Hunting and Fishing

Emotional Storm

After what had felt like the longest meal, Quincy was finally paying for our food. San Francisco has been asking all sorts of questions about my life. Did I always live here, What do I do for fun, What do I do for a living, How old am I, and What do I think about Azur Lane? Those were some of the questions she asked. It seemed like I was having a background check done on me and for what reason? That I do not know for sure, but I have my suspicions. Number one being that San Francisco is being protective of her sister.

We all get up and begin to leave. "Thanks for the food, girls," I say to them as we are walking out. San Francisco grins and says, "No problem! We sure hope to see you around more, hasta la vista!" She turns around as Quincy and Vincennes say their goodbyes and turn to follow their sister. I begin my walk back home, taking a sigh of relief for making it out alive. San Francisco sure is scary.

-

Minneapolis returns from her sortie the next day, and after debriefing with the commander, she heads back to her dorm. Upon entry, she immediately notices the even more smug than normal look on San Francisco's face. "Why are you acting so smug?" Minneapolis asks curiously. San Fran then explained, "Wellll~. Quincy, Vincennes, and I ran into Ben today at the island's diner. We had a really nice time and I gotta say he's hella cute, Minnie~." Minneapolis blushed as New Orleans began to speak, "From what San Fran told us, he seems like a nice person."

Minneapolis, trying to figure out a way out of the situation, blurts out that she's going hunting. It was Astoria's turn to speak up now, "But Minnie, you just got back from your sortie, aren't you tired? Or do you want to go and try to find your friend~?" Minneapolis rushes out of the dorm and upon reaching the docks, begins skating to Wild Island. As she travels, she tries to cool herself off and by the time she reaches the island, she has accomplished that.

-

I once more gather my fishing gear, hop into my rowboat, and set sail for Wild Island. While my main mission is to get more food, I also want to see Minneapolis again. Upon reaching the inner lake, I scanned the surroundings, hopefully. Though ultimately finding nothing and casting out into the water.

An hour of fishing is able to relax someone to the point where they could lose sense of their surroundings. While I was "in the zone," I failed to hear branches near me rustling. In a rush once more, a figure drops down from the nearby tree and onto the ground next to me and I jump back in shock. Though once I saw it was Minneapolis, I calmed down and said, "You know the next time you might give me a heart attack."

She laughed, making my heart flutter when I heard it, and she said to me, "Maybe, but it's just so easy to sneak up on you." "So how did your sortie go?" I asked her. We both sat on the shore of the lake side by side and she answered, "It went so well it was boring. There were no siren encounters at all. Though I did hear you ran into some of my sisters." I look away for a moment before answering, "More like interrogated. San Francisco wanted to learn everything about me." She laughed nervously and explained, "The rest of my sisters will probably seek you out too. We New Orleans class can be very protective of each other. Even other small things." "Hmmm," I muse to myself, "Well, do you have any advice for the rest of them?" Minneapolis, not having to think long, responded with, "Astoria will probably tease you. New Orleans will be nice but she can be scary when she wants to be." I chuckled and said, "She can't be any scarier than San Francisco. No offense, but she's aggressive and upfront about what she wants."

"Yeah, that's San Fran." Minneapolis commented. I quickly look at her, saying, "Wait, San Fran? Do you give all your sisters nicknames?" "Only some," she answered. I smirked and asked her if she had a nickname, which made her blush before she tried to redirect the conversation. "Don't worry, you don't have to tell me if you don't want to," I assure her, "So... What do you hunt on this island?"

Minneapolis recovers and smirks back at me before she begins raving about hunting on this island. What kind of animals, how many of each she has gotten, hunting vs. trapping, and the joy of cooking your fresh kill. She did mention to me that "a huntress will never reveal her secrets" on the topic of her methods for hunting. After some time, however, it begins getting late.

"Well Minneapolis, it's about time I get going. I want to be home before the sun sets," I tell her as I gather my things. "Wait! Before you go, I'll show ya this path I marked out for you," she tells me. I follow her to the shore of the island as she points out discreetly marked tree trunks to show where it is safe to walk and not get caught in one of her traps. I turn to her before setting off and say, "Thanks for that path Minneapolis. I'll see ya later." She grins and responds, "Yeah, I'll see you later," before taking off in the water herself.

For the next few weeks, I would run into Minneapolis on Wild Island. Whether it was via fishing or running into her mid-hunt. In the case of the latter, she would express her sadness and anger at me, who scared the animal away by accident. Though throughout these days we grew better friends. She would tell me about life in port and I would tell her about the goings on in town. I would share about the poor attitudes of the tourists who would come from the resort to Kapok Island and she would tell me how her sisters have been doing. The New Orleans sisters seem to be a tight-knit group. Always looking out for each other and always ready to pick one another up when the other falls down. I would sometimes find myself wishing I had someone like that.

One evening, after I had said my goodbyes to Minneapolis, I got into my rowboat and began heading home from the Wild Island. To my left, I see two figures approaching me on the water and before I realize who they were and what was happening, they leapt into my boat, shaking it violently upon landing. The two girls that are now sitting across from me are Astoria and New Orleans, both wearing seemingly innocent smiles. The only reason I recognized them was because Minneapolis showed me a Polaroid group photo of her and her sisters. "Oh boy..." I thought.

I awkwardly start the conversation, "Hello, fancy seeing you two out here Astoria and New Orleans." Astoria smirks and says, "Yeah, how coincidental for both of us to be here at the same time." New Orleans added, "We just wanted to see how you were doing." Somehow I doubted that, "Minneapolis talks about you quite a lot back at the dorm." I blushed and glanced away from the two. Astoria laughed and teased, "Awwwww. You're blushing. Do you have feelings for our Minnie?" I look back to them and see a smug Astoria and New Olreans who looked like she had a dark shadow surrounding her. I could only stutter while trying to find an answer.

On the surface, I was unsure. Though deep down, I knew my answer. I had grown to fall for the wild huntress. From her mannerisms to her looks, they all seemed perfect to me. Perhaps I was scared that word would get back to Minneapolis and that she doesn't feel the same. Or that New Orleans might kill me with the way she was looking at me right now.

Despite the menacing aura around her, she speaks before I officially answer, "You don't have to tell us now. But be aware of the consequences that would arise if you were to do something harmful to her. Not only is she more than capable of watching out for herself, there is a very large naval base full of us shipgirls who most are willing to defend one another without a second thought no matter what the circumstances may be," she pauses before she continues, "Minnie is a sweet girl with her heart always being in the right place. She's impulsive, wanting to do things right away when they are brought up yet always takes the time to make sure everyone is okay. But... She's never had any sort of relationship or real friends outside of Azur Lane. I'm sure you can see the reasons for our concern."

I could only nod at her as we reached the shore of Kapok Island behind my house. Both parties got out of the boat as I grabbed my things while Astoria looked at me, "No pressure, Ben. We all think you are a great person. Just watch yourself out there, okay~" I step back saying, "Thanks; it was nice meeting you two." "And you as well, Ben," New Orleans answered back before both her and Astoria hopped onto the water and skated away. I step inside my house and immediately collapse on the couch. That was terrifying an yet, it was enlightening too.

-

Minneapolis was upset. She waited in the common area of her dorm for her two sisters to confront them about what she saw today. As Minneapolis was leaving Wild Island, she saw New Orleans and Astoria jump into Ben's boat. They're probably interrogating poor Ben again. On one hand, she knew they wouldn't hurt him physically. On the other hand, she was worried they would scare him away.

The New Orleans dorm common area was silent. Quincy and Vincennes felt the tension coming off of Minneapolis as she waited for Astoria and New Orleans. Upon their arrival, Minneapolis sprang into action, "Why do all of you keep interrogating Ben?" New Orleans knew this was eventually coming. She calmly answered, "We just want to see what kind of person he is Minnie. We wanted to make sure he didn't have any sort of bad intentions." Minneapolis wasn't buying it, "You know I'm able to watch out for myself just fine! He was already spooked from San Fran's encounter, so I can't imagine how he felt this time. I know how you sometimes get New Orleans."

The tension was thick between the sisters. New Olreans sighed and began, "Minnie, you know we love you and wouldn't do anything like that. We really do just want to make sure he's not a bad person. Most importantly to protect you. For reasons you may not see now but may see later." New Orleans thought to herself, "Not that you're in any sort of danger. I just want to make sure he won't break your heart."

Minneapolis thought for a while while staring at them before reluctantly agreeing, "I'm sorry for lashing out like that. Please forgive me." The girls said their apologies and all went to their respective rooms to cool off for the rest of the night.

-

I was watching the news this morning and saw that they were expecting a typhoon to hit our islands within the next two days. Typhoons come and go all the time. Only sometimes is it devastating damage; usually it's high wind damage and flooding around the lower areas of the islands. Nonetheless, I needed to stock up on some supplies just in case the flooding was going to be bad. Although, being short on money like I am, I need to go to the cheaper sections of the shopping district and get leftovers or nearly expiring items.

I purchased various goods for the upcoming storm. The rest of the shopping district is packed with people also gathering supplies. So some things were already all bought up before I could get here. In the end, I was able to be stocked with some emergency rations in case I am stuck at home for a while. With my hands full, I begin the walk home carrying all the groceries in one go. Turning the corner on the street, a blur rushes past me on a skateboard nearly knocking me down. "Ah! I'm sorry Ben. I didn't see you there. Are you okay?"

I look to see Minneapolis wearing a white t-shirt and ripped jeans. She had red sneakers on and a snapback hat with some sort of logo that has three vertical green lines. It kind of looks like an "M." Her hair is tied in a long ponytail. She hops off her skateboard and walks over to me. "Are you getting ready for the typhoon?" She asked me. I smile at her and say, "It's great to see you again, Minneapolis. Yeah, I'm getting ready for the storm. How are you doing?"

She smiles and responds, "I'm doing great. We've all been preparing the port but I got tired and wanted to take a break. My sisters are covering for me." She stares at me for a moment before continuing, "Do you need help carrying all of that?" "No, I got it all; thanks though!" I answered her. She chuckled and said, "Nonsense, gimme some bags. It's never a bad thing to ask for some help from time to time."

Handing her some bags, we walk side by side to my house and that's when the realization hit me. Minneapolis is going to see my house. The house that is messy inside because I've been lazy for the past few days to clean. There is nothing I can do about it though as we reach the front door. I unlock it and go inside with Minneapolis following behind me. "Sorry for the mess, I haven't cleaned in a few days," I apologized to her. She smiles at me and responds, "It's okay. My room is messy too."

We set everything down on the kitchen table and I offered her a drink, "I have coffee, tea, coke, or water." She answers with, "I'll have a coke please." We sat on the couch and she talked about the recent events at the port and what they were doing to prepare for the storm. I could listen to her talk forever. Wait, what am I thinking? Though eventually, she had to get back to Port to continue helping out. I walk her to the door and we say our goodbyes.

Minneapolis looked like she wanted to say something before she left though. Before I could ask her what, she quickly wrapped her arms around me in a hug. I was shocked but hugged her back. She pulled away with her face bright red and left in a hurry. That was nice. I want to hug her again.

Two days later, the weather channel said the storm will be coming later than originally thought as it had slowed down right before reaching us. They did say to expect it at any moment though just in case. I had already boarded up the windows to protect the glass and got my house as watertight as I could. I was out back pulling my boat closer to my house to secure it better for flooding when I noticed the wind picking up. I glanced up and saw almost black storm clouds approaching from far away. Maybe that storm was coming a bit sooner than the weather channel had claimed.

I finished my job with the boat and walked back inside my house. An hour later, it begins to rain and it becomes more severe with every passing minute. The wind was loud and made the rain fall sideways. I sat down on my couch and hoped for my preparations to be secure. I turned the TV on to watch the news before the storm blew the satellite dish off my roof.

A frantic knocking on my door drew my attention to it. That's odd, that didn't sound like something the wind would make. The knocking sounded one more as I got up to investigate. Upon opening the door, a soaking wet Minneapolis revealed herself. She wore similar clothing the last time I saw her but this time, due to them being soaked, her shirt was see through and one could almost make out her bra. I blushed and brushed that thought away as I ushered her inside.

"What are you doing out in that storm Minneapolis!?" I exclaimed. Minneapolis shivered as she said, "I got caught in it traveling between the islands. Your house was the closest shelter. I hope you don't mind my sudden intrusion." I told her, "Here, follow me." I led her to my bedroom to get her some towels. "My shower is through that door. There is a dryer in there too to dry your clothes. Take this towel, and I'll leave some spare clothes at the door." Minneapolis is blushing as she thanks me and goes to the bathroom.

I walk out and start boiling some water and try to clear my thoughts. I wait for Minneapolis to finish and eventually, the shower shuts off. I put tea bags into two cups and pour the hot water in both. The bedroom door opens and she reveals herself in a baggy shirt and shorts. Her hair, still damp, is wild and unkept as it falls down her sides and back. She is currently tying it into her signature ponytail.

Yet all I could think about was how stunning she looked. Despite the simple and lazy looking clothes, to me, she looked perfect. She has a light blush on her face as she walks over to me. "Are you feeling better?" I asked her with concern. "Y-yeah. Thank you." She mumbled out. "Here, take this tea. But be careful, it's hot," I say as I take my cup and we go sit down on the couch. I turned the news channel down a little bit on the TV and we started chatting. The sounds of the storm rage around us outside. She blows on her tea and goes to take a sip, but buns her tongue. She stuck her burnt tongue out and exclaimed in pain. I laughed and commented, "I told you it was hot." She gave me a pouting look and took a more careful sip.

We talked and laughed at each other's cheesy jokes to pass the time. As time continued on, the storm had no sign of letting up. Then the power had gone out and I lit candles to keep the room lit up, unintentionally setting a mood. Minneapolis was wrapped up in a blanket with a book I got for her to pass time. We haven't spoken in awhile and were enjoying the silence. Then, she set the book down and looked ahead, lost in deep thought before she looked at me. "Hey..." she began as I looked at her from the opposite side of the couch, "Do you... A-are you... Seeing anyone?" I blush and tell her I'm not. "A-ah okay..." she responds and mumbles to herself, "Good. Good."

I glance at her and ask, "Good?" She panics, "I-I didn't mean it like t-that!" I laugh and assure her, "I know, I know." I pause before asking, taking the risk, "Minneapolis," she looks at me with a blush which reflects mine, "W-would you want to go on a date with me?" "Yes! I-I mean. Y-yes I'd like that," she responds, then becomes eager, "Let's do it now!" "I guess this is the impulsiveness New Orleans was talking about," I thought to myself before bringing up, "We are trapped inside Minneapolis, we can't go out anywhere nice in this weather." She smiled and told me, "We can just do it here, i-if you don't mind of course." "Alright, let me make us some dinner then," I say getting up. "Let me help! I can't cook that well, but I can help!" She offers bursting out of her blanket.

So the two of us prepare our impromptu date dinner. I made the food and Minneapolis set up the table with some candles. Thank goodness for gas stoves working without electricity. When everything was ready, we sat and ate. We talked about our past lives, learning more about each other than we already did. I was having a great time and was hoping she was too. We made do with what I had at home for entertainment, which was board games. She is very competitive when it comes to things like this I learned.

It was getting late and both of us were getting tired as we sat on the couch. She was beginning to nod off when I told her, "You can take the bed tonight. I'll stay here on the couch." She looked at me and questioned, "Are you sure? It is your house after all and I don't mind sleeping on the couch. I sleep in the dirt sometimes while hunting so it'll be okay for me." I insisted, "No, take the bed. I'll stay here. But if you need anything, don't be afraid to wake me up." I watched as Minneapolis got up, thanked me, and went to the bedroom and closed the door behind her. I sure hope everything went well tonight.

-

Minneapolis got under the covers, her mind racing at everything that has happened so far today. She sank deeper into the blankets as she blushed thinking about Ben. She really likes being with him. The main reason she had gone to Wild Island was to see Ben for the past few weeks. She would never admit that though, especially to Astoria, lest she feel the wrath of her teasing. Though she's never been in a relationship before and she really wants this to work. Maybe she will go see her sisters for advice. Her thoughts slow down as she drifts off to sleep.

-

A loud knocking is heard that startles me awake. Everything else is quiet and light is coming from the window. The typhoon must've passed overnight. I get up and walk to the door and upon opening it, I'm greeted by the sight of New Orleans. "Oh boy," I thought. "Oh, thank goodness, have you seen Minnie? She didn't come home last night during the storm and we are all worried sick for her," She asks me. "How am I going to not make this situation look bad?" I think to myself before answering, "Yeah, she's inside. She came here yesterday right after the storm started."

That menacing aura from last time came back as she spoke, "Oh. Is that so? You didn't happen to do anything to her while you were all alone with her, did you?" I started getting nervous before confessing, "Well, we had an impromptu date. But that was it I promise!" She appeared to not fully trust what I said before my saving grace emerged from behind me, back in her clothes from yesterday and her hair done with a beaming smile on her face. "Sorry for making you worried, New Orleans. This was the closest place I could find when the storm hit," Minneapolis began, "and I can assure you I was fine. Ben and I had a great evening."

Minneapolis looked at me with a blush forming before moving closer and placing a kiss on my cheek. "Thanks for yesterday, I had a really good time. I'll see you around and maybe next time we can have a date where we aren't trapped inside somewhere," Minneapolis told me before looking to New Orleans, "C'mon, let's go. It's best not to keep everyone waiting." I watched as Minneapolis walked away, still in shock from the kiss. A hand being placed on my shoulder brought me back to reality. I followed the hand to New Orleans who stated, "It seems I was wrong. Thank you for taking care of her. I've never seen her this happy in a long time. If you ever need anything, just let us know." She walked after Minneapolis, leaving me alone at the door.

Now inside my house, a large smile forms on my face. It went great and she felt the same way and wants to have another date. I'll have to start thinking of something to do for next time. But for now, I need to assess any damages to my house. I change into a fresh set of clothes and go outside to get to work.

A few days later, a package arrives on my porch as I think to myself about how I never ordered anything. I take it inside and open it up revealing a note from Quincy that read:

Dear Ben, I hope you had a nice date with Minneapolis. New Orleans told us about it and Minnie is still smiling as I write this. We were able to convince the commander to convince Akashi to give us two smartphones. (You may meet those two at somepoint.) Though we never said one of the phones would be for you. Now you and Minnie can text whenever you want and you can get in touch with us as well. Astoria put all of the contact information together. Signed Quincy and the New Orleans sisters.

I put the note aside and pulled out the new phone from the box. I turn it on and see it has been set up for me already and I open the contact list. I see the New Orleans class names in alphabetical order as I read down the list. Though I had to do a double take at Minneapolis's name as it read: Minnie <3. I can imagine my face is quite red right now.

-

Minneapolis was trying to figure out how to use the smartphone Quincy gave her. Eventually opening up the contact list, she saw her sisters, the commander, and various prominent figures from different factions. One name was not affiliated with Azur Lane, and it was Ben's. Minneapolis's face turned bright red as she read: Ben <3.

-

"Curse you, Astoria!!" The both of us yelled.

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