(In the main Azur Lane base…)

[living quarters]

Illustrious: “We’re back, Kashino! You really know how to help out our fellow shipgirls.”

Bismarck: “Agreed.”

Kashino: “Thank you, Illustrious. I just try to do my best to support everyone here.”

Bismarck: “Indeed, your assistance has been invaluable. We are grateful for your presence.”

Illustrious: “Kashino, is there anything we can do to repay you for your efforts?”

Kashino: “Oh, there’s no need for repayment. Seeing everyone happy and well taken care of is enough for me.”

Illustrious: “Well, if there’s ever anything you need, don’t hesitate to let us know. We shipgirls need to stick together after all.”

Bismarck: “She’s right. We’re all here to support each other. You’re a valuable member of our community, Kashino.”

Kashino: “Thank you, both of you. It means a lot to be accepted and appreciated here.”

Illustrious: “Of course, Kashino. We’re all a family here, and we look out for one another.”

Bismarck: “Indeed. And with your help, our family is even stronger.”

Kashino: “I’m glad to be a part of this family. Let’s continue to support each other and make the Azur Lane base the best it can be.”

Illustrious: “Agreed. Together, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way.”

Bismarck: “That’s the spirit. Let’s all work together to create a brighter future for all shipgirls-”

(Suddenly, the sound of a wooden chair breaking fills the room.)

???: “Not again!” (sighs) “Why does my big butt have to break every wooden chair I sit in? And it’s only gotten bigger now that I’m seven months into my pregnancy…”

(The shipgirls turn their attention towards the source of the commotion, seeing New Jersey standing with a broken chair underneath her.)

Illustrious: “Oh my, New Jersey! Are you alright? That chair must have been quite fragile.”

New Jersey: “Yeah, I’m fine. Just another casualty of my pregnancy weight. Guess I’ll have to start being more careful. But still, it’s like all my baby weight just went straight to my butt!”

Bismarck: “Pregnancy can certainly cause some changes in one’s body. But don’t worry, New Jersey, you still look beautiful.”

Kashino: “Congratulations on your pregnancy, New Jersey. I hope everything goes smoothly for you.”

New Jersey: “Thanks, guys. I appreciate the support. It’s just a little frustrating dealing with these changes, you know?”

Illustrious: “I can understand that. Pregnancy can be challenging both physically and emotionally. But remember, your body is doing something incredible, creating new life.”

Bismarck: “Indeed. Pregnancy is a beautiful and natural process. Embrace the changes and take care of yourself. We’re here to support you.”

New Jersey: “You’re right. I shouldn’t let these little things bother me. I just want to make sure my baby is healthy and happy.”

Kashino: “That’s the most important thing, New Jersey. Focus on taking care of yourself and your growing baby. We’ll be here to lend a hand whenever you need it. Actually, how about we head to Akashi’s shop and find a studier chair?”

New Jersey: “That sounds like a great idea, Kashino. I could definitely use a sturdier chair. And maybe some other baby essentials too.”

Illustrious: “Absolutely. Let’s go together and make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable pregnancy.”

Bismarck: “Count me in as well. Akashi’s shop has a wide variety of items, and I’m sure we’ll find something suitable for you, New Jersey.”

New Jersey: “Thank you all so much. I really appreciate your support and understanding. Let’s go find that chair and make sure I don’t break any more of them-” (gasping in pain) “-!”

Illustrious: “New Jersey, what’s wrong? Are you feeling alright?”

New Jersey: “It’s just a little cramp, nothing to worry about. I’ve been having them on and off. But let’s not waste any more time, I really need that chair.”

Kashino: “New Jersey, are you sure you’re okay? Maybe we should take you to the infirmary just to be safe.”

Bismarck: “I agree. It’s better to be cautious. We can always go to Akashi’s shop later.”

New Jersey: “No, really, it’s fine. I’ve been having these cramps for a while now and they usually go away after a bit. Let’s just get that chair first, I’ll be alright.”

Illustrious: “New Jersey, we can’t take any risks with your health. Let’s go to the infirmary and have Vestal check on you.”

New Jersey: “Alright…I suppose it’s better to be safe than sorry. Lead the way, everyone.”

(Illustrious, Bismarck, and Kashino quickly escort New Jersey to the infirmary, where Vestal is waiting. Vestal examines New Jersey and checks her vitals.)

Vestal: “Hmm, it seems like you’re experiencing some early contractions. It’s important to take these seriously, New Jersey.”

New Jersey: “Contractions? But I’m only seven months along.”

Vestal: “Preterm labor can happen, and it’s crucial to monitor it closely. I’ll do some tests and keep an eye on you.”

(Kashino and the other shipgirls wait anxiously as Vestal attends to New Jersey. After a while, Vestal emerges from the examination room - worry evident on her face.)

Vestal: “I’m sorry to say this, but New Jersey’s contractions are getting stronger and more frequent; and her cervix has started to dilate. We need to prepare for the possibility of an early delivery.”

Illustrious: “An early delivery? Is the baby going to be alright?”

Vestal: “We’ll do everything we can to ensure the baby’s safety, but premature birth does carry risks. We’ll need to closely monitor both New Jersey and the baby.”

Bismarck: “What can we do to help?”

Vestal: “Right now, New Jersey needs to remain as calm and comfortable as possible. We’ll need to keep her on bed rest and monitor her closely. It would be helpful if you could all take turns keeping her company and providing emotional support.”

Kashino: “Of course. We’ll be there for New Jersey, whatever she needs.”

Illustrious: “And what about the chair? New Jersey still needs a sturdier one.”

Vestal: “I’ll arrange for a chair to be brought to her room. In the meantime, let’s focus on her health and the well-being of the baby.”

Bismarck: “Understood. We’ll make sure New Jersey has everything she needs.”

(The shipgirls make their way back to New Jersey’s room, where she is resting in bed. They take turns sitting with her, offering words of encouragement and support. Throughout the following days, New Jersey’s contractions continue, but with Vestal’s care and monitoring, the situation remains stable. Suddenly, she lets out a scream as her cervix dilates fully - and Vestal starts panicking.)