Azur Lane: Kaiserin (Book 2)

Ch16: Roselyn's Birthday

It's been a few weeks since the "Liberation" of the African Continent save for areas still under Rumelia's control. So far, things have all but returned to normal. We still have a decent amount of troops deployed with 350,000 men deployed along our African borders with Rumelia and another 120,000 deployed on the Balkan border.

We could push and take Istanbul but given the current status quo, I've elected to simply maintain our positions and allow them to repeatedly attempt all-out assaults against our fortified positions. It's not like we need more land anyway.

Economy-wise, things have also been steadily improving. Plans are underway for the return to a civilian-focused economy but for the time being, we're maintaining our militarist state. Most troops have also entered a rotational system which sees them rotate in and out of the combat zones, allowing for equal time away from the front lines. This latter move has proven quite popular with the masses as well since it means their boys and girls can come home.

Right now though, as I'm walking through the palace's halls while being flanked by Weser and Bellona, none of that is my primary focus.

Me: How are preparations proceeding?

Bellona: Smoothly, Your Majesty.

Me: Is she aware?

Bellona: Everyone's taken great care to ensure that she's remained oblivious to the planning. 

Weser: They wouldn't dare screw up.

I smile as we continue walking down the hallway, everyone making way as we pass. Today's Roselyn's birthday and as she's done so much for me since I first entered the military scene, it's only fitting that I do something for her on this special day.

Rounding the corner to the main lobby, I'm greeted by the bustling activity of people making last preparations. In the midst of them all are Rossiya and Jean, both of whom bark orders back and forth. No one notices my entry but rather than interrupt their work, I remain to the side, merely watching the proceedings. 

Jean: Your Majesty!

All activity in the room crawls to a halt as every head snaps my way. For a moment, there's utter silence before all their heels snap together in unison as they salute.

Me: Don't mind me. I'm merely passing by. Thanks for helping put this together.

Everyone smiles, mentioning their own thanks for me showing my appreciation. Leaving them behind, I continue into the courtyard where I find the palace grounds fully decorated. A few guests have already arrived, likely to assist with the preparations. Amongst them is Bergmann who's flown in from Alexandria just for this occasion. 

Me: It's been a while.

Bergmann: Your Majesty.

He bows, casually taking my hand in his as he kisses the tip of my fingers.

Me: How is Alexandria?

Bergmann: Mostly quiet. They've learnt the futility of attacking us so its mostly just posturing now.

Me: Have you gone to see the sights as yet?

Bergmann: They Pyramids? I...

He pauses but when I give him my full attention, he cracks.

Bergmann: They were one of my first stops upon arrival.

Me: And?

Bergmann: They are everything I'd thought they'd be. Not to change the topic but have you seen Roselyn?