"You managed to form an alliance with them?!"
One of the men in the meeting room stared at Rosalia's holographic projection in disbelief. The joint chiefs of staff had gathered for an emergency meeting, their physical bodies absent as they participated through holograms that allowed them to interact as though they were all in the same room.
"Yes," Rosalia replied calmly. "They've agreed to help me if I ever find myself in a difficult situation."
"This is excellent!" another man exclaimed. "We can ask them to provide military protection!"
"With their technology, we could strengthen our defenses and—"
The men immediately launched into a discussion, tossing around plans and demands as though Rosalia hadn't said anything beyond the word alliance.
She sighed.
These men might present themselves as respectable leaders, but beneath their polished appearances, they were nothing more than vultures waiting to feast on someone else's success.
They had barely secured an opportunity to communicate with the Global Defense Initiative, and already they were thinking about what they could take from it.
"Enough."
Rosalia's firm voice cut through the discussion.
The men fell silent and turned toward her hologram.
"And let me correct one important misunderstanding," she continued, her expression hardening. "I formed an alliance with the GDI. Not the Eagle Union."
"What?"
"You heard me."
Rosalia leaned back in her chair, meeting their gazes without the slightest hesitation.
"The GDI will listen to me, not the Eagle Union. Their commander doesn't trust our government, but he trusts me. That distinction is the only reason we're even having this conversation."
The room grew quiet.
"So don't get your hopes up. Any request we make to the GDI will go through me, and I will decide whether it's worth asking. And before any of you get clever ideas, don't bother requesting weapons or military equipment. They're not particularly generous when it comes to sharing their technology."
She paused, allowing her words to sink in.
"Frankly, you should be grateful they're willing to talk to us at all."
Several men exchanged uneasy glances. One of them opened his mouth to object, but Rosalia continued before he could speak.
"Instead, let's focus on requests that could genuinely benefit the Eagle Union. We need to rebuild our nation, restore our infrastructure, and get our people back on their feet. There are plenty of things we can accomplish without relying on GDI weapons."
"But we need weapons," one man protested. "Without sufficient military strength, how are we supposed to protect ourselves? If the GDI can provide—"
"That will be all."
Rosalia's tone left no room for argument.
"I'm not going to jeopardize my alliance with the GDI to satisfy your interests. I worked hard to establish their trust, and I won't let you squander it by treating them as an arms supplier."
Her gaze swept across the holographic projections, daring anyone to challenge her.
"And don't even think about approaching them behind my back. They have made it clear whom they are willing to deal with, and that person is me. If you try to bypass me, you may lose the only channel of communication we have."
The men remained silent, their expressions ranging from frustration to reluctant acceptance.
Rosalia rose from her seat.
"So, start thinking about what we can do to rebuild our nation. Identify our most pressing problems, determine what assistance would actually make a difference, and come up with reasonable proposals. If we can demonstrate that the Eagle Union is serious about rebuilding itself rather than simply taking advantage of the GDI, perhaps we can earn their trust in time."
She adjusted her uniform before giving them one final look.
"Until then, don't mistake my alliance for your personal opportunity."
With that, Rosalia ended the meeting.
The holographic projections began disappearing one by one, leaving the room quiet.
For the first time since the meeting began, Rosalia allowed herself to relax.
She knew the men wouldn't be pleased. They wanted weapons, military protection, and access to GDI technology. They wanted to rebuild the Eagle Union with someone else's resources while retaining control over the results.
But the GDI wasn't the sort of organization they could manipulate so easily.
And Rosalia had no intention of letting them destroy the trust she had painstakingly earned.
=========
"Damn that woman! Does she really think she's got the upper hand now?"
The man slammed his fist against the table, his holographic projection flickering momentarily from the force of his movement.
"That powerful organization trusts her and her alone," another man replied grimly. "What exactly are we supposed to do? Threaten the President of the Eagle Union? The people are already divided because of the Siren crisis, and the military is beginning to rally behind Rosalia now that she's secured the trust of that faction."
He leaned back, rubbing his temples.
"Judging by the way she spoke to us, I doubt even an attempt on her life would be easy to pull off."
"Then what are we supposed to do?" a third man demanded. "We can't overthrow her if that organization is willing to protect her."
The room fell silent.
After a moment, one of the men spoke again.
"Is our mole aboard the carrier?"
"What are you suggesting?"
"We need to take care of Rosalia before the Vice President can take over." His eyes narrowed. "Perhaps he'll be willing to renegotiate with that faction once she's out of the picture. We could even fabricate a story to make her death look like an unfortunate incident."
He paused, glancing around the room.
"But first, we need to figure out how to make it believable."
Another man frowned.
"We need to eliminate her and the witnesses."
"You're not suggesting..."
"Eliminate the entire Fifth Fleet."
The words hung heavily in the air.
Several men stared at him, their expressions betraying their unease. Even they understood the magnitude of what he was proposing. The Fifth Fleet was not simply a military formation that could be sacrificed without consequence. Its destruction would leave questions, invite investigations, and risk exposing the very people responsible.
"Are you suggesting using a nuclear strike on them?"
"No."
But the man continued without hesitation.
"If we want the Sirens to help us maintain control over the nation, Rosalia has to disappear. As long as she's alive, she'll remain an obstacle to our plans. And if the Fifth Fleet happens to be destroyed alongside her, there won't be any witnesses left to contradict whatever explanation we choose to give."
"That's madness," someone muttered.
"Is it? We've already come this far. We can't afford to let one woman undo everything we've worked for."
Another man swallowed nervously.
"May the Sirens help us, then."
A cold smile spread across the first man's face.
"Oh, they will."
He leaned forward, lowering his voice.
"Once our mole provides us with the fleet's location, the Sirens can dispatch their elimination fleet. They'll make certain that no one returns."
For several seconds, nobody spoke.
Then one of the men slowly nodded.
"Very well. Contact our mole. We need the Fifth Fleet's exact location, its current strength, and its movements."
His expression hardened.
"Once we have that information, we'll let the Sirens do the rest."
One by one, the men began disconnecting their holographic projections.
Soon, the meeting room was empty.
Yet the decision they had made remained behind, hanging over the Eagle Union like a death sentence.
And somewhere aboard a carrier, an unsuspecting fleet continued its duties, unaware that someone within its ranks had already marked it for annihilation.
===============
Meanwhile, Yuuki, Velvet, Emma, Vesti, and Eunhwa had already entered the next crystal.
This time, the memories belonged to none other than Privaty.
As the familiar scenery of the crystal world unfolded around them, Yuuki glanced at the four Nikkes accompanying him.
"Well, let's see what Privaty has been hiding from us."
Velvet giggled.
"Knowing Privaty, I'm sure we'll discover something interesting. She always gets so flustered whenever someone teases her."
"V-Velvet! Don't start!" Emma scolded lightly.
"What? I haven't even done anything yet!"
Eunhwa sighed, while Vesti covered her mouth to suppress a giggle.
Yuuki could only shake his head before turning his attention to the memories forming around them.
Unlike some of the others, Privaty's past was closely tied to the Ark's Central Government. Before becoming a maid, she had already served the Ark in an important capacity, even during her human life.
Privaty had worked as a coordinator for Nikkes within the government, helping manage their assignments and operations. Eventually, she became a member of Triangle, one of the Ark's foremost law-enforcement and counterterrorism organizations.
Triangle operated alongside the First Squad, maintaining order within the Ark and protecting its citizens from various threats. Its members could command military units and high-level task forces, making them influential figures within the Central Government's security apparatus.
There was, however, one important secret.
Triangle's members were Nikkes themselves.
Ark regulations prohibited Nikkes from serving openly in law enforcement, forcing Privaty and her fellow Triangle members to conceal their true identities. To the public, they appeared to be ordinary human personnel carrying out their duties for the Central Government.
In reality, Triangle operated in the light while Perilous Siege worked from the shadows.
Triangle handled threats that could be confronted openly. When a situation became too dangerous or politically sensitive, Perilous Siege could be deployed to deal with it discreetly.
Naturally, the public knew little about either organization's true nature.
Given Privaty's position, it was no wonder she had sometimes looked at Diane strangely. As a member of Triangle, she was accustomed to evaluating people who held authority and commanded military forces. Diane's own position and influence were probably enough to pique her curiosity.
Privaty's personality, however, was rather different from the professional image she maintained while on duty.
She was a classic tsundere, the sort of person who would worry about someone while insisting she didn't care. Whenever anyone pointed out her kindness, she would become flustered, raise her voice, and vehemently deny it.
Her temperamental reactions had earned her a devoted following among the First Squad, though her relationship with Rapi was considerably more complicated.
Privaty regarded Rapi as a rival dating back to their time in the Ark. Unfortunately for Privaty, the rivalry appeared to be largely one-sided.
Then came the incident that changed the course of her life.
During a mission, Privaty's actions resulted in Ade being injured. Although the circumstances were complicated, Privaty blamed herself and eventually joined the Maid For You squad, taking on the duties of a maid.
It was a considerable change from her former responsibilities as a member of Triangle.
But her new life would not last long.
When the Ark decided to sever contact with the surface, Privaty was among those left behind. Despite her years of service, her importance to Triangle, and everything she had done for the Central Government, she was abandoned to fend for herself.
The decision wounded her deeply.
She had devoted herself to protecting the Ark, only to discover that the government she served could discard her when it became convenient.
After the maid squad was separated, Privaty survived alongside Velvet for a time. Eventually, however, the two were captured by the Raptures and taken to Mother Whale.
There, Privaty endured nearly a decade of imprisonment alongside Velvet, Emma, Vesti, and Eunhwa.
Nine years of captivity.
Nine years of isolation, uncertainty, and survival.
For someone who had once been entrusted with protecting the Ark's citizens, being abandoned by the very nation she had served was a bitter betrayal.
And now, as Yuuki and the others stepped deeper into her memories, they were about to discover just how much that betrayal had changed her.
Suddenly, the surrounding scenery shattered.
The images of the past crumbled into fragments before dissolving into darkness. The grass field was back , revealing Privaty standing in her Triangle uniform, her expression serious as she addressed the others.
"Under the orders of Deputy Chief Burningum, the remaining members of Triangle are tasked with apprehending Marian."
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"Marian?"
Privaty nodded.
"She's a corrupted Nikke, much like Cinderella. However, Cinderella wasn't nearly as heavily corrupted as Marian. We were ordered to locate and apprehend her, but before we could complete the mission, an attack forced us to separate. We were left stranded on the surface, with no reliable way to contact the Ark. Then, we learned we were abandoned on the surface."
Her expression darkened slightly.
"I spent three years wandering the surface before I finally found Velvet. She'd been separated from the Maid For You squad, too."
Velvet nodded, recalling those difficult years.
"Neither of us had much of a choice back then. We simply did what we could to survive."
Privaty sighed.
"After spending time with the maids, I realized something. I actually preferred working with them over serving in Triangle."
Emma blinked.
"Really? Even though the pay is lower?"
"Yes! The pay might be less, but at least I don't have to worry about government orders, political schemes, or people treating me differently because of what I am."
Privaty folded her arms.
"Working as a maid is surprisingly peaceful. I can focus on my duties, take care of the people around me, and live without constantly worrying about what the Central Government wants from me. That's why I'd rather remain with the maids."
Yuuki smiled.
"Sounds like you've found a place where you're comfortable."
"Well... yes."
Privaty looked away, a faint blush spreading across her cheeks.
Then Yuuki tilted his head.
"Although, I have to say, you've lost quite a bit of your tsundere personality."
Privaty immediately turned toward him.
"W-What?! I haven't lost it!"
She paused, realizing she'd just proved his point.
"...Okay, perhaps I've changed a little."
"A little?"
"Don't push your luck!"
Yuuki chuckled.
"After spending years in captivity, I suppose it's natural for someone to change. Besides, you're not wrong about me. I'm not particularly fond of people constantly throwing harsh words at others."
Privaty's shoulders stiffened.
"Y-You don't like tsunderes?"
"Not quite."
Yuuki walked over and gently patted her head.
"As long as you don't go around insulting people who are trying to help you, we won't have a problem. Just be careful around Hood. You don't want to say something that accidentally gets on her nerves."
Privaty's eyes widened.
"I-I'll be careful!"
She hesitated before looking up at him.
"But... you really don't mind me being like this? I was rather cautious when I first met everyone. I wasn't sure how you'd react."
Yuuki smiled warmly.
"Just be yourself, okay? You're part of us now. You don't have to pretend to be someone else to fit in."
He gave her head another gentle pat.
"That said, perhaps tone down the tsundere act a little. We don't need you picking fights with everyone just because you're embarrassed."
"Ugh... you're making it sound like I'm some kind of troublemaker!"
"Are you saying you're not?"
"Y-YOU!"
Privaty puffed out her cheeks, but the anger in her voice lacked its former sharpness.
Yuuki grinned.
"There she is."
Privaty fell silent, her face turning bright red.
It might take some time before her old tsundere habits returned in full force. Years of captivity and disappointment had changed her, and there was no telling whether she'd ever become exactly the same person she had once been.
But Yuuki didn't consider that a bad thing.
Unlike some of the others, Privaty's memories hadn't revealed a particularly tragic childhood or a devastating personal loss before her transformation into a Nikke. Her deepest wounds came from the responsibilities she'd carried, the people she'd tried to protect, and the nation that had ultimately abandoned her.
He couldn't change what had happened.
But he could make sure she never had to feel unwanted or discarded again.
"You're one of us now, Privaty," he reminded her. "You don't need to earn your place here."
Privaty lowered her head, trying to hide her blush.
"...Thank you, Commander."
Before Yuuki could say anything else, Velvet suddenly threw her arms around Privaty.
"That's right! You're part of the maids!"
"V-Velvet! Don't hug me so suddenly!"
"Why not? You're one of the Royal maids, remember? We're family!"
Velvet squeezed her tighter, grinning from ear to ear.
Privaty struggled for a moment before eventually giving up.
"...You're impossible."
"And you love us anyway!"
"I never said that!"
Yuuki watched their exchange with an amused smile before another thought crossed his mind.
"Actually, now that I think about it, Privaty, your experience with Triangle could be quite valuable."
Privaty blinked.
"My experience?"
"You're familiar with covert operations, intelligence gathering, and coordinating high-level task forces. That's not too different from some of the work Diane used to handle."
His gaze shifted toward Velvet.
"And Velvet is a former special operations squad leader. She has experience gathering intelligence, infiltrating organizations, and extracting information, but she could use someone who can help her put those skills to better use."
Velvet tilted her head.
"Are you saying I need someone to tell me what to do?"
"That's one way of putting it."
"Commander! How mean!"
Yuuki ignored her playful complaint.
"With your combined experience, you and Sheffield could work together to train the maids and other Nikkes in covert operations. Rather than relying solely on their current specialties, we could develop a dedicated team capable of handling intelligence gathering, infiltration, reconnaissance, and other sensitive missions."
Privaty's expression grew more serious.
"You want us to train them?"
"Yes. If the maids are willing, we could eventually establish a specialized unit within the GDI. Your experience would be useful in developing its training and operational procedures."
He paused before adding another possibility.
"And depending on how well you all perform, I might even consider training you to become part of ZOCOM one day. That includes the Absolute members here."
Eunhwa raised an eyebrow.
"ZOCOM?"
Yuuki nodded.
"Zone Operations Command. It's one of the GDI's specialized protocol groups, designed to operate in heavily contaminated zones. Its personnel and equipment are built to handle environments where ordinary units would struggle to survive."
Eunhwa considered that for a moment.
"And you want us to join it?"
"I'm considering it. You girls have demonstrated considerable potential, and your experiences have given you skills that shouldn't go to waste."
Yuuki folded his arms and began explaining.
"The GDI doesn't rely on a single operational doctrine. We have several specialized protocols designed for different environments and mission requirements."
He held up a finger.
"First, there's our standard GDI force. That's the main body of our military, responsible for the bulk of our conventional operations."
He raised a second finger.
"Then there's the Steel Talons. They're a specialized formation that makes use of older or less advanced GDI technology, with a strong emphasis on mechanized warfare and walker-type units. Think of them as a force that relies more on mobile combat platforms and walkers rather than depending entirely on conventional tanks."
Eunhwa nodded, listening attentively.
"And finally, ZOCOM," Yuuki continued. "They're designed for operations in heavily contaminated areas. Their equipment, training, and tactics allow them to fight in environments that would be extremely dangerous for ordinary troops."
He glanced at the group.
"Remember the Goliath APCs on Exia Island and the Condor gunships you saw during the presidential meetings? Those belong to our Tiberium Essence Protocol."
Vesti's eyes widened.
"So the GDI has even more specialized units?"
"Quite a few."
Yuuki grinned.
"We have different protocols for different threats. The Raptures and Sirens might seem overwhelming to the forces you've encountered so far, but the GDI has spent a long time developing ways to fight enemies in all sorts of hostile environments. Some were too powerful so we kept them away."
He rested a hand on his hip.
"And now that you've demonstrated your abilities through these memories, I'm considering giving you the opportunity to develop them further. With the right training, you might be able to contribute to some of our most demanding operations."
Privaty looked at Velvet, then at Eunhwa, Emma, and Vesti.
The thought of returning to a military role was unexpected. She had spent years trying to escape the burdens of her former life, only to find herself being offered a new opportunity—one where her experience might actually be appreciated rather than exploited.
Velvet, meanwhile, was already imagining the possibilities.
A specialized unit. Advanced training. The chance to put her old skills to use without returning to the kind of work she'd once hated.
She looked back at Yuuki with a mischievous smile.
"So, Commander... if we become part of ZOCOM, does that mean we'll get to use all those fancy GDI toys?"
Yuuki laughed.
"One step at a time, Velvet. First, we'll see how well you handle the training."
Velvet pouted.
"Aww..."
Privaty couldn't help smiling at her reaction.
For the first time in a long while, the prospect of serving in an organization no longer filled her with dread.
Perhaps this time, she could fight for something she truly believed in—and stand alongside people who would never abandon her when things became difficult.
Yuuki smiled at Privaty.
"So... welcome to the GDI, Privaty. Your skill set is exactly what I need. I don't particularly care about obtaining information about the Ark from you. What matters to me is your experience and what you can provide for us."
Privaty blinked, momentarily caught off guard.
"You... don't want information about the Ark?"
"Not particularly. Maybe one day should we enter the Ark but I'm more interested in training Nikkes and Shipgirls to become part of ZOCOM one day. Your experience with Triangle and covert operations could prove invaluable in that regard."
Yuuki extended his hand toward her.
"So, what do you say? Ready to start a new chapter with us?"
Privaty looked at his hand before smiling.
"Please take care of me, Commander."
She accepted his offer, her cheeks turning pink.
Yuuki chuckled and gently patted her head.
"Of course. Welcome aboard."
"Hey! Don't pat my head like I'm a child!"
Privaty immediately batted his hand away, her face turning an even deeper shade of red.
Yuuki stared at her for a moment before grinning.
"Oh? There's the Privaty I was expecting."
"W-What are you talking about?! I was always like this!"
"Sure, sure."
"Don't you 'sure, sure' me!"
Privaty gave his arm a playful smack, then quickly looked away, embarrassed by her own reaction.
Velvet burst into laughter.
"Oh my! It looks like our Privaty is finally coming back!"
"V-Velvet! Don't say things like that!"
"But it's true! You've been so quiet and reserved lately. I was starting to wonder whether you'd lost your famous temper for good!"
"I haven't lost anything!"
Emma smiled warmly as she watched them bicker. Even Eunhwa seemed amused, while Vesti giggled behind her hands.
Yuuki simply shook his head, looking rather pleased with himself.
The special bond they had formed was doing more than connecting their hearts. It was helping them feel safe enough to let their old personalities emerge again, without the fear and uncertainty that had weighed on them for so long.
For Privaty, that meant she could finally stop suppressing the fiery, easily flustered girl she used to be.
She could get embarrassed. She could complain. She could even smack her Commander when he teased her too much.
And most importantly, she could do all of that without worrying that she'd be abandoned for it.
Yuuki gave her one last affectionate pat on the head.
"Welcome to the family, Privaty."
She puffed out her cheeks.
"...Thank you, Commander."
Then, before he could tease her again, she playfully bashed his arm.
"Just don't get the wrong idea!"
Yuuki laughed.
There she was.
Their Privaty was finally back.
"Still, I feel like I've known you for a long time."
Privaty tilted her head, looking at Yuuki with a curious expression.
Yuuki chuckled.
"You're not the first person to say that. I suppose the bond makes you feel so comfortable around me that it seems like we've known each other for years."
"Ehee..."
Privaty blushed, looking away with a small smile.
"Still, my past wasn't as brutal as you might have imagined. I simply lost my life during a Rapture attack. Compared to what some of the others went through, it wasn't particularly tragic."
"Hey, don't worry about that," Emma reassured her. "The important thing is that you're standing here with us now. What happened in the past doesn't change that."
Privaty smiled at her.
Yuuki nodded in agreement.
"She's right. And if you ever decide you want to return to the Ark, we won't stop you."
Privaty stared at him.
"Really? You're actually asking me that?"
Yuuki shrugged.
"There's always a chance you'll want to go back someday. I don't intend to force anyone to stay with the GDI if they genuinely want to leave."
Privaty's expression changed.
Then she smacked his arm.
"Idiot! There's no way I'm leaving after forming this bond with you!"
Yuuki blinked before laughing.
"Okay, okay! I won't ask again."
"Hmph!"
Privaty folded her arms, though the corners of her mouth were already curling upward.
"Still... thank you."
She hesitated before looking at him again, her expression turning more serious.
"I'll help you once we return to the Ark. There are some people there I'd be more than happy to deal with."
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"People you want to deal with? I thought you were responsible for maintaining order in the Ark. Why would you hate the people you worked for?"
Privaty sighed.
"Because maintaining order doesn't mean I agreed with everything the government did."
She glanced at Emma and Velvet.
"The Central Government might claim to protect everyone, but in reality, they're rather selective about whom they help. If someone is useful to them or belongs to a group they favor, they'll receive assistance. Everyone else is often left to fend for themselves."
Her expression grew sour.
"Emma and Velvet can tell you how badly the Northerners were treated. I'm sure you've already seen enough to understand why they came to hate the Ark."
Emma's smile faded.
"Yeah... discrimination against Northerners was one of the reasons Velvet and I lost our lives."
Velvet nodded quietly.
"Even when we tried our best, we were still treated as though we were worth less than everyone else."
Privaty lowered her gaze.
"I knew about it. I saw how the government treated people who didn't fit its preferred image. And although Triangle was supposed to maintain order, there were times when we were ordered to suppress people who were already being oppressed."
She clenched her fists.
"I hated it. We were supposed to protect the citizens, not make their lives even more miserable. But refusing those orders wasn't always an option. If we disobeyed, the government could send Perilous Siege to deal with the situation instead."
Eunhwa frowned.
"So you were forced to enforce policies you disagreed with because you feared what would happen if you refused?"
"Exactly."
Privaty let out a bitter laugh.
"Imagine being told that you're protecting the Ark while being ordered to hurt the very people who needed protection. And if you questioned those orders, you risked being replaced by an organization that wouldn't hesitate to use even harsher methods."
She shook her head.
"After a while, I stopped believing that the government genuinely cared about everyone. They talked about protecting humanity, but their actions often suggested otherwise."
Yuuki listened without interrupting.
Privaty had once been entrusted with maintaining order within the Ark. She had occupied a position that gave her authority and responsibility, yet that same position had forced her to witness the government's hypocrisy firsthand.
She hadn't simply been abandoned by the Ark when she was left on the surface.
In many ways, her disillusionment had begun long before that.
"So..." Privaty continued, looking directly at Yuuki, "I suppose I've secretly hated our government for quite some time."
She gave him a small, rueful smile.
"I just never had the freedom to say it aloud."
Yuuki nodded slowly.
"Then when we return to the Ark, we'll have plenty to discuss."
His expression became firm.
"But remember, Privaty, we're not going there simply to settle personal grudges. If you want to help change things, we'll do it properly. We'll protect the people who need our help and hold those responsible for their actions accountable."
Privaty studied him for a moment before her expression softened.
"...That's why I feel so comfortable around you, isn't it?"
Yuuki smiled.
"Maybe."
"Ehee..."
She leaned a little closer to him, no longer bothering to hide her happiness.
For once, Privaty didn't have to pretend that everything was fine or blindly follow orders she knew were wrong.
She could finally stand beside people who shared her desire to protect others.
"Well, I guess I have the Absolute Squad and the Maid For You squad now."
Yuuki looked at the five Nikkes accompanying him, counting them mentally before giving a satisfied nod.
Eunhwa immediately frowned.
"I don't think either Absolute or Maid For You is a valid squad designation anymore."
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"What do you mean?"
"We're part of the GDI now. Besides, Rapi doesn't even refer to her friends as Counters the way she used to. It's as though all the Nikkes have become part of one big squad."
She crossed her arms.
"At this point, maintaining our old squad identities seems rather pointless."
Emma nodded.
"She's right. Cocoa doesn't even call us the Maid For You squad anymore. And Velvet and I are now part of the Royal Maids, too."
Velvet grinned.
"That's right! We're Royal Maids now! Though I suppose we still have plenty to learn about our new duties."
Privaty tilted her head thoughtfully.
"Actually, we could work with Sheffield. According to Belfast, she's an agent-type maid, so our experience might be useful to her as well."
She glanced at Velvet before scratching her cheek awkwardly.
"Although, I have to admit that I'm not particularly good at being a maid myself. I did work at the cafe for some time, but... being a maid is quite hard."
Velvet burst into laughter.
"You're not the only one! At least you have your experience with Triangle to fall back on. I'm a former special operations squad leader, and somehow I ended up serving tea and cleaning rooms!"
"Hey! There's nothing wrong with being a maid!"
"I didn't say there was!"
Yuuki watched their exchange with an amused smile.
"Well, I'll leave you girls to sort out your squad arrangements and new responsibilities later. You can decide what works best once we're back."
He looked at the five Nikkes, a pleased expression settling over his face.
"So, that's five more connected to me. I wonder how the Ark is reacting to the news that I've practically stolen ten of its top Nikkes."
Eunhwa sighed.
"Knowing the Central Government, they're probably more concerned about losing their personnel than wondering whether we're safe."
"Wouldn't surprise me," Emma muttered.
Yuuki chuckled.
"Then I suppose we'll give them something else to worry about later."
He turned toward the path leading deeper into the crystal world.
"Come on, everyone. We still have five more Nikkes to awaken."
Velvet eagerly followed, while Emma and Vesti exchanged excited glances. Eunhwa and Privaty fell into step behind them, both curious about whose memories they would encounter next.
With five more Nikkes waiting to be awakened, Yuuki had no intention of stopping here.
================
"Next stop is Ludmilla."
Yuuki glanced at the crystal waiting before them.
"Milla, huh..." Emma murmured.
Yuuki turned toward her.
"You know her?"
"Yes. She's a fellow Northerner, just like Velvet and me. But unlike us, Ludmilla is an elite. You could say she's a high-class lady."
Emma paused, recalling their time together.
"She told me about her background during one of our missions in the North. Ludmilla, Alice, Tove, and Neve are all from the North, though Ludmilla's circumstances were quite different from ours."
Yuuki raised an eyebrow.
"How in the world did a Northerner like her end up among the Ark's elite?"
"I have no idea. But she certainly lived a comfortable life before becoming a Nikke."
Emma looked toward Ludmilla's crystal.
"I think we'd better see for ourselves."
Yuuki nodded and placed his hand against the crystal.
A familiar sensation washed over the group as the world around them shifted. Eunhwa, Vesti, Emma, Privaty, and Velvet followed him into Ludmilla's memories.
The scenery that appeared before them belonged to the Ark of years past, long before Ludmilla had become a Nikke.
In her former human life, Ludmilla had been born into a sovereign family, one of the privileged households that occupied the upper echelons of Ark society. As a member of the elite, she was expected to maintain the dignity of a noblewoman and bring prestige to her family.
She had taken that responsibility seriously.
Wanting to contribute to a noble cause, Ludmilla donated funds to the Angel Orphanage. She was proud of her charitable work, believing that her wealth could make a meaningful difference in the lives of children who needed help.
However, barely a month after her donation, allegations of abuse emerged from the orphanage. One child was even reported to have died under suspicious circumstances.
Rather than investigate the accusations or ensure the children's safety, Ludmilla's family immediately withdrew its financial support.
They didn't care what would happen to the children afterward.
Watching the memory unfold, Emma's expression darkened.
"That isn't true."
Yuuki turned toward her.
"What isn't?"
"Angel Orphanage was our orphanage."
Her voice grew quieter.
"It was established to care for children from the North. Children like Velvet and me."
Velvet's smile faded as she watched the scene.
Emma clenched her hands.
"The allegations were fabricated to discourage people from supporting Northern children. The Ark's people already looked down on us. Some of them treated Northern children as though we were filth that needed to be kept away from respectable society."
Yuuki's expression hardened.
"So they deliberately destroyed the orphanage's reputation to cut off its funding?"
Emma nodded.
"That's what happened."
The memories continued.
Ludmilla had been horrified when she learned what was happening. She tried to help the orphanage, using whatever influence and resources she could muster to support the children. But her efforts were never enough.
She was only one person, and the people standing against her possessed far more power.
What made the situation even more bitter was that Ludmilla's own family had once come from the North. Her ancestors had endured the same prejudice that Northern families continued to suffer under.
Yet after gaining wealth and status within the Ark, her family had abandoned its roots.
They had become consumed by greed, exploiting the poor to enrich themselves while flaunting their extravagance before others. The moment helping their own people threatened their reputation or financial interests, they turned their backs on them without hesitation.
Ludmilla gradually came to understand the truth.
Her family wasn't interested in charity. They wanted the prestige that came with appearing charitable.
They weren't noble because of their wealth. They simply used their wealth to convince others that they were.
To Ludmilla, that realization was devastating.
The family she had once admired was nothing more than a collection of embezzlers who profited from the suffering of others.
As the memories progressed, another aspect of Ludmilla's life became apparent.
She had always admired Nikkes, regarding them as the Goddesses of Victory. Their strength, their courage, and their willingness to fight for humanity had inspired her.
Then, after a chance encounter with the Goddess Squad, Ludmilla made her decision.
She would become a Nikke herself.
She abandoned her former life and left her family behind without hesitation. The prospect of losing her wealth and noble status meant little to her anymore. If becoming a Nikke allowed her to escape the hollow world of privilege she had come to despise, then she was more than willing to make that sacrifice.
Yuuki watched the memories quietly.
"She wasn't killed or forced into becoming a Nikke?"
"No," Emma answered. "She chose it herself."
Emma continued explaining as the scene shifted again.
"After becoming a Nikke, Ludmilla used her abilities to make her way back to the North. She eventually joined the Northern Parliament, presenting herself as someone who helped recover and guide lost Nikkes back to safety."
She smiled faintly.
"That's where she met Tove, Alice, and Neve. Eventually, she became the leader of the Unlimited squad."
Yuuki nodded thoughtfully.
"So, in a way, she used her new identity as a Nikke to escape her family."
"More or less."
Emma watched Ludmilla's younger self walking away from the life she had once known.
"She had finally found something she could believe in. A purpose that meant more to her than wealth or status."
Yuuki considered that for a moment before asking another question.
"Still, I wonder how many families in the Ark would react the same way if their children became Nikkes."
Emma's smile disappeared.
"Quite a few, I'm afraid."
She lowered her gaze.
"Some families abandon their children, wives, or mothers after they become Nikkes. They treat them as though they're no longer the people they once knew."
Her fingers tightened slightly.
"Some even claim that Nikkes are nothing more than machines wearing the faces of the people who died. They believe the original person is gone forever, and the Nikke who remains is just a cheap imitation."
The others fell silent.
Emma took a slow breath.
"After all, the brain isn't supposed to survive the process. The body changes, the brain is modified, and our memories are transferred or preserved through means that most people don't fully understand."
She looked at Yuuki.
"Sometimes, I wonder whether they're right. Maybe we really did die when we became Nikkes. Maybe the people we used to be are gone, and all that's left are our memories inside new bodies."
Yuuki listened carefully before shaking his head.
"Hey. Copy or not, you still have your memories, your feelings, and your own experiences. Those things matter."
He glanced at Emma, then at the others.
"Think about the Shipgirls. They know they're not necessarily the original ships themselves. Their appearances are based on their human counterparts or donors, while their memories come from the data associated with those ships. In a sense, you could call them copies, too."
He shrugged.
"But does that make their feelings any less real? Does it mean their friendships don't matter, or that the lives they're living now are somehow meaningless?"
Emma considered his words.
Yuuki continued, his tone gentle but firm.
"Maybe you're the same person you were before becoming a Nikke. Maybe the process changed you in ways no one fully understands. I can't pretend to know the answer to that question."
He smiled at her.
"But I don't think you need to settle that question to decide that your life matters."
His gaze swept across the group.
"You're here. You have your own thoughts, your own feelings, and the ability to make your own choices. Whatever happened during your transformation, the person standing here now deserves the chance to live."
Emma's expression softened.
"So... we don't have to prove that we're the original people?"
"No. You don't have to prove your worth by convincing anyone that you're exactly the same as you were before."
Yuuki gave her a reassuring smile.
"You don't need to be an original or a perfect copy to deserve happiness. You're you, Emma. That's enough. Same goes for the other nikkes. Original or not. You have a name and identity. Just live."
Velvet gently took Emma's hand, while Privaty and Vesti nodded in agreement.
Even Eunhwa, who usually preferred practical answers to philosophical questions, remained quiet for a moment before speaking.
"He's right. Whatever we are now, we're still responsible for the choices we make. And I'd rather decide what kind of person I want to be than waste my life worrying about whether I'm an imitation."
Emma smiled, visibly comforted by their words.
Yuuki then turned his attention back to Ludmilla's memories.
"Besides, I doubt Ludmilla became a Nikke just to spend the rest of her life worrying about whether she was still the same person."
He watched her younger self leave her family's luxurious estate behind.
"She made that choice because she wanted a different life. One that meant something to her."
His smile returned.
"And from what you've told me, it sounds like she found exactly that in the North."
The crystal's memories continued to unfold, revealing the path that would eventually lead Ludmilla to become the Queen of the Unlimited squad.
Yuuki and the others followed, eager to learn more about the woman who had traded a life of privilege for one of purpose.
The memories continued to unfold.
Yuuki and the others watched as Ludmilla encountered several unfamiliar Shipgirls from the Northern Parliament. Their presence suggested that the Northern forces had been operating alongside other factions, though there was little time to learn more about them.
Without warning, the base came under attack.
Chaos erupted as the Northern Shipgirls and their allies scrambled to respond. With the enemy pressing in, the defenders were forced to scatter, each group trying to escape the assault. The Unlimited squad was among those separated from the others.
Ludmilla, Alice, Tove, and Neve eventually attempted to find Avrora's village, hoping to reach safety. Unfortunately, their journey ended in capture.
Unlike the Nikkes imprisoned aboard Mother Whale, Ludmilla and the other members of Unlimited were taken to a separate containment facility in Exia Island. There, they were held alongside Kashima and Katori, two Shipgirls who had been captured before them.
The scene lingered on their confinement before the memories suddenly collapsed.
The surroundings dissolved into darkness, leaving Yuuki and the others standing in the familiar grass field.
Ludmilla stood before them, her elegant posture and composed expression unchanged. Yet beneath her usual regal demeanor, there was a weariness that hadn't been apparent before.
"Living as a Northerner isn't easy," she began. "Even among the elites, we're targets."
She lowered her gaze briefly.
"My father had to follow the expectations of Ark society. My family tried its best to please everyone, but it never mattered. We were still targeted, and even other Northerners sometimes resented us because of our status."
Ludmilla sighed.
"My decision to become a Nikke had to remain a secret. If the other elites discovered that their fellow nobleman's daughter had become a Nikke, they might have used it as another excuse to target my family."
Yuuki listened quietly before shaking his head.
"Emma and Velvet went through much worse. Honestly, the racism in the Ark is something else."
Emma gave him a small nod, though her attention remained on Ludmilla.
"So... you didn't leave your family because you hated them?"
Ludmilla shook her head.
"No. I left because I wanted to protect them. As a Nikke, I could escape the expectations placed upon me and avoid becoming another weakness my family's rivals could exploit."
She paused, her expression growing wistful.
"It's been years since I last saw them. I wonder how they're doing."
After a moment, Ludmilla turned toward Yuuki.
"There's something else I should confess. Rapi was right when she said I had a rather pompous attitude."
She straightened her back, looking somewhat embarrassed.
"Becoming a Nikke didn't erase the person I used to be. I was raised as a noblewoman, and some of those habits stayed with me. To be perfectly honest, I once considered treating you like a servant."
Yuuki stared at her for a moment.
Then he chuckled.
"That wouldn't have been anything new. Elizabeth used to call me her servant before upgrading me to consort."
Ludmilla blinked.
"Her consort?"
"Long story."
Yuuki waved his hand dismissively.
"Anyway, I hope you weren't planning to treat me that way. Being called a servant is honestly pretty annoying."
He gave her a playful smile.
"Although, I suspect you and Elizabeth would get along rather well. You're both rather pompous."
Ludmilla's eyes widened.
"Please accept my apologies, commander! I have absolutely no intention of treating you as a servant."
She placed a hand against her chest, her expression sincere.
"And I certainly wouldn't treat the Shipgirls that way, either."
Yuuki tilted his head.
"Well, I'm not Elizabeth's consort here, so I doubt she'd call me her servant anyway. Honestly, I don't think she'd do that even if I weren't her consort."
He shrugged.
"She might get away with it inside the Void World, but not in the real world. Besides, I doubt Hood would tolerate such behavior."
Ludmilla recalled the elegant Royal Union lady who had recently been revived.
"Lady Hood would forbid it?"
"More or less. It's not appropriate to address the High Commander with that kind of disrespect, even if I personally don't mind being teased occasionally. I'm not sure everyone else would be as forgiving."
Yuuki paused.
"Amagi certainly wouldn't."
Ludmilla nodded solemnly.
"Rest assured, I won't treat you that way. Now that we're connected, I have even less reason to disrespect you."
Her expression softened into a warm smile.
"Besides, every Shipgirl respects you. The Nikkes do as well. I would never want to undermine the person they've placed their trust in."
Yuuki smiled back before deciding to tease her.
"You're talking as though you have feelings for me. Someone might get the wrong idea."
Ludmilla didn't even flinch.
"I do have feelings for you."
Yuuki's smile faltered slightly.
Ludmilla tilted her head, looking at him with an amused glint in her eyes.
"You can feel them through the bond, can't you? The real question is whether you can handle them."
She raised her chin with her usual regal confidence.
"You ought to appreciate me as much as possible. Don't you ever forget that."
Yuuki scratched his cheek.
"I won't. But I'm worried the bond might be influencing your feelings. I don't want you to like me simply because we're connected. You could find another man who's better suited for you."
Ludmilla stared at him.
Then she laughed softly.
"The bond doesn't force me to love you, commander. It simply makes your warmth easier to feel. It allows me to understand you in a way I couldn't before. Makes me jealous knowing you found the counters, seraphim and the maids before us. Even found Nayuta and Cinderella."
Her expression became more tender.
"And if this is how much warmth I can feel through our connection, I wonder how it would feel to speak with you directly, without any distance between us."
She stepped closer.
"Besides, a man better than you? You're the one the heavens have chosen to stand beside us. You possess the strength to protect people who would otherwise have no hope, and the power to alleviate the suffering of countless lives. You showed me what you can do for the people on that island."
Ludmilla placed a hand over her chest.
"Thank you, commander. I'll put that power to good use, too. I want to help people who have been abandoned or forgotten, just as I once tried to help the children of Angel Orphanage."
Her gaze softened further.
"And one day, I'd like to introduce you to my parents. It's been years since I've seen them. I hope they're doing well."
Before Yuuki could respond, Emma stepped forward.
"Oh, get in line, Milla! You're not the only one who appreciates the Commander."
Ludmilla turned toward her.
"Emma..."
"What? It's true!"
Velvet giggled, eyeing Ludmilla's composed expression.
"Look at you, all prim and proper! You can confess your feelings as gracefully as you like, but that doesn't mean you're the only one who wants him."
Ludmilla huffed.
"I never claimed to be the only one."
"Of course not!"
Velvet grinned mischievously.
"Still, seeing Northerners like us survive everything the Ark and the surface have thrown at us makes me look forward to whatever life has in store. Especially with the Commander around."
Emma nodded, her expression warm.
"Me too."
Yuuki looked at the three Northerners standing together, their pasts different but their experiences bound by the same cruel world.
Ludmilla had once been a noblewoman trying to escape the suffocating expectations of the elite. Emma and Velvet had endured discrimination and hardship simply because of where they came from. Yet here they stood, no longer forced to face their struggles alone.
Yuuki smiled.
"Then let's make sure the future is worth looking forward to. When we return to the Ark, we'll see what can be done about the people who made your lives so difficult."
Ludmilla's smile brightened.
"I shall hold you to that promise, Commander."
"Of course."
She nodded with regal satisfaction.
"Excellent. Then I shall ensure that the people under my care receive the protection and support they deserve."
Velvet leaned toward Emma and whispered loudly enough for everyone to hear.
"She's already acting like a queen again."
Ludmilla immediately turned toward her.
"I heard that!"
Velvet burst into laughter, and even Yuuki couldn't suppress his amusement.
For Ludmilla, the future remained uncertain. She still had a family she hadn't seen in years, a homeland she had left behind, and a past that had never been as simple as her noble appearance suggested.
But now, she had people willing to stand beside her.
And when the day came to return to the North, she wouldn't have to make that journey alone.
Emma tightened her arm around Yuuki, leaning against him with a contented smile. Velvet immediately followed suit, clinging to his other side as though she had no intention of letting him escape.
Vesti, not wanting to be left out, wrapped her arms around him from behind and rested her cheek against his shoulder.
"Ehee... Commander is so warm."
Yuuki glanced over his shoulder at Vesti before looking at Emma and Velvet, who had practically claimed both his arms.
"Um... girls?"
"Yes, Commander?" Emma answered sweetly.
"Nothing. Just checking."
Eunhwa sighed at the sight, shaking her head in exasperation. Nevertheless, she remained composed, standing nearby with her arms folded.
Privaty, meanwhile, watched the scene with a strained smile. She was clearly envious of how comfortably the others clung to Yuuki, but her pride wouldn't allow her to admit it.
"Hmph! As if I care about something like that."
She looked away, folding her arms.
"...It's not as though I want to join them."
Nobody believed her.
Ludmilla observed the commotion with an amused smile. Despite the teasing and possessiveness surrounding Yuuki, she found herself feeling rather pleased.
More and more Nikkes were joining the same cause, finding a place where they could belong without being judged by their origins or pasts. It was encouraging to see them stand together rather than remain divided by the Ark's old prejudices.
For Privaty, it was more than enough.
And perhaps, one day, she would be able to find Yulha and Admi again.
She wondered how they were doing and whether they, too, might eventually join them. The thought of reuniting with her old acquaintances brought a quiet smile to her face.
One day, she promised herself. Perhaps the entire Triangle will be able to stand together for a cause we can truly believe in.
Vesti smiled at the happy scene, while Eunhwa let out another weary sigh.
What a bunch of troublemakers.
Being surrounded by these people was certainly going to be an adventure. Still, Eunhwa couldn't deny that she had grown rather fond of them.
She had spent so long demanding perfection from herself and everyone around her that she had forgotten there were other ways to live. Yuuki had shown her that strength didn't always come from rigid discipline, nor did leadership require controlling every little detail.
She would probably remain a perfectionist. That much was unlikely to change overnight.
But she could learn to be more understanding, trust the people around her, and become someone her friends could rely on without feeling afraid of disappointing her.
Perhaps that was a kind of perfection worth pursuing.
Meanwhile, Yuuki was having a rather different problem.
"Can I please have some space for myself?"
His exhausted plea fell on deaf ears.
Emma simply hugged his arm a little tighter.
"But you're so comfortable, Commander."
Velvet nodded enthusiastically.
"Exactly! Why would we let go when we can enjoy ourselves like this?"
Vesti giggled behind him.
"Ehee... Yuuki doesn't really mind, does he?"
Yuuki looked toward Eunhwa, silently begging for assistance.
Eunhwa stared back at him.
Then she shrugged.
"Your problem, Commander."
"You're supposed to be the reasonable one!"
"I am being reasonable. You got yourself into this situation."
Yuuki could only sigh.
These girls were absolutely relentless.
And it wasn't just this group, either. Rapi, Anis, and Neon were hardly any better. Ade, Soda, Cocoa, Mary, Pepper, Nayuta, and Cinderella all had their own ways of getting close to him, regardless of whether they openly admitted it.
Some were affectionate and direct. Others preferred to find excuses to stay near him, offer their assistance, or quietly monopolize his attention.
Oddly enough, the quieter ones often proved to be the most persistent.
Yuuki glanced at Eunhwa again.
She was standing there with her usual calm, composed expression, seemingly above all the chaos.
Yet he couldn't help remembering how even Rapi, who appeared just as serious and restrained, had her own unexpectedly mischievous side when she felt comfortable around him.
Honestly, are all the quiet ones secretly like this?
Eunhwa narrowed her eyes.
"Why are you looking at me like that?"
"Nothing."
"You're thinking something unpleasant, aren't you?"
"Not at all."
"You're a terrible liar."
Yuuki looked away.
Velvet immediately giggled.
"Oh my! Commander, are you thinking about something embarrassing?"
"I'm thinking about how I should've brought earplugs."
Emma laughed, while Vesti hugged him a little tighter.
Privaty clicked her tongue, still pretending not to care as she watched the others monopolize his attention.
Ludmilla merely smiled, finding the whole situation rather entertaining.
Yuuki closed his eyes and released another long-suffering sigh.
He had rescued countless people, fought terrifying enemies, and built an organization capable of challenging threats that once seemed impossible to overcome.
Yet somehow, getting a little personal space from the women around him remained one of his most difficult missions.
Perhaps I should add that to the GDI's list of unsolved operational challenges.