The Engineer

Chapter V: The Queen Commands and We Obey

"Suspicions? About what?" Asks the Shikikan.

"About how this base is run." Collin walks to the Shikikan's desk and picks up a folder. "These are the monthly expenditures, correct?"

"Yes." Says the Shikikan, already dreading what was coming.

"Let's see here." Collins opens the folder, ignoring how both Warspite and Queen Elizabeth have ganged up on Douglas in the background to little effect. "24,000 dollars per month for the on-site dorms. Hmm, rather lavish. 5,000 dollars per month given to an 'Akashi'. Another 5,000 dollars given to a 'Shiranui'. The list goes on."

"Admiral, I can explain." Says the Shikikan.

Collins holds his hand up, cutting the Shikikan off. "Commander, you were chosen for this position because of both your impeccable record and knowledge on the Siren threat. So far, you have made more progress than any other force sent against them. And that is something to be commended if not celebrated."

The Shikikan blushes a little at the praise, "Thank you, Admiral."

"However." Collins continues. "Your inability to foresee the Amagi's condition, your unnecessary expenditures, and finally your seeming reliance on these civilians," he gestures towards Hood and Belfast, "is an issue."

"An issue?" The Shikikan stands a bit straighter, an impassive expression taking over her face. "I don't know what you mean, sir."

"Is that right? Let me explain it plainly then." Collins steps away from the desk to stand in front of the Shikikan. "It is my belief that you Commander have grown complacent in your duty. Feeling safe in your own little bubble, you ignore the concerns of the wider world."

"But sir, the Siren threat is the world's concern!" Objects the Shikikan. "You expect me to simply wait for politicians to get their shit together before I can act?! I'm sorry sir, but I can't accept that."

"Of course, combating the Siren threat is paramount. But you forget Commander, that humanity has been cut off from the sea. Do you know how much trade went through these waters? Securing supply lines and safeguarding ports are more important than simply striking at every Siren Fleet that pops up on our radars."

"Just what are you saying, Admiral?" Asks the Shikikan, anger beginning to enter her voice.

"What I am saying is that you don't have a proper plan of action. You only react to the Sirens moves, which gives them the edge because you fight on their terms. Hardly a wise choice against an enemy that more than likely outnumber us. But do not misunderstand me, Commander. I still think you are the best for the job. I am simply disappointed in your execution of it."

The Shikikan looks down at the floor, her anger leaving her, causing her to fell deflated. Defeated. "What do you intend to do?"

Collin sighs, "I... am not entirely sure, to be honest with you."

"Perhaps Admiral Collins will be able to better decide if he were told the truth, Commander." States Hood, having been silent during the exchange between the two.

"A-Are you sure, Lady Hood?" The Shikikan asks her tentatively. "Shouldn't we discuss it with the others first?"

"They already know, and we all have agreed that this..." She looks at Douglas with a sad smile, "is a meeting long overdue."

Douglas raises an eyebrow, unsure why she seemed to be looking at him specifically since he is sure he has never met this woman before in his life.

"Ow!" He glares at Queen Elizabeth, who is now tugging at his beard while Warspite I now sitting on his shoulders still trying to reach for her sword. "Watch the beard, lassie!"