Chapter 2:

Departure

Saga of Saturn: Benevolent Processor


The majestic doors leading from Deae Turris to the launch pad swung open with a flourish. The resounding chants of millions of supporters reverberated throughout the towering skyscraper. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as the people of Plansanturia gathered to bid a fond farewell to their cherished leaders, Saturn and Plutonia. Navy soldiers of the Plansanturia SDF stood with solemn reverence, forming an honor guard on either side of the lengthy aisle. Their rifles were held high, a symbol of respect and homage as the procession advanced toward the imposing L-Von-Class Battleship, affectionately named "Jellyfish" by Saturn herself.

Tears glistened in the eyes of many, moved by the emotional departure. The heartfelt cheers cascaded like a waterfall, creating a chorus of love and unwavering support for their esteemed leaders. The crowd's chanting transformed into a symphony of well-wishes, from simple yet sincere phrases like "May your journey be safe" to profound expressions of "You hold our hearts."

Saturn stood tall, her radiant DED form emanating an aura of strength and determination. Draped in the traditional white officer uniform, a symbol passed down from the very first Processor of their nation, her eyes glimmered with resolve. A genuine smile adorned her lips, reflecting the depth of her gratitude to her devoted believers. By her side, Plutonia exuded grace and composure, her demeanor reflecting the profound impact of the farewell.

In harmonious unison, the sisters raised their hands in a graceful wave, acknowledging the crowd that stretched out before them. Their synchronized gesture conveyed not just gratitude but an unspoken promise to uphold the hopes and dreams of their people. As they ascended the ramp of the Jellyfish, ready to embark on their journey, their eyes met, sharing a moment of profound connection. With a final glance toward their supporters, Saturn and Plutonia carried the warmth of their people's love within their hearts, fueling their determination to face the challenges ahead.

Amidst the fervent cheers, a hushed and delicate voice struggled to cut through the fervent cheers, capturing attention from the opposite side of the aisle. Emerging into view was a fairy-like being, her presence captivating and ethereal. Fair skin, dull blue eyes, and soft blonde hair framed her delicate features. Bangs gracefully curled, cascading to her chest, while the rest of her hair was styled in pigtails adorned with an intricate white, black, and blue headpiece. Draped in a loose white dress with delicate spiked ruffle lining and elegant gold accents, she emanated an air of regality. A neatly tied tie added a touch of sophistication to her attire. Her wings, resembling the spread wings of a butterfly, pulsed with neon hues akin to a starlit sky. Their soft holographic glow cast an enchanting aura, creating an otherworldly effect. Despite her stature of 3'10", her role as the nation's motherboard imbued her with immense power and authority.

After a brief pause, the fairy-like girl gracefully ascended, drawing closer to Saturn. With a disappointed tone, she began to lift her soft and endearing voice, her clenched fists and gentle demeanor showing no signs of threat, yet carrying an air of authority. Her words, though devoid of aggression, held undeniable weight.

"Saturn, where are you suddenly off to with Plutonia? Why was no one at the Crown Assembly informed? Do you realize the potential problems that an abrupt departure like this could cause?"

Saturn, standing with her signature confident posture, interjected with her customary DED pride, "Histoikie, I apologize, but the call from Lklandkeeling came unexpectedly. I had little time to convey anything."

However, Histoikie remained unimpressed, her expression revealing her dissatisfaction with the explanation. She continued to admonish Saturn, highlighting the potential consequences of their actions. Before Plutonia could even utter a word, Histoikie's reproachful words continued.

"Plutonia, you especially. I expected greater wisdom from you. The last time both of you vanished without notice, it led to widespread panic and nearly ignited the 5th Galactic War."

Saturn and Plutonia exchanged a brief, meaningful glance, their mutual understanding evident. In unison, they humbly responded, "We deeply apologize."

The weight of Histoikie's words lingered, a reminder of their responsibility not only as leaders but also as symbols of stability and unity for the nation.

Histoikie's exasperation gradually softened as she recognized the sincerity in Saturn and Plutonia's eyes. With a composed nod, she gathered her composure, waving them off as they stepped onto the ship. The ground quivered beneath them as the mighty engines of the Jellyfish roared to life, a testament to the colossal power residing within the vessel.

"Take care out there," Histoikie's voice held a blend of concern and care. "And come back safely."

Saturn's confident smile returned as she responded, "Rest assured, Histoikie. We'll handle matters on Lklandkeeling and be back before you know it."

Plutonia's nod carried a determined assurance. "You can count on us."

With those words, the grand doors of the battleship began to close, slowly muffling the cheers of the crowd. The ambient noise of the crowd was soon overwhelmed by the rumble and hum of the massive six thrusters. The L-Von class battleship stood as an awe-inspiring behemoth, measuring a staggering 3,683 meters and boasting a remarkable mass of 180 million metric tons. This vessel, accompanied by a diverse array of support ships in the Plansanturian Navy, symbolized the nation's commitment to maintaining peace within the galaxy. Plansanturia's recent pledge to a peaceful policy had led to a strategic focus on a capable self-defense force, rather than a full-fledged military—a decision influenced by the controversies stirred by past processors.

As the Jellyfish gracefully ascended, Histoikie's emotions swirled within her. While she had faith in Saturn and Plutonia's abilities as processors, her role as a close friend and advisor led to a natural concern about the potential challenges they might face.

She intertwined her fingers, her wings shimmering gently as she offered a quiet prayer for their safety and triumph. "May the divine watch over your journey. And next time, perhaps inform us of your departure reasons."

With the Jellyfish soaring skyward, Plansanturia's bustling cityscape dwindled below. Saturn excused herself momentarily, slipping into a nearby restroom and locking the door behind her. She reverted to her original appearance in a flash of light, clad in her previous attire. However, she couldn't resist keeping her officer's peaked cap perched on her head.

Upon emerging from the restroom, Saturn encountered Plutonia, who wore an amused grin. "Ahoj, Sis! Ready to embark on this voyage into uncharted waters?" Saturn's eyes twinkled with mischief as she tilted her head playfully, holding her visor like a captain inspecting her ship.

The two arrived at the helm of the ship and everyone within the room stood up and saluted following up with a shout "Aye Aye Captain S"

"Captain S?" questioned Plutonia with a face filled with curiosity.

Saturn smugly turned around, "Aye Aye secondary captain PP."

She then turned back to everyone in the command room and walked up to an old-school wooden ship wheel and with one hand grabbed the top.

"Oki comrades of this fine ship. You can all stand down and get in positions to ready for the rift. Up ahead we are sailing into open seas and even if a Kraken hunts us down we won't go out without a fight."

"Aye Captain S"

The room fell into sudden chaos as everyone ran to their positions. Saturn stood waiting in patience still gripping the wooden wheel and Plutonia's eyes moved around rapidly all around the room in excitement.

"Alright ya'll it is time to set sail for Likandadaling."

Everyone in the room looked in confusion.

Her sister breaking the silence.

"It's L-kland-kee-ling, thats how you say it."

Saturn lifted her head and voiced herself to everyone once more.

"To L-klly-keyring." Saturn stood with absolute confidence without a look of embarrassment.

Plutonia simply sighed and muttered to herself. " I guess that Nation vocabulary lesson did nothing."