CA-21 Tsukikage
The day has finally arrived when CA-21 Tsukikage, having completed various settings and inspections as an escort vessel, is handed over to Kasimura Corporation.
Shinnosuke visited Psycho-Ji Industry accompanied by Andy and Ellen.
The three were led by Hankes into the dock of the Psycho-Ji Industry.
Damn....
"This is Tsukikage..."
Andy and Ellen stood speechless, staring up at the CA-21 Tsukikage docked before them.
Though a transport vessel, the Tsukikage boasted a 150-meter hull, a cargo hold capable of carrying 800 tons, and powerful engines—far surpassing the performance of Andy's lost Beetle, making it incomparable in every aspect.
Despite its bulky appearance, which contrasts with its speed and maneuverability, Tsukikage gives off a solid, imposing impression. Furthermore, its hull—originally light gray—has been repainted black, enhancing that sense of weightiness.
"Since we noticed deterioration in the exterior paint, we've repainted the entire vessel. We tried matching the color to Kasimura-san's Fubuki, but if you're satisfied with this shade, we'll cover the painting costs as a courtesy?"
Shin nosuke nods in response to Hank's offer.
"Black is my personal favorite color. I'm actually quite grateful for this."
"That's excellent to hear. We found no abnormalities during inspection of the hull or propulsion systems, and the vessel passed the escort ship evaluation without any issues. While it's not brand new, we're confident it will meet your expectations."
Hank sends the inspection data of Tsukikage to Shin nosuke's terminal while explaining.
"Confirmed. Thank you. No issues at all."
Shin nosuke sent back a receipt confirmation after reviewing the data, completing the handover procedure for Tsukikage.
The three of them immediately followed Hank's guidance to enter the ship.
Tsukikage was designed for operation by only two or three crew members, and its bridge was significantly narrower than those of Fubuki or Cerberus.
The captain's station and the primary pilot's station are arranged side by side, with only the integrated operator's station located behind and to the left of the captain's seat on the left side.
Regarding living spaces, there are only two crew quarters in addition to the captain's cabin, which is directly connected to the bridge.
However, since the Tsukikage is also capable of personnel transport, foldable简易 beds and seats are installed, and there are three multi-purpose rooms that can accommodate up to ten people each.
Additionally, the cargo hold, which can carry 800 tons of supplies, can also transport flammable liquid fuel by using a dedicated attachment.
After thoroughly touring the interior, Shinosuke nodded contentedly.
This is a great ship. Not just the performance, but the bathroom has a larger, more impressive bathtub than the Fukubuki. It's no surprise this vessel is designed for personnel transport. With a ship like this, passenger operations could definitely be considered for the future.
"We're glad you're satisfied. This vessel will be handed over fully fueled and fully stocked with weapons and ammunition, so you should be able to put it to use right away. If you need inspections, repairs, or replacement of consumables like missiles, please don't hesitate to let us know—we'll respond immediately. We look forward to working with you in the future."
With that, Hankes finished the explanation and formalities, bowed respectfully, then stepped down from the Tsukikage and headed toward the dock's control room to see the guests off.
Shin nosuke and Andy, and Ellen, who remained on the bridge, began preparing for departure.
"Alright, let's quickly maneuver the Tsukikage into our dock."
" Yes!"
The three took their positions for departure.
Ellen sat in the main operator's seat, and just as Andy was about to take his seat as co-pilot, Shin nosuke grabbed Andy's shoulder.
"Hey, where do you think you're sitting?"
"Huh?"
"This ship's captain is Andy. You have to sit in the captain's seat, don't you?"
"Huh? But this ship was bought by Shinnosuke, right? Am I really allowed to sit in the captain's seat?"
"I didn't hire the two of you just to have fun. I bought this ship so that Andy and Ellen could run it. Now, Captain of the Tsukikage—take responsibility seriously, I'm counting on you."
"Yes, sir!"
Andy, encouraged by Shinosuke, beams with joy.
Though the Tsukikage itself is a used vessel, the captain's chair has been replaced with a brand-new one, thanks to the thoughtful consideration of Saikouji Industries.
Sitting in the brand-new captain's chair, Andy carefully feels the comfort with a sense of nostalgia.
Although the previous Beetle was made by a different manufacturer and thus has a different layout for the pilot's seat, there doesn't seem to be any issue with the controls.
Andy powered up Tsukikage's various systems, started the engine, and completed the checklist according to procedure.
"All systems, engine, all green. How about you, Ellen?"
"Communications, radar, and air traffic control systems are all functioning properly. It's fine."
"Good. Then let's set sail. Request clearance from the control tower."
"Understood....Control tower, this is Tsukikage. Requesting departure clearance."
"Control room, understood. We will now move the launch platform to the departure position."
The launch platform holding Tsukikage began to move, pushing Tsukikage out of the dock.
"Tsukikage, movement to departure position complete. Launch platform lock disengaged. Departure is now authorized."
Andy fired the thrusters, lifting Tsukikage into the air.
"Tsukikage is departing!"
Andy slowly pushed the throttle lever forward with a bold shout.
Tsukikage began to move forward gradually.
Their destination was the Kasumura Corporation's dock, just five minutes away—but Shinosuke had a suggestion for the two newly entrusted with a new ship.
"Isn't it a bit boring to head straight there?"
"「？」"
"Since we're already out, how about taking a relaxed tour around the station instead? A little familiarization flight wouldn't hurt."
Yes, let's go!
Andy and Ellen simultaneously replied to Shinosuke's proposal.