25 June 2021

Yo, Aoba here! Yup, the same one who wrote in here a couple of months ago. Ma~n, I've been swamped with all kinds of stuff. And then I took an untimely break while everything fell to chaos on base as they had to undergo operation after operation. It was nice to travel around Japan and report on somet= things. I've got weeks upon weeks of material for the local paper! Hopefully, the other Aobas are thankful for that. I did some work during my break so they can slack off rest a little. Especially since summer is coming up soon~ Can't wait~.

Anyway! Remember that kyuudou place I mentioned? Let's head up there and see what they have!

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It feels so different to be in here... I've only seen this place from afar. The inside is elegant and beautiful, to say the least. Maybe it's just because I'm a sucker for traditional architecture. What can I say, it just looks nice!

The kyuudou-temple complex is built on the shore of a small pond, which was formed by a small dam. The creek flowing through here eventually joins up with a couple of other ones to form the big one that flows through town. It's so pretty, too! Most of the time, it only has ripples from the stream and rain, so it's quite calming to look at~.

You know, it's rare to come across a clear day to come to see the dojo, especially since it's the rainy season right now. It's not like they close or anything, but I can't get any good shots on a rainy day, y'know? With a camera, of course. What~, you thought I could use a bow like those carrier girls> You're funny, you know.

But! I'm not just here to admire the buildings. Don't get me wrong, they sure are pretty! But as austere as these buildings are, I'm here to interview the manager of the dojo: no less than Kaga from the base! I'm so excited to talk to her since it's been a while since we've last talked, especially since she's so busy with everything on base. I'm surprised she even has the time to look after this amazing place and keep it in peak condition.

Anywho! I'll interview her in a moment. I'll include a small snippet of our conversation before attaching a working draft of the article. Hope you enjoy!

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Transcript

Aoba: "It's been such a long time! Thanks for taking time out of your day to perform this interview!"
Kaga: "Yeah. Nice seeing you, too."
Aoba: "How have things been lately on base?"
Kaga: "Busy, but not really. I've been called in a couple of times for the recent moderate-scale operation, but I've been helping with training and administrative work here and there."
Aoba: "Really? That sounds boring~."
Kaga: "Definitely. That's why I like it here. Much more peaceful, and plenty of snacks for everyone. It's the entire carrier division's favorite hangout place. Pity it's so far from base."
Aoba: "Yeah, I can see that. Very comfy in here for sure. Anyway, I have a couple of questions prepared, so mind if I fire away?"
Kaga: "Go ahead."

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Article Draft

Interview with Kyuudou Master Kaga
- DO NOT PUBLISH -
- DRAFT -

In a quiet spot in the Peaks, there's a kyuudou dojo hidden deep in the forest. In this auspicious abode, the carrier division practices their craft. The head of the dojo, no other than Kaga, has graciously sat down with us to answer some of our questions.

Q: Can you introduce yourself?
A: Sure. I am Kaga, part of the 1st CarDiv. I am one of the most experienced members on the base, and I run this dojo that we're in right now to train anybody who is willing to learn or practice their skills in kyuudou.
Q: Does that mean you're willing to train anybody who isn't a carrier or has been decommissioned?
A: Definitely! However, being able to shoot the aero-arrows is reserved for only currently serving carriers.
Q: How does the training regimen differ for those who are currently serving carriers and those who are not?
A: From the beginning, the training regimens are the exact same. However, currently serving carriers receive special training to ensure that they are capable of maintaining and using the aero-arrows in high-stress and fast-paced environments like during battle.
Q: Why is the kyuudou dojo situated next to a pond and a shrine?
A: Since kyuudou is inherently a very spiritual sport. To become a good kyuudou marksman, you must become connected with your inner self and calm your mind. That is why we are next to a shrine. The pond is beautiful, and it doubles as a small training ground for aero-arrows training, as it is essentially an ocean on small scale.
Q: How can somebody who's interested in your dojo join?
A: Come on over! It's completely free to use the shooting range (as long as we have free space), and we also provide lessons. Follow the road up the mountain that's labeled "6" and you'll eventually find us to your left. We'd appreciate your company.

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Oh, I think there's a little gossip brewing on base. I might have to get in on it since from what I hear, it involves the Admiral...!