Naval Operations Headquarters [Message Dump]

[Yaoquizque]

The deposed Emperor forces labeled as 'Exiles' launched a full scale assault in Kyushu system. Their main goal appeared to be the destruction of battleship Nagumo. Consequently, Exiles translated a battleship - presumably Battleship Nagasaki - from Tau 29 system and initiated vicious strikes against Nagumo.

The battle that followed lasted several hours.

While Exiles plan was perfectly executed, their forces were unable to critically damage Battleship Nagumo. However, the venerable ship suffered significantly, which forced the fleet to fallback to a safe location.

Nagumo is currently in planet Kyushu high orbit, its combat capabilities being restored.

I already gave orders to requisition personnel to replace casualties suffered within its crew.
For such an aging ship of the Meiji class, Nagumo endured admirably. However, some parts of the ship have been heavily damaged and will require some time to be repaired.
Incidentally, this could be a good occasion to replace some of the subsystems in order to further modernize Nagumo.

You will find the list of the casualties suffered during the battle in the appended data. I am currently going through it to announce their sacrifice to their respective relatives.

Intel gathered by our long range scanners and scouting wings state the Exiles have translated two battleships in Kyushu system - including the battleship that served as spearhead in Nagumo assault.
Their current position is unknown. Orders have already been given to locate them and then keep a close eye on them. Patrols have also been significantly increased in the system.

Both sides saw heroes die for the cause they believed to be just. It is always a sad day to see Kusarians kill Kusarians.

The behavior of the group designed as 343rd appears to have significantly changed. While they initially appeared to be willing to limit casualties within the Naval Forces, the last event displayed a lack of concern and even disdain for the lives of the ones serving the House of Kusari.
We are an obstacle to their will to seize back the power that once was theirs. This attack demonstrated they will go for anything to achieve that goal, be it slain all those who oppose them. This, ironically, makes them quite similar to Blood Dragons.

That said, I have sadly to report some peculiar points :
Two battle-cruisers failed to join the battle upon arriving on site; Heavy units Akatsuki and Shinano.
Akatsuki commanding officer plainly refused the order to protect Nagumo claiming his conscience dictated him to not fire at fellow kusarians and former brothers.
Shinano commanding officer stated the ship power core suddenly stopped to function correctly. It may be a case of sabotage. Technicians sent to Shinano might tell us more about this oddity.

Lastly, such an event unfortunately confirmed relevance about the concerns raised within Admirals circle about the lack of priority given to the defense of West Quadrant. This however does not discharge me of my responsibility in this disaster. I have taken all the measures I found to be necessary, and am ready to pass the reins on someone more competent.

Sakamoto Ryoma.

---