Two weeks have passed since that race, and for Simon and Stay Gold it was a fun and meaningful two weeks since they both came to the world of Azur Lane.
During those two weeks, Simon also became more acquainted with and closer to the shipgirls at the Royal Navy and Eagle Union ports. As for Sakura Empire, it could be said that, aside from Kaga and Akagi, who were still a little hesitant about collaborating, Simon became close with everyone.
Since then, Stay Gold's popularity has increased rapidly, and many have asked him to race again. It seems the shipgirls have found a new pastime for themselves, away from simply hunting abyssal creatures with their torpedoes and cannons.
The alliances were fragile threads, woven slowly across the divided seas of Azur Lane. The Royal Navy and Eagle Union had begun to coordinate patrols, sharing reconnaissance data and even running joint simulations. Whispers of this budding cooperation had reached the Sakura Empire, leading to tentative discussions and a few shared exercises.
But one faction remained aloof, shrouded in the cold mists of the North Atlantic: Iron Blood. Led by the indomitable Bismarck, they pursued their own path, experimenting with captured Siren technology in fortified bases, their red-and-black banners a symbol of unyielding resilience. They had no love for the other factions—old grudges from world wars lingered like rust on steel—but the Sirens' escalating threats were forcing even them to reconsider isolation.
It started with a encrypted signal, intercepted by Royal Navy scouts during a routine patrol. The message was brief, coded in Iron Blood's distinctive cipher, but Belfast's sharp mind cracked it within hours. "They're requesting a neutral meeting," she reported to Queen Elizabeth in the command center, her voice calm as she poured tea. "Coordinates in the mid-Atlantic, no escorts beyond a single representative from each side. They mention 'the Digger' by name."
Queen Elizabeth set her cup down with a clink, her small face scrunched in thought. "Hmph. Iron Blood reaching out? That's new. Bismarck must be feeling the pressure from the Sirens' recent incursions." She glanced at Simon, who stood by the window with Stay Gold, Lagann's holographic schematic projected on the table between them. "You'll go, of course. You're the one they've heard about."
Simon nodded, his adult frame casting a long shadow in the room's dim light. His red cape hung over the back of a chair, and the Core Drill pulsed faintly at his neck, a constant reminder of the power he was slowly unlocking. "Makes sense. If they're curious about Spiral Power, better to show them firsthand." He turned to Stay Gold, who was fiddling with a map, her equine ears twitching with excitement. "You up for a sea trip?"
Stay Gold grinned, her dark brown and light ocher yellow hair catching the light. "Always, Trainer! I've been itching for a new track to run. Besides, these Iron Blood girls sound tough—like they'd make great rivals in a sprint."
Enterprise, joining via holographic link from her carrier group, added her voice. "Be careful. Bismarck doesn't do small talk. If they're calling, it's because they need something—or they're testing you."
The meeting point was a desolate patch of ocean, far from any major shipping lanes, where the waves rolled gray and relentless under a leaden sky. Simon and Stay Gold arrived aboard a Royal Navy cruiser, escorted by Belfast as the neutral representative. Enterprise's group hovered on the horizon, a subtle show of support, while a Sakura Empire scout plane circled high above—Akagi's way of saying they were watching too.
In the distance, the Iron Blood fleet materialized like ghosts from the fog. Simon could clearly see standing a tall, slender woman with a serious and determined look, reflecting her role as the leader of the Iron Blood fleet. She had long blonde hair and striking blue eyes. She wore a distinctive black, high-necked military uniform with gold accents and red lining, similar to the uniform of the Kriegsmarine. Her attire was complemented by a black and red cape with white fur on the bottom, a black pencil skirt, thigh-high socks and knee-high boots with fur, white gloves, and a black military cap. As her flagship, she carried a scepter and rigging that included four double-barreled gun turrets and a conning tower on her back, indicating her status and combat prowess.
Beside her stands a woman depicted as tall and graceful, often referred to as the "Lone Queen of the North." Her appearance emphasizes the cold yet elegant German military aesthetic. She has long silver or grayish-white hair and blue eyes. Her primary attire is dark, combining black, gray, and red accents. It is a strict military-style outfit with elements such as a coat or short cape. Her attire features gold and silver ornate details, reflecting her rank and Iron Blood (German) affiliation. She wears a Bismarck-style military cap with matching insignia, gloves, and high boots. Her rigging is massive and imposing, resembling the prow and gun turrets of real warships. The rigging is predominantly steel gray and black, with large cannon barrels protruding from the back and sides. Her design reflects the image of a powerful and formidable warship. Her facial expression is serious, calm, and slightly melancholic, which aligns with her lonely nickname.
Bismarck. Shipgirl Type: Battleship. Faction: Iron Blood. Fleet leader, main antagonist in the anime, and possessing exceptional combat capabilities.
and her sister ship, Tirpitz. Shipgirl Type: Battleship.
Faction: Iron Blood (Germany).
Class: Bismarck-class (sister ship of the Bismarck).
Another shipgirl stood to the Bismarck's left, a tall, elegant, and strikingly attractive young woman with a poised and slightly provocative demeanor, who smiled slyly as she watched Simon approach them.
Her hair was long, flowing, silvery gray. She had bangs that partially covered her forehead and eyes. Her eyes were a fiery red, with a playful, inviting expression. Her skin was pale and clear. She had a curvaceous and well-proportioned figure, which was emphasized in the design of her clothing. She wore a modified German military-style outfit, dominated by black, red, and white. The outfit was tight, with a low neckline, and a miniskirt. She wore mismatched thigh-high socks; one was white and the other black, with red accents at the top. She wore long gloves on both hands, black with military accents. She wore a small military beret with the German eagle naval emblem on the front. Her rigging was massive and impressive, consisting of a ship's hull mounted on her back, which resembled steel wings and reinforcements. The rigging features numerous artillery pieces, including the triple-barrel guns typical of heavy cruisers. The rigging is predominantly gray and black, with bright red accents on the gun barrels or engine parts.
Prinz Eugen. A Heavy Cruiser maiden of the Iron Blood (German) faction, known for her toughness, survivability (as a premium ship), and role as Bismarck's right-hand woman in espionage and diplomatic affairs, as well as her elusive, mature charm. She is a highly adaptable and battle-experienced Admiral Hipper-class ship, even nicknamed the "phoenix" for her indestructibility. and behind her stand two other shipgirl.
A short woman with a militaristic style typical of the Iron Blood (German) faction. She has a neat and serious appearance, reflecting her determined personality. She has short, shoulder-length platinum blonde hair adorned with a black, red, and yellow ribbon patterned with an Iron Cross. Her eyes are a piercing blue. She wears a white, double-breasted dress with silver buttons and trimmings over a black turtleneck. She also wears a navy blue tailcoat with flowing yellow trimmings resembling a cape, black cycling shorts, maroon ankle-high socks with fasteners, and red heels.
Her look is completed by a blue beret with a lace ribbon, split black sleeves, white gloves, and a red and blue armband on her left shoulder.
As a destroyer, her equipment includes a large artillery mount on her rear, a reference to the 15cm light cruiser guns mounted on her class of ships in real life.
The other shipgirl is a petite girl with an energetic appearance. She has short silver hair tied to the side and pink eyes. Her attire is military-inspired, typical of the Ironblood faction (Germany). She wears a white double-breasted dress top over a sleeveless black tailcoat with a sharp collar. Her accessories include a white ascot, a gold aiguillette with black, yellow, and red bands, and an iron cross motif attached to the armband on her left shoulder. She wears white gloves, navy blue stocking garters, gray and red pumps, and a navy soft hat. Her rigging features five 12.7 cm SK C/34 main guns in single mounts, positioned on her sides, at her waist, matching the placement of the guns on the original ship. She has eight 53.3 cm torpedo tubes above the water in two powered mounts that appear to be part of her combat gear. Anti-Aircraft Guns: Secondary and anti-aircraft (AA) armament was also integrated, including 3.7 cm and 2 cm guns, although these were perhaps less visually prominent than the main guns and torpedo tubes.
The two destroyer girls are Z23, or often called "Nimi" by the players, She is a 1936A class ship, which focuses on firepower and can use Light Cruiser weapons for greater damage and Z1 German Type 1934 destroyer, Z1 Leberecht Maass
Bismarck's massive form at the center, her rigging a fortress of steel and cannons. Tirpitz flanked her, silent and imposing. Prinz Eugen cruised alongside with her signature sly grace, and a handful of destroyers—Z23 and Z1—formed a tight perimeter. No aggression, but the air hummed with potential energy, like a coiled spring.
Bismarck's voice boomed over the open channel as Simon's cruiser pulled alongside. "Simon the Digger. We've monitored your actions. The Sirens fear you—or at least, they're adapting to you. We propose a discussion. Board my deck. Alone, with your companion."
Simon exchanged a glance with Stay Gold. "Showtime."
Lagann activated with a low hum, taking off from the cruiser's deck. Simon slid into the cockpit, rotating the Core Drill into place. Stay Gold leaped onto his lap, resting her head on his chest as the mecha glided over the waves toward the Bismarck. The transition was smooth, Lagann landing lightly on the battleship's forward deck. The Iron Blood's crew—shipgirls in crisp uniforms—watched with wary curiosity.
Bismarck stood waiting, her tall figure commanding, arms crossed over her chest. Her blonde hair framed a face etched with determination, her eyes like sharpened steel. Tirpitz loomed nearby, her presence a quiet thunder. Prinz Eugen leaned against a turret, smiling faintly.
"Welcome aboard," Bismarck said, her German accent thick but clear. "I am Bismarck, commander of Iron Blood. This is my sister Tirpitz, and Prinz Eugen. We do not often invite outsiders, but times demand flexibility."
Simon stepped out of Lagann, offering a nod. "Thanks for the invite. I'm Simon, this is Stay Gold. We've heard a lot about Iron Blood's strength."
Stay Gold waved, her tail swishing. "Hi! Your ships look super solid—like they could take a hit from anything and keep going. Kinda reminds me of endurance races back home."
Prinz Eugen chuckled softly. "Flattery from a land-runner? Charming. But let's not waste time. We've seen reports of your alliances forming. Royal Navy, Eagle Union, even whispers from Sakura. Why should Iron Blood join?"
Tirpitz spoke up, her voice low and measured. "We stand alone because we must. Our experiments with Siren tech give us an edge, but they also make us targets. Trusting others… risks exposure."
Simon leaned against Lagann, crossing his arms. "I get it. You're self-reliant, and that's worked so far. But the Sirens are ramping up. Bigger fleets, smarter tactics. We've started coordinating—sharing intel, running joint ops. It's not about giving up independence; it's about hitting harder together."
Stay Gold nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah! Like in a team relay—you keep your style, but the handoffs make everyone faster. We've fought Sirens with the Royals and Eagles, and it works."
Bismarck's eyes narrowed. "Words are easy. Show us this 'Spiral Power' of yours. If it's as revolutionary as they say, perhaps we talk more."
Before Simon could respond, the ocean trembled.
A low whine built in the air, the water bubbling as crimson veins spread across the surface—the telltale sign of a mirror sea forming. The fog thickened unnaturally, and from the depths, a massive Siren entity emerged:
She wears a tight, futuristic outfit, predominantly black, purple, and bright neon blue accents. Her outfit features the signature Siren-like glowing stripes. She has long, silvery-white hair, and a calm, slightly sneering expression. Her eyes are a mix of purple and bright pink, with a glowing effect. Her battle gear is massive and complex, floating behind her. This rigging appears to be a sleek, mechanical structure with pointed parts, dark in color with the same neon glow, and features elements such as wings and mechanical tentacles. Her overall appearance exudes a cold, superior, and menacing aura.
Observer Alpha, a siren girl who is a key character of the Siren faction
Observer Alpha, its ethereal form hovering above the waves like a digital specter. Tentacles of energy lashed out, elite enforcer units materializing around it in perfect arrays—battleships, carriers, destroyers, all glowing with violet malice.
Observer's voice echoed, synthetic and mocking. "Intriguing convergence detected. Iron Blood and the Spiral anomaly in one place. Optimal for elimination. Commence data harvest."
Bismarck's rigging flared to life, cannons swiveling. "Sirens. They followed us—or you."
Prinz Eugen smirked, though her eyes were sharp. "A welcome party. How thoughtful."
Simon spun the Core Drill. "No time for blame. Let's finish this." He immediately jumped back into the Lagann's cockpit, his hands once again gripping the mecha's control levers tightly.
Stay Gold jumped onto his lap. "Right behind you, Trainer!" Her head rested on his shoulder as Simon began channeling his spiral energy into the Lagann, making the engine roar loudly.
The battle erupted in a fury of steel and energy.
Observer Alpha directed the assault with cold precision, its tentacles whipping out to ensnare Bismarck's ship. Elite Siren vessels opened fire, beams slicing through the fog. Iron Blood responded in kind—Bismarck's main guns thundered, shattering a Siren cruiser in a single salvo. Tirpitz laid down suppressing fire, her shots precise and unrelenting. Prinz Eugen's torpedoes streaked through the water, detonating in bursts of foam and debris.
But the Sirens adapted fast. Mirror duplicates appeared, confusing targeting systems. A tentacle slammed into Bismarck's deck, rocking the ship.
Simon launched Lagann, its drill whirring. "Stay gold—search the sides! Find a path to the core!"
"On it!" She immediately traced the Sirens' trajectory from inside Lagann's cockpit. This was also one of the features Akashi had added to the mecha during his repairs. A digital screen appeared in front of her as Lagann's cameras continuously displayed new images and analysis.
Lagann dove into the fray, Simon channeling Spiral Power in controlled bursts. A small Giga Drill Break punched through a Siren destroyer, but Observer countered with a energy barrier, forcing him back.
Iron Blood held the line, but the numbers were overwhelming. "We need to break that command unit," Bismarck shouted over the din.
Simon gritted his teeth. This is bigger than the last one. My strength isn't enough—it's sealed too tightly. He glanced at Stay Gold, who sat on his lap, remaining calm and a beacon of determination.
"Trainer!" she called, looking up at him after finishing looking at the live screen. "The point is open on the left—but it's heavily guarded!"
That's when it hit him. Unity. Not just with the factions, but with her.
Then a transmission from Akashi appeared on the screen. The cat girl looked rushed, her hair a mess, and her eyes even had thick dark circles.
["Nya~ Mrrr~, your request is ready, Simon-san. It's on its way to you, nya~"] The girl yawned a few times while rubbing her eyes. She had clearly been up all night for the past few days.
Hearing this, Simon smiled broadly, a bright, determined light in his eyes. Just what I needed he thought happily and contentedly. "Thanks, Akashi. I'll definitely give you a reward when I get back," he said, smiling gratefully at the repair girl.
["Mrrr~ I'll be waiting for it, Simon-san,"] the cat girl purred with a tired smile. The transmission immediately died.
"Stay gold—unite! Our determination is shared!"
He nodded, his eyes sharp. "Let's do it!" She hugged Simon tighter and channeled her own determination into him.
At that moment, a mecha appeared, its primary colors being crimson (which is the meaning of "Gurren" in Japanese) and bold orange, with accents of yellow, white, and black. Its most distinctive feature was the fact that almost the entire body of the mecha, especially the chest, was designed to resemble a large, toothy face. This gave it a menacing and bold expression, reflecting the spirit of the character.
The mecha was seen wearing Kamina's (then Simon's) iconic pointed sunglasses, which functioned as an eyepatch or forehead protector. Kamina's iconic Gurren mecha glided swiftly over the ocean surface and flew directly toward Lagann.
Simon focused, the Core Drill glowing brighter. Stay Gold remained at his side, her hand grasping his shoulder. Their bond surged—memories of training, races won, truck accidents that bound them forever.
Spiral Energy erupted, green flames enveloping Lagann. "GURREN LAGANN MODE!"
The Lagann lifted into the air, and the Gurren, still gliding swiftly through the seawater, positioned itself directly beneath it, merging into one massive mecha. The Lagann's drill pierced the Gurren's core as their cores became even more powerful—its drill was enormous, its form towering over them. Stay Gold's energy increased its size, its spirit strengthening the spiral.
There stood GURREN LAGANN in all its glory, the mecha was much larger than its original size in the anime, the powerful combination of Simon and Stay Gold transformed the mecha into something far beyond its original form.
GURREN LAGANN towered over the battlefield—a god of war forged from unbreakable determination.
The observer's Alpha eyes blinked rapidly as he saw the incoming spiral energy surge and change.
"Probability surge impossible to detect. Recalibrate—"
"Listen up, you oversized calculator!" Simon's voice boomed across the mirror sea, amplified by the mecha's power.
Stay Gold's followed, fierce and bright: "We're not data points! We're the ones who decide our future!"
Their voices merged into one thunderous declaration:
"WE ARE GURREN LAGANN!"
Observer unleashed everything.
Every tentacle struck at once. Every remaining Siren ship fired full broadsides. Drone swarms blotted out the crimson sky. A planet-cracker beam charged in its core, violet light building to blinding intensity.
Gurren Lagann didn't dodge.
"THIS DRILL IS OUR SOUL!"
"GIGA DRILL BREAK—UNIFIED!" Simon and Stay Gold shouted together in the Gurren Lagann cockpit. The mecha immediately raised its right hand upwards, transforming it into a drill that was five times the size of the mecha itself.
A supernova of green and violet light consumed the mirror sea. The dome shattered outward in a ring of pure force that flattened waves for kilometers. Siren remnants disintegrated into glittering data ash that rained down like snow.
The attack penetrated the Observer's barrier, but before it could destroy its core in a catastrophic explosion, she and the few remaining Sirens were already vanishing with their advanced technology.
The mirror sea collapsed, and the Sirens vanished.
Bismarck stared, impressed. "That… is power."
As calm returned, alliances formed in the aftermath's glow. Stay Gold leaned heavily on Simon, still buzzing with adrenaline.
"Told you, Trainer… together, we pierce anything."
Simon looked at the assembled fleets—Royal Navy, Eagle Union scouts on the horizon, Sakura observers high above, and now Iron Blood.
The spiral had become unstoppable.
And the true war against the Sirens had only just begun.