The masked sun

The beginning, and the transfer

"Izumo, are you ready?" Kaga's voice rang out, filled with a mix of anticipation and concern.

"Hai, Kaga. There is no need to worry," Izumo replied, her tone calm and reassuring, a hint of determination underlying her words.

"C'mon, Izumo, why do you keep that mask on?" Kaga whined, her voice tinged with playful exasperation. "I'm your sister, take it off!".

"You know, little one, that I don't like to take off my-" Izumo began, but her words were abruptly cut off as Kaga reached up, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Oh no you don't!" Izumo exclaimed, a playful challenge in her voice as she swiftly conjured a small shield to block Kaga's attempt.

With a sly grin, Izumo finally relented, removing her mask to revel a warm smile underneath. Without hesitation, she pulled Kaga into a tight embrace.

Suddenly, the admiral's voice boomed throughout the room, cutting through the air with a sense of urgency, "Kaga, Izumo, please report to my office immediately. All current missions and activities of any kind will be canceled. This is of the utmost importance. ".

Kaga's eyes widened in surprise at the unexpected news, a flicker of curiosity dancing in her multicolored eyes.

"What do you think is of the utmost importance?" Izumo mused,

"Don't know," Kaga shrugged,. "How about we find out?"

Izumo hesitated for a moment before slipping her mask back on. Kaga continued to playfully whine about the mask as they made their way towards the admiral's office, their footsteps echoing down the corridor.

Walking briskly, they passed by rows of Sakura naval vessels, the kansen pausing in their duties to greet the duo. Izumo and Kaga were well-known and respected in the Sakura navy, their reputation as formidable warriors well known and well experienced from the bruises and cuts from various exercises and battles over the years

As they approached the admiral's office, a feeling of deep dread descending on them. Stopping at the door, they paused for a second. With a deep breath, Izumo raised her hand to knock, but before she could make a sound, the admiral's voice called out, "Come in. "

The door swung open, revealing the admiral seated behind his desk, his expression unreadable as he gestured for them to enter. They stepped slowly through the door into the admiral's office 

The room that greeted them was familiar, but still surprising, a departure from the grandness and fortune associated with positions of power.

The admiral's office was simple yet commanding, with a simple, wooden desk and a plush chair serving as the focal point of the room. The desk was organized, papers neatly stacked and a computer humming softly in the corner. A table with seven chairs stood nearby, ready for meetings and discussions that decided the fate of the Sakura navy. Today, all were empty expect for the admiral, who was reading a document.

Behind the admiral's desk, The flag of the Sakura navy fluttered proudly alongside the flag of the rising sun, a nod to tradition, history, and honor. Two gleaming katanas were displayed with reverence, their blades reflecting the light streaming in through the windows. Framed pictures adorned the walls, showcasing the admiral's family - his two sons and daughter- as well as his journey from officer to vice admiral, to grand admiral, each snapshot showing a piece of his storied past.

The room was bathed in natural light, streaming in through four large windows that offered a spectacular view of the bustling naval base below. The warm glow illuminated the space, casting warmth over the room, Izumo and Kaga stood before the admiral, ready to hear the reason for their sudden change in plans