IJN CL Tenryuu

For a long time, due to its nature and composition, the military was largely independent of the national system. However, with social and institutional development and changes, the military system is gradually becoming more integrated into the lives of ordinary people.

Japan is a prime example. Despite suffering severe damage in the war, it rebuilt a superior and highly capable military after the war, starting almost from scratch. This post-war reconstruction relied on institutional reforms and its deep connection to societal development. While pre-war conglomerates like Mitsubishi and Kawasaki Heavy Industries were involved in arms development and other military industries, the establishment of modern military units was based on their connection to society. With the extensive use of civilian technology and personnel, the organization expanded rapidly. Through information transparency and industry-academia collaboration, the cost of operating the organization was significantly reduced. Actively developing national defense education and promotional activities for the public improved public perception. Even today, various events are frequently held at naval ports and military sites on holidays, and large and small businesses, shopping streets, and corporate events are held throughout the country.

The ship girl organization, as the most unique group within military units, possesses the highest tolerance for change. Its core structure, comprised of young girls—a stark contrast to cold, hard weapons—makes it a crucial element in connecting with the general public. Therefore, many of the military's external policies are often tested and implemented by ship girl units as models, including many exceptionally open measures.

That's why Tenryuu is standing next to you in that incongruous pink apron.

"BULLSHIT!" she exclaimed.

The naval district's meals have always been prepared centrally by the kitchen and provided to the ship girls in a manner similar to a staff canteen. While theoretically anyone can apply to use the kitchen, everyone relies heavily on Mamiya's cooking. Now, with the rise of food education, there's an emphasis on increasing knowledge of ingredients, food production, food safety, and even learning while eating. The higher-ups have decided to have the ship girls and related base personnel take turns learning to cook on a weekly basis. Hoshou and Mamiya have opened related lectures, and designated ship girls are required to prepare dishes under records for evaluation, perhaps aiming to ensure the girls' ability to manage their own lives too. Mamiya explained that as the first phase of the experimental plan, this week the Admiral, you, and Tenryu—will be studying cooking.

"What kind of bizarre project is this? Is it for elementary school kids?"

Tenryuu stood with you, hands on her hips, in front of the kitchen counter. Houshou had meticulously cleaned the steel work area. Over her usual clothes, she wore a pink apron that seemed to have been borrowed from someone, a stark contrast to Tenryuu's dark appearance. She noticed your gaze and turned to glare at you. "What, you jerk, what are you looking at? I don't care about your rank right now. Look again and I'll string your eyeballs together and roast them like meatballs." She said fiercely, her tone more impatient than usual.