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Chapter Text

1944,

Folkestone Harbour, Britannia

The tangy scent of the ocean breeze wafted through the atmosphere as HMS Venturer smoothly sailed into the lively harbor of Folkestone. The port was alive with commotion, crews hustling to mend and upgrade the submarines in readiness for the fierce battles against the looming Neuroi threat. Amidst the turmoil, Commander Amelia "Ace" Hartley stood tall, her resolute gaze scanning the panorama with unwavering resolve.

Known affectionately as "Ace" by her crew, Commander Hartley was the heart and soul of HMS Venturer. With her short auburn hair and striking blue eyes, she exuded an aura of command and confidence that earned respect from all who served under her. Striding along the dock in her impeccably pressed uniform adorned with medals of courage, she epitomized Britannian naval excellence.

By her side walked Lieutenant Sophia "Siren" Blackwood, adept navigator and communications officer of the submarine. With her flowing black locks and sharp perceptive eyes, Sophia was renowned for her sharp wit and steadfast focus in combat situations. Her knack for deciphering enemy signals earned her the moniker "Siren" among her comrades.

Joining them on their way to the submarine was Lieutenant Eleanor "Echo" Carter, brilliant engineer aboard HMS Venturer. Sporting tousled blonde hair and grease-stained overalls, Eleanor presented a stark contrast to her more refined companions. Beneath her rough exterior lay a sharp intellect and unwavering determination to keep their beloved submarine operating smoothly at any cost.

Completing this trio was Lieutenant Catherine "Coral" Edwards, weapons specialist of HMS Venturer. With fiery red hair and a piercing stare, Catherine was a formidable presence both in battle and during downtime. Her expertise with torpedoes and steadfast loyalty to her fellow crewmates earned her the nickname "Coral," symbolizing strength and resilience.

As they readied themselves for their upcoming mission aboard HMS Venturer, tensions ran high within this close-knit group. Yet beneath it all lay a bond stronger than steel that bound them together—a bond forged in combat's crucible and repeatedly tested over time. Together they were more than just a crew; they were a family united by duty, honor, and an unwavering commitment to safeguard their homeland against all adversaries.

At the Same time walking up to meet them was a Woman in the Royal Navy's Short sleeve Summer Uniform, with the Lt. Cmdr Rank, She Saluted Amelia, who in reply, returned the salute.

"Ma'am, Lieutenant Commander Elisabeth Hastings reporting." The now shown Lt. Commander stated, her speech having an added accent, from what the Officers with Amelia could guess was Australian.

"Ah, Hastings. Your our new XO, Correct?" Amelia replied.

"Uh Yes Ma'am, that's me." Elisabeth replied.

"Good Good, Just checking you know. Got to be careful these days." Amelia finished, before continuing to walk, with Hastings now joining the group as they walked off.

As they made their way, a young submariner greeted them, proudly displaying her uniform adorned with various patches and insignias indicating her expertise and rank. Saluting sharply as they approached, her face carried a blend of determination and weariness.

"Commander Hartley, ma'am," the submariner started, her voice unwavering despite the fatigue evident in her gaze. "I must inform you that it will take about two days to repair the Venturer. We've encountered unexpected issues with the propulsion system."

Commander Hartley nodded gravely, her expression showing determination. "Noted, Sailor. Thank you for the update. We'll manage with what we have."

Turning towards her companions, she motioned towards the lively port area. "Seems like we'll have some time to spare, ladies. Let's make the best of it."

As they walked towards the dockyard, Commander Hartley spotted a familiar face by a jeep waiting nearby with its engine humming restlessly—Ensign Isabella "Ivy" Hamilton stood there eagerly awaiting them; one of their newest crew members with blonde hair tied back in a ponytail and an eager look on her face.

"Oh, there's Ivy," Commander Hartley mentioned with a grin. "Always ready to assist whenever needed."

Ivy saluted crisply as they approached, mischief shining in her eyes. "Yes ma'am! I thought we could take a ride to the nearest town. I heard there's a lovely café just around the corner."

Commander Hartley laughed lightly, amusement colouring her voice. "Well then! What are we waiting for? Lead on Ensign."

With Ivy at the wheel and the crew settled in the jeep behind them, they departed for town leaving behind the bustling activity of port life behind them; laughter and camaraderie filled their journey as they drove away momentarily escaping from war's shadows into a lighter moment in time.

"Hey Ivy, speed up." Hartley stated, and the Jeep begun to resume going a bit faster, a tad too fast however as they begin to turn a bend a Bedford QL Truck with Three girls appeared at the end, forcing the Truck to quickly slam on the brakes with the jeep doing the same.

"Jesus fucking christ, that was close." Hartley Stated, as they then looked and saw the three get out.

"Why the fucking hell were you driving fast." A American-accented girl spoke, and the Submariners looked widly.

"Of fucking course, it has to be a Yank." Blackwood stated, her voice sounding tired.

"What branch and who do you belong too, so I can put this into my AAR." The American stated.

"Royal Navy, We belong to the submarine, HMS Venturer." Elisabeth replied, before following with "And You?"

"I'm Charlotte Yeager of the 501st JFW, You can call me Shirley." The yank stated.

"501st? We've heard of you and the exploits, infact let's forget this ever happened, and move on to seeing who those two ar-." Hartley stated before locking eyes with someone who looked familiar.

"The two with me are Sergeants Yoshika Miyafuji and Lynette Bishop." Shirley stated, at the Mention of Lynette, Hartley did a back take, the 25-year Old Commander then got a closer look.

"Holy Shit, Bishop." Hartley states.

"Amelia Hartley, It has been a year, eh." Lynette starts, before finishing "Since you last wrote to me, my beloved."

The Commander stared wide-eye.

"I-I Thought you didn't want me to write anymore since the flirting and our first date, where I messed up bad." Amelia states, before seeing Lynette sigh and opening her mouth.

"You dummy, I loved you too much, so let's forgive and forget, you owe me a second date." The 17 Year Old Stated.

"Alright Alright, How about your friends join us, we were going to one of the best Pubs for Lunch." Amelia stated, eventually each nodded, with the Bedford following the Jeep, with them eventually making it to the pub and having a meal together, though at this point both Lynette and Amelia were getting flirty again, eventually they bid farewell to each other with both sides returning to their bases.

"That was a good night out." Amelia stated to Ivy, the others were asleep and the only one awake who could drive them back was Ivy.

"I Say, but it seemed weird to see this side of you, Considering you never showed love and were mostly having the eyes of a warrior." Ivy stated truthfully as a Fact.

"Eh, Ever since that day, I thought so too, but seeing her again, Just makes me sigh, anyway shut up, let's get back." Amelia finished.

The rest of the ride back was easy and calm, eventually with all getting back to the submarine and entering, going to their rooms to either sleep or relax, ending the first day, by tomorrow however or the next day, would there submarine be back in active service.

Chapter Text

The rays of the morning sun painted a golden glow over the calm waters surrounding the HMS Venturer, awakening Commander Hartley from her slumber. The gentle light seeped through the porthole of her small cabin as she wearily pushed aside the thick covers and swung her legs off the narrow bunk, her mind already abuzz with thoughts of the day ahead.

Heading towards the crowded mess hall, Commander Hartley was greeted by her fellow officers gathered around a modest table, their faces illuminated by the flickering flame of a single oil lamp. Lieutenant Commander Hastings sat at the head, engrossed in studying a worn-out map spread before her, her eyes shining with curiosity.

"Good morning, Commander," she chimed in with a melodious tone amidst the quiet morning air.

"Morning, Elisabeth," responded Commander Hartley with a tired grin. "Any updates from headquarters?"

Shaking her head in deep thought, Lieutenant Commander Hastings replied, "Not much to report. Just routine news about enemy movements along our eastern flank."

With a solemn nod, Commander Hartley's thoughts drifted back to their recent encounter with the Neuroi, still vivid in her memory. "Speaking of which, we should strategize for our next engagement. Any insights?"

Lieutenant Blackwood spoke up from her spot at the table – the submarine's engineer – adding an undertone of excitement to her voice. "I suggest we try a stealth approach this time around. Catch them off guard from below."

Impressed by Sophia's suggestion, Commander Hartley nodded approvingly. "Sounds intriguing! Let's go for it."

In walked Ensign Hamilton into the mess hall at that moment; despite being early hours yet bright-eyed and cheerful she was. "Good morning everyone! Did I miss anything interesting?"

Commander Hartley chuckled softly at Ivy’s entrance and replied jestingly: “Nothing much yet Ivy; just hashing out plans for our next move.”

As they delved deeper into their planning discussions it eventually segued into lighter chatter - momentarily lifting off some weight off their shoulders regarding impending battles to come. Amidst shared tales and laughter within that cozy space of camaraderie in that mess hall warmth - there lied an unspoken bond between them all - forged through trials faced together.

Suddenly breaking away from lighter conversations was Lieutenant Blackwood leaning forward mischievously addressing Commander Hartley with an impish grin: “So tell us about your rendezvous with Lieutenant Bishop during our last shore leave?”

Blushing slightly at mention of Lynette Bishop - another witch and ace pilot who had caught Commander Hartley’s eye during their brief meeting - she responded playfully: “Oh well... let's just say it was quite an encounter,” chuckling lightly as she continued: “But strictly professional I assure you.”

Their laughter resonated through that snug mess hall space as they cherished those moments together sharing stories and building bonds stronger than steel amidst uncertainties lurking ahead in life-threatening missions awaiting them down their path; knowing full well they would face those challenges united as one team no matter what lay ahead on horizon.

501st JFW Base, Folkestone

It was early morning wake up at Folkestone, and almost everyone in the 501st were preparing for roll call and announce what would be happening the day, However to many wondering, the sound of trucks in the distance were anything but normal, until at last the gate was opened and trucks carrying RAF Regiment troops and Loyalists to the man stepping out of a jeep, Air Marsal Maloney.

"Maloney, What is it that we have this visit." Minna says.

"I'm taking over, the 501st is currently temporarily immobilised and disposed off." Maloney stated, pausing before resuming "Round them up and detain them." As the Loyalists to Maloney did as they did, unbeknownst to them, Two Witches who had been working on Breakfast had heard the commotion and were hightailing it away, planning to walk the half hour journey to the Harbour, these witches, Yoshika Miyafuji and Lynette Bishop.

"Come on Yoshika, we can contact Command from the Harbour and work with the sailors." Lynette stated, and as they made it to the road, behind them a Armoured Car was chasing them as they ran.

"We're almost there." Lynette stated, by the time they got down, they bumped into a familiar face.

Same Time, Naval Base Folkestone

"Okay, so was it just me or were those Trucks in a Hurry." Amelia stated, walking out, by this time she had put on her Rolled Khaki DB Uniform, sporting her Naval Officer cap, with a P37 Belt and a Webley Revolver inside attached to a lanyard.

"I hear ya, let's go check out at the gate, talk with the RNP."*  Lt. Cmdr Hastings replied.

As the group made their way to the RNP, two people crashed into them, behind them an armoured car, Recovering quickly, Amelia ordered the RNP to stop the armoured car and to hold them until she finds out what happened, as Amelia looks down at Lynette.

"What the Bloody hell is happening?" Amelia spoke now to Lynette, who was finally able to breath properly.

"Air Chief Marshal Maloney took over and detained the 501st, apparently he and his new 'warlock' are going to work.

"Shite, RNP." Hartley spoke, looking to the Royal Navy Policemen.

"Arrest those three in the armoured car, hold them, I'm getting in contact with London." Amelia stated, before the RNP Saluted her and detained the Armoured Car crew, running in, Amelia established a direct line from the building to London, and it seems she suprised them.

"Yes Ma'am, Yes, Sir. It is not a drill, Trevor Maloney showed up and apparently detained and Temporarily Immobilising it, Yes Ma'am, I'll meet you guys when we secure control, Understood." Amelia hung up the phone, she had contacted whilst the Armed Forces heads were meeting, with her new orders she got onto the intercom for the base.

"All Sailors gather your Rifles and Ammunition, Organise at the Gate in Sections, await for my orders." She sighed after finishing it before walking out.

The Crew from the Venturer and Vampire, Another Submarine that was docked, alongside Crew from HMS Javelin and HMS Edinburgh, both stationed at Folkestone, at the same time Inexperienced sailors were unsure of what was happening, until Amelia stated what was happening and the march was on, acquiring some trucks, with Amelia taking the Armoured Car.

Linebreak

Jammed tightly into the trucks, the sailors rumbled towards the 501st camp, feeling the tension in the air as rumors of an uprising and coup circulated rapidly. Commander Hartley shared anxious looks with her comrades, their minds filled with questions and doubts.

Upon reaching the gates of the 501st base, excitement crackled in the atmosphere, heavy with the smell of gunpowder and sweat. The Armoured car lurched forward with a screech of tires, smashing through the barricades amid a thunderous noise.

In the midst of pandemonium, Air Marshal Trevor Maloney found himself amidst chaos, his face reflecting shock and disbelief as he struggled to steady himself. Before he could react, Venturer's sailors and their allies poured out from their trucks, encircling Maloney and his loyalists like a steel wall.

Stepping up boldly, Commander Hartley met Maloney's gaze with determination, her voice cutting through the chaos. "Cease this rebellion now, Maloney. It stops here."

Maloney sneered at his opponents' defiant expressions, his eyes burning with anger and defiance. "You believe you can thwart me? You and your motley crew?"

Unwavering in her resolve, Commander Hartley gestured to Lieutenant Commander Elisabeth Hastings beside her "We'll soon find out who prevails here. Surrender peacefully or face what comes next."

Maloney by now looked stunned, were they actually stopping him? Was this orders from London to detain him?

As the Sailors readied their rifle and Lieutenants Blackwood and Carter remained, working the Vickers .303 on the Armoured Car, with the other officers behind Amelia, with their hands near the pouch that held their revolvers.

"I Won't say it again, Maloney." She gritted out.

Stuck in the Middle, Maloney's main Supporter, a Air Commodore, just sighed before ordering the troops to put their arms down.

"Right, Detain them, free the 501st." Hartley ordered, and the sailors sprang into action, detaining and holding prisoner Maloney's Loyalists, Maloney himself was hit and slapped by Amelia, who personally detained Maloney, before a Sailor came running from the gate.

"Higher ups are coming." The young Sailor stated, and immediately those detained were kept close and in a group, guarded by the Sailors of Vampire and Javelin.

"GENERAL SALUTE, PRESENT ARMS!" Amelia spoke as a line by the remaining sailors was made, with Amelia standing Infront, her officers behind her as the cars came to a halt, exiting them was most of the Allied Staff and Higher ups.

"Sir, Commander Hartley reporting, Orders carried out to the letter, Maloney detained." She stated, the person she saw was none other than Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

"Good, Maloney is demoted, all of you can stand down, the Regulars and MPs will take over." Churchill stated, and everyone saluted, but not before Lynette in a move of desperation snuck a kiss on the cheek on one Amelia Hartley.

Hartley blushed before whispering “Meet me later at 18:00 at the pub we went to yesterday” which made the 17 year old Flight Sergeant blush.

”Okay.” And with that they departed, the sailors returning back to the port and to their ships or whatever they were doing.

The 501st were back in action and had destroyed a neuroi, however at the same time learnt and passed information that there was underwater Neuroi in existence.

With this, everything sort’ve returned to normal, however for now it seems that they only plan to get some upgrades fitted to their ships.

Perhaps times are a changing.