Chapter 104: Weather Manipulation, Urgent Mission, Planning with Maria +18

You move to an open section of deck, away from the helicopters and equipment. First step: establish the Scrying target. You close your eyes and focus, Imagining toward the Mojave Desert - a location you have saved on maps, far enough inland to test range without risking populated areas.

The spell forms smoothly, your awareness suddenly splitting. Through the Scrying sensor, you see sand and scrub brush, early morning light casting long shadows across dunes. The location feels stable, clear.

"Alright," you murmur to yourself. "Now for the hand."

You cast Spectral Hand, the translucent construct materializing beside you - then immediately follow with Greater Teleport, targeting the hand to the Scrying location. Then the hand appears in your Scrying vision, hovering above the desert sand.

The mana cost is negligable - maintaining Scrying and the teleported hand simultaneously creates a tiny drain. But it's working.

You cast Change Weather, centering it on the Spectral Hand's position. Through Scrying, you watch as clouds begin forming impossibly fast over the desert, darkening and thickening. Within minutes, rain starts falling - heavy precipitation in what should be arid landscape.

The effect holds for several minutes before you deliberately release the spells, letting everything collapse.

You open your eyes fully, breathing out slowly. It worked. The range limitation on weather magic just became irrelevant, assuming you can Scry or teleport to the target location first.

"That was impressive," C.C.'s voice comes from behind you. You turn to find her leaning against a nearby equipment crate, watching with her usual detached interest. "Though I hope you're not planning to cause flash floods randomly."

"Just testing capabilities," you tell her. "If we can manipulate weather at extended range, that opens up strategic options. Agricultural support, defensive screening, even humanitarian aid to drought regions."

"Assuming you can coordinate and maintain it accurately," C.C. points out. "Forget you have it active when your growing harem drags you to the bedroom and you could sink a city."

"That, would be both tragic and hilarious, But yes. making notes of which spells are active where will be a vital thing to track by the hour when we upscale... Weather can be selectively placed cheaply once established."

C.C. nods slowly. "You're thinking long-term infrastructure, not just tactical use."

"Exactly. Though..."

You pause, considering the implications. The ability to cause or prevent rain anywhere you can Scry to is enormous power. The kind that could reshape agriculture, break sieges, or devastate enemies.

"Just be careful," C.C. says quietly, as if reading your thoughts. "Weather manipulation has historically caused more problems than it solved."

"Noted," you agree. "For now, this stays experimental. No large-scale deployment without extensive testing. On a different note, Teleportation has almost been confirmed stable, while dimensional travel remains unavailable, a question to start considering... If I succeed in opening a Gate to your world, do you want to return? The original Code Geass story is on the media library Bulma is setting up, I advise watching the original story, both for yourself and listing any differences you can spot if you want to return. "

C.C. tilts her head slightly, considering your question with that characteristic detached interest. "Return to my world?" She's quiet for a moment, golden eyes studying you. "That's assuming you can even open a Gate there. The dimensional barriers might not cooperate."

"But if I can?" you press gently.

"Then I'd need to think about it," she says, surprisingly forthright. "My world has... complications. Geass users, political manipulation, endless cycles of violence. You mentioned Lelouch vi Britannia was trying to break that cycle, when I last saw him he was a child." She pauses. "Watching the original timeline would help, yes. See what was supposed to happen versus what actually did."

"No pressure," you assure her. "Just something to consider as the magic-ology develops."

"Noted," C.C. says with a slight smile. "Though I suspect you'll have more urgent matters than my nostalgia."

You leave her on the flight deck and make your way through the ship's corridors. The morning crew is beginning to stir - you pass Erza and Musashi organizing equipment, Yoruichi napping in a chair under the sunlight.

You find Robin in one of the observation lounges, looking out at the Pacific. She turns as you approach, that calm analytical expression softening slightly.

"Morning," you greet her. "Can we talk for a minute?"

"Of course." She gestures to the seating area.

You settle across from her. "I wanted to ask you something. If I succeed in opening a Gate to your homeworld - and that's still theoretical - would you want to return?"

Robin's expression becomes more guarded, thoughtful. "To the Grand Line? To continue searching for the Poneglyphs?"

"That quest that can't be done alone." you confirm. "The historical truths you were searching for."

She's quiet for a long moment, hands folded in her lap. "In that world, I'm hunted. The World Government has a bounty on me that makes me a target for Marines, bounty hunters, pirates seeking reputation. Civilians turn me in for the reward money."

"I warned you about that," you say gently. "People here who learn your story might want you for different reasons. Beauty, knowledge, companionship... myself included, as we've acknowledged."

"Yes." Robin meets your eyes directly. "Here, I'm wanted for who I am. There, I'm wanted for what I represent - a threat to the World Government's version of history."

"So you're saying..."

"I'm saying I need time to think about it," Robin says carefully. "The Poneglyphs represent the truth of the Void Century, the real history that was erased. That quest mattered deeply to me. But..." She pauses. "The circumstances here are different. I have choices I never had before."

"Which is why I'm making sure to give you this choice. Take whatever time you need," you tell her. "The option isn't ready yet anyway. And for what it's worth, I hope you'll consider staying. But that has to be your decision."

Robin's lips curve in a small, genuine smile. "Thank you for asking instead of assuming. That alone says a great deal."

You stand, giving her space to think. Around you, the Anchorage continues its morning routines.

You pause mid-thought, recognizing the conversations are getting heavier than intended this early in the morning. Time for a different approach.

"Nova, Violet - urgent mission," you send through the telepathy web with mock-seriousness. "Equip recreational swimming clothing and report to the well deck ASAP."

There's a moment of confused silence, then Nova's reply comes through with amusement coloring her mental voice. "Swimming clothing? Are we under attack by aquatic zombies?"

"Just get down here," you tell her, already heading for the stairs.

You reach the well deck first - the massive space sealed and dry, the two jet skis sitting idle where they were stored. You position yourself next to them with arms crossed, waiting.

Nova arrives first, wearing a sleek black two-piece that somehow manages to look tactical despite being swimwear. She raises an eyebrow at your stance. "Inspecting the troops, Commander?"

"Just appreciating proper equipment selection," you reply with a grin. "Looks good."

Violet appears moments later in a simple blue one-piece, her hands folding neatly in front of her as she approaches. "I apologize for the delay. I was uncertain which garment would be appropriate."

"That's perfect," you assure her warmly. "Both of you look ready for some actual recreation instead of endless strategic planning."

Nova's eyes narrow slightly as she processes your words. "Wait. This isn't actually urgent?"

"That depends on your opinion of urgent..." You gesture to the jet skis. "Mount up and start the engines."

Violet moves to comply immediately, her military conditioning showing as she settles onto one jet ski and examines the controls. Nova follows with visible skepticism but can't quite hide her growing smile.

Both engines roar to life, echoing in the enclosed space.

"Perfect," you say, then cast Gate directly beneath both vehicles.

The circular portals open to reveal Pacific waters below. Both jet skis drop through with surprised yelps from their riders, splashing into the ocean just outside the Anchorage's hull.

"Have fun," you send through the telepathy web as the Gate closes. "I'll open a return portal when you're ready to come back."

Nova's mental laughter comes through clearly. "You absolute bastard. This is amazing!"

"Thank you," Violet sends more formally, though you can sense genuine delight underneath. "This is... unexpected."

You open another Gate inside the well deck, this one showing the ocean surface outside the ship from a safe vantage point. Through it, you can see both women already racing their jet skis, water spray catching morning sunlight.

"Anyone else want a turn?" you broadcast generally through the telepathy web.

"Are you just giving people jet ski rides now?" C.C. responds dryly. "I thought we had magical infrastructure to manage."

"We do. But watching all of you actually relax is infrastructure too."

There's a pause, then: "Fair point. Carry on."

You watch through the viewing Gate for another minute as Nova and Violet race across the Pacific waters, their laughter carrying through the magical portal. The spontaneous recreation seems to be exactly what both needed.

Turning away, you head back into the ship's corridors with the intention of finding Albedo. You've been meaning to check in with her.

You don't make it far.

Kurumi appears from a side passage, her hand catching your wrist with surprising firmness. Before you can react, she's pulled you into the narrow hallway, pressing you against the bulkhead.

"You need this," she says simply, her golden eyes gleaming with amusement as she leans in to kiss you.

She's not wrong. The morning has been productive but tense - the weather testing, the homeworld conversations, all important but draining. Kurumi's lips are soft and insistent, her body warm against yours as she deepens the kiss.

Your hands move to her waist automatically, but she guides them upward with deliberate intent, slipping them beneath her gothic dress to cup her breasts. The fabric shifts easily, granting access as she sighs into your mouth.

After several minutes she murmurs, "That's better," pulling back slightly. Her smile is knowing, almost smug. "You were getting too serious again."

She steps away, leaving you distinctly aroused and somewhat off-balance. "Go find whoever you were looking for," she suggests sweetly. "I'm sure they'll appreciate the... energy."

With that, she vanishes back down the corridor, leaving you hard and frustrated in the hallway.

You take a breath, adjusting yourself, then change course. Albedo can wait - right now you need to address what Kurumi deliberately started. You reach out through the telepathy web. "Maria? Where are you?"

"Galley storage," comes her immediate response. "Organizing supplies. Do you need something?"

"Yes. Can you meet me in my motorhome?"

There's a pause, then her mental tone shifts to understanding amusement. "Someone got to you, didn't they? I'll be there in two minutes. Who was it?"

"Kurumi."

You make your way to your quarters, finding Maria already waiting outside when you arrive. She's wearing her usual short skirt and revealing top, her expression both knowing and welcoming.

"Let me guess," she says as you unlock the door. "She kissed you thoroughly, got you worked up, then left you hanging?"

"Something like that."

Maria laughs softly, following you inside. "She does that. Kurumi enjoys the setup more than the follow-through sometimes." She closes the door behind her, then moves close. "Lucky for you, I'm much more interested in finishing what others start."

Her hands move to your belt with ease. "Besides," she adds, sinking gracefully to her knees, "I've been wanting some private time with you anyway. The group sessions are wonderful, but sometimes individual attention is better."

She looks up at you with violet eyes that hold both affection and clear intent. "Relax. Let me take care of this."

Maria's hands work with efficiency, her violet eyes locked on yours with genuine affection as she takes her time. You reciprocate by pulling her up after several minutes, guiding her onto the bed and returning the attention with deliberate care.

She sighs contentedly as you work, her fingers threading through your hair. "You didn't have to," she murmurs, though her body language says otherwise.

"Yes I did," you tell her between movements. "Fair's fair."

When you're both satisfied, Maria stretches luxuriously beside you on the bed. "Much better than Kurumi just leaving you hanging," she says with a grin. "Though I'm sure that was her plan all along - make sure you come looking for someone."

"Probably," you agree, sitting up and reaching for clothes. "Speaking of planning ahead - I need to talk about the contract ceremony with Nami at noon."

Maria rolls onto her side, propping her head on one hand. "What about it?"

"I want to keep her virgin for another day," you say plainly. "The contract itself is important enough without adding virginity loss to the same event. Too much emotional weight all at once. Plus, i just want "

Maria considers this, nodding slowly. "That's actually wise. The contract bond is intense by itself - combining it with first intercourse while common is avoided when optional. Better to let her process one milestone at a time."

"If she wants to lose her virginity, we can do it once the contract's made and she's had time to understand what the contract feels like."

"Does Nami know this is your plan?" Maria asks.

"Not yet. I'll tell her before we start. I don't want her expecting something I'm not planning to deliver today."

Maria stands, smoothing her skirt back into place. "She'll probably appreciate the consideration. Nami's been processing a lot lately - you naming her captain, choosing to stay, accepting the contract, making your not-so-secret relationship public. Pacing the intimacy progression makes sense."

"The contract itself," you say. "I'm thinking a small dominance-play, maybe get Mikasa and You to strip in front of her and to tease her."

She steps closer and traces a finger along your chest. "Mikasa will enjoy that role. She likes showing her obedience. It can help her understand the dynamic."

You fasten your belt. "Good. Bring Mikasa with you to the bridge, I'll order her to strip in front of Nami and fondle her a bit to emphasize that I'm a horny master."

Maria chuckles a moment before tilting her head. "And me?"

"Stay dressed until Nami kneels. Then strip slowly while you explain the contract clauses. Let her see everything she will gain and lose." You say as you open the door for her.

Making your way through the corridors toward one of the observation decks overlooking the ocean. The morning sun has climbed higher now, casting bright reflections across the Pacific's surface.

When you reach the deck, you spot the Gate you left open earlier - the magical portal still hovering near the railing, showing the waters outside the ship. Through it, you can see both jet skis racing across the waves.

Nova and Violet aren't alone anymore. Yoruichi has joined them on a third jet ski - you realize someone must have gone near shore to get another one while you were occupied with Maria. Laughing as she cuts sharp turns through the water, her purple hair streaming behind her.

"Having fun out there?" you send through the telepathy web.

"This is incredible!" Violet responds immediately, her mental voice carrying genuine excitement you've rarely heard from her. "The acceleration, the spray, the freedom of movement - I understand now why people enjoy recreational vehicles."

Nova's reply comes with dry amusement. "She's been giving me a technical breakdown of jet ski engineering for the past ten minutes. I'm learning more than I ever wanted to know about impeller systems."

"It seemed relevant to share," Violet sends back, sounding slightly defensive.

Yoruichi cuts into the conversation." Don't listen to Nova - Violet's enthusiasm is adorable. Though I'm winning this race regardless of impeller efficiency."

"You've had three more minutes of practice," Nova counters. "Give me five minutes and we'll see who's winning."

Through the Gate, you watch Yoruichi deliberately spray a wave of water toward Nova's jet ski. Nova responds by accelerating hard, her psionic reflexes translating perfectly to the vehicle's handling.

"Anyone else want a turn?" you broadcast generally through the web. "We've got the Gate open and apparently multiple jet skis now."

Erza's voice comes through from somewhere in the ship. "I'm organizing supplies. Maybe later."

Kurumi responds with teasing interest. "Tempting, but I'm enjoying watching the chaos from the galley viewport. Musashi just asked if she could take her swords on a jet ski. I don't think that's how water sports work."

You lean against the railing, watching the three women race across the ocean. Nova executes a sharp turn that sends spray flying, while Violet maintains a more controlled but steady pace. Yoruichi weaves between them both, clearly showing off.

The spontaneous recreation is working exactly as intended - giving everyone a chance to decompress.