Pax Propter Vim [Azur Lane Fanfic]

Chapter 23

Warning! Before you proceed even further, I warn you that this chapter and forward will be really long. So take your time, get some snacks and enjoy :)

Words : 23.247.

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Goverment Buildings, Singapore.

December 30, 1941.

The air in Singapore was heavy with humidity, but the city bustled with activity as the battle that took place slowly being forgotten, albeit fresh. The grand government buildings, a symbol of British rule in the Far East, stood resolute against the ever-present tension in the air. Inside, military officials and government leaders were deep in discussion over the next course of action against the relentless Japanese advance.

But just outside the Queen’s temporary office, two figures stood in the dim evening light, away from the frantic rush of war planning.

Repulse, a Renown-class battlecruiser, shifted her weight lazily against the stone railing, hands resting on the hilt of her sheathed sword. Her short brown hair swayed slightly as she turned to the woman beside her. Warspite, the formidable Queen Elizabeth-class battleship, stood with a dignified air despite her small stature. Her blonde hair was neatly tied back, her sharp eyes scanning the darkening sky. Unlike Repulse, who always carried herself with a carefree charm, Warspite exuded an air of experienced wisdom—hypercompetent, unshaken, and ever loyal to the Crown.

Despite their appearances, both were veterans of the last Great War, warriors who had seen fire and blood, standing unwavering through battles that had shaped the world.

Repulse sighed dramatically, breaking the silence. "Lady Warspite, what do you think Her Majesty would say?" She asked curiously, tilting her head.

Warspite turned slightly, a small amused smile gracing her lips. "Repulse... just relax when no one's around. We’re old friends, you don’t have to act so formal."

Repulse grinned. "Hah! I just thought you'd gotten a little stiff from always being tangled up in politics, Warspite."

"Hardy har har." Warspite rolled her eyes. "Politics won’t change me, Repulse. And neither will Her Majesty."

"Mhmm, right. You girls are too stubborn." Repulse chuckled, tapping her fingers against the hilt of her sword.

Warspite let out a thoughtful sigh. "Stubbornness is the reason why we're still standing."

Repulse hummed in agreement , then Warspite asked. "Oh yeah, by the way—how’s your sister, Renown?"

"She’s fine. Just got a letter from her about her little adventure in the Mediterranean." Repulse recalled, her voice filled with fondness. "She’s been having a grand time chasing down Italian convoys. Typical."

"Ahh, good then. Valiant, Barham, and Malaya are currently undergoing refits, but they’re still keeping themselves busy, it seems." Warspite said with a small smile.

Repulse snorted. "You mean, Valiant is off making a mess, while Barham and Malaya are doing their best to keep her from embarrassing herself?"

Warspite chuckled, shaking her head. "It’s like you don’t know Valiant. She’s a good kid—rough around the edges, sure, but she’s got potential." A sigh escaped her lips. "If only she wasn’t so eager to rival or compete with Her Majesty all the time."

Repulse shot her a knowing look. "You guys haven’t seen each other much lately?"

"No... the last time we were all together was before Hood passed away." Warspite’s voice softened, her usual composed demeanor faltering slightly. "So, about half a year ago, I suppose? Feels like a lifetime..." She looked off into the distance, her expression unreadable. "I miss that tea lover.'