should pair them together? They would make such a cute couple!'' Dorsetshire proposed.

''Mm! They've already got so much in common that they're a natural fit for each other! Hold on, I've got some nice photos I took of Indy-chan when we went over to the city; let's start planning their date now...''

As the two sis-cons feverishly began discussing setting their sisters up, nearly drooling at the possibility, Montpelier remained sat off to the side with a bewildered expression on her face.

'Maybe I should just leave whilst they're not looking...' Montpelier thought – before the cruiser vigorously shook her head, chasing away the thought. 'No, for the sake of getting Aniki's good name out there, I must persist...!'

Clenching her fist in determination and with objective in mind, Montpelier continued to sit through the first meeting of the Sister Appreciation Club...

...for the next four hours.

Cleveland would later worry why Montpelier seemed so exhausted when she came back to their room.

[END]

Chapter Text

Convincing Norfolk to go on a date was an exercise and a half.

Namely because her adorable big sister had exactly zero experience with it. Even going out with friends was uncommon, preferring instead to stay on the base or hang out in each other's rooms.

Naturally then when Dorsetshire suggested she go on a date with Indianapolis, Norfolk very quickly became a flustered, stammering mess. She didn't know what to do. She didn't really see Indianapolis in that way. She wasn't sure if Indianapolis even liked her that way either. Denial after denial was said, and it was only thanks to her infinite patience that Dorsetshire managed to deconstruct every argument, gently pointing out to Norfolk that, in essence, she wouldn't know until she tried.

In truth she wasn't doing this just out of a desire to see her cute sister get a girlfriend – though that would be be nice. Rather, it came from the rather sombre acknowledgement that she wouldn't always be around to protect Norfolk, or even around for Norfolk at all. Perhaps she'd be sent away for a long-term commission, leaving her elder but socially-unsure sister alone for who knows how many weeks or months. Maybe she'd even die in battle, one day. She didn't want to think about how Norfolk would cope without her; thus, she wanted her to have someone close to her that could help her if Dorsetshire herself wasn't around any longer.

Indianapolis would be a good fit for her. Quiet, somewhat shy herself but dependable, she seemed to be a good fit for Norfolk. They both had similar likes and dislikes, and were very like-minded in their outlooks on life. The only possible downside to such a relationship was that, being that Indianapolis was from the Eagle Union, if she was ever recalled home against her will then there'd be an entire ocean between the two of them, though Portland herself was swift to reassure her that the Eagle Union HQ would only do something if things went critical. Which, for the moment, didn't seem likely.

Thus, after much convincing and gentle encouragement on both sides, Norfolk and Indianapolis agreed to go out on a date.

And naturally, both Dorsetshire and Portland followed them from afar.

''Oh gosh, they look so cute together! I just want to take a bunch of photos to cement this moment forever-!''

Dorsetshire clasped a hand over Portland's mouth, pulling the excited cruiser behind a stall lest they be seen. ''Yes – but please keep your voice down.''

Portland blushed a little and nodded, prompting Dorsetshire to uncover her mouth. Considering they were on a 'spying' mission of sorts both had deemed it fit to dress up, to hide their identities... though both seemed to have gotten the wrong memos, as Portland dressed up in a blatantly suspicious leather trench coat and oversized hat, whilst Dorsetshire herself had put her hair up in a ponytail and donned a sports bra with jogging pants. It wasn't a bad disguise, considering that she rarely wore such clothes and a handy bit of make-up made her look more trendy than her usual appearance... but the contrast between the two of them made them stick out like a sore thumb.

It didn't help that it was a bright sunny afternoon. In summer. On one of the hottest days of the year. Dorsetshire herself wasn't doing too bad thanks to her clothes, though her legs were a bit warm. Portland on the other hand...

''Guh...'' Portland took her hat off and fanned her face, the excessively-huge sunglasses she was wearing hiding nearly half her face. ''Are summers always that hot over here, aha...?''

''Not usually.'' Dorsetshire wryly said, peeking out from around the stall and spotting their sisters passing a fountain. ''Come on, we can stop by the fountain; it should be cooler there.''

Portland swallowed a gulp of air and puffed it back out, almost reluctant as she stuffed the oversized hat back on. Stifling a smile Dorsetshire stepped back out into the street, pulling her phone out just to have an excuse in case Norfolk recognised her. The street was one of many in the town, shops lining both sides and with the harbour in sight at the end of it. Considering the warm weather the civilian population was out in full, meandering to and fro and leaving the air bustling with countless voices, giving them plenty of cover.

Dorsetshire's attention however was fully on her sister. Spying her from between passing people Dorsetshire led her totally-not-suspicious clubmate over to the fountain, unable to keep a smile off her face as she watched Norfolk – clad in a black hoodie – chat quietly with Indianapolis, the two girls soft-spoken but with clear interest. Though there'd been some initial nervousness both had hit it off after setting out, chatting happily about a fantasy book series both had read.

'Next they should go get some ice cream. Norfolk's favourite store should be coming up right about-'

Right on cue Norfolk spotted said store, and with a faintly-heard chirp suggested something to Indianapolis. After a moment the dark-skinned cruiser nodded and both girls went over to it, disappearing behind the glass doors. The shop would be too small to sneak into unnoticed, however, so they'd have to wait outside.

'No better time to set up the camera~!' Dorsetshire beamed at the thought, putting her phone on photo mode. 'Ooh, I can't wait~!'

Behind her Portland just moaned pitifully, leaning against the wall of the fountain and trying to keep cool.

…

Next up on their date was a walk through the park.

Having planned out the date – more for Norfolk's benefit than anything else – Dorsetshire knew exactly what route Norfolk was most likely to take, considering her knowledge of the town's layout; travelling through just a couple streets before reaching the ones nearer the town's square where the park laid. Although it wasn't a particularly big park – taking up about the equivalent of a city block – it made up for it with its winding pathways and numerous bushes and trees.

The latter fact provided much cover for both Dorsetshire and Portland; both from sight, and from the sun – a fact Portland was more happy about than anything else. With naught but the loud rustling of bushes they crept from hedgerow to clump of shrubs, falling still only when Norfolk and Indianapolis paused to look behind themselves in befuddlement.

'Onee-chan kawaii~'

With a tap of her finger Dorsetshire took a picture, snapping her sister and Indianapolis as they passed by the large fountain in the middle of the park. With the sun shining down on them at an angle and casting their shadows behind them they looked picturesque together, and without a doubt Dorsetshire was going to print it out and put it in her photo-journal. Beside her Portland did the same, an expression of glowing bliss on her face as she snapped a photo of her own.

''They're so cute together~'' Portland cooed, lifting her oversized glasses up just so she could savour the image better.

Dorsetshire merrily agreed and pocketed her phone, crouching down lower into the surrounding shrubbery so that she wouldn't be seen – downside of putting her hair up, she supposed. Portland meanwhile took the opportunity to snap a couple more photographs before their adorable sisters moved out of sight behind the fountain and towards the park exit.

''Alright, we should be good to move-''

''Um... mum, why is there two strange people in the bushes...?''

The voice of a young child put a halt to Dorsetshire's words, her head whipping to the left where a couple kids and their parents were having a picnic.

''What are-? Oh. Erm, excuse me, what are you doing in there? And why are you taking pictures of people?''

''U-Um! No reason!'' Dorsetshire squeaked back, grabbing Portland by the arm. ''W-We'll be on our way now!''

''Hey-!''

With haste and a swift apology Dorsetshire and Portland fled the scene, lest they be caught up in a misunderstanding.

…

As Dorsetshire originally planned and expected Norfolk, after a long walk, ended up taking Indianapolis to a café for a late lunch.

Naturally though by the time Dorsetshire and Portland actually arrived there, having to take the long way around, both Norfolk and Indianapolis were already seated – by the door, no less. Thus any attempt at sneaking inside to listen in on their undoubtedly-cute conversations was made nearly impossible. Sure, they could sneak in with their backs turned or something simple like that, but Dorsetshire knew the moment either of them let a squeal of joy or eager whisper escape, their sisters would find them out practically in an instant.

Naturally then they both decided to camp outside the cafe itself, hidden in an alleyway right outside. Thanks to how the sun fell upon the windows their sisters were mostly blind to them, and any time they so much as glanced in their direction the two easily ducked out of sight. It was a full-proof plan, one that came about solely because of Portland's ingenious thinking... though, admittedly, balancing on a pair of wonky metal trash cans wasn't her ideal means of spying.

The fact passer-bys kept looking at them weirdly didn't help matters either, but she could sacrifice her pride for the sake of watching her sister's first real date. That was worth any amount of embarrassment.

''Hey.'' Portland whispered, the trash can rattling beneath her as she shifted. ''I think we have company.''

''Huh?'' Dorsetshire could only look at the street in befuddlement. Nobody was really paying them much attention.

In response Portland pointed past her. Swinging her head left Dorsetshire looked down the alleyway beyond, spotting nobody... until she looked down, and found a dog there.

A German Shepard, from the looks of it. Scruffy and with a scar across one eye it menacingly took one step towards them at a time, a guttural growl arising from the back of its throat.

''H-Hiih!'' Dorsetshire squealed in fear, shuffling away. ''H-Hey, good dog... good dog, aha- ack!''

And with a graceless squawk Dorsetshire fell off the trash can – unintentionally dragging Portland down with her when she fell.

Not content with that however the German Shepard barked ferociously, breaking out into a sprint at them – and with a synchronised squeal the two Ship-Girls fled the alleyway, the dog hot on their heels.

X-x-X

''H-Haah... that was scary...''

''Yeah... I think it lost us now, at least...'' Dorsetshire agreed, moaning pitifully. ''Ugh, I wish I'd worn proper trainers, my feet hurt now...''

''And I'm all sweaty.'' Portland moaned pitifully, tugging on her oversized coat. ''Do you know where Indy-chan and Norfolk are going next?''

''Uh... let me think...'' Dorsetshire forced herself to think – a challenge when she was busy catching her breath – before recalling the plan she laid out to Norfolk. ''Um, I think she should be taking a walk with your sister down Jellicoe Lane. Considering we've been running for the past ten minutes, they should be on the move soon.''

''Um, Dorsetshire...'' Portland raised a hand, pointing ahead.

Puffing out a breath Dorsetshire straightened up – and then promptly squeaked and dove into cover behind a store-front pillar as she saw both Norfolk and Indianapolis walking down the street ahead of them. Portland followed her cue and got behind her, both hiding from view as they watched their adorable sisters quietly walk down the length of the street, chatting amicable between themselves and far more relaxed than they had been at the start of the date.

Only once the pair had walked past their hiding spot did Dorsetshire feel confident moving away from the pillar, beckoning her Eagle Union companion to follow. Together they blended into the crowd, hiding behind people as they walked – earning more than a few odd looks – before at last reaching the bus stop. It stood on the corner of the road under a small glass shelter with a small curved hedge behind it, the decorative patch serving as an ideal hiding spot for the two sis-cons.

''Um... I had a lot of fun today, Indianapolis.'' Norfolk said, her voice partially muffled by the rumble of a passing car. ''Thanks for coming out with me today.''

''No... it's fine. I liked it too.'' Indianapolis said in return, the faintest of smiles visible.

''Mm, but um... while I like you, I don't think we're the right fit for each other, you know? B-But I wouldn't mind staying friends, of course!''

Indianapolis audibly exhaled a relieved breath. ''I feel the same. Want to hang out next weekend...?''

''Mm! Let's go to the library next time?''

''Sounds good.''

'Ohh~! I'm so proud of you onee-chan~!'' Dorsetshire squealed internally. 'You've gotten so mature so fast~!'

The bus rolled up then, the doors opening up with a hydraulic hiss and allowing the two Ship-Girls on-board, taking them away barely thirty seconds later.

Only when they were out of earshot did Portland speak. ''Aw, I was hoping there'd be a cute kiss at the end...''

''Cheer up.'' Dorsetshire nudged her clubmate. ''At least they're friends now – some people might not want to be lest things get awkward. This way at least they'll still be there for each other!''

''Mm, good point!'' Portland perked up. ''Ahh, I got so many cute photos too! I wanna print them out and plaster them all over my wall, ehehe~''

''There's a printer's shop just down the road from here, why don't we stop in now and do just that?''

Thus with renewed enthusiasm the two clubmates continued on their journey...

...though Portland quickly lost the hat and coat, considering the weather.

X-x-X

By the time nightfall came, after such a hectic and exciting day, Dorsetshire was ready for bed.

Though not before getting the 'scoop' from her sister.

''Onee-chan~ I'm home~'' Cheerfully Dorsetshire called out as she strolled inside their shared dorm room, absolutely beaming with delight.

Their room wasn't overly big, considering it was a dorm fit for two, but they made the most of it – putting up posters on the walls, having framed pictures on their bedside tables and shared bookshelf, decorating the walls a nice blue and keeping the beige carpet as it was... and, naturally, most of the pictures on Dorsetshire's side of the room were of Norfolk. Something that caused her elder sister endless embarrassment which, in Dorsetshire's opinion, made her even cuter.

''Hm...?'' The cruiser in question looked up from the book she'd been reading, wrapped up in a pair of adorable pink pyjamas. ''Ah, Dorsey-chan, welcome back.''

Just hearing her sister use the nickname nearly sent Dorsetshire into a glomping frenzy, but she resisted the urge – intent on wrangling the details out of her elder sister. ''Hehe. So~ How was it~''

Warmth instantly coloured Norfolk's cheeks. ''O-Oh, um... it was nice. Indianapolis and I went out for ice cream like you suggested, then we went to the park and talked, and then stopped at that café you told me to go to... it was fun...''

''But~?'' Plopping herself down next to her elder sister Dorsetshire waited, already knowing the answer but wanting to hear it from Norfolk herself.

After a moment, Norfolk gave it. ''We don't think we're right for each other, so we, um, called it off. B-But we're still friends though! We're gonna go to the library next- Mmph~!''

Norfolk's words were muffled however as Dorsetshire glomped her. ''Ooh~! Look at you being so mature, onee-chan~! You're already getting out of your shell and showing everyone how cute you really are~!''

''D-Dorsey-chan...'' Norfolk whined in embarrassment, though her feeble protests went unheeded.

Mercifully for Norfolk the bone-crushing hug lasted just a few more moments, allowing her to soon breathe normally again. Dorsetshire just giggled, one arm wrapped around her older sister and humming a merry tune, privately pleased that the date had gone off without a hitch. Though she had never worried about things going sour, she had admittedly worried that they might just not be interested whatsoever and awkwardly break things off mid-way through, which would've been a blow to Norfolk's confidence without a doubt. Poor girl needed every victory she could just so she had the confidence to stand with her head held high.

'In good time.' Dorsetshire told herself with a smile. 'In good time.'

She was stirred from her thoughts, however, by Norfolk herself. ''Um... but, I do wanna ask you something...''

''Of course!'' With a broad smile and cheerful lilt Dorsetshire waited, attentive as a straight-A student.

''Well... um, I actually have a c-crush on another girl.'' Norfolk confessed meekly. ''I-I didn't want to say anything when you suggested Indianapolis and I go out, but... yeah. S-So I wanted to ask for... relationship advice...?''

'O-Onee-chan has a crush on someone?!' Dorsetshire internally freaked out. 'W-Who?! Surely I would've noticed by now?! Oh forgive me onee-chan, your pitiful little sister hasn't been paying nearly enough attention to you!'

'Relationship advice though?' The second half of Norfolk's question hit her suddenly. 'I've never been on a date, let alone in a relationship! How in the world am I qualified for- no, no, it should be fine. She'd know I'm not an expert, she's probably just asking for my opinion. Yes, that must be right... but goodness, a crush?! Who could onee-chan have eyes on?!'

Dorsetshire paused to take a deep breath, buying herself time with a thoughtful hum – masking the fact she was more concerned with Norfolk's mystery crush than thinking of actual wise advice. 'Hood? She's a popular and pretty woman, though I don't think she'd be Norfolk's type. Illustrious or her sisters? No, they've got eyes on others and everyone knows it. Queen Elizabeth, even? Warspite? Cygnet or her sisters? Guh... too many options. One of the Eagle Union girls maybe? We've got girls based from all over the world here, so one of them could've charmed her, especially those Sakura Empire girls with their fluffy tails...'

''Um, Dorsey-chan...?''

''H-Huh?'' Dorsetshire snapped out of her furious thoughts. ''Oh, um, sorry, was thinking ahaha... um, before I give some advice, could you tell me who this girl you have a crush on is?''

Norfolk smiled meekly and fidgeted, nervous but a little happy as she spoke – only fuelling Dorsetshire's curiosity.

'Spill it onee-chan~! Comet? Erebus? Terror? Javelin or Juno? Who could you-!'

''Um... Admiral Hipper.''

…

The sound of glass shattering echoed in Dorsetshire's mind.

'WHAT?!' Even as she maintained a stiff smile Dorsetshire internally freaked out. 'HER?! Of all the people on the planet, you've fallen for one of the harshest, meanest, most violent Ironblood ships in the world?!'

It was inconceivable. Absurd. Unbelievable, even, that her sweet and shy Norfolk would have a crush on the harsh-tongued tsundere of the Ironblood. They didn't even have anything in common beyond being Heavy Cruisers for heaven's sake! Norfolk was short, Hipper was average. Norfolk was kind and shy, Hipper was mean and brash. They came from opposing nations, had opposing outlooks on life – Dorsetshire knew the quote about opposites attracting, but this felt a bit extreme!

Yet looking down into Norfolk's flustered eyes and at her warm cheeks, she didn't have the heart to say such words lest she upset her sister. Thus, with an emphatic cough, Dorsetshire got herself under control. Until she could freak out in private later. ''Um... I see. Why, might I ask?''

Norfolk just shifted a little, embarrassed. ''W-Well, she's really cool and has a kind heart-''

'Kind heart?! She's an Ironblood! She probably feeds Manjuu to her shark-pet-things!'

''-she's really helpful and knows how to get instructions across-''

'By yelling like a maniac at people!'

''-and she's... really pretty, ehehe~'' Norfolk broke out into shy giggles, playing with her hands. ''I-I was thinking of asking her out on a date, this weekend... um... do you have any ideas for what we could do? I-I don't want to do a repeat date, in case she realises and gets the wrong idea...''

Faced with such an honest, hopeful look, Dorsetshire knew any protests she had wouldn't get through to Norfolk – assuming she herself could find the strength to even utter them.

Thus, with a quiet sigh, Dorsetshire began to help her sister craft a date plan for her to work with... along with crafting the best route to follow her from at a distance, naturally.

She was just making sure her sister wouldn't get gobbled up by the mean Ironblood girl, that's all.

And totally not because she was a sis-con. Nope, not one bit.

[END]

Chapter Text

Another sunny day graced the Royal Isles.

With it many folks filled the streets, chatting as they walked or dipping into stores as they pleased. The chorus of voices formed a general thrum through the air, masking the individual conversations unless one keenly listened... which, naturally, Dorsetshire was doing.

As she stalked – ahem, protected – her elder sister. From afar. Without being seen.

Really it was just denial at this point, but Dorsetshire easily pushed the notion from her mind – focused on something much more pressing. Namely who her sister was on a date with.

Admiral Hipper.

True to Norfolk's words she'd gone and asked Admiral Hipper out on a date, having caught her when she was coming back from the workshop alone. She hadn't been privy to the conversation, the location meaning there was no way for her to inconspicuously listen in, but using some binoculars she'd spied Admiral Hipper blushing, scratch her neck and then seem to agree. With surprising cheer Norfolk had then hopped away, leaving Hipper to return to her dorm alone.

And the very next day the two were out on a date in the town. It wasn't anything fancy, just a walk through the town, a stop at an ice cream parlour, some sightseeing by the touristy section of the town by the docks, and whatever else they felt like doing to pass the time. It wasn't much but Norfolk seemed excited all the same... and, despite Dorsetshire's reservations...

...they seemed to actually get along?

She wanted to deny it, following from a distance and blending in with the crowds, but there was no refuting what she saw. The scowling and harsh Admiral Hipper rolled her eyes, she smirked and chatted, she scratched her cheek when she got embarrassed... she showed a heck of a lot more emotion than Dorsetshire thought possible. If anything she was more willing to believe the cruiser had been replaced by a nicer clone than the possibility this was the real her.

'No... it must be an act, a trap to snatch Norfolk up!' Resolutely Dorsetshire thought, clenching her fist in determination – ignoring the odd looks some passing pedestrians shot her way.

Spotting a row of bushes up ahead Dorsetshire picked up her pace, trainers tapping against the pavement and her ponytail – done up in the same manner as she had it two days ago – bobbing behind her, until without a shred of hesitation she all but dove into the bushes. Her quick reactions proved useful, as not a second later Admiral Hipper chanced a look behind her, a frown on her face as if she was suspicious of them being watched. An unheard comment from Norfolk though made her look back down, scoffing at whatever was said and nodding towards a vendor further down the street.

''Phew, that was close.'' Dorsetshire whispered to herself, pushing some of the small decorative shrubs aside. ''At least here I have a good view...''

''Guess that makes two of us then, huh.''

Dorsetshire would later deny that she shrieked, but the sound was admittedly remarkably like it.

''Ow...'' The woman next to her leaned back, wincing. ''Must you be so loud?''

''A-Ah, sorry, you just scared m-'' Dorsetshire froze mid-syllable as she laid eyes on the woman next to her.

Silver hair. Pretty heart-shaped face. Gold eyes that were tinged with dry exasperation. Curvy frame clad in black and grey with crosses here and buttons there; the crosses in particular identifying her as an Ironblood. And not just any old one.

''P-Prinz Eug-?!''

A hand clasped over her mouth before she could hurry the name out, courtesy of Prinz Eugen herself. ''Hush, or our sisters will hear us, no?''

Dorsetshire blinked, still somewhat startled by the appearance of the Ironblood woman, but realising the wisdom to her warning she swallowed her words and mutedly nodded. Only then did Prinz Eugen remove her gloved hand, offering a smug smirk as she sat back on her knees, relaxing somewhat. The Ironblood woman's attire made her stand out against the greenery around them, bushes on all sides, but she didn't seem to be overly bothered.

''What are you doing here?'' Quietly Dorsetshire whispered, sparing a glance at Norfolk to keep track of her.

Prinz Eugen merely hummed. ''Why else? To find out why my tsundere of a sister suddenly went out on a date with a Royal Navy girl out of the blue.''

''Ah...'' Dorsetshire trailed off, looking between the busty, silver-haired vixen... and the flat, somewhat tomboyish Admiral Hipper. ''...I forgot you two were sisters...''

''Hmph.'' Eugen smirked. ''Don't let her hear that. She gets enough of it back in the Ironblood. And from most who meet us.''

Dorsetshire murmured a vague agreement, glancing back at the blonde cruiser. The two of them were nearing the end of the street; probably about to take a detour into the next where some shops laid so they could casually look inside. Thus Dorsetshire was about to rise out of her hiding spot... had Prinz Eugen not suddenly spoke up.

''You know, you're not nearly as stealthy as you think.'' The Ironblood woman lazily pointed out. ''I'm pretty sure the only reason your sister hasn't notice is because of her big hood.''

''I-I'm plenty stealthy!'' Dorsetshire whisper-yelled back, flushing pink when Eugen just gave her a deadpan expression. ''...is it that bad?''

''You're wearing purple and violet, whilst hiding in a sparse shrub in broad daylight. To say nothing of you walking down the street in that.'' Prinz Eugen pointed out, humming as she tilted her head, admiring her. ''Though it suits you. Probably not the best thing for hiding in, though.''

Dorsetshire wasn't quite sure how to respond to that. ''Um... thanks?''

The Ironblood woman just smirked. ''Why don't you and I go off on our own little adventure, hm? It's only a matter of time until Hipper catches a glimpse of you and uses her radar, and I'm sure the last thing you want is to ruin our precious sister's date, right~?''

''Er...'' The brunette hesitated. She could see the reason in it, but spending time with the Ironblood woman, who's intentions were hard to read, felt like a worrisome decision.

But she also didn't want to spoil Norfolk's date, thus...

''I suppose that's fine...'' Dorsetshire reluctantly agreed.

Prinz Eugen just flashed her a coy, knowing smile.

She wasn't sure if that was a good sign or not.

X-x-X

The two cruisers found themselves waltzing around town for only a short while before Prinz Eugen suggested going to a particular place she was fond of. Curious, Dorsetshire agreed; doing her best to be chipper and polite despite their history.

Though she certainly hadn't expected where Prinz Eugen took them.

''A-A bar?''

''Of course.'' The Ironblood woman glanced over at her, eyes shining with mirth. ''Did you think I would be taking you to a clothing store or something.''

''I wasn't quite sure where you'd be taking me.'' Dorsetshire admitted. ''A bar though... I probably should've expected it.''

''Because I'm an Ironblood?''

''Er-'' Dorsetshire stumbled over her words, hurriedly responding when Eugen gave her an unreadable look. ''W-Well, I mean, not assuming or anything but I heard something about Ironbloods liking beer and, erm, so I just kinda assumed-''

Her quick words were cut short as Prinz Eugen chuckled however, a smirk breaking out across her lips. ''Relax, I'm just messing with you. And for your information, yes, we Ironbloods do like alcohol; beer especially.''

Relieved she hadn't offended her foreign company Dorsetshire released a tense breath; lingering embarrassment colouring her cheeks. Prinz Eugen paid it no mind though, wrapping one arm around hers and half-guiding, half-pulling her in through the bar door, the wood thunking shut behind them. Few windows were present within the bar, leaving the quiet place illuminated mainly by amber wall-lights, the sunset hue warm against the wooden flooring and mahogany booths, only a few of said booths populated considering it was only just now nearing dinner time.

Judging from the way Prinz Eugen casually sauntered up to the bar though it wasn't her first time at the establishment, a languid hum arising from her as she scanned the shelves. ''What'll you have?''

Dorsetshire blinked at the sheer amount of options – one glance at the shelves behind the bar revealing well over a hundred brands, arguably even hundreds. ''Er... I...''

Eugen turned slightly, giving her an amused look. ''Not an alcohol drinker?''

''I-I am, just...'' Dorsetshire paused, then drew a breath – composing herself. ''Do you think they have any brandy?''

Prinz Eugen hummed, replying by way of flagging down the barman. The older gentleman came over and, after a brief discussion, the two of them ordered a brandy and beer respectively – receiving both drinks and making their way over to one of the empty booths. The quiet murmur of conversation lingered in the background, joined by the dim music coming through the speakers; forming a rather pleasant background track.

Dorsetshire let it distract her, awkward as she took her glass and brought it to her lips, sipping – and winced as the brandy went down her throat, the burn slight but still present. It was far from her first time consuming alcohol, but truthfully she wasn't much for it – preferring something nice and fizzy, like a soda. Still, Eugen was nice enough to take her out here, so she may as well be polite and order something too.

''You don't go to bars often, do you?''

Prinz Eugen's casual observation made Dorsetshire jump a little. ''Y-You can tell?''

''Mm.'' Smirking behind her mug Eugen took a slow, punctuating sip. ''You look like a kid who's scared of being caught sneaking into a nightclub.''

Dorsetshire flushed, looking aside. ''Well it's not like it's my cup of tea, really...''

''I'm guessing you'd prefer a quiet night in with a 'cup of tea' then, with the most excitement being that week's drama show?''

''Usually yes but-'' Dorsetshire paused when she noticed the twinkle of amusement in her companion's eyes. ''...oh.''

Eugen drew her mug away from her lips just as she let out a short snort. ''You said us Ironbloods all like beer, no? So all you Royals like tea then. And seems I'm not wrong either~''

At that Dorsetshire could only blush and mumble a 'fair enough', sipping her brandy with puffed cheeks. She wasn't sulking, not one bit. The amused look from Eugen put that claim into question though.

''That aside.'' Eugen leaned forwards, resting her chin upon her hand. ''I'm curious as to why Hipper suddenly got asked out on a date. Spill the beans.''

Dorsetshire huffed, shoulders rising in a slight shrug. ''Not much to tell, I'm afraid. She told me she has a crush on someone, I asked who, she said it was your sister, Admiral Hipper. I was surprised to hear it at first, of course, but her feelings are genuine if that's what you're wondering. Onee-chan hasn't been one for romance until now, so she must be quite smitten if she's willing to make the first move and ask your sister out on a date.''

Prinz Eugen hummed thoughtfully. ''I see. I was pretty surprised to see the pipsqueak suddenly approach her.''

Dorsetshire let the pipsqueak comment slide. Mostly because it only made Norfolk sound more cute, rather than less. ''What about Admiral Hipper? How'd she take it?''

The Ironblood woman hummed, holding her tongue and filling the silence with a slow sip of her drink, as if debating whether or not to actually share it. Whether thanks to the fact Dorsetshire shared first, or just general politeness, she responded all the same. ''She was pretty flustered. Thought it was a prank at first until I knocked some sense into her. Not sure what she 'truly' feels, but from what I can tell at least she's at least interested in your sister. Norfolk, was it?''

''That's her name, yes. Though I just call her onee-chan.''

Eugen paused, blinking, before humming. ''...huh. Thought you were the older sister.''

Dorsetshire just smiled wryly. ''And I thought you were the older one too.''

A brief pause ensued – broken when both of them broke out into light chuckles in sync.

''Hmhm. Fair enough.'' Prinz Eugen remarked, chuckle trailing off. ''Mind telling me more about Norfolk, then? Can't says I've heard much about her, at least as far as her personality goes.''

''Oh of course! See, onee-chan might be small, but she's got a lot of love in her big heart and-''

With enthusiasm Dorsetshire went full siscon, chattering away with boundless cheer, unheeding of Eugen's amused smirk the whole while.

X-x-X

''Ugh...''

Dorsetshire awoke to a sore head; an intangible weight pressing down on her skull and making it hard to even crack her eyes open. Still she tried; scrunching them up and groggily running a hand over her face, rubbing away the numbness and stirring herself awake. Coherency returned slowly to the Royal Navy woman, and even when she rolled onto her side it took her a good few moments for her eyes to start working, finally opening them.

Gradually though she regained the ability to think straight, moaning pitifully as she blinked away the sleep. An unfamiliar grey wall greeted her, the sight of it bringing a slight frown to her face and prompting her to sit up. The bed covers around her slid down and off her shoulder, the sensation making her realise her capelet and jacket was missing, leaving her torso clad in just her white blouse.

''H-Huh...'' Still groggy and with a killer hangover Dorsetshire felt confused. ''What uh... why...''

''Hmph. Rise and shine~''

The teasing coo startled Dorsetshire out of her daze; an incoherent slur of words tumbling from her lips before she registered who was next to her. ''P-Prinz Eugen...?''

''That's me.'' Amused as ever the silver-haired cruiser offered her a glass. ''Here, drink up. Should help with the headache.''

Feeling rather parched the brunette gladly took the offered glass, holding it in two hands to keep it steady as she brought it to her lips. The liquid was fizzy but pleasant as it went down her dry throat, the sound of her gulps the only sound in the room – until at last she let out a light gasp, nearly half the glass gone in a single gulp. Tucking some messy brown hair from her face Dorsetshire raised her gaze but Eugen had already meandered over to a desk next to the bed, shuffling some papers about idly.

Dorsetshire gladly took the opportunity to get acclimated, her eyes sweeping over the room. It was Prinz Eugen's bedroom; the black-red wallpaper, the cross-patterned bed cover, the wrenches laid partially under both beds in the room, it was fairly self-evident that an Ironblood lived there. Considering how living arrangements were usually done that meant Admiral Hipper also lived here, though when Dorsetshire spared a glance at the neighbouring bed she found it empty.

Perhaps because it was already day, she realised; tugging the grey curtain aside and wincing as bright sunshine poured in over her face. ''Mn... what time is it...?''

''Eleven o'clock.'' Prinz Eugen casually remarked, smirking when Dorsetshire spluttered. ''What, not used to laying in? Guess I must've been a cosy pillow then.''

Dorsetshire froze. ''E-Eh?''

Prinz Eugen just chuckled, her back to her as she fiddled with some papers. ''You really don't remember last night?''

Heat crept up Dorsetshire's face, mortification flooding her. ''I-I don't... I-I didn't, we didn't...?!''

''You got drunk faster than I expected.'' Eugen continued as if she didn't notice. ''I had to half-drag you back to the dorms myself. I didn't know where you lived, so I just took you to my room. Took a while to calm you down though once you really got going.''

'Oh gods did we have se-!?'

''Really, I know you love your sister, but chattering on about her so much probably isn't good for your voice box. You'll end up mute if you talk so much.''

''...eh?'' Dorsetshire blinked. ''My... sister?''

''Mm. You kept talking about her when we got back, so I had to calm you down before I could tuck you into bed.'' Prinz Eugen finally turned to face her, a Cheshire grin on her lips. ''What's that face for? Were you perhaps... thinking of something else?''

''I-I-'' Stunlocked by the back-to-back teases Dorsetshire spluttered, malfunctioning.

Doubly so when Prinz Eugen leaned down to her height, grin unabating as she brought her lips close to her right ear. ''Thinking of something so lewd... how unbecoming of a Royal Navy lady~''

Dorsetshire shivered at that, too embarrassed to even squeak. Mercifully Prinz Eugen didn't tease her any further and backed off with a pleased smirk, nudging her hands lest her limp fingers drop the glass of fizzy water. Shaking herself out of her stunned state the brunette hurriedly took another gulp, using it as an excuse to stay quiet and gather her thoughts. The stiff silence reigned for only a short few moments though; the Ironblood woman soon piping up once more.

''I shared a bed with Hipper, by the way.'' Eugen remarked almost like an afterthought. ''So don't worry, you didn't do anything unladylike in your sleep. Though Hipper was curious about why you were here, so she'll probably mention it to Norfolk sooner or later.''

''Eh? She's going to see Norfolk?'' The mere mention of her sister gave Dorsetshire clarity.

Something that visibly amused Eugen. ''Not to my knowledge. But, considering their date, it's not entirely out of the question now is it?''

Dorsetshire flushed at that, mumbling something inaudible in response.

Prinz Eugen just smirked it off. ''Don't worry, I'm sure my sister can keep a secret-''

Just then knocking came from the door, and the muffled voice of Norfolk came through.

''U-Um. Prinz Eugen, are you home? H-Hipper said that my little sister was here...?''

Dorsetshire squeaked; muffling the sound with her hand. 'Oh gods I can't be seen like this! My hair's all messy, I'm in someone else's bed – w-what will onee-chan think seeing me like this-?!'

As if noticing her distressed thoughts – not a hard feat considering her frantic expression – Prinz Eugen jerked a thumb behind her, where she'd be out of sight. Gratefully taking Eugen's advice Dorsetshire all but tumbled out of bed, half-stumbling across the room and shoving herself between the wall and Admiral Hipper's closet, hiding herself in the shadows like a rat hiding from a cat... and not a little sister not wanting to be caught in a scandalous position by her big sister.

Eugen shot her a smirk, but didn't comment on it; opting to meander over and open the door.

''Ah, Norfolk, was it? What brings you here?''

''O-Oh, um, hi... I was looking for Dorsetshire, my sister? Hipper said she was sleeping here?''

''I see. She was resting here after she had too much to drink last night – she left just a couple of minutes ago, I think for the cafeteria. Maybe you two just passed each other?''

''We must've, yes... she didn't come back to our room last night so I got worried, but it's good to know she had someone to look out for her. I didn't know you and her were friends.''

The smirk in Eugen's voice was audible. ''Oh we're friends alright. Fast friends, I'd say.''

''Aha, is that so... w-well, I'll go look for her now. Thank you again for taking care of her!''

''No problem.''

Click.

Only when she heard the sound of the door shutting did Dorsetshire released the breath she was holding; her whole body simultaneously relaxing. ''Haah... that was close...''

''Close indeed.'' Eugen smirked over at her. ''Guess Hipper couldn't keep a secret, huh?''

Dorsetshire just slid down the wall and moaned pitifully, unheeding of Eugen's chuckle.

[END]

Chapter Text

A day had passed since Dorsetshire's embarrassing wake-up in Prinz Eugen's dormitory.

Thankfully nothing eventful had happened in her absence – Norfolk was fine and dandy despite her overnight absence, she was over the moon about the date and was absolutely smitten with Hipper. The sight of her sister so cutely in-love nearly made her smother her sister with squeal-laden hugs, but she resisted... for all of a few seconds. Her sister was just too cute to resist, after all.

However despite her siscon tendencies, Dorsetshire was still a woman of the Royal Isles – politeness was engraved into her bones. She couldn't just let Eugen's act of kindness, simple as it was, go unthanked.

Thus it was under the warm summer sun that the brunette cruiser found herself walking through the Naval Base, a plastic carrier bag held in her right hand and a light hum passing her lips; making her way towards the Ironblood residence. The Ironblood dormitory was one of the further away buildings, located closer to the edge of the base due to the fact it also had a workshop right next to it, mainly for the modification or repair of their semi-sentient riggings.

Privately, she was glad for that. She didn't exactly want to be woken up every morning by someone drilling armour onto their rigging or something like that.

Shaking off the dreadful thought Dorsetshire continued on her journey, tilting her head back as she finally neared the building itself. It cast a shadow over her as she approached, the imposing height seemingly contrasted by its narrowness, attesting to the rather limited number of Ironblood ships based there. Yet they still had to build something big, imposing and entirely unnecessary. Must be an Ironblood thing, Dorsetshire idly mused.

Movement drew her eyes ahead, though, towards the doors – spotting a petite figure meandering out. Clad in a dark blue dress and with flowing, slightly messy silver hair she struck an odd figure compared to the intimidating building behind her, yet the curious expression she wore made her seem more harmless than Dorsetshire expected from an Ironblood.

''Hm?'' The individual in question noticed her immediately, gold eyes blank but with a curious glint to them. ''...I don't believe we've met.''

''I don't think we have either.'' Dorsetshire blinked before putting on a smile. ''I'm Dorsetshire. You are...?''

''Z46. Destroyer.'' The petite Ship-Girl introduced with one hand on her stomach, doing a slight bow. ''Do you need something from one of the residents here?''

There was a slight quirk to her mannerisms, exacerbated by her monotone voice, but Dorsetshire had dealt with far weirder folk. ''Yes. Is Prinz Eugen around? I wanted to thank her for... erm, her help, yesterday.''

If Z46 was curious about the details she didn't show it. ''I see. She is currently in the workshop.''

''Ah, thank you...!''

Z46 just hummed and walked off, eyes lingering on her curiously before she eventually looked ahead, making her way towards the cafeteria. Giving her head a firm shake Dorsetshire banished the thought of the odd girl from her mind and hurried on to the workshop, mindful not to drop the special contents of her bag.

She hadn't even neared the main doors of the workshop when she heard sounds emanating from within; the loud whine of a drill joined by the hissing of sparks bouncing off steel. Slowing her jog to a careful creep Dorsetshire approached, eyeing the twin door dubiously and slowly pushing one open, peeking inside the interior of what was once a warehouse, and was now a converted workshop area. A single glance laid bare to her multiple Ironblood riggings on raised mounts, countless tools scattered about haphazardly, all of it bathed in mottled afternoon light; the windows near the top of the building dirty and stained with both oil and fumes, tinting them a yellowish colour and dimming any light that entered.

Naturally then the light that flowed in from behind her was quite noticeable to the woman sat not far from the door, an obscenely large drill in her hands and with a shark-like rigging laid in front of her on a mount.

Prinz Eugen.

''Hm?'' Turning off the drill Prinz Eugen leaned back in her stool, flicking her welding goggles up. ''Dorsetshire? What brings you here of all places?''

''I wanted to thank you for yesterday.'' With a smile Dorsetshire hefted up the plastic bag. ''I brought chocolate cake~''

Eugen blinked. ''Huh. You didn't need to.''

''You helped me, so it's only right.''

''...I just dragged you back to my bed is all.'' Eugen dryly remarked. ''Though if you insist, I'll accept. Been craving some chocolate anyway.''

Dorsetshire brightened at that and handed over the bag, privately delighted when Eugen hummed in approval at the sight of it. The cake itself wasn't anything too grand, just some chocolate spread between two halves of cake and with some chocolate flakes and curls decorated across the top, but Eugen clearly liked the look of it all the same. Plucking the plastic lid off the silver-haired woman cut into it with one of her clean tools, slicing a neat chunk out and bringing it to her lips.

''...Mm~'' The pleased hum that escaped Eugen sounded unintentionally erotic – the deep, sensual undertone bringing a pink blush to Dorsetshire's cheeks.

Not helped when Eugen swallowed the cake in her mouth, one dainty finger sliding over her lips to clean away the crumbs before she popped that same finger between her lips, sucking the crumbs off. Staring into the cruiser's amber eyes, seeing the mirth within, Dorsetshire realised at the back of her mind she was teasing her... but she couldn't find it in her to look away. There was just something so entrancing about it that snatched her attention.

It was the sound of someone else dropping a spanner elsewhere in the workshop that startled her out of her staring, a forced cough leaving her throat. ''U-Um, right, I best be off! Do enjoy your cake, Miss-!''

''Now now~'' The languid smile fired her way did anything but calm her. ''No need to run off. I'm not going to gobble you up... yet~''

The implications only fuelled Dorsetshire's blush. ''E-Erm... I uh...''

A giggle silenced her; simultaneously nervous yet entranced as Eugen stood up. Balancing the cake and slice with ease the Ironblood woman sashayed right up to her until they were nearly chest-to-chest, head tilting slightly to the side and emphasising her charming smirk, eyes half-lidded. Whether she flirting or not Dorsetshire couldn't tell, any words she attempted to muster withering in her throat, her muscles refusing to twitch let alone move; rendered immobile by the vixen's mirthful gaze.

''Why don't we go out for drinks, you and I?'' Prinz Eugen then suggested. ''It'd be nice to get to know you more, since we've gotten so... acquainted, already~''

''I'm not too uh, sure about that...'' The brunette hesitantly responded. ''Last time it didn't end well...''

''Oh? I'd say it ended rather nicely~'' She was definitely flirting now. Or was she just teasing? ''Look at it this way; the worse-case scenario is that you end up in my bed again. That's not so bad, is it~''

''I-I suppose...'' Dorsetshire hesitantly agreed.

''Gut. I shall see you tonight then~?''

The Royal Navy woman murmured an agreement, earning a smirk from Prinz Eugen before the cruiser wandered off to talk with one of her friends – prompting Dorsetshire to dazedly make her way towards the exit. The fresh sea breeze helped stir her out of her stupor and she shook her head vigorously, finally gaining some clarity.

'Haah... what have I gotten myself into...?'

X-x-X

''...and that's the situation.''

Dorsetshire's words, accompanied by an exhausted sigh, fluttered freely through the clubroom of the Sister Appreciation Club. Across from her Portland and Montpelier, the other two club members, sat and stared at her with disbelief.

Perhaps understandably so, really – the Ironblood girls stationed at their base were of the more reserved kind and usually kept to themselves or interacted with a select number of non-Ironblood individuals. That wasn't to say they were inherently unfriendly, but they also didn't exactly have an approachable reputation. Which made it all the more bewildering that Prinz Eugen of all people asked Dorsetshire out for drinks, practically out of the blue.

''Huh.'' Portland blinked, scratching her cheek. ''Are you going to go with her then?''

''W-Well, I have to don't I?'' Dorsetshire raised her head, sighing. ''It would be rude not to. Plus... I suppose it'll be a good chance to make new friends...?''

Montpelier hummed, shuffling some papers about in front of her. ''I guess. Didn't you say your sister was dating Admiral Hipper now?''

''Indeed... I still don't know what onee-chan sees in her.'' The brunette lamented. ''So far at least they seem to be getting along, and onee-chan seems to be more cheerful than normal, so something must be going right...''

Portland giggled. ''Mm! Love works in mysterious ways, I guess~ At least Indy-chan is still single, that means I can-''

''Denied.'' Montpelier deadpanned, whacking Portland with her small stack of papers – ignoring the cruiser's yelp.

''Mou~'' Pouting Portland put her hands on her hips. ''What about Cleveland then? Any ideas who we could set her up with~?''

Montpelier frowned, then hummed thoughtfully as she put the papers back onto the table. ''...I'm not sure. Cleveland hasn't really showed much interest in dating.''

''Brooklyn?'' Portland suggested, brows furrowing when Montpelier shook her head. ''Hm... does she have a type...?''

In response the grey-haired cruiser leaned back in her chain, frowning thoughtfully. ''Probably another cruiser, I guess? Someone who could relate to her and have her back?''

The two Eagle Union girls hummed and muttered, mostly to themselves as they went through a list of their comrades. Dorsetshire didn't interrupt, going through a list of girls she knew... when an idea came to mind.

''Why not introduce her to some people?'' Dorsetshire suggested with a smile. ''I'm not sure if she'd date someone in the Royal Navy, but there's always a chance, right?''

Montpelier and Portland paused in their musings, hummed, then nodded. ''That could work...''

Dorsetshire brightened at that. ''Great! I think I know a few who might be fitting for her!''

With evident interest Montpelier gestured for her to continue, and before Dorsetshire knew it they were fully invested in the conversation – her uncertainty about her upcoming meeting with Eugen temporarily forgotten.

X-x-X

As per Eugen's suggestion Dorsetshire waited for her newfound companion not far from the bus stop, just outside one of the still-open department stores.

Given that it was summer the skies were still bright even as the clock ticked past seven o'clock at night; a beautiful purple haze gradually fading to black, the few clouds up above barely visible against the hazy backdrop. Fewer people traversed the streets too, mostly only those going to nightclubs or bars or out for some last-minute shopping.

Dorsetshire spotted a group doing just that, smiling slightly as a group of girls ran past her hurriedly chattering away about catching the bus. Leaning back against the store-front pillar she watched them go, their chattering rising into shouts as they spotted their bus... passing by the empty bus-stop, going on without them. She almost chuckled at their misfortune but held it back, shaking her head with a softer giggle.

The sound of heels against pavement drew her attention though, head lifting – and she tensed a little as she saw Prinz Eugen waltzing towards her. ''Oh, hello...''

Eugen clearly noticed judging by her smirk. ''Don't look so tense, I won't bite... probably~''

''Sorry.'' With warming cheeks Dorsetshire apologised, embarrassment only growing when Eugen chuckled. ''S-So, um... whereabouts are we going?''

''It's not far, don't worry.'' Beckoning her to follow Prinz Eugen waltzed past her, going in the same direction the group of girls had gone.

Dorsetshire hurried after her newfound friend, lingering just a half-step behind. The Ironblood woman didn't comment on it and led her down the pavement with a slight sway to her hips, her uniform only emphasising that and unintentionally catching Dorsetshire's gaze. Eugen naturally exuded a sort of sensuality, and though the brunette didn't want to stare lest she be rude... she had to admit she could appreciate the Ironblood woman's charm, if only within the privacy of her mind.

Just as she thought that Eugen glanced back at her and smirked, burning Dorsetshire's cheeks and prompting her to look away. Mercifully Eugen let the silence last, neither feeling the need to talk and instead making their way down several streets, taking this turn and that – until Eugen led them down a narrower street, One that was familiar... namely because it the same bar Eugen took her to the other night there, where she got stupidly drunk.

'It won't happen this time.' Dorsetshire comforted herself, following her silver-haired company inside. '...hopefully...'

''Heya, what can I get'cha.'' The barman on-duty asked, languidly meandering down the length of the bar.

Prinz Eugen glanced back at Dorsetshire. ''Same as last time?''

''Er... sure?''

Humming in acknowledgement Eugen ordered them both a brandy and beer like last time, taking a seat on one of the bar stools. Tentatively Dorsetshire joined her, cheeks pink as she glanced around like she was doing something naughty – but really she couldn't be blamed, in her opinion. Going to bars wasn't something she really did, and the last thing she wanted was to trip up and make a mistake in front of Eugen, lest the cruiser tease her about it for evermore.

''So.'' Eugen suddenly spoke up, startling Dorsetshire from her thoughts. ''What do you do around here for fun?''

''M-Me? Well...'' Dorsetshire paused, then smiled sheepishly. ''N-Not much, I'm afraid...''

Prinz Eugen hummed, resting her cheek on her folded hands, peering at her. ''Go on. It's an honest question.''

The brunette shifted, but after a moment decided to answer truthfully. ''Well... I, like to do things with my sister. Doesn't really matter what; if she's happy then so am I, aha... I also keep myself busy with making sure her needs are met; her snack drawer needs to be kept full, I keep an eye out for her favourite book series for when a new one comes out, I sort out her clothes so she doesn't have to worry about it, so on. It can be tricky at times, especially since onee-chan gets embarrassed when I do it, but I do my best to make sure she has a comfy life.''

The Ironblood woman eyed her. ''I see. Do you do anything other than attend to your sister?''

Dorsetshire opened her mouth... then paused. ''Um... w-well...''

''I'll take that as a no.''

''I-I do have hobbies!'' Dorsetshire hurriedly answered, blushing. ''I just... don't have much time to indulge in them.''

''Hobbies like~?'' Eugen prodded for more.

''...reading.'' The brunette bashfully admitted. ''It's been a while since I've enjoyed a good book, due to attending to onee-chan's needs so much...''

Prinz Eugen nodded slightly. ''You care about your sister a lot, huh.''

''Of course!'' Dorsetshire proudly nodded – uttering a quick thanks as the barman came back and laid their drinks down. ''She's so cute and precious! I can't allow anyone to taint that adorableness with their wicked ways, so I have to keep an eye on her constantly!''

''So she can't keep an eye on herself?'' The Ironblood woman noted, taking a sip of her beer. ''Isn't she the older one of the two of you?''

''Er...'' Dorsetshire hadn't thought about that. ''W-Well, I suppose she can take care of herself in most instances, but it's just to make sure she's extra safe is all!''

''Uh-huh.'' Prinz Eugen wasn't buying it. ''I'm starting to wonder if you sell Norfolk plushies on the side.''

''Ooh, that's a good idea~!''

''I was joking.''

''Oh... still, it's a good idea!'' Dorsetshire could already envision them in her head. Sowed and stitched, with round blue eyes and a bright smile on them, the limbs thicker at the end than at the stitches for that added cuteness...

'I wonder if I can talk Hood into letting me use her sowing machine...'

Fingers snapping in front of her face snapped her out of her scheming thoughts. ''Hmph, you really like your sister, huh.''

''Of course!'' Dorsetshire cheerily agreed. ''I even helped make a club to promote her cuteness!''

''A club.'' Eugen repeated, blinking in surprise.

''Yes; myself, Portland and Montpelier started one to promote our sister's cuteness!'' Dorsetshire chirped, eyes lighting up. ''Do you want to join us too?! Membership is open!''

''Hm.'' Eugen tapped her chin idly. ''What do you even do?''

''Well, not much thus far – we only made the club less than a week ago – but we plan on doing what we can to make sure everyone knows about our sisters! Be it handing out flyers or making sure their names get out there, we do our best to make sure they're more appreciated!'' With a beaming smile not unlike that of a saleswoman Dorsetshire continued. ''We also have cookies! Or we will, once I bake them.''

More chin-tapping. ''You got black coffee?''

''I can make some!''

Eugen thought for another second, before shrugging. ''Eh, I'll come to a meeting and see what it's all about. No promises I'll stick around after that, though.''

''That's fine, that's fine!'' Delighted Dorsetshire clasped her newfound friend's hand, shaking it gratefully. ''I'm sure we can spread Hipper's name about too! Improve her reputation amongst the Royal Navy and such!''

That seemed to genuinely pique Prinz Eugen interest; brows raising slightly even as she took a sip of her beer, speaking only once she had swallowed. ''Huh. Hadn't thought about that. Guess she could use a reputation boost.''

Dorsetshire bobbed her head in agreement and eased back into her seat, taking a drink too. Personally she didn't know too much about Admiral Hipper beyond the obvious – she was loud, easily ticked off, like an aggressive dog when mad and with a pair of mechanical hounds to match... but Dorsetshire wasn't an idiot. Norfolk wouldn't have fallen for Hipper if she didn't see something in her that few else seemed to have had.

Maybe then, with Prinz Eugen's help, they could 'discover' what it was that charmed Norfolk – both to help dilute the old wounds that some members of the Royal Navy still had... and, admittedly, so Dorsetshire could figure out what the heck Norfolk saw in the blonde tsundere. Prinz Eugen would be instrumental in figuring that out, so it would do her some good to spend more time with the Ironblood woman.

Assuming she'd survive her company.

''Your glass is looking empty. Want another?''

''H-Huh? Oh... I suppose...''

X-x-X

''Mm, that was nice, wasn't it~?''

Prinz Eugen's words languidly floated through the air, the cruiser brushing her hair back with both hands and sighing in bliss at the cold night air that brushed against her cheeks. The street outside the bar was quiet at this time, only a handful of bar-goers meandering about alongside some folk going home after a night out.

Stood a half-step behind her companion Dorsetshire groaned; wobbling unsteadily and blinking away the blurriness that sometimes tinged the corners of her vision. Even with the cold night air against her skin the alcohol coursing through her system left her feeling warm and fuzzy; just drunk enough to still be coherent but only a single glass away from going off the deep end. Dimly she wondered if Eugen had planned her to get exactly this drunk. She wouldn't put it past the Ironblood woman.

Dorsetshire jumped as the aforementioned woman snaked an arm around her, pulling her against her. ''Well~?''

''Y-Yeah.'' Dorsetshire unconsciously leaned on her for support. ''It was... nice.''

''Don't say that so hesitantly.''

''Aha, sorry...''

Prinz Eugen just rolled her eyes with an amused huff, tugging on her and leading them down the road. ''Want to head back to my room, or yours?''

''Mine this time, please.''

''Sure thing. Where about in the base is it?''

Dorsetshire opened her mouth... and drew a blank.

''Uhh...''

Prinz Eugen mercifully stifled a giggle. ''My room it is, then.''

Dorsetshire could only mumble an embarrassed thanks at that, leaning on Eugen the whole way back to base, passing out somewhere along the way – her last memory being of Eugen guiding her through the Ironblood dorm doors.

[END]

Chapter Text

The next day, still somewhat nursing a hangover, Dorsetshire found herself at a club meeting.

Not least because of the occasion held during said meeting.

''Alright, I'd like you both to welcome our newest club members~!''

Portland's enthusiastic cheer was joined by merry clapping from Dorsetshire, and much more subdued, slow claps from Montpelier, the deadpan cruiser raising a brow as two women shuffled inside the quaint storage room that functioned as their club room. One with a smug smirk, and another with a fearsome scowl.

''The name is Prinz Eugen.'' The silver-haired Ironblood introduced languidly, more for Montpelier's benefit than anything else. ''And this here is-''

''I-I can introduce myself!''

'Quite loud, isn't she...' Dorsetshire thought with a sheepish smile.

The speaker was none other than Prinz Eugen's colleague... Deutschland. The black-haired Panzerschiff lived up to her fearsome reputation with her scowl alone, scanning the room with haughty disdain, as if they should be grateful she took the time out of her day to bless them with her presence. Personally Dorsetshire hadn't known who to expect when Prinz Eugen mentioned she'd drag a 'friend' around, the air quotes only heightening the dubious feeling in Dorsetshire's gut.

Still, no harm in giving her a chance... right?

''The name's Deutschland! Don't forget it!'' Deutschland haughtily introduced, arms crossed and a fearsome expression on her face...

...one ruined by Prinz Eugen, who poked her colleague in the cheek. ''Geez, it's not anything serious, don't act so stiff.''

''I-I'm not stiff!'' Deutschland barked, flustered. ''And don't poke me!''

''Got it.'' A finger poked Deutschland's cheek. ''Oh how careless of me, I slipped.''

''Like hell you did!''

A cough from Montpelier cut their imminent bickering to cease. ''Ahem... take a seat, I guess.''

''Hmph.'' Deutschland huffed but complied; yanking a chair out and plopping herself down, one foot coming to rest on the table. ''So what's this club even about?''

''...you don't even know...?'' Montpelier deadpanned.

''Eugen didn't tell me. She just grabbed my arm and pulled me over here.''

''Oh I did explain.'' Eugen languidly remarked, eyes on her nails and a smirk on her lips. ''You were just too busy barking at me to hear.''

''I do not bark!''

''Case in point.''

Deutschland growled in irritation, about to blow her top – had Portland not spoken up with a cheerful smile. ''Oh, well we're a club dedicated to highlighting how cute our sisters are to the world~''

''Sisters?'' Instantly Deutschland's foot was off the table and she sat up. ''Continue.''

Portland cheerfully did so, explaining at length their club goals, plans and current 'operations', which was just a fancy way of explaining why and how they'd tail their sisters during dates. Dorsetshire listened only partially, her attention shifting to the seat next to her as it was pulled out, allowing Prinz Eugen to ease herself down into the seat. The voluptuous woman spared her a glance and smirked, bringing a pink tint to Dorsetshire's cheeks, doubly so when Eugen leaned in close to her ear.

''Hope you don't mind me taking this seat.'' The Ironblood woman coyly said.

''A-Ah... no, it's fine.'' Dorsetshire sheepishly smiled.

Their brief conversation was cut short as Portland's pitch ended... and as Deutschland's hand smacked down against the table under them.

''I'm in!'' Deutschland proclaimed with a fire in her eyes. ''This whole country, nein, the whole world needs to know of my sister's cuteness!''

The genuine fierceness to her proclamation earned a cheer and clap from Portland. ''That's the spirit! We'll help get your sister's name out there... who is she by the way?''

''Admiral Graf Spee!'' With pride lacing every syllable Deutschland reached into a pocket in her coat, withdrawing a stack of photographs and spreading them down on the table. ''She's easily the cutest cruiser, nay, the cutest ship in the whole world! Look at her hair, her eyes! They shine with both strength and innocence and-''

Deutschland went on and on but Dorsetshire tuned her out, curious as she leaned forwards and admired the photographs. They were taken both with and without Admiral Graf Spee's knowledge clearly, the aforementioned girl distinct from any others present in the photos with her snow-white hair and crystal-blue eyes, similar to those of Deutschland's own. And though in her heart Norfolk would always be the cutest, most adorable cruiser... she had to admit Graf Spee made for a charmer.

Whether it be in one photo as she licked some ice cream, her red scarf tugged as close to her face as she reasonably could and blushing bashfully towards the camera, or in another where she had fallen asleep against a tree, her cute charm was appealing. In another photo she was sat at a desk in a neat black dress, studying with evident concentration – the plant leaves along the edge of the photo telling that Deutschland had likely hidden behind one of the library's plants. There was even some sneaky photos taken of her in the changing room in a bikini, though in one...

''Erm, Miss Deutschland...'' Dorsetshire politely spoke up, interrupting her and Portland's feverish discussion.

''Huh? What is it?'' The Panzerschiff eyed her dubiously, as if befuddled she was even being addressed.

In response Dorsetshire merely pointed down at one photo in particular. Namely of Graf Spee just getting out of bed, groggy and stumbling towards her wardrobe with nothing to clad her bare-

''Ack!'' Deutschland swiped the photo immediately, cheeks rapidly reddening. ''Y-Y-You didn't see anything!''

''Aha... of course not...'' Dorsetshire just chuckled sheepishly.

Mercifully the Ironblood woman was more flustered than angry, stammering her words until Portland managed to calm her down, returning the conversation onto building their sister-cult further.

All whilst Dorsetshire just watched from the sidelines, sharing an exasperated look with Montpelier.

Looks like the Panzerschiff would fit right in.

The brunette was stirred from such thoughts however as Prinz Eugen suddenly stood. ''Hmph. Should I give my sister's introduction as well?''

''Oh, right. Sure.'' Nonplussed as always Montpelier gestured for her to go ahead, the three of them leaving Deutschland and Portland to chatter on in their own little world.

Amused Prinz Eugen reached into the side of her outfit, withdrawing several photographs from an unseen pocket – offering two to Dorsetshire and flicking the other two across the table at Montpelier, the photos sliding to a stop just before they slid over the end.

''Hipper is a tsundere.'' Languidly Prinz Eugen regaled, glancing between the two attentive cruisers. ''Quick to explode, brash, headstrong... but, I suppose my sister does have her good points. She's quite protective of those she deems worthwhile protecting, she's efficient at what she does, and she makes a wonderful cup of coffee first thing in the morning... well, when I can convince her to~''

Though the words were spoken languidly there was an honesty to Eugen's words that caught Dorsetshire's attention, mentally noting those 'traits' of Admiral Hipper down. Personally she couldn't see Norfolk liking Hipper for her efficiency or her coffee-making ability... but protectiveness? She hadn't thought the Ironblood woman would possess such a trait but if Eugen's words were true, then maybe that was what had made Norfolk smitten with her?

'Perhaps she saved her during a sortie...?!' The thought struck her like a thunderbolt. 'Onee-chan was overwhelmed and that Ironblood saved her, earning my sister's eternal devotion...?!'

She could already see it in her mind's eye. Of Norfolk, perfect and powerful, overwhelmed by the Siren's sheer numbers – because there was no other way Dorsetshire could fathom her sister being beaten – before Admiral Hipper swept in, managing to get a lucky shot or two and taking several hits for Norfolk... it would be just like something out of Norfolk's fairy tale books. No wonder her sister had fallen for the blonde tsundere.

Potentially, anyway. She'd made the whole scene up in her head; it could really just be a love-at-first-sight thing...

'Mn, too many possibilities...' Dorsetshire mentally whined. 'Maybe I should ask Suffolk for help figuring it out...'

Dorsetshire paused, then shuddered. 'On second thought, I'll leave her in the dark. Too high a risk she'll misunderstand.'

That train of thought was put on-hold however as a finger and thumb snapped in front of her face – the sound jolting the brunette from her musings. ''B-Bwuh?!''

''I do hope I'm not boring you.'' Prinz Eugen remarked mirthfully.

''N-No, not at all!'' Dorsetshire hurriedly waved her hands. ''Sorry, I was just-''

''Thinking about Norfolk?''

''Of cour- ah... aha...'' Dorsetshire's swift response withered into a sheepish giggle. ''T-That I was...''

Mercifully Eugen didn't take offence, instead humming and casting her languid gaze over to the still-chatting sis-cons at the other end of the table. ''I'm surprised you can keep chatting so much. Would you mind telling us what's got your attention?''

''Hush, Eugen! We're setting up a date!'' Deutschland barked back.

Montpelier blinked. ''A... date?''

''Between Indy-chan and Spee-chan~'' Portland merrily revealed, expression bright. ''They'd make the cutest couple from what Deutschy says~''

''Exactly, they'd be- wait, 'Deutschy'?'' Deutschland nearly got whiplash with how fast she turned her head.

''Yeah!'' Portland merely chirped, innocently smiling.

Deutschland frowned, opened her mouth, shut it – then clicked her tongue. ''I shall allow it, I suppose.''

''Hoh? Going soft, Deutschland?'' Prinz Eugen swiftly capitalised on her comrade's reaction. ''Or shall I too call you Deutschy-''

''Silence! I won't allow you to mock me, Eugen!''

''Haha, look, the dog can still bark~''

''If we weren't indoors I'd put a shell through that smug face of yours!''

As the two Ironblood women started bickering, with Montpelier dryly watching and Portland daydreaming about Indy-chan, Dorsetshire could only smile wryly from the sidelines.

Looks like the club was going to be a lot more exciting.

X-x-X

The following day the five-member club were on their first outing.

That outing being stalking Indianapolis and Admiral Graf Spee on their set-up date.

'Though...' Dorsetshire sweat-dropped. 'If Prinz Eugen thought I was unsubtle, then this must just be a glaring neon sign...'

All of them had gone through the effort of dressing up, camouflaging their normal outfits for more trendy and inconspicuous ones – from Deutschland's black dress to Eugen's turtle-neck sweater and skirt, or from Portland's crop top and shorts to Montpelier's oversized red hoodie...

...the problem is that that it arguably only made them stand out more. Deutschland looked ready for a date, Eugen wore her clothes as if on a casual outing, Montpelier looked blatantly suspicious with her hoodie in the summer heat and Portland's attire was more fitting for the beach than the shopping district. Overall the five of them were an oddball group in terms of clothing alone, not even counting the fact that they were tailing their targets from within earshot distance at Deutschland's insistence.

Which was perhaps why, halfway through the date, Admiral Graf Spee suddenly grabbed Indianapolis by the arm and yanked her into a different street than expected.

''Eh?! Where are they-?!''

Dorsetshire clasped a hand over her friend's mouth mid-exclamation, mercifully quelling her before her voice could reveal them. ''Let's follow and find out, yes?''

Portland mutedly nodded, bringing a wry smile to Dorsetshire's lips as she nudged the sis-con forth, letting her take the lead. With gusto Portland did, barely minding her manners as she led their group through the modest crowds and around the street corner, revealing one of the narrower streets dotted with various smaller shops... and with next to nobody in the street itself. Including Indianapolis and Graf Spee.

''Haah?!'' Deutschland twitched. ''W-Where'd they go?!''

''Did they go into one of the shops?'' Portland muttered with equal fervour, rubbing her chin and eyeing the various shops. The closest to them were closed and most didn't seem like the type the two girls would dip into – old arts and crafts shops, antique stores and tiny newspaper agent's.

Dorsetshire frowned, looking for any hint of them – when Montpelier spoke up. ''Does it really matter?''

''Hah?!'' Deutschland turned, hands resting on her hips. ''Of course it matters! Who knows if they got kidnap... well, led astray by some creeps!''

''Hmph, I'm in agreement with our dear cat here.'' Prinz Eugen languidly spoke, petting Montpelier on the back.

Said cruiser twitched. ''I'm not a cat.''

Eugen pretended not to hear her. ''Our two lovebirds are more than capable of handling themselves in a city of humans. Following them from afar like this just risks putting them off, no? Why don't we just have some fun while we're out here~?''

''I don't think the bars are open yet, Eugen...'' Dorsetshire sheepishly pointed out – only to squeak when the curvaceous woman bopped her on the nose with a finger.

''I'm aware.'' Amusement laced the Ironblood's tone. ''I was thinking more of a café. I'm just dying for some coffee.''

''Hm... same.'' Montpelier shrugged in agreement.

''Hmph... I suppose I can entrust Spee's safety to Indianapolis.'' Deutschland grumpily huffed, arms crossed.

Up until Portland tackled her in an overbearing hug. ''That's the spirit Deutschy~!''

''Ack, get off me! Too tight, too tight- gahk-!''

Dorsetshire couldn't help but giggle as Deutschland was lifted off her feet as Portland mercilessly hugged her, babbling nonsense all the while. She chanced a glance over at Prinz Eugen, spotting similar amusement on the cruiser's lips, though her eyes were off to the side watching people pass them by idly. As if sensing her stare though Eugen suddenly looked over at her, holding her gaze for a solid second before raising a brow, silently questioning.

The brunette cruiser just nodded her head back the way they came. ''There's some cafés that way, if you'd like to have a peek at them?''

Eugen hummed, gesturing for her to take the lead. ''Sure. Just pick one that serves good coffee.''

''And one that serves good cake!'' Deutschland barked her own requirement.

''Ooh! And one that has doughnuts~''

''...anything is fine with me...''

''Why am I the one tasked with this...'' Dorsetshire muttered exasperatedly.

Eugen clapped her on the shoulder. ''Well you are the native here, are you not~?''

Dorsetshire blinked at that – and realised Eugen was right. Deutschland and Eugen were from the Ironblood, whilst Portland and Montpelier were both from the Eagle Union. It was a small detail but in that moment it stood out to her, realising rather acutely this was the first time she'd really gone out with a group of Ship-Girls not from her home nation. It was... a rather embarrassing feeling, but one that made her strangely happy.

''Ah... well, there's this nice little coffee shop not far down the road that does doughnuts and cake...''

''Hmhm, sounds good. Lead the way~''

…

Unbeknownst to the group of five, a pair of crystal-blue eyes spied on them from behind the cover of an outdoor plant, their body tucked partway into the alley adjacent to the flower shop.

''...phew, I think they're gone.'' Admiral Graf Spee murmured, leaning back into the alley and putting her back to the wall.

A small smile spread across her face then and she looked over to her right, peering into the demure eyes of her date, Indianapolis. ''I remember seeing an arcade not far from here. Wanna check it out?''

''...Mm.'' Indianapolis squeezed her hand, their fingers interlocked. ''Sounds fun.''

With a soft hum Graf Spee squeezed her date's hand back, leading her out of the dingy alleyway and into the street once more, both now without the worry about being watched.

Their sisters weren't exactly subtle, after all.

X-x-X

After spending an afternoon at a nearby café – during which Portland probably devoured their entire stock of doughnuts – the Sister Appreciation Club officially retired for the day, returning back to base.

When they got there though they didn't split up. It was odd; Deutschland had ranted at the café about getting the 'scoop' from Spee about where she and Indianapolis had gone to, Portland went on and on about setting up some traps to capture her precious Indy-chan when she got back so she couldn't escape like last time, Montpelier mused about spending some time with Cleveland... yet when they all got back to base, none of them did that.

Instead they just walked around the base as one big group. Meandering down by the seawall, doing a loop around the base past the trees and chatting the afternoon away. Considering they had something of a late lunch none were in a rush to get to the cafeteria, and even as the sun dipped beyond the horizon and bathed the sky a beautiful amber they never seemed to run out of things to talk about.

It was... rather fun, if Dorsetshire was being honest.

She wasn't friendless or anything; she was well-liked amongst her comrades and was on personal terms with many, but that was only within the Royal Navy – people she had default commonality with due to her history serving under the same banner as them. With the others though, with those of the Sister Appreciation Club... it felt more genuine, in a sense. People who hadn't known her prior to the club, and whom she hadn't known of either.

And it was thanks to that club that they met, and become friends... even if some like Deutschland might be too haughty to admit it, yet.

Dorsetshire smiled warmly at the thought. Trailing slightly behind the group she cast a gaze out at the ocean, simply admiring the sunset hues as they walked. Really she should be heading home too, back to her dorm to where Norfolk was probably waiting for her... assuming she wasn't out with her newfound girlfriend. The thought inspired a flicker of jealousy within Dorsetshire but she quelled it as fast as it came, reminding herself it was a good thing. Because it was proof that Norfolk was growing that little bit more independent from her... even if she herself somewhat wished for Norfolk to remain dependant.

'Heh.' The brunette shook her head ruefully. 'Is this what it feels like for a parent to see their child leaving the nest...? Then again, it's not like Norfolk's going anywhere... how strange.'

Movement drew her gaze off the sunset sea and to the path next to her, locking eyes with a curious Prinz Eugen – the curvaceous woman slowing down so they were walking side-by-side, their three companions ahead of them. ''Thinking about your sister again?''

Dorsetshire flushed and looked aside, huffing. ''I don't always think about my sister... but yes, I was.''

''Colour me surprised.'' With a tone dry as a desert Eugen responded, though the quirk to her lips told of her amusement. ''That aside, I suspect you were thinking of something else as well.''

''What gave you that idea?''

''I have a knack for noticing these sorts of details.'' Prinz Eugen mirthfully replied.

Dorsetshire pouted briefly. Only briefly, however; caving swiftly. ''I suppose I was just thinking about... us. It's my first time going out with people not from the Royal Navy. With friends, not from the Royal Navy.''

Prinz Eugen said nothing for a moment, amused smile still curled at her lips.

And when she did speak, her words were a tad startling. ''You remind me of a baby bird, Dorsetshire, you know that?''

''H-Huh?! Where did that come from all of a sudden?!''

''Hehe, the comparison just came to me is all~''

''Was that even a compliment? H-Hey, answer me~!''

Eugen's amused laughter rung through the air, earning a petulant whine from Dorsetshire before the brunette woman ran ahead to catch up with Montpelier about the 'mean old things' Eugen said, much to Montpelier's ever-deadpan exasperation.

And unseen by the other four members of the club, Eugen's eyes drifted over to the setting sun, a tinge of wistfulness colouring her gaze.

''...friends, huh...''

[END]

Chapter Text

Over a week had passed since the Sister Appreciation Club's somewhat-unexpected outing.

In that time the club had gotten together every few days, passing out fliers between their club members and going about the base pinning them up – said fliers promoting their sisters, their accomplishments and their cuteness... though they only lasted a day before said sisters came to them asking them to take them down. Which was to be expected, in hindsight. Thus it was back to the drawing board.

That was until an exercise was suddenly scheduled, in light of an upcoming operation. It wasn't anything too serious and was fairly standard; two teams on either side using dummy shells and dye-filled torpedoes to minimise the damage whilst still giving it the realistic edge. And as fate would have it, Dorsetshire found herself along with Norfolk on one side... whilst Prinz Eugen and Admiral Hipper were on the opposing sides.

And perhaps too by fate's decree, they ended up entering each other's line of fire.

''Mn...!'' Dorsetshire winced as a shell passed overhead; clipping part of her ship's funnel but otherwise missing.

A call over the radio from Comet warned of incoming torpedoes, and a follow-up from Crescent told the direction. Squinting through the haze of gun smoke and tumbling waves Dorsetshire spotted the torpedo's wakes making their way towards her. Grimacing at the sight she veered slightly to the right, keeping a steady course even as multiple shells splashed into the water near her, one or two hitting her hull and exploding, but in non-vital areas. Nothing that would normally deal significant damage.

The moment she was past the torpedoes the brunette cruiser veered a sharp left, her heels digging in lest she stumble and fall; the ground tilting dangerously under her. Still she raised her hand and used it as a guide for her cannons, her gaze lingering just above her index finger as she lined up a shot – spotting the distance form of a Hipper-class hull firing another salvo her way, the shells arcing through the air.

She replied with her own salvo; one that struck with much more effectiveness than Admiral Hipper's own, earning a distant curse from the cruiser.

'Heh, don't underestimate the Norfolk-class-!'

The triumphant thought was interrupted however as a salvo flew overhead, passing her by – and striking Norfolk behind her. Dorsetshire flinched at the sound of her sister's cry over the radio, knowing without looking that whatever shell had hit her hull had also likely caught her in the cross-fire. And even though they were using dummy rounds, getting hit by a shell twice if not thrice her size at a couple thousand feet per second was nothing to shrug off.

Another salvo came in barely half-a-dozen seconds later; followed by a third salvo that came striking down on Norfolk's superstructure. Only then did Norfolk stammer onto the radio that she was out, her hull veering sharply to the right and making its way back towards port... though, by the time her message had gotten over the radio, a fourth salvo had already been fired and struck her whilst she retreated – earning an audible yelp of pain from Norfolk as one blank shell struck the top off one of her funnels, blowing the top off and nearly collapsing it entirely.

The sight alone was enough to set Dorsetshire off; her eyes keenly scanning the horizon for who was responsible – and when she saw the Admiral Hipper-class hull in the distance the number of suspects was narrowed down sharply. Considering Hipper was further to her right, that only left one suspect.

She was half-tempted to fire a salvo at Eugen but held back; instead calling in herself. ''Dorsetshire, returning to port.''

The Commander, who was overseeing the training exercise, allowed it – a quick radio message to both sides signalling she was out of the fight. Several others came in too, having taken hits either in the previous few moments or finally deciding then was the moment to retire. Dorsetshire paid them no mind though, accelerating to catch up with Norfolk as best she could without risking beaching herself.

When close enough her elder sister de-summoned her ship form, hobbling down onto the docks, joined barely a few seconds later by Dorsetshire herself. With haste the taller brunette rushed over, anxiety spiking when she saw her sister limping a bit. Though in the back of her mind she knew that such a shell – even if it struck her head – wouldn't be enough to seriously wound her, instincts were hard things to control.

And those instincts were telling her to take care of her big sister.

''Onee-chan! Are you alright?!'' Like a mother hen Dorsetshire was by her sister's side in an instant, dropping to one knee so she was more at her height. ''Oh gosh, you're bleeding!''

True to her word Norfolk had a nasty, rapidly-darkening bruise on the side of her cheek, swelling causing it to bulge out a bit. Her brow had been hit too, cutting it enough to start a thin but noticeable stream of crimson just past her left eye and over her bruised cheek. Nothing that couldn't be fixed up, she tried to tell herself... but looking into Norfolk's eyes, seeing the way she was holding back pained tears, made keeping calm a task and a half.

It also gave her focus, though. Thus with hurried motions and frantic assures she'd be alright Dorsetshire pulled out a clean handkerchief and stemmed the trickle of blood, using some spit on her thumb to wipe away the bloody stains – being gentle near her bruising cheek. Norfolk whimpered but put up with it, pulling her hood over her face when someone else passed them by, embarrassed to be seen in such a state.

So wrapped up in nursing her sister's wounds she didn't immediately notice someone else join them on the dock. Not until they spoke, that is.

''Are you alright?''

Dorsetshire bristled and sharply rose to her feet, unheeding of Norfolk's feeble 'wait'. ''No, she isn't! That was way overkill for an exercise, Eugen!''

Prinz Eugen stood nary a few feet away, her arms coming to cross over her bust and an unreadable expression on her face. ''They were just blanks. Besides, in a real battle things are more intense. We're supposed to be practising for the real thing, not for a friendly spat between teams.''

''Even still, you didn't need to lob so much her way so fast! She barely had the time to retire before you shot her again!'' Dorsetshire irately responded, glaring at the Ironblood woman.

Behind Eugen her sister-ship Admiral Hipper hopped onto the dock, frowning. ''Yeah, I agree with her, Eugen. That was overkill for an exercise.''

''...Hmph. That so.'' Eugen's level tone didn't waver even slightly. ''I'll tone it down in future, then.''

Without another word Eugen walked towards and past Dorsetshire, slowing only momentarily as she passed Norfolk, peering down at her.

''Sorry.''

Then she was off, pace languid as she meandered down the length of the docks back to the base.

Dorsetshire glared after her, but a whimper from Norfolk immediately captured her attention and she hurriedly knelt down again, hushing her sister and further attending to her wounds – a quick order prompting Admiral Hipper to hurry off and grab some supplies for her girlfriend.

X-x-X

Hours passed.

By the time dinner came and went Norfolk's cheek had somewhat settled; swollen but gradually easing up thanks to an ice-pack and with some painkillers to ease the soreness, whilst the cut on her brow was stitched up and the blood washed off with a cool cloth. Returning to their shared dorm room Dorsetshire brought them dinner and spoon-fed her sister – mostly at her own insistence, admittedly – whilst Norfolk was able to sit and read her favourite books to pass the time.

Dorsetshire on the other hand alternated between sorting out her uniform for the next day along with preparing her own bed for sleeping in – when they unexpectedly got a knock at the door.

Knock-Knock~

''Hm?'' Surprised Dorsetshire took a moment to approach the door; a quick turn of the key popping it open. ''Admiral Hipper?''

The blonde tsundere stood on the other side, a frown on her face and one hand on her hip. ''Uh, hey. Norfolk doing fine?''

''I-I'm fine!'' Norfolk's called out.

Though Admiral Hipper didn't verbally respond her expression softened momentarily. Only momentarily, however; her previous frown returning – but the little sliver she'd seen there stuck to Dorsetshire's mind. Up until the cruiser spoke, that is.

''Have you seen Eugen?'' Hipper inquired. ''Like, anywhere?''

''Not since the incident during the exercise.'' Dorsetshire's own brow furrowed. ''Why? Is something wrong?''

''Sorta. Can't find her anywhere.'' Hipper complained with an irritated sigh. ''She usually comes back to our dorms by this time but she hasn't, and nobody I've spoken to knows where she's gone to.''

'Eugen's missing?' Dorsetshire wondered in befuddlement. 'Surely she can't be in any danger? Eugen isn't exactly a pushover, and we're on a base... then again, with how cunning the Sirens could be...'

Admiral Hipper seemed to have the same train of thought. ''I don't think the Sirens are in on it or anything dumb like that, just... it's weird for her to ghost me and the others like this. She knows better to wander off, especially since she could get in trouble for it.''

''I could help look for her...?'' Dorsetshire proposed, though a lilt of uncertainty coloured her tone.

The blonde Ironblood eyed her dubiously. ''Are you sure you wanna go after her? You didn't exactly look happy with her for what she did to Norfolk.''

''And I'm still not.'' Dorsetshire steadfastly remarked... before she sighed. ''But that doesn't mean I want her wandering off in a huff and getting in trouble. So I'll go search for her if you stay with onee-chan.''

''Sure.'' Admiral Hipper nodded. ''And... thanks.''

Dorsetshire just flashed her a quick smile before leaning back, meeting Norfolk's eyes. ''I'll just be popping out for a bit, onee-chan~ Admiral Hipper here will keep you company~''

''O-Oh. Okay.''

Resisting the urge to give her sister a tight hug – mostly not to hurt her bruised cheek – Dorsetshire chirped a quick goodbye and hurried out the door, already bringing up a mental map of the base and deciding which routes to take first.

Meanwhile Admiral Hipper slowly meandered into the brunette's room, idly glancing about before laying eyes on Norfolk. Though nothing was said between them the tsundere's expression softened slightly and she shut the door with her foot, making her way over to her girlfriend's side.

''Hey.'' Hipper greeted quietly.

''Hi.'' Norfolk smiled timidly back.

A slight smile twitched across Hipper's own face before she glanced to the side, huffing to hide it. Norfolk though merely shuffled closer, resting her head against her shoulder – and with a long-suffering sigh Hipper wrapped an arm around the shorter cruiser, holding her to her side. Though no words were said the light hug visibly brought Norfolk comfort, the short brunette adjusting her hold on her book so Hipper could see it too.

''Can you read it to me...?'' Norfolk meekly asked.

''Seriously...'' One look into Norfolk's big, pleading eyes, instantly won Hipper over though. ''Guh, fine... once upon a time- what, is this a fairy tale book...?''

Norfolk poked her girlfriend on the cheek. ''It's a good book.''

''Tch, I'll be the judge of that.'' Hipper grumbled. ''Anyway... once upon a time...''

Norfolk just smiled and snuggled in for a good story, letting Hipper's voice – and occasional grumble – soothe her into a pleasant doze.

X-x-X

Dorsetshire could see why Admiral Hipper had such a hard time finding Prinz Eugen.

Namely because the woman was like a ghost. She checked all the obvious hiding spots first, be it the attic of the dorms, the basement of the command building, the cove by the beach or the hilltop at the other corner of the base – none of which held the enigmatic Prinz Eugen. From there she used her more intuitive knowledge of the base to search for the Ironblood woman; taking a route through the gardens, searching the various public or unused rooms in all the dormitories... yet still, Prinz Eugen remained bizarrely absent. It was like she had just upped and disappeared.

Naturally it wasn't hard to wonder why – her mind flashing back to their interaction at the docks. The mere thought left Dorsetshire with a bitter taste in her mouth, wanting to scowl but unable to find the emotion for it. She wanted to whack some sense into her potential-clubmate for being so reckless during the fight, even if Norfolk only got off with minor injuries, but at the same time a pang of guilt too stung at her heart.

'Maybe I was too harsh. She didn't do it out of mean-spiritedness, she was just trying to put pressure on Norfolk and help her improve... but still...'

It left her conflicted. On one hand, Eugen went too far. On the other hand she did it with good intentions, albeit intentions somewhat jaded by war. Still, such attitudes didn't have place in what was supposed to be closer to a warm-up spar or practice match than a battle simulation. Had they been using live ammo, then it was entirely possible Norfolk would've gotten severely hurt, or worse. Better not to have such mentalities during exercises to be on the safe side.

Dorsetshire sighed – letting out a frustrated whine a moment later and slapping herself on the cheeks, as if trying to make her brain figure out the right response. It did not; leaving the brunette with pouting lips and sore cheeks. The latter was only emphasised by the cold night air around her; darkness having descended upon the base and bathing much of the landscape in it, disrupted only by the cones of light provided by the pathway lights. Her natural night vision wasn't much better than a regular humans but it did help a little bit when exploring the darker areas.

Of which was exploring now; taking the rarely-taken footpath down by the seawall. 'If she's not here, then I'll just have to head back to the Ironblood dorms and check around there. Maybe she's hiding out in the workshop...'

Dorsetshire pursed her lips as a cold wind blew by – the chill amplified by the sea. She pushed past it though, squinting somewhat to make out the grey edge of the seawall, bushes soon overtaking it and hiding it from view. However Dorsetshire had lived here for a while and had knowledge of every little nook and cranny of the base; a fact that came in handy as she pushed aside the bush and waded through it, soon revealing a dirt path that wound itself up the slight hill before her, hidden from prying eyes by the bushes.

Naturally she knew about it because Norfolk once showed it to her, and she walked the path several times to make sure it was safe for her beloved onee-chan. Thanks to that Dorsetshire avoided the slight, slanted dip in the ground and stepped over the ridge hidden by a bush, making her way up to the crest of the hill. With the trees about and the bushes hanging near shin-length it provided some shelter from the night's wind, whilst still providing a pretty view of the ocean.

''Hm...'' Dorsetshire swept her gaze through the forest around her, brow furrowing. ''Not... here...?''

Her faint voice trailed off as she caught moonlight reflecting off of something, tempting her to lean slightly to the side to get a better look at it – surprise jolting through her when she realised it was a hairpin. A familiar hairpin.

'Eugen...?'

The Ironblood woman sat near the ocean; perched on one of the few rocks that jutted out of the hill, the rest of the short cliff-face having collapsed into the lapping tides long ago. Both legs hung over the edge and her hands were clasped onto the edge, her gaze focused nowhere in particular and staring into space, apparently unbothered by the cold sea winds that buffeted against her repeatedly, blowing her silver hair back with every gust.

It was her posture, however, that truly gave Dorsetshire pause. It was... slack, almost. Not relaxed, nor tired, but just... she couldn't put a name to it, but it didn't feel right to her. There was no tension, no shivers as she endured the wind; it was like her mind had thoroughly checked out and she was lost in her own thoughts.

She didn't know how long she stood there, staring at the Ironblood woman. What she did know was that she soon shifted, her head stiffly tilting to one side and peering over at her with one eye.

''You're not subtle, Dorsetshire.'' Prinz Eugen remarked bluntly.

''A-Ah... sorry.'' Dorsetshire meandered out from her hiding spot. ''I was looking for you.''

''Clearly.''

''Admiral Hipper sent me.''

''Did she now.'' It was more of an acknowledgement than a question. ''Guess I'll head back now.''

Slowly Prinz Eugen climbed to her feet, though the stiffness to her motions betrayed the fact she hadn't moved in a while – stiff as a statue. Dorsetshire opened her mouth to say something but stopped herself, unsure of what she even wanted to say. Ask for an apology? Ask why she was out here? Tell her Hipper looked pretty worried for her? She didn't know, and it left her paralysed with indecision for a good few moments.

By the time she regained her voice Prinz Eugen had walked past her, about to make her way down the hill – when finally, she spoke.

''Why did you come out here?''

''...I wanted some time alone, is all.'' Prinz Eugen paused mid-step.

''Because of what happened at the docks?'' With a frown Dorsetshire turned to face her Ironblood companion.

Prinz Eugen didn't respond to that, but didn't leave either.

Once more Dorsetshire opened her mouth, only to pause and shut it after a moment, unable to find the words – to disassemble her feelings before she spoke out of turn. In the end though it was Eugen who spoke first.

''How's Norfolk doing?'' She inquired evenly, tilting her head slightly to peer back at her.

''Better.'' Dorsetshire said, glancing aside. ''Hipper is with her right now. She'll have a bruised cheek for a few days, but that's all. Thankfully.''

''...I see. That's good.'' Eugen remarked. ''...I'm sorry for going overboard.''

The apology was quiet, almost murmured, yet in the quiet it was easily heard – and the sincerity felt with equal ease. In response Dorsetshire's frown waned; slow footsteps carrying her towards the motionless Ironblood cruiser, turning her to face her with a gentle hand-

-before pulling her into a hug.

''You're forgiven.'' Dorsetshire said into her ear. ''Just don't hurt her again. She might be like us, but she's still got a long way to go before she's built up the same confidence.''

Prinz Eugen quietly hummed, arms stiff and, dare she say it, hesitant as they wrapped around her – returning the embrace. Dorsetshire smiled slightly at that and shut her eyes, almost feeling the lingering bitterness fade. Holding grudges wouldn't do her any good, after all. Better to forgive and move on.

After a long moment Prinz Eugen slowly loosened her hold and backed off, turning away quickly. ''I'll head back now. Tell Hipper I'll be back at our room.''

''O-Oh? Alright...''

Without another word Eugen marched down the hill and out of sight, the shrubbery and natural darkness hiding her from view, leaving Dorsetshire stood alone on the hill.

'She left quick...' The brunette noted quietly. '...I should probably head back too...'

A cool wind against her cheek made her glance to the side, blinking as she spotted a dark spot on her shoulder, on her capelet. A wet spot.

'It isn't raining though...?' Dorsetshire's eyes flickered back to where Eugen disappeared. '...hm.'

Perhaps it was only then, as she stood upon the coastal hill, that Dorsetshire began to realise what an enigma Prinz Eugen really was.

[END]

Chapter Text

Less a day later the planned operation was announced.

An escort mission through the Fjords past the Norge Kingdom, then between the Sverige Kingdom and Danmark Kingdom into the Baltic Sea. Fairly straight-forward on paper, but there was a reason that there was a modest amount of preparation before the operation even took place. Namely that the Sirens knew that one of the few routes in-and-out of the Northern Parliament, specifically the port of Leningrad, could be intercepted and disrupted practically at will, due to forces often being concentrated elsewhere.

With the Ironblood's capital ships and other heavy-hitters required elsewhere, and the Northern Parliament struggling to guard both the North Sea, Baltic Sea, Black Sea and their coasts to the east, it often fell to the Royal Navy to pick up the slack when it came to escort duties – ferrying supplies far enough until the Northern Parliament's own forces could meet them halfway and take it from there.

With her vast experience with escort duties, Dorsetshire was selected without much thought, a choice she didn't particularly mind... though she was surprised by whom also would be going with her.

Prinz Eugen.

Considering her experience laid more in convoy raiding – the direct opposite of convoy escorting – Dorsetshire was a little sceptical of how well she'd do, especially since she hadn't heard of Eugen actually doing much in the way of escort missions. That wasn't a knock against her, of course; the Ironblood woman had her strengths just as Dorsetshire had hers. Which made her selection for the mission all the more puzzling.

Still, she wasn't one to question the Commander's decision-making, so when the announcement was made that both she would be the flagship of the escort fleet and that Eugen would be her second-in-command, she accepted the arrangement without a second thought. Likewise Eugen didn't have any protests, merely humming a vague agreement whilst leaning back into her seat, the meeting ending without much further discussion.

Of course, considering what went on the night before, Dorsetshire was keen on meeting Eugen beforehand to go over the details.

Thus it was under the overcast sky that Dorsetshire made her way towards the Ironblood dormitory. Nearby at the docks the rest of the fleet was already preparing to leave, some of the Destroyers testing their depth charges out in the shallower waters whilst others remained elsewhere in the base, making final preparations before the mission itself. She herself still had other things to do; mostly pertaining to Norfolk, admittedly, but also to her friends in the Sister Appreciation Club.

Perhaps because of that the brunette moved with some haste, slowing near the front doors of the Ironblood dormitory before taking a detour straight to the adjacent workshop, hearing clanging metal from within. The sound only grew louder as she neared, the stench of oil becoming apparent as she creaked the heavy door open slightly, having to squint to see through the dim.

It wasn't hard to find her second-in-command. Or her sister, either.

''You got your mags loaded right? You didn't stuff the wrong shells somewhere because you were being lazy?''

''Oh come on Hipper, I'm not irresponsible.''

''Says the one who nearly ran over U-81...''

''It was her fault for resurfacing in my path. I can't exactly see what in front of my bow.''

Dorsetshire didn't listen in for longer lest she be rude; shuffling further into the dimly-illuminated workshop and laying eyes on Prinz Eugen, currently sat next to her rigging and screwing some part with a wrench; probably doing some final adjustments. Next to her stood Admiral Hipper, the blonde tsundere scowling lightly and tapping her foot impatiently. That was until she noticed Dorsetshire's entry; turning slightly towards her and raising a brow, somewhat surprised.

''What're you doing here?'' Admiral Hipper bluntly said.

''Oh, I just came to talk with Eugen before we left.'' Dorsetshire politely responded, smiling. ''I wasn't sure how much experience she had with convoy escorting and wanted to go over some things just to be on the safe side.''

Hipper hummed, relaxing somewhat and crossing her arms. ''Fair enough. I guess it's true we don't really have much practice with that sort of stuff. Not that we really needed to, until now anyway.''

The blonde approached her, looking her up-and-down briefly before speaking. ''By the way... take care of Eugen out there, got it? She can be reckless and she's only been more so lately.''

The information came as a surprise to Dorsetshire. ''O-Oh, has she? I can't says I've noticed. I'm flattered that you entrust her safety to me, though!''

''Well yeah.'' Hipper shrugged. ''You two are close and all- ow!''

A sudden yelp escaped Hipper as a wrench hit the back of her head, sending her stumbling briefly and clutching at the back of her head – before in an instant she whipped around to face Eugen. ''Oi! What was that for?!''

''Hm? Oh, my hand must've slipped.'' Eugen remarked languidly.

''Like hell it did! How hard are you twisting it that it goes flying like that?!''

''Oh please Schwester, lower your voice, you'll disturb the others working here.''

Admiral Hipper seethed, a fierce scowl on her face – one that waned only slightly as she looked back at Dorsetshire. ''Tch. Anyway, keep an eye on her. I'll be at the dorms if you need me, Eugen.''

''Yes, yes, be on your merry way~'' Eugen waved her sister off, unheeding of Hipper's glare.

The blonde cruiser huffed and marched off out the workshop, leaving Dorsetshire and Eugen alone – somewhat, anyway, given there was noise coming from deeper within the building. Pushing the thought from her mind Dorsetshire approached, a tad curious as she watched Eugen withdraw a fresh wrench from her toolbox and screw on what looked like armour plates onto her shark-like rigging, the beast silent and still but with eyes still aglow, as if waiting to strike should she made the unfathomably stupid move of petting it.

The prospect was tempting regardless.

''So.'' Eugen's words snapped her out of her thoughts. ''What was it you wanted to talk about?''

''Ah, well, are you familiar with convoy escorting?''

''You sail around a convoy. You make sure they don't get sunk and kill anything that tries to.'' Eugen cranked another screw. ''Not that hard to understand.''

Dorsetshire opened her mouth, shut it, then frowned. There was more to it than that... but it wasn't really something that could be put into words, now that she thought about it. It was more than just sailing and countering any threat that emerged – though that could be considered an oversimplified version of it. It was about making sure everyone was in constant formation, of layering their sonars and turning their hulls in the right, synchronised manner to blanket as much area as possible with depth charges. Tactics which Eugen wouldn't be wholly familiar with.

Though then again, Prinz Eugen would come in handy if the Sirens sent any surface ships to attack them. Those guns of her hit harder than any of her own could.

''There's a bit more to it, but I suppose that's the best way of describing it.'' Dorsetshire settled for after a lengthy pause. ''I'll handle anything under the water, and you keep an eye out for any surface threats. Sound good?''

''Sounds good.'' Without taking her eyes off her rigging Prinz Eugen responded, reaching down and retrieving a screwdriver.

Dorsetshire just smiled uncertainly and thanked her for her time, hurriedly giving a curtsy before departing the workshop. Though it was just a few second's away stepping out into the open air immediately lifted the unexplainable weight from her shoulders, a breathy exhale escaping the cruiser, her gaze lingering on nothing in particular for a long moment.

'...she seemed to be in a bad mood...' The brunette quietly thought to herself with a frown. Eugen wasn't normally so... blunt. She was more coy, more teasing. Now she just looked uninterested.

And, though she tried to dampen it, it stung. It stung in a way, in fact, she hadn't felt before.

Was this because she's gotten so close to the Ironblood woman, essentially her one and only Ironblood friend, that it stung so much so?

Dorsetshire's frown deepened momentarily before she sighed. She didn't know. But, now wasn't the time to be thinking about it, now was it? Not when she had a mission to go on.

Hopefully it'd go alright.

Assuming she didn't just jinx herself.

X-x-X

The North Sea was a rough place.

High strong waves, limited visibility, frequently-poor weather – it wasn't some place you wanted to encounter the Sirens even during the best of times. Still, it was the most direct route to Leningrad and they were still close enough to land-based aircraft that they would still have air cover for pretty much the entire trip, and a strike fleet would remain on-standby in the Royal Isles, so anything short of a Mirror Seas could be dealt with. Hopefully, anyway.

Dorsetshire sighed at the thought. Her hull bobbed and rocked under her feet but it did little to upset her slow gait, carrying her down the length of her bow towards the tip, her gaze sweeping over the distant horizon. The overcast skies that had loomed over the base seemed to have followed them; the heavens ready to open up at any moment and drench their decks with their torrential downpour. Not that they needed to, given their decks were soaked as it was with seawater.

Shaking off the thought Dorsetshire focused in on her comrades. The Destroyers – a total of six of them, coming from both the Royal Navy and Eagle Union – were formed up in a wide net around the convoy, with both her and Prinz Eugen on the left and right of them respectively. They were all handling the tides fairly well, but the gloomy weather left many of them tense; the cresting waves making it hard to determine whether a white forth was an incoming torpedo or just another crashing wave.

Dorsetshire brought a hand to her ear, focusing minutely – tapping into her innate radio that was a part of her hull. ''Is everyone doing alright?''

''Mm~!'' Comet cheerfully sent back.

''Yep~'' Downes was more languid.

''Pretty much.'' As was her sister-ship Cassin, her tone almost bored.

Various other responses came from the other Destroyers, all reporting the same thing. Dorsetshire relaxed minutely at that. ''Prinz Eugen, everything fine on your end as well?''

Silence.

''Eugen?'' Dorsetshire repeated with a note of worry.

''...I'm fine.'' Prinz Eugen remarked after a moment, no real emotion to her tone. ''Just keeping an eye out.''

Then with a light buzz she cut communications. Dorsetshire pursed her lips but didn't press her comrade, telling herself she was probably still having a bad day... though that did little to ease the sting. They were friends, weren't they? If so then why was she acting so frosty all of a sudden? Had she done something? Was it because she'd found her on the hill that night? Or was it really something as simple as a bad day, or waking up without enough sleep?

It could be anything, and it wasn't really her place to question it. All she could hope for is that Eugen would warm up a little by the time they got back to base.

Dorsetshire shook her head, closing her eyes and idly listening in to the chatter over the radio.

''Somebody sounds grumpy today.''

''She's probably not used to this stuff, it can be pretty nerve-wracking, you know...''

''Pfft, her, nervous? Nah. Probably just woke up on the wrong side of the bed.''

''Maybe...''

''Why's she even here, anyway? She ain't got any ASW stuff does she? Was the Commander expecting surface targets or something?''

''He probably wanted her to get some experience or something. I heard she's pretty good in surface battles and in raiding, so maybe to even-out her skill-set?''

''Or maybe he didn't know what to do with her.''

A pause. Dorsetshire cringed at it.

''Downes, that was mean.''

''Eh... yeah, a bit. But still, why else is she here?''

Whatever response Comet had was cut off as Dorsetshire put a finger to her ear. ''You girls, that's enough. You especially Downes. Need I remind you that everyone on this channel can hear you?''

''Oh... right. S-Sorry, Prinz Eugen.''

No reply came, but Dorsetshire was under no delusions the Ironblood woman had likely heard it. Not that there was much else to listen to other than the wind and waves.

That was until Ardent's voice came over the radio. ''I-I've got something on sonar! Eight-hundred metres off my starboard bow! It's not responding to my calls!''

The announcement instantly sprung Dorsetshire into action. ''Keep heading and prepare to engage it. Cassin, Downes, spread out in case there's more of them.''

A string of agreements came over the radio and the escort fleet maintained speed – even with air cover if they hung around too long it risked drawing the ire of larger Siren warships. With that in mind Dorsetshire held her fingers to her ear and focused, having to concentrated more to contact the far-away land installations. Even if her radio carried over from her ship-form, that didn't make it any easier when it came to long-distance communications.

''This is HMS Dorsetshire, we've engaged a Siren Submarine at the following coordinates. Request air cover as soon as possible.'' Dorsetshire reported professionally, hand dropping from her ear the moment the coded coordinates were relayed. Hopefully they'd pick it up.

Grimacing the cruiser pushed the thought from her mind, refocusing on the task at hand. ''Ardent, report.''

''Target is six-hundred metres, bearing the same as before!'' Ardent responded over the radio. ''Closing five-hundred-!''

''Detecting contact off my starboard side, seven-hundred yards!'' Downes called out over the radio. ''It ain't responding, bettin' it's another of the bast-''

''Contact off port bow, bearing seven-hundred yards.'' Cassin called in, tone worried. ''Another Submarine.''

Dorsetshire grimaced. ''Downes, Cassin, peel off and deal with those Submarines. I'll move up to support Ardent. Comet, Crescent, Cygnet, you three guard the rear of the convoy. Eugen, keep tabs on enemy movement as best you can!''

A chorus of agreements came over the radio, much of it lost to the roar of the waves as Dorsetshire sailed full steam ahead. The winds grew fiercer, nipping at her cheeks but she paid them no mind, eyes dead-set on the distant form of Ardent. Seconds passed tensely as the Destroyer sailed in a straight line, the wake behind her hull straight and foaming – before with a call over the radio she turned a hard right.

Seconds later underwater explosions blew columns of seawater into the air as depth charges went off, followed a couple seconds later by another explosion, then another. A fourth and final explosion blew seawater sky-high, the foaming rush that fell upon the sea swiftly fading back into the tides. Ardent kept circling around, guns slowly whirring around to face the detonation site lest the Submarine surface.

''Ardent, report.'' Dorsetshire called out over the chatter cluttering the radio – Cassin and Downes calling out the Submarine's bearings almost rhythmically.

''Can't confirm... hydrophone isn't very clear...'' Ardent uncertainly responded.

Dorsetshire frowned. ''Turn hard right. Sweep again.''

''Copy!''

Dorsetshire pursed her lips, methodically training her guns onto the ocean's surface, watching keenly for the slightest sign of it surfacing. 'Come on...'

Seconds ticked by before Ardent managed to turn around fully. Distant pops became audible as depth charges were shot overboard, arcing through the air before plunging into the icy waters below – preluding the loud boom that spewed seawater into the air again. Once, twice, thrice. Three pillars of seawater flew and fell before the Destroyer finished her pass-

''Torpedo in the water, bearing one-eighty!'' Downes' voice rang over the radio.

Dorsetshire's head practically whipped to the right, rushing over to the edge of her deck and looking in Downes' direction, scanning the water – when she saw the telltale wake rushing across the churning surface. She traced its path, herself already out of the way but-

''Convoy Number 2, hard right rudder.'' Prinz Eugen's voice came over the radio. ''Torpedo inbound.''

''Copy.''

The transport vessel slowed and banked a steep right, kicking up a mighty splash. The torpedo carved a white trail through the dark ocean waters towards it, disappearing from sight as it entered the transport's wake...

...before ultimately missing, carrying on into the unoccupied waters past it.

''Good call Eugen.'' Dorsetshire called over the radio, a slight smile crossing her face.

''Hmph. I'll handle the convoys. You get rid of those Submarines.'' The response was still plain and matter-of-fact, but at least she was talking now.

''Got it!'' Dorsetshire fired back, turning her gaze ahead once more. ''Ardent, report!''

''Enemy Submarine is sinking! I definitely landed a hit on that second pass!'' The blonde Destroyer earnestly replied.

''Good job. Join up with Cassin and I'll cover Downes!''

The blonde chirped an agreement, both of them sailing parallel to one another. Passing her ally by Dorsetshire made her way towards Downes, watching the Eagle Union Destroyer circle around for a second pass on her target. It was the way the churning tides changed direction though that piqued Dorsetshire's attention, her eyes narrowing as she focused on the water; noticing more white foam than before.

The wave she focused upon soon fell down – and revealed the black-and-red hull sat upon the water. Not a moment after she saw it a blast exploded out from the Submarine's deck gun, sending a glowing shell pinging off Downes' stern, narrowly missing her depth charge launchers in the process. A shout of alarm came from Downes and she started twisting her guns around to take aim, but the Siren wasn't going to just sit there and wait.

A fact proven another blast left the Submarine's deck gun, narrowly whizzing past the Destroyer's superstructure.

Dorsetshire grimaced and banked her hull to the left, the low groan of metal ringing in her ears as she pushed against the tide. Using her arm as a guide she held it out, thumb just next to the Siren craft and levelling her guns out; a task made much harder when the waves were rolling against her hull, costing her precious seconds. Seconds that allowed the Siren Submarine to fire another shell at Downes, this time striking true and exploding it against her belt.

Downes responded with all guns; a chain of blasts erupting her fast-firing guns and lobbing multiple shells at the Submarine, kicking up pillars of water near the Siren, but failing to strike it. In the process Downes kept turning her hull to keep a bead on the Siren, slowly but surely drawing her closer to it – close enough that her guns were struggling to depress enough to aim, but unable to turn away without giving the Siren free-reign to hit her.

''Downes break off.'' Dorsetshire called out, free hand to her ear.

''I almost got 'im!'' Downes fired back.

''Downes I said break off.'' Dorsetshire increased her speed slightly, hoping to bypass Downes. ''You're too close, break off.''

No response came from Downes, her cannons blasting in a disorganised chain and spewing water into the air with every shot, unintentionally obscuring the dark-hulled Siren vessel. A vessel that soon fired back; a shell pinging off of Downes's stern and splashing into the water nearby.

'Come on...!' Dorsetshire anxiously kept aiming at Downes' stern, waiting for it to pass.

A high tide rose up, briefly obscuring the Destroyer's lower end.

And when it fell, Downes's stern finally left her field of fire, revealing the Siren Submarine.

Dorsetshire didn't waste a second; all cannons firing with a resounding eruption, lobbing over half-a-dozen shells across the water. Seven of her eight shells missed. One hit – and one that erupted into a baleful blast of flame, pushing the Siren hull down and lurching the water around it up in a devastating eruption, spewing foam and debris sky-high.

''Whoa~!'' Downes' voice came over the radio. ''Nice shot, think you got 'im!''

''Good.'' Dorsetshire lowered her arm. ''We'll be having a talk with Commander about listening to orders, Downes.''

''Aha... guess I deserve that, huh...''

Dorsetshire didn't respond, instead turning her hull to the left and reaching out with her radio. ''Cassin, report.''

''Target down.'' Was all the dark-haired Destroyer said.

''Anyone seeing anything else on sonar?'' Dorsetshire didn't dare relax yet, scanning the waters warily.

''Nothing.'' Cassin responded.

''All clear here!'' Downes fired back.

''Nothing over here either!'' Comet earnestly added.

The other escorts all said the same, prompting Dorsetshire to refocus on the main task of their mission. ''Very well. Reform around the convoy and continue heading for the rendezvous point as planned!''

A chorus of affirmatives came in response, and as one the convoy continued to move, warily keeping an eye out for further Siren Submarines for the rest of the journey.

X-x-X

Mercifully, they encountered no further enemies on their trip.

Upon passing through the heavily-defended Fjords of the Danmark Kingdom a flotilla of Northern Parliament Destroyers, led by Kiev, greeted them and took the convoys off their hands – allowing them to set sail for home, thankfully unhindered by any enemies.

With a smile Dorsetshire meandered up to the bow of her hull, slowing her speed down as she neared the docks. Ahead of her the Destroyers were already docking; getting in close enough before they could de-summon their hulls and just hop off onto the waiting dock. When she was close enough herself she did the same, falling the short dozen or so feet before her feet hit the ground, stumbling only minutely.

Nary a few seconds later another pair of feet hit the ground behind her, the clack of their heels betraying their identity. Dorsetshire smiled and turned to face her, about to congratulate her on a job well done...

...only for Eugen to just walk past her, ignoring the obvious raised hand and parting lips, tongue already forming words.

''...eh...?'' Dorsetshire took a second to register it; following Eugen's path as the cruiser walked off – causing the chatting Destroyers to quieten down as she passed, looking simultaneously befuddled and unsure.

The silence that reigned over the docks was downright awkward as the cruiser left, soon leaving sight.

''...y'think she's still mad at me?'' Downes sheepishly asked.

Dorsetshire had no reply to that, frowning worriedly as she stared after her friend.

And strangely enough, the ache in her heart from earlier resurfaced once more.

'Eugen...'

[END]

Chapter Text

Prinz Eugen's strange attitude and sudden absence from Sister Appreciation Club meetings was befuddling, but unfortunately there was little that could be done about it as several days passed.

Portland tried to approach her, but the Eagle Union cruiser didn't have good sense of direction and Eugen always slipped away before she could be engaged in conversation. Montpelier made a token effort but Eugen was too sly for her to catch, and when she did wasn't able to wring out much more than a dismissive comment about being too busy to speak before walking off. Deutschland even made an effort to wrangle her back to the club, loudly protesting about her absence, but Prinz Eugen was unphased and merely used the age-old tactic of ignoring the Panzerschiff's ranting.

Dorsetshire, without question, tried the hardest though. Popping up at the Ironblood dorms and trying to catch her before she left for exercises, hanging out at the workshop, she even tried to spy from afar using binoculars whilst perched atop a lamppost – all for naught, as Eugen was nothing if not a slippery fox when she wanted to be. And when she didn't want to speak with someone, she wouldn't. Assuming they could find her in the first place.

Of course, at some point she had to come back to her home in the dorms, and although by that point Dorsetshire had left for bed herself... one person hadn't.

Admiral Hipper.

''How long are you gonna keep up this shitty trend, Eugen?''

Prinz Eugen didn't immediately respond. Sat by the window their dorm she peered outside, expression vacant as her eyes traced the main path. The room was dim, only lit by their bedside lamps, but it was more than bright enough for Admiral Hipper to see her sister.

''What trend might you be speaking of?'' Eugen finally responded in a monotone. ''I haven't kept up with fashion as of late.''

''I wonder why. You've been pretty busy lately haven't you.'' Hipper's words made Eugen flinch. ''Drop the act Schwester. You're not as good an actress as you think.''

''Really now.'' Finally Prinz Eugen took her eyes off the path outside, turning to gaze at her blonde elder sister. ''Because I think I'm quite good at putting on an act for people.''

''Not to me.'' Hipper's words were cold, but not unkind. ''And you know I hate it when you fuckin' lie.''

''Who said anything about lying?'' Eugen looked off to the side. ''We're talking about my acting ability.''

''Is there a difference?''

Eugen had no comeback to that.

Admiral Hipper sighed, one hand massaging her head. ''Seriously. I think it's weird as hell that club you're a part of, but you looked like you were having fun, now all of a sudden you're ghosting Dorsetshire and the others.''

''Maybe I decided they're not the type of people I want to associate with.'' Eugen shrugged.

''Bullshit.'' The swiftness of Hipper's words made Eugen grimace. ''You like them, Eugen. You came back from that 'meeting' with them looking happier than I've seen you in months, maybe even years. So why just up and abandon them?''

Silence.

Hipper narrowed her eyes. ''Was it 'cause of what happened during the exercise? Because you went too hard on Norfolk?''

''...I'm going to bed.'' Eugen remarked simply, pulling the covers of her bed out. ''Night.''

Admiral Hipper opened her mouth to speak but thought better of it, shutting her mouth with a sigh. ''Fine, be that way.''

Internally however the blonde had another train of thought, frowning as she watched her sister tuck herself into bed, back facing her. 'Hmph... why's it always fall to me to pick up your shit...'

Unseen by Prinz Eugen, however, Admiral Hipper's eyes softened.

'...you dumbass...'

X-x-X

Across the base in the Royal Navy dorms, Dorsetshire too was getting ready for bed.

Despite that her motions were slow and almost tired despite a day of little to no activity – having done naught but practically walk around looking for Prinz Eugen, naturally to no avail. The few times she did catch a glimpse of the enigmatic woman she'd fled with a twist of her heels, gone by the time she turned a corner so swiftly Dorsetshire pondered if she was just seeing things, like Eugen had become a ghost.

Norfolk wasn't oblivious to her sister's mood. Sat on the other bed across the room the diminutive cruiser peered over at her sister-ship, a soft frown marring her visage – growing more severe when Dorsetshire didn't immediately notice and fret. It wasn't like her. In fact, now that she thought about it, Dorsetshire hadn't been the same since they came back from their escort mission. A part of her worried that something might've happened between the two, but Dorsetshire had said nothing at all had happened.

Which was the problem. Nothing had happened, yet Prinz Eugen had suddenly made herself scarce.

Norfolk thought for a second, recalling some information Admiral Hipper had let slip during one of their many conversations – a conversation that had drifted towards her sister's sudden reticence. She'd promised Hipper she wouldn't tell... but, given the situation, she felt it better to share it with her sister, if only to solve the mystery that was Prinz Eugen.

''Dorsey-chan, are you alright?'' Norfolk inquired softly.

''H-Huh?'' Clearly jolted out of thought Dorsetshire took a hot second to respond. ''O-Oh, yes. Just... deep in thought, onee-chan. Sorry for worrying you.''

Norfolk frowned. ''...you're worried about Prinz Eugen, aren't you?''

''...am I that transparent?'' Dorsetshire laughed, but it was feeble; somewhat self-deprecating. ''I guess I'm not as sneaky as I like to think.''

''You're good at hide-and-seek, so I think you're a decent hider.'' Norfolk responded warmly, though it did little to dispel Dorsetshire's poor mood. ''B-But... um, I was talking with Hipper and... I wanted to know how you feel about Prinz Eugen...?''

''How I feel?'' Dorsetshire frowned. ''She's my friend... at least, I think. We were up until recently.''

''I see...'' Norfolk pondered that information and petted the spot next to her, enticing Dorsetshire to come over and sit by her side. Even now, with her mood down, she was still so obedient to her wishes. ''Well... maybe she sees you as one too, still. Maybe more.''

''Maybe mor-'' Dorsetshire's tongue froze mid-syllable as her sister's words clicked in her mind. ''W-Wait, onee-chan, are you saying she...?''

''I-I don't know.'' Norfolk hurried to answer, not wanting to give the wrong impression. ''I'm not inside her head, b-but... Hipper told me that Prinz Eugen was acting this way because she... she's scared.''

Dorsetshire blinked. ''Scared?''

''...Hipper didn't tell me the full story. B-But according to her, Eugen isn't used to letting people get close, a-and is very cautious of letting people do that.'' Norfolk stammered a little, hesitant even as she spoke. ''Maybe she realised that she was starting to like you, a-and tried to push you away because of it?''

The taller of the two sisters opened her mouth, paused, then shut it with a severe frown. Looking down into her lap Dorsetshire silently curled and uncurled her fingers, wondering if that could be true – if the whole reason that Eugen was avoiding not just her, but the Sister Appreciation Club, was because she actually liked them... and, perhaps, liked her too in a different way. The thought made her want to laugh, that someone as enigmatic but undoubtedly beautiful as Prinz Eugen would fall for her of all people. She was a nobody; someone with a respectable career, with a good history, a nice personality... but someone who, in all honesty, didn't stand out from the crowd.

She wasn't ashamed of it. She liked it, even, at times. Standing out and having the spotlight on you could be a good ego boost, but Dorsetshire always preferred being the wallflower on the edge of the room, watching other people have fun whilst maybe making some quiet chat with others. She could keep a watchful eye on her sister, could attend to their needs without worried about being pulled away from her sister, never had to fret about being involved in big dangerous battles... it was alright. Good, even, when looking at the pros and cons.

So for Prinz Eugen of all people to have feelings for her, dare she say a crush?

Unfathomable. Ridiculous. Foolishness. For once in her life she doubted her beloved onee-chan's words...

...but the doubt lingered. And with it, came a question.

Did she like her too?

Dorsetshire tilted her head to the side, gazing at Norfolk's bedside lamp, the amber glow shining through the aquarium-styled lampshade. It reminded her of the sunset she saw with the others; the conversation she had with Prinz Eugen. She could admit to feeling fond about the Ironblood woman, in the short time she'd known her. She was witty, sly, playful, but never hostile or as cruel as she once presumed. Even when she fired upon Norfolk there was a cold, emotionless efficiency to it, never any cruel intent.

The more she thought about it the more drawn to Eugen she felt, her heartbeat quickening. She enjoyed spending time with her, listening to her tales from back home and enjoyed telling the Ironblood woman about her own stories – thrilled, even, to be able to tell her about it. When she thought about it there didn't seem to be anything romantic or affectionate to it, just things friends did... but there was a longing to it, a desire for more than that.

Closing her eyes she could almost envision the feeling. Of sitting with Eugen together, maybe on her bed, maybe on a couch or something... just, reading together.

Nothing weird, nothing overtly intimate or risqué, just... being able to fully relax and indulge in one of her few hobbies, without a thing on her mind.

She liked the thought.

''Dorsey-chan?'' Norfolk's gentle voice drew her out of her thoughts.

''I... I need some time to think about this, onee-chan.'' Dorsetshire responded quietly. ''I'll head to bed now, if that's alright.''

''Mm. See you in the morning.''

''Goodnight...''

X-x-X

The following night Prinz Eugen found herself at the bar.

It wasn't unlike her to visit, she was a regular there after all, but one look at the Ironblood woman made it clear she was in a foul mood. Perhaps because of that the few drunkards currently at the bar, even the bold ones, made zero attempts to flirt or hit on her – keeping to themselves in the darker tables at the other end of the room.

Prinz Eugen was glad for that. Sliding up into one of the bar's many stools she rested forth on her elbows, staring at the varied bottles with aimless eyes. Various brand names caught her eye for no more than a split-second, trying to find one that fit her mood... but there was very few drinks that suited her mood right now. So she eyed the heavier drinks for a moment before flagging down the bartender working that night, an older man she was familiar with, and simply pointed to the drink she wanted.

''Hm...'' The man obliged and went about pouring her a drink. ''Not here with your friend this time?''

''No.'' Her curt voice quelled any questions about the matter.

So the bartender didn't ask further. ''I see. Something bad happen at the base?''

''What makes you ask?''

''You look like you just got bad news.''

''I'm fine thank you.''

''That so.'' He set her drink down in a tall glass. ''Because, Miss Ironblood, I've worked here long enough to know when someone's two pints away from sleeping on a park bench just ta' get away from what they're facin'.''

Prinz Eugen frowned and accepted the glass, eyeing the older man. Short but buff his age was already showing in his swept-back greying hair and wrinkling skin, but it was his eyes that held her attention the most. A deep brown that told of age, and all that he had seen in his long life. There was a calmness to be found in those eyes. It grounded her, if only momentarily.

''...hmph.'' Eugen looked away after a long moment. ''Just friendship problems, is all.''

''Had a fallin' out?'' The bartender grunted, going about gathering up some glasses and putting them away.

Eugen took a sip of her drink. ''Not quite.''

''Ah.'' Was his eloquent response. ''New to love?''

She cringed at the word. She didn't love Dorsetshire – the thought was absurd. They'd barely known each other for a few weeks. Not even a month yet. ''Somewhat.''

''Well, if you're willing to listen to an old bartender's advice, then I'd suggest talkin' it out.'' The older man remarked as he put away several unopened wine bottles. ''Ain't nothing good gonna come from running away from it. Good or bad, best to get it over with, y'know?''

''Hm. Maybe you're right.'' Prinz Eugen half-heartedly remarked, swinging her drink around and watching the amber liquid slosh about in her glass. ''Got any other nuggets of wisdom for me?''

A chuckle answered her. ''Just be yourself?''

''...do you have a handbook back there or something of stereotypical advice?''

The bartender just laughed and went about his duties, leaving Prinz Eugen to stew in silence.

X-x-X

The next morning, Dorsetshire found herself being woken earlier than normal by a strangely-eager Norfolk.

''Onee-chan, where are we going? The Commander didn't call us for a meeting did he?''

''You'll see when we get there.'' Norfolk responded with rare confidence, only further inspiring curiosity.

However Dorsetshire didn't question her sister. Instead she dutifully followed her shorter sister-ship, letting Norfolk pull her by the hand – as if there was any chance of her running off – towards the main command building where the Commander and his secretaries worked. She couldn't recall any upcoming operations, not ones that would include her anyway, nor could she think of any real reason for either of them to be summoned.

The confusion within her only grew as Norfolk led her into the building, but rather than take the stairs up to the second storey where the offices laid, Norfolk instead pulled her down the corridor next to it where various storage rooms and archives laid. Doubly so when they eventually came to a stop in front of one of the many nondescript doors, and without a word Norfolk bent the handle and all but yanked her inside.

Within laid a normal storage room – narrow, rectangular, stuffed with boxes and some crates of things to be moved into storage, really there wasn't any reason for them to be there. The only unique thing about the room was that it had two doors, one on each end of the room for easier transporting of files down to the basement.

Dorsetshire opened her mouth to question her sister, only to abruptly silence herself as the door opposite them opened.

''So what is it you wanted me to... see...''

Prinz Eugen trailed off mid-sentence as she met Dorsetshire's eyes, surprise in equal measure in their eyes.

Then faster than either of them could reaction both Norfolk and Admiral Hipper backed out of the narrow room and slammed the doors shut behind them.

''Hipper?'' Prinz Eugen remarked in alarm.

''I ain't letting you out until you talk this shit out!'' Came Hipper's response, muffled partially by the door.

''Y-Yeah!'' Norfolk was much less eloquent, but remained steadfast.

Prinz Eugen grimaced at that, turning slightly to face Dorsetshire. The brunette managed an awkward smile and waved slightly, chuckling, but Eugen just looked off to the side with a huff. In the absence of conversation the air felt downright stifling, the lack of fresh air only making it more so – Eugen in no mood to talk, and Dorsetshire unsure of how to approach her comrade-in-arms.

In the end it fell to Dorsetshire to break the tense quiet; stepping forth. ''So... it's been a while, huh?''

''...it has.'' Prinz Eugen finally spoke, sighing. ''Sorry, for that, I guess.''

''It's alright.'' Dorsetshire gently said. ''The others are worried about you though. Make sure to drop by the club and see them again, okay?''

''...yeah. Will do.'' Prinz Eugen distantly remarked.

Dorsetshire smiled briefly, though it faded somewhat. ''Um... I-I know it's not really my place to ask, but... why did you suddenly avoid us?''

Eugen crossed her arms. She was silent for a long moment; looking at her, looking away, frowning – the cogs in her mind nigh-visibly turning for what felt like a small eternity.

An eternity that ended when Prinz Eugen spoke. ''I realised how close I was getting to you, and the others. How much I started to trust you. I... didn't like how easily I slipped up like that.''

''It's natural though, right? To trust people you're familiar with?'' The brunette questioned.

''Maybe. I don't like it though.'' Eugen admitted, meeting her eyes. ''I am the feared cruiser of the Ironblood, a symbol of our might, even if only a fraction of it. To trust is to let people see past that image. To see my own personal flaws. My weakness. I do not want that to happen... not least, because of my past.''

Dorsetshire paused to appreciate that fact. Of in Eugen's past life as a ship, of how dismal it truly must've been. A ship that performed missions against weaker targets and fled from stronger ones, a ship that was up against a far larger, almost unbeatably strong opponent – one whom she could only hope to whittle down. With nobody to rely on, allies falling around her one by one, it must've been a very lonely existence. One that only became more so when the war ended, and her hull was taken to the Eagle Union for 'that' test.

''...you realised that during the exercise, didn't you?'' Dorsetshire noted almost idly.

''...I did.'' Eugen conceded. ''I felt regret... and, more than that, I hated myself for potentially inviting your ire. It was only then I realised I trusted you enough to actually care about it.''

''So you tried to push me away.''

''Mm.'' The Ironblood woman brushed some hair from her face. ''I didn't have the heart to tell you to leave me alone, so I just made myself scarce instead, hoping you'd eventually lose interest. Clearly not.''

Dorsetshire smiled faintly, humming to fill the quiet. Norfolk's words from two nights ago came back to haunt her, dusting Dorsetshire's cheeks a pale pink... before in a bold move she reached out and took Eugen's right hand in both of hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

''I forgive you.'' Dorsetshire said honestly, looking into Prinz Eugen's eyes. ''A-And, if I would be so bold as to ask...''

''Hm?'' Eugen raised a brow.

''Would you like to... go on a date with me?''

Prinz Eugen blinked. Then her eyes widened, a cute blush heating her own cheeks up before she hurriedly averted her eyes, coughing into her fist. However there was no hiding the genuine surprise that flashed through Prinz Eugen's face. Dorsetshire waited anxiously for an answer, trying her best not to look nervous after making such a bold offer, resisting the urge to retract the offer and apologise for being so brazen.

And after a long, startled moment, Prinz Eugen responded

''I... suppose?''

It was slow, hesitant, stunned – but there was no disdain or refusal to her expression. More befuddlement than anything else.

Dorsetshire took that as a win.

And as they continued talking, arranging to meet later that same day, both cruisers remained unaware of their sister-ships waiting right outside the room – matching smiles on their faces as their younger sisters made-up with one another.

[END]

Chapter Text

It was a nice evening for a date.

Clear skies, sunset hues that left the town a warm amber hue paling to purple, a cool but not cold breeze – it was jacket weather but not so much that it would be cold without one.

In part because of that Dorsetshire had donned a sleeveless white blouse with a red cardigan over it, buttoned up neatly and with a modest black skirt that fell just past her knees. It wasn't the fanciest of outfits but Norfolk had kindly reminded her that this wasn't some formal event – even if it certainly felt like it – but a casual outing. The fact her dear older sister had to tell her that still left her embarrassed.

That embarrassment lingered as Dorsetshire waited outside an unassuming grocery store located not far from the nearest bus stop – their arranged meeting point. Both could've left at the same time, admittedly, but there was some sort of unspoken agreement between them not to. Dorsetshire was glad for that personally; she didn't think she could sit next to Eugen on the bus ride there without getting flustered and doing something silly.

'...was I too up-front...?' The brunette started pondering, cheeks reddening as she recalled asking Eugen out. 'She looks so startled... no, no, she accepted so it must be fine... just act calm and it'll go fine...'

Despite her words however Dorsetshire's cheeks only grew redder; subconsciously twirling some brown hair around her index finger. 'Oh who am I kidding?! I don't know a lick about going on a date! I mean, coffee date?! Was that the best I could come up with?!'

''Hey.''

''Bwah?!'' Dorsetshire jumped so hard she nearly stumbled over and fell – had a hand not grabbed her right arm just in time, stopping her. ''H-Huh...? Oh, Eugen..''

The Ironblood woman raised a brow at her, lips curving up in amusement. ''Thinking about Norfolk again?''

Dorsetshire flushed and hurriedly straightened back up, huffing. ''Not this time, thank you very much.''

''Oh? Then about me, perhaps~?'' Eugen teased.

Dorsetshire blushed, averting her eyes. Prinz Eugen chuckled slightly and nudged her, nodding down the street and prompting Dorsetshire to meekly walk alongside her date – both of them heading to a coffee bar just down the road, as planned. It wasn't anything grand, but she had a feeling Eugen wasn't one for grand displays.

As they walked her gaze drifted onto Prinz Eugen, only then taking notice of her new outfit. A strapless black top that barely hung from her shoulders, the straps of her grey bra looping over her exposed shoulders whilst a pair of jean shorts hugged her curvy waist, leaving her legs mostly bare beyond a pair of high heels. Compared to Dorsetshire herself she looked much more stylish, inspiring an awkward self-consciousness within the brunette.

Right up until Eugen spoke. ''Heh. Like my outfit?''

''H-Huh? Oh, yes... it suits you well.'' Dorsetshire meekly answered.

Eugen hummed, eyeing her. ''Same to you.''

''You don't think it's a bit... bland?''

''Hardly.'' Was all Eugen said on the matter, yet the simple assurance was enough to quell Dorsetshire's anxieties. ''I was thinking of bringing along some aviator sunglasses to go with mine, but it's a bit pointless since it's nearly evening anyway.''

Dorsetshire smiled slightly at the thought. ''You would still look good in them, I suspect. It doesn't have to be bright out for that.''

''You think so?''

''Mm!'' Running slightly ahead she turned, lifting both hands up and framing Eugen's face between her thumbs and index fingers, mimicking a picture. ''The light reflecting off your glasses, a slight smile, maybe peeking over the glasses – it'd be perfect.''

Eugen responded with an amused chuckle, the richness to it warming Dorsetshire's cheeks and getting her heart beating in a decidedly pleasant way. She savoured that feeling as they continued chatting, their feet carrying them down the road until they soon reached their destination – a cosy-looking coffee shop between a bank and a flower shop. With its beige walls and mocha-hued flooring it had a very relaxing allure to it, about a dozen tables-and-chairs dotted about with a row of five stools in front of the window, some plants dotted about too.

Without missing a beat Dorsetshire offered to grab their coffees, earning a languid thanks from Eugen before the Ironblood woman made a beeline for the stools, sitting herself upon the one farthest from the door and peering out the window at the street beyond. Dorsetshire paid the little detail no mind and went about ordering them some drinks – and within two minutes the barista on the other side of the counter returned with a black coffee and a mocha. No points for guessing who got what.

Banishing the amusing thought Dorsetshire ferried their drinks over. ''Here you go~''

Eugen languidly tipped her head in thanks, leaning slightly to the left so Dorsetshire could slip into the stool next to her. ''Mind if I ask something?''

''Sure!'' Dorsetshire chirped.

''Why'd you ask me out on a date in the first place?'' Though there was no accusation to her tone a frown marred Prinz Eugen's face. ''Hipper didn't put you up to it, did she?''

''Oh no, nothing of the sort!'' Dorsetshire hurriedly waved her hand. ''I just thought... erm...''

Prinz Eugen raised a brow and gestured for her to continue, to which Dorsetshire hesitantly did. ''I remembered all the time we'd spent together up until that point, and wanted to spend more time with you. N-Not just as friends, either...''

She trailed off, embarrassment closing up her throat and internally panicking she'd said something too brazen – only for Prinz Eugen's voice to cut through the anxiety. ''I see.''

Dorsetshire pursed her lips, somewhat relieved, but still feeling the need to speak. ''I... I also thought we could read a book together, at some point? I-If you're alright with that sort of thing, though it might be borin-''

''I'd like that.'' The swiftness of Eugen's response quietened the brunette. ''Not much of a bookworm though, so you'll have to read to me. What kind of books do you read?''

Dorsetshire instantly brightened. ''Oh, many! The Luchs Diaries are one of my favourites – it's about an Ironblood girl called Luchs teaming up with a girl from the Eagle Union, Sherman, and investigating a string of mysterious murders taking place within the Royal Isles~''

''I vaguely recall reading that at one point.'' Prinz Eugen hummed idly. ''I think I only got as far as the first book though.''

''Did you get to the part where Leopard and Maus make their debut?''

''Nope.''

''You'll love it then~ They're a charming duo~'' Dorsetshire merrily cooed.

''That so.'' Despite her languid tone there was an intrigue to Eugen's eyes. ''Reminds me of Bismarck and U-556 in a sense.''

''Ah, I think I remember her when Bismarck visited Her Majesty.'' Dorsetshire remarked. ''She's that blue-haired Submarine, right?''

''That's her.'' Eugen took a sip of her coffee. ''Not sure what their relationship still is, but they're close.''

The brunette cruiser hummed in understanding, curiously leaning in. ''What's it like in the Ironblood anyway? Can't say I've ever been, beyond one or two convoy trips, and even then it was just the docks I got to see.''

''It's not too different than the Royal Isles, I'd say.'' Eugen mused aloud. ''Different cuisine, the architecture's different, but on the whole you're not missing too much.''

''Is that so...''

They continued chatting amicably, sharing stories of one another's homeland and of the antics their friends and comrades got up to. From Edinburgh's clumsiness to Graf Zeppelin's penchant for grandiose proclamations, there was no small number of tales – a few which even got a laugh out of Eugen, light and reserved as it was. Still Dorsetshire took that as a win and merrily shared her heart out, pausing only long enough to grab them both a second coffee each before chatting away for more.

Eventually though a brief lull entered the conversation, both taking to people-watching in the brief lapse, the low murmur of other conversations radiating around them. Leaning on her elbows Dorsetshire idly watched a car pass by the coffee shop, its reflection in the glass and drawing her gaze after it all the way to the left... and, in the process, let her notice Prinz Eugen's wistful stare.

''What is it?'' The brunette softly prodded.

Eugen opened her mouth, undoubtedly to say 'nothing', but apparently thought better of it and paused for a long moment. Only after such a pause did she speak. ''Thinking of home.''

''Do you miss it?''

''Yes.'' No hesitation laced her voice. ''The routine, the familiar faces... though there are comforts here that I cannot have in the Ironblood, I still long for my home. As any Ship-Girl would, I suppose. It is in our nature to find our way home, one way or another, no?''

''I suppose.'' Dorsetshire hummed. She'd never really thought of it, but she always kind of knew where home was. Not in a prophetic way, but in a deeper, more intrinsic way. As if she could be in the middle of the Atlantic, spin around a hundred times and then guess which direction home was just by the feeling in her heart.

Of course the ocean was a big place, as was the horizon, so such a feeling wasn't exactly a groundbreaking navigation technique, but it helped. Sometimes. She liked to think so, anyway.

''Why were you assigned here anyway?'' Dorsetshire inquired lightly, brushing some brown locks from her face. ''Not that I mind of course, but I'm curious. With how few in number the Ironblood's capital ships are, I would've thought they'd keep you in their ports.''

Prinz Eugen merely lifted her cup of coffee and peered into it. ''Bismarck sent me here. Told me to 'move forwards' and some other dribble.''

''Ah...'' It wasn't hard to see why.

Best way to get past old grudges was to befriend your enemies, she supposed. Though considering how reserved Prinz Eugen was as a person, she imagined there hadn't been much reconciliation since her arrival many months ago.

''Well... I'm sure things will get better.'' Dorsetshire comforted her date, petting her shoulder. ''I mean, Hood doesn't really hold a grudge, and Prince of Wales-''

''-could be described as frosty at best.'' Eugen dryly finished for her.

''T-True.'' Dorsetshire, however, was undeterred. ''But still, things will get better. I know they will.''

Putting on her best smile the brunette slipped her left hand over Eugen's right, giving it a slight squeeze. After a moment Eugen hummed and curled her fingers slightly, reciprocating the minute affection even as she feigned disinterest, looking out the window with her cup to her lips. It did little to hide the upwards quirk of her lips.

''I'll hold you to that promise, then.''

Dorsetshire took that as a win.

X-x-X

The duo spent another half-hour at the coffee shop before dipping out into the cooling air, night having finally fallen over the town.

With it the temperature dropped too; becoming chilly but not enough that the two opted to return back to base. Instead the duo took a walk down the seafront and along the main streets, doing little more than admiring the scenery and chatting aimlessly. Truthfully it felt more like a casual outing than a proper date, but... Dorsetshire wasn't complaining. And neither was Prinz Eugen.

Though when Prinz Eugen suggested they go to a 'certain place', she wasn't quite expecting their end destination. And for a change it wasn't a bar. Not specifically, anyway.

Instead, it was a nightclub. Despite being located closer to the centre of town Dorsetshire couldn't recall seeing it before then, despite its neon-lit exterior, the black walls illuminated by hanging signs that buzzed faintly. A lengthy line was present outside but Prinz Eugen got them inside practically immediately with a flash of her VIP card – a simple check being all that it took for the two of them to slip ahead of the humans outside.

Within laid a dark, barely-lit hallway, the railings faintly illuminated by the line of neon lights streaking along the ceiling. Walking just a step behind her date Dorsetshire followed her down into the dark, bright lights visible at the end of the stairwell and growing in luminosity with every step – until soon they reached the nightclub proper. Dark walls were lit dimly by the strobing lights that focused on the dance floor, several pillars located around the edge of the room with a couple tables and chairs present. Naturally given the time of night the whole place was absolutely packed; people both sober and definitely-not-sober mingling about, most of them centred around either the dance floor or the bar located off to the left.

''Wow.'' Dorsetshire commented lightly, feeling a bit unsure. ''It's quite... colourful.''

Prinz Eugen shot her a look and smirked, tapping her ear – and when she spoke it was in a raised voice to be heard over the crowd. ''It sure is. Stay close to me if you don't wanna get lost~''

The prospect made Dorsetshire slip her hand into Eugen's offered one, her cheeks colouring pink as the Ironblood woman pulled her towards the bar. They had to wait for a break in the crowd to slip up, two quick-fired orders earning an affirmative grunt from the older gentleman behind the bar as he whipped up their drinks in record time – practically sliding them across the counter to them.

''We'll open a tab.'' Prinz Eugen languidly said, glancing at Dorsetshire. ''I'm paying, since you paid for the coffee.''

''Oh, thank you.'' The Royal woman blushed lightly.

Eugen just flashed her a smirk and plucked up her drink – a beer – and tapped it against Dorsetshire's own sherry. ''Drink up~''

Dorsetshire did with a touch of meekness – any reservations waning as she tasted the pleasant sherry on her tongue.

…

One drink turned into two. Two turned into four.

At some point they both stopped counting. Over countless glasses of alcohol they talked, their voices raised to be heard over the pounding music as they shared stories, asked about their companions, and so many other miscellaneous topics. Dorsetshire found herself trying out many new drinks both in flavours and types, from frothy Ironblood beers to more lung-burning vodkas to strong wood whisky's. Considering their constitution neither had any real fear about getting drunk, content in the knowledge they could handle it... and apparently having forgotten the last few times they ended up in a bar together.

Because faster than either knew it the alcohol took its effect. Though not quite drunk their steps were wobbly and their gaits uneven as they left the bar, Prinz Eugen in the lead as she pulled Dorsetshire onto the crowded dance floor. Amidst the sea of sweaty, bouncing bodies and under the sky of strobe lights it felt like an entirely different world to the one Dorsetshire was familiar with, the calmness she was so acquainted with replaced by chaotic bass and cheers.

She found herself liking it, in all honesty.

Perhaps because of that Dorsetshire moved with the beat without complaint nor worry about making a fool of herself, the alcohol muddling her usual reserved nature – egged on by Prinz Eugen, the Ironblood woman pulling her into the thick of the crowd and dancing to the beat. There was no rhyme or real rhythm, just bodies jumping, hips shaking, hands moving. Eugen's hands in particular slid over her waist quite a bit, presumably to keep her close.

Presumably. A notion Prinz Eugen proved wrong as she ran her hands up her sides more, guiding her closer as they danced, the crowd pushing them until they were nearly chest-to-chest. Dorsetshire flushed but Eugen just smirked back, tilting slightly and bumping her hip against her own – flirtatiously wiggling her brows. Boldly Dorsetshire did the same back, managing not to stumble and fall onto her date and earning an unheard laugh from the Ironblood woman, a smile spreading across her lips.

How long they danced, she didn't know – losing herself in the drunken motions. It was only when the music changed to something more peppy that Eugen finally snaked an arm around hers and lured her away from the dance-floor, the two of them stumbling past people until they reached the far wall of the nightclub; finding a spot next to one of the pillars, the slight gap between the pillar and the wall hardly touched by the neon lights and almost seeming like a shelter away from the rest of the world.

''Wow, that was really something!'' Feeling more alive than she had in ages Dorsetshire spoke; her voice still raised enough to be heard but little more than that.

''Is that so.'' Leaning back against the wall Prinz Eugen smirked at her – chuckling when Dorsetshire attempted to lean against the pillar and stumbled, nearly falling had Eugen not leaned forwards and caught her arm. ''Easy there~''

Dorsetshire blushed, her cheeks only growing hotter the longer she stared at Prinz Eugen. Maybe it was the alcohol pumping through her veins or the myriad of lights flashing over them, but Eugen looked... beautiful. Downright, jaw-dropping gorgeous, and not solely for her inherent beauty. It was deeper than that; the warmth in her golden eyes, the sincerely amused curl to her lips, the relaxed sag to her shoulders; it was a totally different Eugen to the one she'd first met in a bush when following her sister.

The feelings in her chest, once so aching when Eugen tried to distance herself from the club, from her, resurfaced – only now they were tinged with something much warmer, the heat leaving her tongue heavy in her mouth and her mind slow, able to do naught but stare in a moment of stupor. Influenced by the alcohol or not she didn't know but she couldn't resist her instincts, demure as she closed the short distance between them, eyes drifting to Eugen's lips as she pursed her own-

-only for an index finger to place itself over her lips.

''Mweh?'' Dorsetshire blinked, slightly surprised.

Prinz Eugen's cheeks were visibly warm, but a smirk still remained on her lips. ''Not yet, my dear baby bird~''

The words were soft, almost inaudible over the pounding bass that seemed so distant in that moment – and faster than the drunk Dorsetshire could react Eugen leaned in and kissed her on the cheek instead. Her lips were as soft and smooth as she imagined they'd be.

''Let's get another drink, hm?'' Eugen said into her ear, breath tickling it. ''My treat~''

At that the malfunctioning Dorsetshire could only stammer an agreement, blinking owlishly even as Prinz Eugen dragged her off to the bar for another round of alcohol – the two ending up completely hammered by the time they made it back to the Naval Base in the late hours of the morning.

Yet despite being denied a kiss, the smooch to the cheek left Dorsetshire's heart fluttering all the same... and with a thought lingering in her mind.

If Eugen still needed more time before she could open up fully to her... then she could wait for that.

She could wait as long as the Ironblood woman needed.

[END]

Chapter Text

Several days had passed since Dorsetshire and Prinz Eugen went on a date, a date that ended with them shambling back to their dorms and barely making it there before passing out.

Now, days later, freshened up and their hangovers now long gone, they found themselves in the Sister Appreciation Club's clubroom.

And Dorsetshire had a plan.

''Alright, is everyone comfy now?''

A round of agreements came from the other four members of the Sister Appreciation Club, bringing a smile to Dorsetshire's face. ''Alright. So, for our next club activity, I was thinking we could do a little something to get our sister's names out there – without embarrassing them too much.''

''I went and spoke with Miss Illustrious earlier this morning about her teaching us to sow, along with access to the sowing machines in the Royal Navy dormitory.'' Dorsetshire continued warmly. ''I was thinking we could make some cute little dolls of our sisters and sell them, to boost their popularity!''

''Huh. So you're really going along with that idea.'' Prinz Eugen remarked lightly. ''The one you had at the bar.''

It took Dorsetshire a moment to recall it, her cheeks heating up as she did so. ''A-Ahem, yes, that idea. I-In addition, though, I also spoke with Miss Belfast and she agreed to teach us how to make chocolate, so we could give our sisters a little gift for being such hard workers!''

''That sounds lovely~'' Portland clapped her hands merrily.

''Aniki does little a good snack...'' Montpelier murmured to herself.

''I'm more intrigued with crafting a doll.'' Prinz Eugen remarked with amusement. ''I can only imagine Hipper's reaction when she finds out. Count me in.''

''M-Myself as well!'' Deutschland declared loudly, cheeks becoming pink. ''A-And not because I want one of these mere toys for myself! Not at all!''

''You'd be more believable if you weren't stuttering, Deutschland.'' Prinz Eugen dryly remarked.

''Shut up!''

''Now now~'' Dorsetshire sheepishly waved at the two women, hushing them. ''Alright, I'll tell Miss Illustrious and Miss Belfast we're all up for it. Since there's five of us we'll split three-to-two and swap 'classes' tomorrow so we both get a shot, though we'll only have a day each I'm afraid – they're awfully busy at the moment, especially with the anniversary party coming up in a few weeks.''

''I see.'' Prinz Eugen hummed, swinging one leg over the other and leaning back into her chair. ''Then I propose you and I start work on the dolls first, whilst the other three do the chocolates for today, hm?''

''Hey!'' Deutschland jumped up in her seat. ''Who gave you the right to decide-!''

''Chocolates sounds lovely~'' Portland happily said, smiling brightly as she turned her gaze onto Deutschland. ''Come on, let's give it a go Deutschy!''

Deutschland paused, opened her mouth, shut it... and then with a scowl she sat back down. ''Fine.''

'She actually listened to Portland?' Dorsetshire thought; surprised but pleasantly so. 'Well that makes things easier I guess...'

''Are you alright with joining them?'' The brunette turned her focus onto Montpelier, earning the cruiser's gaze.

''Sure. Fine by me.'' Montpelier shrugged calmly, sitting up in her seat. ''So when do we start?''

''Well I'll have to go talk with them, but we should be able to start later this afternoon – I'll come tell you when I know~''

Murmuring an agreement Montpelier struck up a conversation with Prinz Eugen, their club activities devolving more and more into a casual get-together than anything else.

Not than any of them minded, of course.

X-x-X

Later that same day Deutschland, Portland and Montpelier found themselves in the Royal Navy dormitory, specifically the kitchen.

And in a set of peculiar outfits.

''Urk... wearing such garb, how degrading...''

''Cheer up Deutschy! You look really pretty in it!''

''...hmph, if you say so, I guess...''

The outfits in question being maid outfits. Belfast insisted that the only way she'd be able to 'effectively teach them' would be for them to wear the outfits, so with only moderate reluctance the trio did so... though naturally they were spare outfits rather than tailor-made for their figures. As such Portland found herself with a more conservative shin-length maid dress, Montpelier had one that reached the knees... whilst Deutschland herself wore one with the skirt barely passing her thighs, risking flashing her underwear every time she bent over.

Montpelier herself took advantage of that, humming. ''I didn't know you wore black. Thought you'd have white.''

''Why the hell are you looking?!''

''Curiosity.''

Deutschland growled, her brow twitching, but a gentle word from Belfast drew the three maid cruisers back onto their duty at-hand. ''There there, we'll be the only ones in the kitchen for the next two hours, so nobody will see anyway Miss Deutschland. Now, please take your stations.''

With a grumble from Deutschland the three cruisers did as they were asked; spreading out to three individual workstations evenly divided apart; over a dozen similar stations around the kitchen, the high-ceiling room doubling as both a kitchen and a mini culinary school. The paned windows let in plenty of light, illuminated the hardwood floor and pale ivory walls, each station equipped with a sink, oven and counter-top. The ingredients for their chocolates were already arranged – skipping the more complex method of using raw cacao to save time. They were baking chocolates for their sisters after all, not trying to win a contest.

''Alright, firstly put fill pot with hot water and set it on to a boil. Whilst it heats up, set the sieve over the glass bowel to your right and pour one cup of icing sugar into the bowl.'' Belfast warmly instructed, waiting patiently until they had done so. ''Next add half-a-cup of milk powder in with it, alongside half-a-cup of cocoa powder. Those will be your dry ingredients; give them a good shake as you sieve.''

The three cruisers obeyed easily enough; the three powdery ingredients mixing into a rich brown colour in the glass bowl beneath. At Belfast's instruction they mixed them further, stirring the ingredients up and making sure they were evenly mixed... though being who she was Deutschland got a little vigorous with it and ended up blowing some up into her face, making her break out into coughs.

Belfast pretended not to see that. ''Next, place the heat-proof bowl in front of you on top of the pot and pour in two-thirds of a cup of coconut oil.''

''You sure this is safe?'' Montpelier sounded dubious but did as she was told, carefully pouring the liquid into the bowl without spilling it.

''Of course.'' Belfast's tone was smooth and confident as ever. ''Now once you've done that slowly start to add in your mixed dry ingredients – don't pour them all in at once.''

''Tch...'' Deutschland clicked her tongue, shovelling in a hefty handful. ''Might as well just add it in all at once, probably faster that way.''

''A faster way to ruin your chocolate, more like.'' Belfast's matter-of-fact tone drew a growl from Deutschland, but the Panzerschiffe didn't protest further – if only because her desire to make good chocolates for Spee overrode her desire to do things her own way.

''I can help you if you like~!'' Portland cheerily offered. ''I think I'm getting the hang of this~''

''I'm fine!'' Deutschland barked back with red cheeks.

Meanwhile off to the side Montpelier dutifully stayed silent, listening to every instruction Belfast gave – stirring and gradually adding the dry ingredients until it formed a nice thick brown liquid in the bowl, the water bubbling hotly underneath. Unheeding of Portland and Deutschland half-talking, half-shouting – one side more than the other – she soon took her bowl off the heat at Belfast's instruction.

''Now, pour it into the silicone moulds on the workstation.'' Belfast stated, smiling as Montpelier did so with immaculate precision – scarcely wasting a drop of chocolate and getting as much as possible into the various moulds; be they heart-shapes, simple circles or patterned squares.

Soon after Deutschland and Portland did the same; Portland's made messy by her haste whilst Deutschland filled every single one to perfection – efficiently using every last drop and finishing in record time. And considering she finished before even Montpelier, she had nothing to do until the others finished.

So she instead stared over at Portland, watching with increasing irritation as the Eagle Union woman wasted so much chocolate in her haste, spilling some onto the counter-top – until soon she growled and stomped over. ''Stop wasting so much.''

''Eh? Oh, right...'' Portland blushed a little, sheepish. ''Sorry~''

''Tch. Idiot.'' Deutschland scowled, taking the spoon off Portland and scooping up a much smaller amount. ''Here, do it one at a time like this... this way you don't waste so much.''

''Oh~ Thanks Deutschy~''

''Yeah yeah, whatever...''

Unseen by the duo Belfast smiled to herself, polite enough not to chuckle at the sweet scene.

'Hehe. If only I had the foresight to bring a camera.'

X-x-X

At the same time as Deutschland, Portland and Montpelier were getting their lessons, so too were Dorsetshire and Prinz Eugen in the sewing room, located not too far away from the kitchen itself.

Both had started earlier than expected since Illustrious had some time available and could take them in earlier than Belfast had the others – allowing them to get a head-start on their doll-making. The method Illustrious used to teach them was fairly simplistic, at least as far as doll-making went – they drew a human outline onto some coarse muslin paper, threaded along the line then cut around it with some jagged scissors, adjusting their snips as needed. From there they used some tweezers to twist the dolls inside out to hide the thread seam, stuffed some cotton inside and then patched up the hole, sewed on the limbs and then they were done and dusted.

Simple in theory and, after a few goes at it and some minor hiccups, Dorsetshire got quite good at it if she was to honest... though a problem surfaced. One that, in her eagerness to make cutesy dolls of her sister, Dorsetshire had overlooked. Namely that they would be selling them, and as such would need to make a decent supply – easily over a hundred of each.

And considering they only had an afternoon to do so...

''O-Ouch...'' Dorsetshire winced as she pricked her index finger again in her haste; pausing only long enough to wrap a piece of tissue paper around the wound. ''How you can do this so easily I have no idea...''

''It just comes naturally to me.'' Prinz Eugen remarked without taking her eyes off of her own doll – a neatly-designed chibi Admiral Hipper, complete with angry frown and bright green eyes.

''You Ironbloods and your efficiency...'' Dorsetshire mumbled petulantly to herself.

Prinz Eugen merely chuckled and finished up sowing the current doll she was working on before setting it down. ''If it makes you feel better, my wrists ache as much as yours undoubtedly do.''

Dorsetshire cracked a smile at that; one that became tight as she rolled her right wrist about, trying to get some feeling back into it. In front of her on the table laid an array of just over fifty dolls of Norfolk; some better than others admittedly, but she'd gone the extra mile to be creative and add some different expressions, be it Norfolk's curious face, her shy face, or her cheerful face; the little details giving life to the dolls.

In contrast Prinz Eugen had done just over seventy dolls, but all the dolls had the same face aside from the last dozen or so which had some variations, mostly at Dorsetshire's insistence – it'd make them collectible, almost. The idea of someone gathering a collection of Norfolk dolls set her heart aflutter and only renewed Dorsetshire's determination, her movements swift, fluid, sliding the sewing needle through the hole over and over-

-until invariably she pricked her middle finger this time. ''Ow...''

''Don't be hasty.'' Prinz Eugen didn't miss the chance to quip. ''Steady hand, smooth motions. That's all there is to it.''

''I know.'' Dorsetshire sighed and made a conscious effort to take it slower, though a smile crept across her lips all the same. ''I guess I'm just so excited... though a part of me worries that nobody will want them. Don't want to get my hopes up too early and all that.''

''Hmph. I think they'll sell quite well.'' The confidence in Eugen's voice was almost infectious, soothing the anxious nibble in Dorsetshire's stomach. ''So take your time. We're making good progress, and I'll help you finish off once I'm done with Hipper's batch.''

''Ah, thank you...!''

''Hmhm. Of course-''

Quick as a viper Eugen leaned over, taking Dorsetshire's bleeding finger between her own – and licked the blood off her fingertip. ''-my dear little bird.''

Dorsetshire blushed scarlet. She opened her mouth, shut it, then looked down. ''M-Must you tease me...?''

Prinz Eugen's amused chuckle said all that needed to be.

…

Eventually the day came to a close; the sun setting and bathing the sewing room in a beautiful amber hue that seemed almost gold against the pale walls.

''Myn~'' Stretching her arms above her head Prinz Eugen groaned, cracking her knuckles with a pleased sigh. ''Gods, I thought it would never end.''

''Same~'' Dorsetshire whined, her fingers sore. ''I don't know how we'll manage the chocolates tomorrow.''

Eugen merely smirked. ''Just imagine Norfolk's delighted expression. Surely that is enough motivation?''

Dorsetshire paused to visualise that. The widening of Norfolk's eyes, the happiness glimmering in them, the broad, cutesy smile-

''Guess it worked.'' Eugen stifled a snicker, plucking up several of the remaining Admiral Hipper dolls and putting them into a cardboard box for ease of transportation. ''I'll just take these back to my dorm room to hide them. Drop by when you've delivered your own.''

''R-Right!''

Uttering a goodbye in her native tongue Eugen hefted the cardboard box up and carried it out of the room. Eager to join her girlfriend for some quality time alone Dorsetshire hurriedly stacked all her Norfolk dolls into another cardboard box, arranging them carefully so none would get squished by the others.

''Thank you for letting us use the room, Miss Illustrious.'' The brunette said as she packed up.

''It's quite alright.'' Across the room, doing her own sewing with a dress, Illustrious smiled. ''It's heartening to see the two of you working so passionately for your sisters. I look forward to your three club members tomorrow, hehe~''

''They might be a bit of a handful.'' Dorsetshire sheepishly added. ''Well, sort of. Deutschland is quite loud but means well, a-and Portland can be a bit airheaded, but Montpelier usually keeps her from going too crazy.''

''I'll keep that in mind.'' The carrier amusedly remarked.

Dorsetshire smiled at that and was about to utter a goodbye – had she not noticed some leftover materials on the table. Her eyes focused on them, an idea slowly crafted in her mind.

''Also, I know others will be coming in shortly, but...'' Dorsetshire pursed her lips, the nodded to herself. ''Could I make one more doll?''

''Oh?'' A note of curiosity coloured Illustrious's tone. ''What for... oh. I see~''

The knowing tone burned Dorsetshire's cheeks, but with a timid thanks she sat back down and dragged the necessary materials over to herself.

Then slowly the cruiser drew a breath, and went to work.

'Steady hand, smooth motions...'

X-x-X

Just under half-an-hour later, after dropping off her cardboard box of Norfolk dolls – and mindfully hiding them under her bed so Norfolk herself didn't see them yet – Dorsetshire found herself standing outside Prinz Eugen's dorm room.

The wood was hard against her knuckles as she knocked, the sound reverberating down the quiet hallway. At this time most people were either in the cafeteria or down in the workshop doing some late-evening repairs before it got too dark to do so, leaving the dormitory still, the warm amber sunset spilling through the window to her left and illuminating her body with its rays. Though it did make it a tad warm.

Thankfully she didn't have to stand around for long before Prinz Eugen opened the door, giving her a familiar coy smile. ''Good evening~''

''Hey.'' With equal warmth Dorsetshire greeted, stepping inside at Eugen's gesture. ''Is Hipper in?''

''Nah. She's down at the cafeteria.'' Eugen languidly remarked, shutting the door behind her. ''So we have the dorm all to ourselves.''

Dorsetshire blushed lightly at that, but it also gave her the confidence to reach into her small handbag, timid. ''Good... um, I made this for you as well, shortly after you departed...''

A touch meekly Dorsetshire withdrew a doll – a doll fashioned after Prinz Eugen herself. It was intricately designed, from the detail put into the cloth hair to mimic Eugen's own to the layers of the outfit. Every seam and piece of thread was carefully done, not a mistake nor flaw to be found; making the whole doll on her first try, evidently.

Prinz Eugen accepted the doll with a hint of pink to her cheeks, a smile spreading across her lips. ''Heh. You didn't have to.''

''I wanted to though.'' Warmly Dorsetshire said, brushing some brown hair from her face. ''If these dolls are going to become collectible, then that means this is the only one of the lot, so take care of it, alright?''

''Of course.'' Chuckling Prinz Eugen wrapped an arm around her girlfriend, leading her towards the bed.

Dorsetshire didn't resist; relaxing as she sat down on the edge of Prinz Eugen's bed and taking her shoes off, leaving them neatly next to Eugen's own. ''I brought a book along, if you want to read it? It's the one I told you about before.''

''Only if you read it aloud to me.'' Prinz Eugen remarked with a slight teasing undertone, pinkening Dorsetshire's cheeks.

Murmuring an agreement Dorsetshire withdrew the book from her bag and shuffled back onto the bed slightly, embarrassment only growing when Eugen got behind her – allowing Dorsetshire to lay back against her like she was an oversized pillow. However after a moment of adjusting she found the position remarkably pleasant, the soft exhales of Eugen against her cheek making her heart flutter and tempting her to pop the book – The Luchs Diaries, Part One – open.

And after a moment, she began.

''Chapter One: A Sudden Disappearance. It was a dark, stormy night in the Tanker Arena; few if any souls about. In the haunting quiet, broken only by claps of thunder and the dull hiss of rain, none would notice the soft squelch of footfalls upon mud, nor the low hiss of material being dragged across dirt... amidst the rain, a lone figure walked. A figure by the name of Tiger.''

Dorsetshire continued on, tone soft and soothing as she read – easing them both into the mood.

By the time they finished, many hours would have passed, and they would end up spending the night together in the Ironblood dorm, snacking and watching some movies – falling asleep at last in each other's embrace.

[END]

Chapter Text

''Hm... no, this one looks a bit silly... too big, too...''

It was a quiet afternoon at the Royal Navy dormitory. Most of the usual residents were out on sorties on currently training not far from the base itself, leaving the aforementioned base remarkably quiet for a change. That quiet was all the more prevalent to Norfolk as the Heavy Cruiser stood alone in her room, Dorsetshire currently out and allowing Norfolk to prepare.

Prepare for a date, that is. The mere reminder brought a timid smile to Norfolk's lips, an excited giggle freely slipping from them – unabashed in the privacy of her own room. She hadn't even told Dorsetshire she was going on a date, partially because she'd already been on a few by this point, but also because she wanted it to be a secret between just her and Hipper. Nothing big and fancy, nothing exotic or novel, just... a nice little picnic away from it all.

With heart light with giddiness the short brunette hopped up to the full-length mirror before her, her cheeks warming as she stared at herself, trying to find a fault in her outfit. The white sundress she'd thrown on was simple and without much flair beyond a white rose on each shoulder-strap, the dress fitted snugly to her petite figure. A broad-rimmed sun-hat rested upon her head, just a touch too big for her and forcing her to constantly nudge it up so she could see straight ahead, but she was too fond of it to consider just not taking it with her.

''This should be good, right...?'' Norfolk asked herself, lifting the hem of her dress up and doing a mock-curtsy like the Royal Maids did. ''...Mm. Hipper will like it... eheh~''

Giggling dreamily at the thought Norfolk hurried over to her bed, plucking a bag of snacks up and hurrying out of the dorm – barely remembering to lock the door behind her, such was her haste. Haste that carried her down the halls and out the building in moments, the strip across the base short and uneventful beyond the blissfully cool breeze that tickled her face and arms, contrasting the warm sun overhead.

Eventually the concrete ground of the base gave way to grass; her shoes tapping against the former as she followed the path up a hill near the rear of the base – unknowingly trekking the same path that Dorsetshire did with her club-mates many days ago. Only instead of travelling to the apex of the path she instead slowed, looked around... and then dashed off into the adjacent forest. Though far from thick the numerous shrubs combined with her short height hid her well, allowing Norfolk to sneak through to the very edge of the base, the hill gradually ascending until it formed a cliff that overlooked the ocean, isolated from view by a row of trees to the right.

And sat upon a red-white patterned blanket with a picnic basket next to her, idly staring at the sea, was Admiral Hipper.

''Hipper~'' Norfolk merrily called out, giggling when Hipper flinched and nearly fell back in surprise. ''Sorry, did I startle you?''

''N-Nah. It's fine.'' Hipper brushed off with pink cheeks, looking over at her – and then blushed a darker shade of red. ''Ah... huh.''

Norfolk's own cheeks warmed, but a spark of excitement lit itself in her heart too. ''Like it?''

''Yep.'' Was Hipper's blunt answer; the Ironblood woman taking a second to stare before vigorously shaking herself out of whatever thoughts were passing through her head. ''A-Anyway, sit. I made stuff so don't let it go to waste.''

Norfolk chirped a merry agreement, laying her own bag of snacks down. ''I brought some cookies, some cake slices from the cafeteria, a-and I managed to get some cupcakes too thanks to Edinburgh saving some for us, hehe~''

Hipper cracked a smile at that. ''Heh. Thanks.''

Norfolk blushed at the simple praise and replied by tilting her head, presenting her cheek. Hipper blushed at that, but after just a second she grumbled and leaned in – giving her a quick kiss to the cheek. That alone was enough to make Norfolk break out into delighted giggles... right up until Hipper shifted behind her, pulling her back against her in a loose hug.

''Eh?'' It was Norfolk's turn to blush. ''Hipper?''

''...I brought a book with me.'' The Ironblood woman almost embarrassedly mumbled. ''Not sure if you'd be interested in it though...''

''If you picked it, then I will.'' Norfolk said with an adoring smile, shifting slightly as she got comfy. ''Do you want to read today, or should I?''

''I'll do it. You just have some sandwiches while I talk.''

''Okay~''

Thus the couple spent the afternoon in tranquil quiet; their voices, the wind, and the lapping waves the only sounds to drift through the air around them.

X-x-X

Unseen by many Admiral Graf Spee slipped into the Eagle Union dormitory.

It, like many of the dorms, was quiet; leaving few to so much as see her let alone stop her as Spee travelled down the corridors. Idly she admired the interior, gaze lingering on the occasional painting of the resident's homeland or of nearby scenery. The windows at the end of the hall were open, allowing the voices of others outside to filter in, laughter and the occasional embarrassed shout following.

Smiling faintly at the sound Spee slowed, coming to a stop before a particular room. After looking about to make sure nobody was looking she knocked, needing to wait just a few moments before the door swung inwards – and her cheeks warmed as she found herself looking at Indianapolis. The dark-skinned cruiser blushed too, but a shy smile curled at her lips and she stepped aside, allowing Spee to quietly step inside before the door was shut behind her; locked to assure privacy.

Only then did they relax; tempting Spee to speak. ''Where's your sister?''

''Out.'' Indianapolis responded simply. ''Hanging out with friends, I'm guessing.''

Spee hummed understandingly, idly looking around her girlfriend's room. It was about the same size as the others in the building, but much larger than the more quaint Ironblood dorms; the walls a sky blue whilst the carpet was a darker shade of blue. Coupled with the myriad of wooden furniture lining the walls and the two large beds it felt downright cosy – doubly so thanks to the large beanbag sat before the TV, an array of snacks in bowls laid before it.

''...I got a horror movie for us to watch.'' Indianapolis said demurely as Spee took her shoes off. ''Since you said you liked them.''

''Mm.'' Was all Spee did, and needed to say; her slight smile warming Indianapolis's cheeks up.

The Ironblood cruiser meandered over to the plush brown beanbag, easing herself down into it before offering a hand to her girlfriend, her own cheeks colouring pink as she lured Indianapolis into her lap. The dark-skinned cruiser was shorter than her, allowing her to lean back against her without obscuring her view of the TV, the position bringing them both a sense of quiet comfort – not needing passionate words or grand displays of love to know what the other felt.

For them, just the simple things were needed. A kiss on the cheek, a gentle hug, a whispered word or two into the ear – perhaps it was a side-effect of having such boisterous sisters, but the quieter they were, the more intimate they became. And sitting like this for them, just cuddling and relishing each other's presence, was the height of romance. Though that didn't mean they couldn't be a little spicy when they wanted to.

A spice that Spee indulged in; leaning in and pecking Indianapolis on the cheek. ''Pass the jelly snakes?''

''Gummy worms.'' Indianapolis murmured but obliged, holding a red one out.

''Same thing...'' Spee said back, leaning in and opening her mouth. ''Ahh- Mmph.''

Pursing her lips around it the Ironblood girl sucked it between her lips and chewed, eliciting a faint smile from Indianapolis before the cruiser went about putting the movie on, pressing a couple buttons on the remote until the film started playing.

Spee snuggled in at that, holding her in a light but firm grip. ''If you get scared just cuddle me.''

''I won't get scared...'' Indianapolis muttered.

''...though I might do that anyway.''

Spee just blushed pink and hummed, planting another quick kiss on her girlfriend's cheek in response.

The rest of their afternoon was spent watching movies and cuddling, the occasional string of kisses shared before they relaxed back into each other's embrace.

X-x-X

''Mn... we really should've brought Denver huh...''

''Y-Yeah...''

Montpelier cracked a faint smile at Cleveland's sheepishness, though the expression swiftly faded as she readjusted her hold on the tower of cardboard boxes in front of her.

They had been tasked with moving a bunch of stuff out from the command building to the Royal Navy dormitory due to running out of room in the former. It was a simple but lengthy task involving running back and forth with boxes... until Cleveland had the bright ideas to instead just stack several boxes atop one another and ferry them across base that way. Being the good sister she was Montpelier readily agreed... though both quickly realised that carrying a tower of boxes filled with naught but paperwork and photographs was risky business.

It became more of a balancing game than anything else. As they trudged down the path, frequently peeking around the boxes to see where they were going, they had to contend with strong gusts of wind that threatened to blow the whole tower over and scatter countless documents to the wind. A gust which decided to manifest right then and there; tickling Montpelier's cheek and brushing her hair to one side, forcing her to tilt the tower of boxers to the side to compensate.

Cleveland however struggled. ''O-Oh crap-!''

One box tumbled off the top, plunging down – and just as it was about to crash onto the path below someone caught it.

''Oh dear. Be more careful next time, won't you?'' An unfamiliar, lilted voice said, a tinge of smugness to their voice.

''S-Sorry!'' Cleveland apologised and put the box down, hurrying it around the stack of six to see the person. ''My idea to take a bunch at once. Guess it wasn't a good idea, aha...''

Cleveland trailed off as she saw the person. Lavender hair and deep pink eyes, lips curled up into a smug smirk, a high-waist skirt that transitioned into a white top or led down into a pair of sleek pantyhose; Montpelier recognised her after a second of staring. HMS Ajax, one of the Royal Navy girls.

''Indeed. Do be more careful in future, Miss...?'' Ajax quirked a brow.

It took Cleveland a moment to realise that Ajax was waiting for a reply. ''O-Oh! Uh, I'm Cleveland. From the Eagle Union.''

''Cleveland.'' Ajax repeated the name slowly; enunciating every syllable. ''A lovely name. I hope to see you around again. Preferably without the boxes to hide you~''

Then with a giggle Ajax planted the box back atop Cleveland's pile and walked off, either unaware or unbothered by the fact Cleveland's gaze remained glued to her the whole time.

''Monty... who was that?'' Cleveland dumbly remarked after a second, as if only then realising she never got her name.

''Ajax.'' Montpelier informed dutifully.

Cleveland repeated the name under her breath, almost in a trance until Montpelier snapped her out of it, reminding her of the task the Commander gave them.

However in the back of her mind Montpelier realised she didn't need to bother finding a partner for her sister... mainly because she seems to have fallen hard at first sight.

X-x-X

''Mn...''

Prinz Eugen woke up from her nap slowly. The cool gust of the evening wind brushed against her cheeks, lifting her fringe slightly and eliciting a sleepy hum from the Ironblood woman as she opened her eyes. The amber sky greeted her, clouds drifting lazily across its warm hue and leaving her in a pleasant daze, the air still holding traces of the afternoon's warmth.

The slight chill though helped stir Eugen out of her daze, a slight hum escaping her lips as she sat upright. The hill she had chosen to take a nap upon was quiet, the trees rustling slightly in the breeze and the shrubbery void of voyeurs – and laid on the grass next to her, curled up on her side, was Dorsetshire. Eugen smiled at that, tilting her head as she just admired her girlfriend's sleeping face; brown hair dishevelled and spilling partially over her pretty visage.

Not losing her slight smile Eugen delicately brushed that hair aside, watching Dorsetshire's face twitch as her hair tickled her cheek. Stifling a giggle Eugen threaded her fingers into the brunette's hair, gently curling her fingers between her locks and running her fingers through them. Soothed by it Dorsetshire relaxed once more, leaning unconsciously into her hand as she almost petted her in her sleep.

'My little bird...' Prinz Eugen privately thought, tenderly running a thumb over Dorsetshire's brow, watching her expression shift again; stirring from her slumber.

Casting a gaze at the setting sun Eugen hummed. A second later she shifted, carefully brushing Dorsetshire's hair away from her ear and leaning down until her lips nearly brushed against it – before gently whispering into it.

''Wakey-wakey, meine Liebe~''

Dorsetshire mumbled something incoherent and shifted, her eyes cracking open slowly before a yawn soon tumbled out of her lips. ''Mrph... Eugen...? What time is it...?''

''Not sure.'' Amused Eugen said, leaning more upright. ''It's sundown though.''

Dorsetshire groaned in acknowledgement and sat more upright, prompting Eugen to slip her hand out of her hair and settle it on her back. Dorsetshire blushed red but didn't reject her hold; a slight, if embarrassed smile twitching across her lips instead. In response Eugen snaked that same arm around to her shoulder, pulling the brunette woman close and resting her head against hers, merely savouring the gentle embrace.

''Wanna grab dinner?'' Eugen languidly asked. ''Hipper said she was gonna hang out with Norfolk or something, so we'd probably have my dorm to ourselves afterwards.''

''Sounds good.'' Dorsetshire warmly agreed, shutting her eyes. ''...can we just stay like this for a little longer though?''

''Hmhm. Fine, fine~''

They stayed there for another half-an-hour, much to Dorsetshire's embarrassment and Eugen's amusement.

X-x-X

Down by the seawall, the last two members of the Sister Appreciation Club found themselves hanging out, as they did so often nowadays.

With arms behind her head and a jolly tune drifting past her lips Portland led Deutschland down the seawall, side-stepping the occasional tree as she neared it. With the sun to her left it cast a warm glow over her and crafted a lengthy shadow to her right, blending with the shadow of the trees when she passed them by. In the distance she could make out laughter from some Destroyers near the Eagle Union dormitory, whilst off by the Royal Navy dorms she could see some Battleships having a tea party.

''Mm... let's stop here for now~'' Portland decided purely on a whim, bright smile unfading as she sat next to a tree with her back to it.

''Hmph. Fine by me.'' With a grunt Deutschland obliged and plopped herself down to her right. ''Still no clue where Spee went to.''

''She'll be fine~ She's probably with Indy-chan somewhere~''

''Yeah, but where.'' The Panzerschiff growled.

''Who knows~'' Portland wasn't particularly bothered. Indy-chan could handle herself... until night. Then she would be sure to smother her sister to sleep with hugs.

Deutschland grumbled a little but complained no further, merely gazing out into the ocean... up until Portland had a suggestion.

''Deutschy.'' Drawing the Panzerschiff's gaze Portland soon pet her lap. ''Why don't you have a lie down? The sun looks a lot prettier that way~''

''Hah?! How the heck does that work?!''

''It just does~''

Deutschland growled and gave up trying to argue with the probably-insane woman, crossing her arms... only to go stiff as Portland wrapped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her down onto her lap. Moments later Deutschland's face heated up to a bright scarlet hue, the only reason she didn't immediately burst out into confused barks and swears being that she was too stunned to say anything at all.

''There, see.'' Portland then said, voice gentle. ''The sunset looks a lot prettier from this angle, right?''

The Ironblood woman looked ahead at the ocean and, after a moment, had to concede that it did. From a lower angle the sun didn't glare into her eyes quite as much, instead glistening off the surface of the water beautifully and creating a wavy line of amber across the blue sea. The sight wasn't one that Deutschland often appreciated, too busy with doting on her sister and maintaining her image. In fact, now that she thought about it, she didn't really relax much at all. Not until she'd met Portland, who seemed to not care one iota about her own image.

''...hmph. I guess so.'' Deutschland hummed, taking her hat off and laying it down next to her, shifting more onto her side so she was comfortable. ''...your thighs are soft...''

''Thanks~''

''A-Ack! You weren't supposed to hear that!''

Portland's giggle rung through the air and her fingers soon ran through Deutschland's hair, soothingly stroking through it. The movement wasn't one Deutschland was familiar with but she found herself liking it, her explosive irritation fizzling away as fast as it had come until she soon settled down once more, puffing out a sigh.

Gazing out into the ocean she watched the waves ripple slowly, admiring how they churned and foamed before flattening out as they neared the shallows, the almost-rhythmic crashing of waves lulling Deutschland into a daze.

And with an unseen smile Portland continued to play with Deutschland's hair, gently humming a song under her breath and just savouring their closeness – staying that way for another hour until hungry stomachs coaxed them to the cafeteria for a late dinner.

Oddly enough, neither were in any rush to get back to their sisters, as they might once have been.

[END]

Chapter Text

After months of preparation, the anniversary party was set to happen at last.

Commemorating not just the creation of the Azur Lane faction but also humanity's unity against the Sirens, it was a fairly big event. Hosted in various places across the world nigh-simultaneously Ship-Girls were given a rare day off, able to indulge in party and drink to their heart's content.

Like the years before it would be hosted in the grand hall not far from the base itself, often used for functions like this in the Royal Navy. The building itself was tall like a cathedral and just as big, possibly even converted from one – allowing plenty of space for both guests and tables of food. The paned windows along the side of the building provided excellent views of the surrounding waters and fields, whilst still being close enough to the base that if an attack did happen, people could react swiftly.

One key thing about the anniversary party was that most people went in pairs. Sometimes sister-ships, sometimes dates; it varied, but it was an unspoken tradition for those that went like that to enter the building first as a symbol of unity, whilst solos or groups went in afterwards. Normally in years past Dorsetshire would go along with Norfolk, perhaps unsurprisingly so, but with Norfolk saying she wanted to go with Admiral Hipper this year she was left without a partner.

Thus, her choice of new partner was obvious.

''So... w-what are your thoughts about the anniversary party, Eugen?''

Prinz Eugen merely hummed, casually turning the page of her book – sat just beside her on the couch. Around them the library was quiet, the dark wood interiors contrasted by the pristine glass windows that provided plenty of light into the room, illuminating the tall bookshelves that stretched so high rolling ladders were needed to reach the higher shelves. A few other people were about, from Sheffield currently organising some of the shelves at the other end of the room to Akatsuki nose-deep in a suspiciously-titled manga, her face scarlet the whole time.

After a prolonged moment to think, Eugen responded. ''I think it's a nice chance to get relax. Not sure what you're expecting me to say.''

She then shot her a sidelong glance, smirking. ''Unless... you want to ask me something~?''

Despite dating for weeks now Dorsetshire still blushed scarlet, fidgeting meekly for a few moments until she gathered her nerve. ''Well... I wanted to ask if you'd... go with me?''

A lilted giggle answered her. ''I was waiting for you to ask me that question. And while I'd love to say yes... Bismarck is due to come over for the anniversary party.''

Dorsetshire opened her mouth, words melting into a low 'ohh' sound. It made sense, she supposed, given how closely Bismarck and Prinz Eugen worked together both in the past and in the present, but still she couldn't quell the slight spike of jealously and disappointment that rose up within her. A sentiment that Eugen seemed to sense almost immediately, her smirk melting into a softer smile before she leaned against her side, resting her head against hers.

''Relax. We'll still meet each other at the party.'' Eugen soothed languidly, nose brushing along her neck and lips drawing near her jugular, sending a sharp shiver through Dorsetshire. ''It's just for appearance's sake. Once I hand Bismarck off to Queen Elizabeth and the other royals, then I'll be free to spend the night with you~''

''I know...'' Dorsetshire mumbled, but still, she couldn't help but feel a little envious.

Eugen just hummed, tilting her head up and giving her a quick kiss to the cheek before leaning back. ''Come. I think we're due some lunch now, no?''

The Royal Navy woman blushed, rubbing her cheek tenderly. ''R-Right... erm, lead the way.''

Eugen just giggled in return and obliged, whisking her lover out of the library, their books left for an annoyed Sheffield to tidy up.

X-x-X

Just two days passed, rolling over to Friday night – and at last, the big event arrived.

''Do I look good onee-chan? It feels a bit tight on my waist...''

''S-Sorry, I tightened the ribbon too much. I'll fix it now...''

Dorsetshire smiled sheepishly, turning her back to Norfolk and allowing her shorter sister to untie and then re-tie the black ribbon around her waist, keeping her dress snug against her figure. It was one of her fancier dresses, onyx-black and with a layer end around the hem, reaching just past her knees and reaching not further than her bust. The strapless nature of it was complimented by a matching bolero jacket, the long sleeves ending in frilled ends. It felt almost embarrassing to wear something so fancy, her hair even up with an ornate ribbon and draped partway down her back.

Norfolk though looked downright adorable. Like the years before she'd worn the same outfit only in white, usually to match Dorsetshire's black, with the only differences in their designs being the smaller size to better fit Norfolk's petite figure. Likewise her hair, rather than be tied up, was instead in a neat low ponytail that in Dorsetshire's opinion only further enhanced how adorable her sister looked right now.

''There.'' Norfolk timidly smiled up at her sister. ''It should be fine now.''

Dorsetshire hummed, staring into the full-length mirror before her and doing a little twirl, quenching the self-conscious reflexes inside her. She looked... good. She wouldn't say she looked fantastic or anything overly grand like that, but she looked good. Enough that she might get a compliment from Eugen, hopefully. The thought made her cheeks warm up.

Just then as she opened her mouth to speak they got a knock at their door. Blinking in surprise Dorsetshire walked over and unlocked it, pulling the door open and already forming the first syllable of Hipper's name – when she realised it wasn't Admiral Hipper on the other side of the door.

''Hmhm, good evening, mein Schatz~''

Dorsetshire gawked as Prinz Eugen stood before her, saucy smirk and all as she rested one hand on her hip. Gone was the usual grey uniform Prinz Eugen wore and in its place was a much more fitting black dress, the material thin and partially translucent around her bust whilst still leaving plenty of skin on display. With her silver hair tied up by a pair of Ironblood-themed bows and her feet clad in a pair of fancy black heel that completed her outfit, she looked downright gorgeous.

Dorsetshire confessed as much. ''Wow, you look amazing... n-not that you don't usually, but, erm-''

A soft, lilted laugh quelled her words into a silent blush – one that blazed all the hotter when Eugen leaned in, bringing their faces close. ''And you look just as inviting, darling~''

Dorsetshire spluttered, flustered, but it was Norfolk who managed to bring her to her senses – namely by speaking up. ''Um... weren't you going with Bismarck, Prinz Eugen...?''

''Ah...'' The reminder gave Dorsetshire some much-needed clarity. ''That's right...?''

To that, Eugen just gave her that same smooth smirk she so often gave. ''I convinced Bismarck to go with Hood instead. Since I'm free now, I was wondering if you'd be my date~?''

The answer was obvious to them both, but Dorsetshire beamed all the same.

…

A short hour later Dorsetshire arrived arm-in-arm with Prinz Eugen to the grand hall.

The building had been done with banners that draped over the front archway of the venue, the ivory-white exterior made of stone and with tall glasses polished to a shine. Grand marble stairs led up into the structure itself, the ambiance one full of chatter and laughs as various couples and sister-duos walked inside.

Dorsetshire was chief amongst them. With a light blush on her cheeks and her arm intertwined with Prinz Eugen's the two of them ascended the stairs, Norfolk and Admiral Hipper not far behind them. From the corner of her eye Dorsetshire could see some of her comrades take notice; some gazing up in confusion and others in surprise that she was with the ever-enigmatic Ironblood woman, but rather than feel embarrassed she held onto Eugen's arm tighter. As if to reaffirm that yes, Eugen was hers.

Noticing that Eugen just chuckled and gave her a light kiss on the cheek, instantly igniting the brunette's face a healthy pink hue and eliciting a pretty giggle from Eugen herself. Shooting a pout at her girlfriend Dorsetshire tugged on her arm instead, hastening their pace a little and leading them through the wide-open doors. Golden light spilled over them as they passed under one of the many chandeliers hanging overhead, people already lining the walls and forming small, close-knit groups of people chatting away, some with plates of food and others just merrily gesturing with their hands.

''Hmph. It's a lot fancier than I imagined.'' Prinz Eugen remarked almost idly.

''It usually is.'' Dorsetshire confirmed, leading her date away from the central hallway and over to the left wing where some food tables was set up. ''Feel free to grab what you wish. It's all on the house.''

''Good to hear that~'' With a slight smirk Eugen plucked up a bottle of wine and examined the label... before promptly picking a clean wine glass from the stack and pouring herself a glass. ''Want one?''

''Sure.''

''Try not to be too much of a lightweight tonight, alright mein Schatz~?''

Dorsetshire flushed, shooting a pout her lover's way. Eugen just giggled and lightly bumped her with the bottle instead, waiting until Dorsetshire got a glass herself before promptly filling it up near to the rim – necessitating a drink lest she spill the overfilled drink. Exactly as Eugen wanted, no doubt, as the busty Ironblood woman hummed in approval and sipped her own glass as well.

To Dorsetshire's surprise she soon saw a new duo come through the door, enticing her to raise a hand. ''Portland, Deutschland! Over here~''

With a beaming smile and flustered scowl respectively the two cruisers made their way over to them. Much like Prinz Eugen's outfit Deutschland's was black as night around the skirt, accentuated by a frilly trim, but nearer her torso she wore a partially-translucent top beneath it, complimenting the colour of her pantyhose. The style though gave her a much more... normal look to her. She didn't look as threatening or dangerous as her usual outfit made her seem. She could probably even pass for a normal human girl now, such was the change in her aura.

Portland on the other hand looked as bubbly as always, clad in a short light blue dress that hugged her frame snugly. It didn't pass her thighs nor rise above her chest, held up by a pair of thin straps with flowers adorned on them; a small trio of pink flowers Dorsetshire couldn't quite name tying her hair up into its usual ponytail. However the one thing she shared in common with Deutschland was that it made her seem so much more normal.

''Hm. So you two came together, huh.'' Eugen noted idly, admiring their outfits as well.

''Hmph, of course.'' Deutschland was the one to answer, smirking as she flicked her hair over her shoulder. ''Spee decided to go with Indianapolis, so Portland suggested the two of us go together to spy on them.''

''Is that so...''

''Well obviously! Why else would we go together?!''

Portland just giggled and petted her companion on the shoulder. ''There there Deutschy, no need to shout~''

Deutschland looked around and realised a few people were staring, so huffed and crossed her arms. ''Fine.''

Sensing Eugen was about to layer on another tease, and not wanting to cause chaos just as the party was starting, Dorsetshire nudged Eugen. ''So, any idea what our sisters have been getting up to recently?''

Eugen knew a change in topic when she saw one but didn't protest. ''The usual I would suppose. Hipper fretted over what dress to wear for the last week; she dragged me into the town more times than I care to count, frankly. She's ever so indecisive when she's nervous.''

''Understandably~'' Portland merrily agreed. ''Indy-chan was pretty worried too; thankfully she found the dress she wanted at the first shop we went looking for one~''

''Lucky you. Mind trading sisters for a day?''

''Eheh, no can do~ Indy-chan's my cute adorable ever-so-loveable sister~''

The four of them continued chatting amicably; Deutschland and Prinz Eugen sometimes trading barbs that inevitably led to the former getting ticked off until Portland calmed her down and Dorsetshire gently chided her girlfriend with a poke to the cheek, earning a smirk and roll of the eyes in return. Others joined the party too in larger numbers now that the couples and sister-ships had arrived, allowing everyone to get at the food and drink and dance away in the middle of the room, the elegant music playing over the speakers easy on the ears.

They moved over towards one side near the end of the tables for the space, huddled in their group of four, but when her glass ran dry Dorsetshire excused herself to get a refill – making her way back over towards the catering tables. And as she neared where the bottles of wine were she spotted a familiar face in the crowd, one that brought a smile to her face.

''Good evening Cleveland~'' Dorsetshire merrily greeted.

''Hm? Oh, hey.'' Cracking a bright smile Cleveland turned towards her. ''Nice outfit.''

The brunette chirped a thanks, curious as she admired Cleveland's own – a blue suit-and-tie. ''I'm surprised you wore a suit. Erm, if you don't mind me saying...''

''Nah, it's cool. Get that question three times a night.'' Cleveland laughed lightly. ''I just like 'em better than dresses. Plus if I get too hot, can take the jacket off, and if it's too cold I can slip it back on. Practical, y'know?''

Dorsetshire hummed an agreement. ''Have you seen Montpelier anywhere, by chance?''

''Nah. Last I did we were waiting outside, she said she'd be back in a minute and to go on without us, but haven't seen her since.'' Cleveland shrugged, before then giving her a faux-scowl. ''Also I should give ya a noogie for putting weird ideas in her head, getting her to join your club and all.''

The brunette sheepishly smiled. ''Sorry, she just seemed quite interested.''

''Heh, I know, I'm just messin' with ya~''

Both of them laughed lightly, about to speak further – had a third person not slipped past them to get at the wine, filling their class. A familiar face at that.

''So we meet again.'' Ajax cooed without taking her eyes off the bottle of wine, carefully filling her glass up and then taking a long sip. Only then did her eyes stray to the right, gazing at Cleveland and smirking. ''Forgive me Dorsetshire, I'll be stealing your conversation buddy here~''

''Huh? Oh, sure...?'' Blinking in bewilderment Dorsetshire just shuffled back a little, giving them some space.

Ajax cooed her thanks, sweeping in and taking Cleveland by the hand – whispering something undoubtedly coy into her ear and making the blonde blush red, and nod. With a lilted giggle Ajax whisked her away, the two of them disappearing into the crowds in the direction of the outdoors gardens – simultaneously leaving Dorsetshire surprised, and a little pleased.

'Looks like Cleveland's found someone. Knowingly or not.' The brunette giggled to herself, taking the now half-empty bottle of wine and filling her own glass.

X-x-X

Hours passed, and the party continued on.

From indulging in food and drink to chatting with her club-mates, Dorsetshire found the time quickly passing by. She still hadn't seen Montpelier but trusted the cruiser was just doing her own thing, she spent some time in the company of Queen Elizabeth and Warspite, she admired Illustrious's beautiful blue dress and talked with her about future lessons – by the time the moon reigned high her throat was almost sore with how much she'd been talking.

Yet she couldn't deny she had fun. It wasn't often she attended grand parties such as this, and even fewer times she did so without Norfolk being by her side. Though part of her still longed for her sister to be there by her side, another part of her felt relieved by her absence – both because it meant Norfolk was off growing on her own as a person... and, perhaps, because she was doing the same in her own way.

Dorsetshire banished the embarrassing thought with a quick shake of her head, left hand resting upon the railing as she ascended the stairs ahead of her. A few others lingered about on it, parting way for her with a polite greeting before they went back to their own conversations, allowing her to climb to the interior balcony overlooking the festivities.

'She should be around here, yes...?' Dorsetshire pondered to herself, her gaze sweeping the crowd of guests up there, chatting amicably with one another. Mostly the quieter, more privacy-inclined ships. 'She said she was going to talk with- ah, there she is.'

There, over in one of the more unlit corners, was Prinz Eugen talking away with Bismarck over some wine. The taller of the two woman looked distinctly exasperated, the reason why made evident by Eugen's snicker. Seems like even Bismarck was not spared from such teasing.

''You best hope Heinrich does not hear of that, otherwise she'll bring out that self-proclaimed 'bonk-stick' of hers once more... hm?'' Bismarck paused as she noticed Dorsetshire approach. ''Ah. It seems your date of the night has arrived.''

''Ah, hello.'' Dorsetshire timidly smiled. ''I-I hope I wasn't interrupting.''

''Not at all.'' Bismarck dipped her head with the kind of refined grace befitting a leader. ''Merely making conversation. I'll hand her over to you now.''

Bismarck then glanced back at Eugen. ''And, as a request from myself... do take care of Eugen, will you?''

''Häh?''

Eugen's exasperated brow-raised went ignored by both of them. ''Yes, I'll do my best!''

''Good. Have a pleasant evening, both of you.'' Gracefully Bismarck excused herself, walking off and into the crowd and out of sight.

Dorsetshire watched her go, somewhat amazed the fearsome Battleship could be soon... amicable, despite past grievances. She was distracted from her thoughts though as Prinz Eugen looped an arm around hers and planted a quick kiss on her cheek – the lip contact instantly igniting her face a rosy hue.

''Hehe. Good to see you again, mein Schatz~'' Prinz Eugen greeted her warmly, tugging on her arm.

Dorsetshire mumbled out an embarrassed greeting, not resisting as Eugen led her out onto the balcony. The night air was cold but pleasantly so after being stuck inside the crowded building; a few others clearly sharing the same sentiment judging by how they were all leaning up against the stone railing overlooking the gardens, admiring the sights with casual chatter and the occasional coo.

Eugen led her over to the leftmost edge of the balcony. A small walkway existed, the balcony becoming narrow but leading off into a smaller circular balcony, tucked between the two walls of the grand hall. Nobody was there and it provided some much-desired privacy from the others, allowing Dorsetshire to rest her elbows on the railing whilst Eugen leaned back against the wall to her left, her eyes on the distant ocean.

''You Royals throw one hell of a party, I'll give you that.'' Eugen broke the silence first, a wry smile on her face.

''I've heard Ironblood ones can be quite lively too.'' Dorsetshire smiled back.

At that Eugen snorted. ''It's either the most boring formal event you'll ever attend, or everyone's black-out drunk, singing off-tune, and at least three people have passed out in a bush somewhere. There's no in-between.''

Dorsetshire giggled at the mental image, earning an amused look from Eugen before her girlfriend sashayed over and joined her by the railing, both of them leaning side-by-side. For a long moment they just stood in silence, savouring it – not needing to speak to make it comfortable. Moments like these had become more and more frequent as they got used to each other's presence, to the point they even just read in silence, the occasional quiet murmur said before one of them turned the page.

Silently Eugen slipped a hand into hers then, drawing Dorsetshire's gaze over to her. The Ironblood woman shot her a slight smile and shifted close, caressing her right cheek with a gentle hand and luring Dorsetshire in close – soon resting their foreheads together. The simple intimacy brought a blush to their cheeks, yet neither made any move to break away, the stone bricks of the building their only witness.

''...thank you for being so patient with me, meine Liebe.'' Prinz Eugen whispered, running a thumb over her cheek. ''To think I would find someone like you here of all places. Perhaps my luck has finally turned around.''

Then without another word said she pulled Dorsetshire in, their lips brushing together – before finally, they kissed.

It was a slow, gentle thing, no teasing or playfulness to be found for once. When they drew apart, eyes opening, Dorsetshire was treated to the sight of Prinz Eugen blushing a rare red, her eyes shifting off to the side even as a slight smile played at her lips.

''...hehe.'' Dorsetshire leaned into the cruiser's palm. ''You're so cute when you're embarrassed, Eugen.''

''Hey, that's my line, Dorsey-chan~''

''A-Ack! Don't call me that, it's embarrassing...!''

Prinz Eugen's resulting laugh only embarrassed Dorsetshire further, the two chattering on with embarrassment and teasing in equal measure.

And unseen by the two, Bismarck leaned against the wall next to the balcony doors, listening in with closed eyes and a contented smile.

Seems her companion had finally found someone who she could trust with her heart, at last.

X-x-X

Below the balcony and down in the lavish gardens, another party-going duo were taking a late-night stroll.

Their path illuminated by lamplight and the reigning moon Deutschland and Portland walked, idly chatting or simply basking in the pleasant silence between them. However even as they did so Portland noticed Deutschland in deep thought more than once; the oddity attracting her attention, and soon tempting her to speak.

''Is something botherin' you, Deutschy?'' The Eagle Union woman inquired.

''Eh? Nothing much, I guess.'' The black-haired cruiser groused. ''Just thinking about Spee and Eugen.''

''What about them?''

Deutschland shrugged. ''Both of them came to the party with dates. Guess I just envy them... don't tell Eugen I said that though. She won't let me hear the end of it.''

Portland just hummed, skipping ahead a little before twirling to face her companion with a smile, walking backwards as she spoke. ''We came together though, didn't we?''

''Yeah, but that's different.'' Deutschland obliviously said.

''Hm, but is it though~?''

Deutschland frowned and looked up. ''What do you mean-''

She didn't get to finish before Portland leaned in, kissing her on the lips.

Deutschland froze solid in an instant, brain shutting down even as Portland pulled back. ''A-Ah... huh, wait... you just... did you...?''

Giggling Portland leaned back upright and dashed off, instantly snapping Deutschland out of her daze. ''H-Hey! You can't just do that and run! Portland! Come back here!''

Portland's jubilant laughter could be heard throughout the gardens, alongside the flustered shouts of a pursuing Deutschland.

And high above, with a loud bang, the first of many fireworks went off. One which exploded higher than the others into a cluster of white and yellows sparkles that formed an image of Cleveland's face; several smaller fireworks popping to form words below it.

SISTER APPRECIATION CLUB.

Safe to say, their club got many more members after that night.

After Montpelier was given a noogie by a thoroughly-embarrassed Cleveland, that is.

[END]