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The commander paused for a moment as he glanced at his calendar, noticing the significant meeting scheduled for the day. He was slated to visit the Sakura Empire Offices to meet with one of their high-ranking shipgirls or kansen. As an Eagle Union Commander, his interactions with the Sakura kansen had been limited, leaving him with only a modest amount of experience. Reflecting on this, he realized that he had only interacted with a few of them, and not particularly well. With a sigh, he grabbed his hat and bag before making his way to the door to begin his day.
As he stepped outside, the commander gazed at the sun, shielding his eyes with his hand before breaking into a smile. He relished the sensation of the cool wind mingling with the warmth of the sun on his skin. With purposeful strides, he made his way across the bustling port towards the Sakura Empire's headquarters. The commander maintained a brisk pace, eager to arrive at the meeting and engage in fruitful discussions about future collaborations with the Sakura Empire ships. He was determined to ensure that the meeting was both productive and beneficial for all parties involved.
The Sakura Empire truly embodied the essence of Japan, with its traditional architecture, torii gates, and overall aesthetic reminiscent of their homeland. As the commander approached the entrance, he couldn't help but admire the beauty of the surroundings. Passing through the doorway, he noticed several shipgirls peering out of the windows, and he waved to them with a friendly smile. Though he didn't know them personally, he believed in extending kindness whenever possible.
Making his way towards the main office, he observed a few individuals bustling about, including some important figures - a couple of Sakura Empire Commanders engaged in conversation with each other. With a nod of acknowledgment, the commander proceeded towards his destination, ready to embark on the discussions that lay ahead.
Entering the meeting room, the commander took in the presence of the formidable Musashi, a stark contrast to the bubbly and energetic New Jersey he had encountered previously. Settling into his seat, he greeted Musashi with a respectful nod.
"Good afternoon, Musashi. I am a commander from the Eagle Union, and it is a pleasure to finally meet with you," he spoke with courtesy, his blue eyes meeting the golden gaze of the fox kansen across the table.
"Good afternoon, Commander. The pleasure is mine," Musashi responded with a calm and dignified demeanor, her golden eyes reflecting a sense of wisdom and determination. "I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me today. I trust our discussions will be fruitful."
“Yes, this cultural exchange is rather different, but I am glad to get to meet such a talented and skilled woman such as yourself,” the commander said as he reached into his bag and pulled out the files that had the information that he was going to go over with her. “Here we go, um this is the information about the cross cultural exchange between our two sides, it seems fair to me, and I wanted you to look over it.”
"Thank you for your kind words, Commander," Musashi replied graciously, accepting the files with a nod of appreciation. "I am honored to participate in this cultural exchange and am eager to contribute to its success."
She carefully examined the documents, her expression focused as she reviewed the details. After a moment, she looked up at the commander with a nod of approval. "The terms seem reasonable to me as well. I appreciate you taking the initiative to ensure fairness in this exchange. If there are any further details you'd like to discuss or clarify, please don't hesitate to let me know."
“Yes, I would like to just talk with you if you don’t mind. I don’t know much about you, I have only heard rumors of your seriousness and your being a bit intimidating and scary from the kansen of the Eagle Union who have run into you before,” I comment softly, I know New Jersey had talked about the challenge of fighting Musashi, but that is more a New Jersey thing and I can let that slide and not bring that up.
Musashi listened attentively to the commander's words, her expression softening slightly as he expressed his uncertainties about her. She understood the rumors surrounding her serious demeanor and intimidating presence, but she also recognized the importance of dispelling any misconceptions.
"I appreciate your honesty, Commander," Musashi responded calmly, her golden eyes reflecting understanding. "While it's true that I take my responsibilities seriously, I assure you, I am not as unapproachable as some may believe. Please feel free to ask me anything you'd like to know, and I'll do my best to provide clarity."
"How about a game of chess," the commander asked as he pulled out a board, "it helps me focus sometimes, and I figured you might enjoy it too," he said as he put out the pieces before them.
Musashi's lips curved into a small smile at the commander's suggestion. "A game of chess sounds like a wonderful idea," she replied, intrigued by the prospect of engaging in a strategic challenge.
Accepting the offer, she watched as the pieces were laid out before them, her mind already considering potential moves. As they began their game, Musashi found herself fully immersed in the mental exercise, appreciating the opportunity to both bond with the commander and demonstrate her strategic prowess.
The two played a game of chess, before he then also played a game of go. The two were having a great time as he moved the piece and was able to show Musashi his smarts, which left a hell of a impression upon the tall powerful woman.
As the game of chess concluded, the commander suggested a game of Go, and Musashi readily agreed. The intricate strategies of the ancient board game fascinated her, and she eagerly joined in the match.
Throughout their games, the commander's intelligence and strategic thinking left a profound impression on Musashi. She admired his sharp wit and keen intellect, finding herself thoroughly enjoying their time together. As they exchanged moves and engaged in friendly competition, a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect blossomed between them, strengthening the bond forged through their shared experiences.
By the end of their games, Musashi felt a newfound appreciation for the commander's abilities and character, grateful for the opportunity to engage in such stimulating and enjoyable activities together.
He looked at Musashi as the game ended, “How about you show me around your place, the gardens look so beautiful and the whole area looks lovely this time of year,” he added as he got up, he was a good bit shorter than Musashi, but that didn’t bother him at all.
Musashi nodded with a smile, pleased by the commander's suggestion. "Of course, I would be happy to give you a tour," she replied warmly, rising from her seat. Despite the difference in height between them, the commander's confidence and easygoing demeanor put Musashi at ease.
As they strolled through the gardens, Musashi couldn't resist indulging in a bit of playful banter with the commander. With a mischievous glint in her golden eyes, she flashed him a teasing grin.
"You know, Commander, it's not often that I get to spend time with such a charming companion," she remarked, her tone light and flirtatious. "I must admit, you have a knack for capturing a lady's attention."
“I doubt that there are few women on this whole base that can match you in the strength, power, or beauty areas,” he said complimenting her as he walked, “You are a woman among women as it were, I figure.”
"Such flattery, Commander," she responded, her tone warm and appreciative. "You certainly know how to make a lady feel appreciated. But I must say, your words are as charming as they are flattering."
"Well, part of being a good commander is supporting beautiful and smart women, as well as women of all shapes and sizes. Flattering a woman who is good at some much and so alluring is really quite easy," the commander said with a grin as they walked with him.
"It's refreshing to meet someone who appreciates strength and intelligence in equal measure," she replied, her golden eyes sparkling with amusement. "Your support and understanding are truly commendable qualities, Commander."
"It was mostly to avoid the elephant in the room with you, that your one of the sexiest women in all of the Azur Lane, tall, long legs, and a body any men literally dream about," he said bluntly as he knew he could have walked on a land mind but what the hell.
Musashi couldn't help but chuckle at the commander's candidness, a faint blush coloring her cheeks at his bold compliment. Despite his straightforwardness, she appreciated his honesty and found herself growing even more fond of his genuine nature.
"Ah, so you've noticed," she replied with a playful smirk, her tone teasing. "Well, I suppose I can't deny the truth of your words. But I must admit, it's not often that someone is so upfront about their admiration."
"As a commander, I believe in being direct and honest, especially when it comes to acknowledging the strengths and beauty of those around me," he explained with a shrug, unapologetic for his straightforwardness. "And you, Musashi, are undeniably a remarkable woman in every sense of the word."
Musashi couldn't help but be charmed by the commander's sincerity and confidence. Despite his bluntness, she found herself feeling at ease in his presence, appreciating his ability to see beyond her intimidating exterior.
"Well, Commander, I must say, you certainly have a way with words," she remarked, her tone laced with amusement. "I look forward to seeing what other surprises you have in store for me during our time together."
The commander grinned, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. "Oh, you can count on me to keep things interesting," he replied, his tone filled with playful promise. "Then how about dinner, I have yet to have Sakura style food."
Musashi's smile widened at the commander's suggestion, pleased by his enthusiasm for experiencing Sakura-style cuisine. "Dinner sounds like a delightful idea," she agreed, her tone warm and inviting. "I know just the place where we can sample some of the finest dishes the Sakura Empire has to offer. Allow me to lead the way."
With a graceful gesture, Musashi guided the commander towards the nearest Sakura-style restaurant, eager to continue their conversation over a delicious meal. As they walked side by side, she couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the evening ahead, grateful for the unexpected connection she had found with the charming and confident commander.
The commander sat down next to Musashi, as he remained closer than normal, rather allured as it were by her beauty and charms. He looked at her and smiled, "I will let you handle the orders and trust you completely."
Musashi returned the commander's smile with a warm and gracious one of her own, appreciating his trust and companionship. With a nod, she took charge of the ordering, selecting a variety of traditional Sakura-style dishes, including some of her personal favorites such as freshly-fried tempura and delicate sushi rolls.
The two talked a good bit more as they meal came out flirting as well as the commander was not going to be anything but blunt and direct with his thoughts, especially once he had some saki along with the meal. It was a great time for both though as they grew to enjoy each other's company a great deal.
As the meal came to an end, the commander paid for it, "What a meal and what great company," he said with a grin on his lips, him a bit dizzy as he had a bit too much to drink.
"Commander why don't I escort you back tonight, I think how about my place for a bit so you can relax and um in the morning you can head back, I think you have had a bit too much saki," Musashi said thinking about his well being.
The commander, feeling a bit woozy from the sake, nodded in agreement with Musashi's proposal. "That sounds like a wonderful idea," he replied with a grateful smile. "Thank you for looking out for me, Musashi. I appreciate it."
With Musashi's support, the commander leaned on her for stability as they made their way out of the restaurant and towards her residence. Despite his slightly intoxicated state, he felt a sense of comfort and reassurance in Musashi's presence, grateful for her kindness and companionship.
"How about some nice um black tea, you have that right, Musashi, you all prefer tea to coffee if my memory serves me right," he reasoned as he laid back on the couch a bit.
Musashi nodded in agreement with the commander's suggestion, appreciating his preference for a more sobering beverage. "Yes, black tea sounds like a perfect choice," she replied warmly, moving to prepare a pot of tea for them both.
As the fragrant aroma of the tea filled the room, Musashi poured them each a cup, handing one to the commander with a gentle smile. "Here you go, Commander," she said softly, taking a seat beside him on the couch. "I hope this helps you feel a bit more grounded."
The commander accepted the cup gratefully, taking a sip of the soothing tea. The warm liquid worked its magic, gradually steadying his slightly unsteady demeanor.
"Thank you, Musashi," he said sincerely, his gaze meeting hers with gratitude. "You've been such a gracious host tonight, and I appreciate your hospitality."
Musashi smiled warmly, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. "It's my pleasure, Commander," she replied, her voice soft and reassuring. "I'm glad I could be here for you. Now, let's relax and enjoy our tea together."
“I am glad, and I have to then ask you to please forgive me for what I am about to do then,” he said bluntly as he didn’t give her much time to think before his lips pressed firmly and rather passionately against her own.
As the commander's lips met hers in a sudden and unexpected kiss, Musashi's eyes widened in surprise. For a brief moment, she was taken aback by the boldness of his actions, her mind racing with a flurry of thoughts and emotions.
But as the warmth of his lips lingered against hers, Musashi found herself instinctively responding to his kiss, her heart quickening with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. Despite the suddenness of the moment, she couldn't deny the spark of attraction that flared between them, nor the undeniable chemistry that seemed to crackle in the air.
For a timeless moment, they remained locked in the embrace of their kiss, lost in the intensity of their connection. And as they finally broke apart, breathless and exhilarated, Musashi couldn't help but meet the commander's gaze with a mixture of surprise and curiosity
Musashi couldn't help but chuckle softly at the commander's boldness, her cheeks flushing slightly at his words. "You certainly have a way with words, Commander," she replied, her tone warm and appreciative.
Feeling a rush of warmth and affection for the commander, Musashi leaned in to meet his second kiss with equal fervor, her heart soaring with a sense of exhilaration and contentment. In that moment, she knew that their connection ran deeper than mere attraction, and she felt a sense of excitement for the possibilities that lay ahead.
As they broke apart once more, Musashi smiled up at the commander, her eyes shining with affection. "You've made quite an impression on me as well, Commander," she admitted, her voice soft but sincere. "And I look forward to seeing where this journey takes us."
“The order, it was for me to be your commander for the next year,” The commander said looking at her with a smirk, “The cultural exchange to see how well different kansen and shipgirls can work together,” he commented as he slipped his arm around her as best as he could.
Musashi's eyes widened in pleasant surprise at the commander's revelation, her heart skipping a beat at the implications of his words. She couldn't help but smile at the thought of spending the next year under his command, exploring the depths of their newfound connection and forging stronger bonds between their respective factions.
"That's quite the assignment," she remarked, a hint of excitement in her voice. "But I have no doubt that we'll make an excellent team, Commander."
The commander returned Musashi's smile with a grin of his own, his arm tightening around her in a gesture of affection and support. "I couldn't agree more, Musashi," he replied warmly, his tone filled with confidence and enthusiasm. "Together, we'll show the world what true collaboration and teamwork between kansen and shipgirls can achieve."
"Musashi, may I ask one more favor then?" he asked with a half-smile that was rather playful.
"Of course, Commander," Musashi replied, her curiosity piqued by his playful tone. "What favor do you have in mind?"
"Lap pillow," he said as he rested his head on her lap, it was so soft and warm. He fell asleep before she could or couldn't deny him the request. He thought she said yes, but she hadn't said anything at all.
Musashi couldn't help but chuckle softly at the commander's request, finding his sudden shift from confident commander to vulnerable companion endearing. As he rested his head on her lap, she couldn't deny the warmth and comfort of the gesture, her heart swelling with affection for the sleeping commander.
With a tender smile, Musashi gently brushed a strand of hair from his forehead, marveling at the peaceful expression on his face. In that moment, she realized just how much she cared for him and how much she looked forward to the adventures that awaited them in the coming year.