AN: You all know like the last two chapters that VC as well as the German military don't belong to us.


Gallia - Randgriz

E.C 1935


Wagner and Hoffman, along with Catharine had arrived at the Gallian capital, along with their escort, which included four R75 sidecar mounted motorcycles, four . 234 "Puma" Armored Cars, and two Panzer III/IV Medium tanks. The little convoy moved down the stone streets of the city, drawing many curious eyes from the residents.

They arrived at the castle and were allowed in to see the Princess, thanks to Catherine managing to request an audience with the said monarch. They stopped the small column in the courtyard and the driver of the staff car they were in got out and opened the door for the two officers.

"According to Catharine, we got lucky that we can meet the Princess today." Hoffman said as he stepped out, soon followed by Wagner. "Maurits von Borg is not present in the Capital today, he's visiting the Atlantic Federation, meeting with the AF Ambassador to prepare for some type of banquet. Meaning we'll be able to meet with her without him being around. If Catharine's info is anything to go by, we do not want to speak with him."

Wagner nodded at that, "Agreed, and we also do not want to speak to this Gassenarl or General Damon," he said, while he rolled his eyes while him, Hoffman, and four armed guards walked up the stairs. "I don't understand how that fool could be a general. Titles and bloodlines be damned!"

"Clearly, Gallia needs to be taught a lesson about how to properly operate a military." Hoffman said. "So far, it seems from the reports that their militia is more effective than their actual armed forces. Catharine gave me the reports on the exploits of the Gallian Militia Squad 7… reclaiming the Vasel Bridge by catching the Imperials off guard by turning their tank into an Amphibious fighting vehicle, reclaiming the Kloden Wildwood… Lieutenant Gunther also aided in defending the town of Bruhl long enough for civilians to evacuate before he was even officially brought into the Militia."

Wagner nodded as well, having read the report himself "Once they return with Captain Garen, we must meet with this Lieutenant Gunther and his men..." he said, as they approached the entrance of the castle. "If we are going to work with the Militia, we will need to know all we can about their members."

"Agreed, I know Mark would like to work with someone who thinks outside the box," he said, and smirked a bit, "Just like what you did at Stalingrad, infiltrating the enemy lines with a battalion and stealing a company's worth of Russian T-34's from under their noses,"

Wagner chuckled at that, "Probably also the smartest thing I ever did, since it impressed Hitler so much he spared me from the firing squad, instead he promoted me." he said.

"One of the few good things he ever did," Hoffman said as they approached the massive double doors, which opened up before them as they were allowed to enter the massive throne room of Castle Randgriz. Its interior was quite elegant, filled with white and light blue walls and golden pillars, and Gallian banners lining up the ceiling. Flanking either side of the room were multiple guards wearing ceremonial uniforms of the Gallian military, armed with equally ceremonial weapons. At the end of the throne room, sitting on the white throne under a sculpture of a white lance was Princess Cordelia Gi Randgriz, wearing the light blue and white apparel, and holding a golden lance-like scepter.

Also present were two other women, both of whom were wearing formal Gallian uniforms as well. Hoffman looked at them, and recognized them from the pictures Catharine had given them. They were Eleanor Varrot and Aalina von Damon, two of the highest ranking members of the Gallian Militia.

With the said women, Aalina was watching as the two high ranking officers and their escorts moved toward them. She recognized Wagner von Wolfe as the Commander of the German ground forces and also spotted Admiral Hoffman.

She carefully watched them as they arrived at the steps to the throne, and stood at attention before giving a bow in respect.

"Your highness, on behalf of myself, my comrade, and of our people, we thank you for this audience," Wagner greeted respectfully.

Cordelia was silent for a moment, before she nodded. "Yes… and it is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance… General von Wolfe, Admiral Hoffman." She said, "I must thank you for what you have done for my people in such short time… if the 3rd fleet had fallen, Southern Gallian likely would've been soon to follow."

"We know what it's like to lose a homeland to Tyrants, your highness." Hoffman said, "If we can prevent what happened to our homeland from happening to yours, we will do all that we can to do so."

Cordelia was again silent before speaking, "I was informed that you are refugees," she said, "And that the weapons you brought with you are the key to driving the Imperials out of Gallia,"

The two Germans nodded.

"Yes your highness," said Hoffman, "The combat aircraft, as well as our carrier, the Graf Zeppelin, are prototypes, and have born much fruit, as the third fleet had seen first hand. We are willing to provide the full combat capabilities of our forces to the Gallian Militia... so long as our families are allowed to take refuge here in Gallia, where we hope they will remain safe."

The Princess seemed to blink in surprise at that. "The Militia?" She asked, "Not the Regular Army?"

"With… all due respect your highness… we find your Militia to be far superior than your regular army from the records we have seen." Wagner said. "Your militia has seen far more success than your standard regular Army has since the Imperial Invasion began. In fact, from what we understand, in more than one instance have Gallian Generals - including one General Georg von Damon - have flat out abandoned their own troops to protect their own skins. Meanwhile in stark contrast, your Militia has fought in other seemingly hopeless engagements, and succeeded with minimal losses, all while using sub-par equipment..."

The German General smiled a bit "I can only imagine what they can accomplish if they are given more… superior equipment." He said.

The three Gallian women blinked in surprise at that.

"If, I may ask, General Wolfe," said Aalina, "What sort of equipment do you have? I know you have equipment far beyond the leagues of the Federation and the Empire, but I'm curious of what this weaponry your Ground Forces possess,"

The smile never left Wagner's face as he signaled for one of the escorts, who, along with his comrades, wearing a rubberized trench coat handed the general an attache case, and the General opened it, and then pulled out, what the Gallians saw, what appeared to be photographs.

"These are some of the images of the weaponry we have at our disposal." Wagner informed, as he pulled out some of the images. "The Panzer VI Tiger Tank, equipped with some of the thickest armor, and heaviest armament our nation ever created. The Panzer V Panther, a tank which combines firepower, armor and speed into a single devastating package… our StG 44's and 45's, which combine the accuracy of a rifle, with the rapid fire of an SMG, and the MG-42, a machine gun which fires 1200 rounds per minute, over a range of 1,100 yards… and all of these are just the tip of the iceberg."

Aalina along with the other two women were stunned by this info, as Wagner handed the photographs to Aalina who looked at them and couldn't help but gawk at the Tiger, and it's massive gun, no doubt the same size as the Edelweiss' own gun. She went through the other photos of the other weapons mentioned, including the StG's, and couldn't but think that these weapons will undoubtedly make Gallia a force to be reckoned with.

Cordelia herself, was beside herself as she thought of the ramifications this will bring if she agreed to accept their help.

"Your highness...," Wagner said, bringing her out of her thoughts, "If you're thinking about what we want in return, it's only a safe new home for our people. Nothing more, nothing less,"

This surprised not only the Princess, but the Gallian Militia leaders as well as they looked at them in surprise. "You… would provide for us so much… yet ask for so little in return?" Cordelia asked, sounding stunned. "But… why?"

Wagner sighed a bit at that, as he removed his cap, "Our former leader back in our old homeland was a greedy tyrant who dragged the history of our ancestors through the mud. He was also a rabid racist, who had been murdering innocent people just because they existed. We want to make this as a way of atonement for what that...creature has done," he said.

"Your nation... Gallia, reminds us of home very much." Hoffman said, "Both the good... But also some of the bad. We mean no offence when we say this your highness... But members of your Noble houses and military commanders are... Disturbingly familiar to what we dealt with back home... And the last thing we want to see is your nation to make the same mistakes ours did."

Cordelia thought about what he said. And the more she thought, the more she began to realize on how true it was.

Ever since her parents died, the other noble families with a few exceptions, have been trying to wrest control of the country from her. Two families most of all, were House Gassenarl in South Gallia, and her own Prime Minister's own house, Borg. The only few Noble Houses she felt she could trust were the minor Houses Fuchses, Ahlberg, Vinter, and Norling.

"Your highness..." Hoffman spoke, "I know the burden you have must be nigh unbearable... Becoming the leader of a nation at such a young age, after suffering such a great loss... It may, at first, seem like a good idea to allow people such as the Borgs and Gassenarl to take charge, being older and more experienced...thinking they would know what's best for the nation."

"But... I know people like them." Hoffman said, his eyes narrowing slightly. "They are men who could care less about the well-being of their country, and would just as willingly sell it out to further their own selfish desires, and appease those like them."

"They may be older, have experience..." Hoffman said, "But... sometimes the future of nations don't lie with the old generations... But rather with a younger, simpler, and more honest soul."

Cordelia was taken by that, and couldn't help but think he was right.

"I...I never...," she began to say, but couldn't say anything else.

"Just do what you think is right for your country, your Highness," said Wolfe, "And know, that no matter what the obstacles, there will always be people who will support, love, and fight for you. No matter, what,"

The Militia officers could only look in shock at the wisdom that the German Commanders were giving their Princess. And it was damn good wisdom, which is better than the wisdom that weasel faced Borg gives.

"I... T-thank you..." She said, and for the first time in a very long time - at least as far as the Gallians knew - Cordelia let out a soft warming smile. "If you are willing... To provide so much for us for such little in return... We can't possibly refuse. I promise you I shall find homes for the families of your soldiers, Admiral, General."

The two along with the soldiers snapped to attention, and gave the Princess a bow of respect.

"Your Highness," Wagner said, "You would not regret this decision. Our people will be delighted in this news, and will be happy to start a new life in Gallia,"

Cordelia nodded and turned to Aalina, "Colonel Damon, are there bases which the German soldiers could use?" she asked, and Aalina thought about that until one location clicked for her, and a smirk formed on her face..

"The former Gassenarl castle just a few miles north of here," she said, "It was once the summer home of House Gassenarl until they stopped going there and permanently stayed in South Gallia. It has enough land around it to build a small town or a base, or even some farmland, and the Castle can serve as a perfect HQ. Plus, it's not that far from Militia Headquarters,"

"We will have to investigate the castle ourselves first," Hoffman said before he smirked slightly "Though… it does sound ideal…"

"I can arrange a tour whenever you are able," Aalina said. "Been there a few times, I think it'll be just what you and your people need."

Cordelia nodded "I think it's perfect as well..." she said, before a thought crossed her mind. "Also, General Wolfe, Admiral Hoffman… I would like to extend an invitation to the Royal Banquet being held in a few days… the leaders and ambassadors of multiple nations are arriving to the castle for the event, as are the leaders of Squads 1 and 7… Maurtis wished for me to present to them the Principality Medal of Honor, and while I agree… perhaps we could use this as a chance to formally introduce you and your people to the people of Gallia, and the rest of Europa."

The two German commanders looked at each other, before nodding in agreement.

"That would be a splendid idea, your highness," said Wagner, "I hope you don't mind that we bring some people, like my family over as well."

Cordelia thought about it, before she nodded, "Of course," she said. "I will be sure to let the guards know... And I will keep the other houses... In the dark for now."


Later that day


The formation of Gallian and German soldiers and Militiamen had finally returned to the Randgriz military base, HQ of both the Gallian Militia and Military. While the arrival of Squads 1, 5, and 7 were no surprise, what really got their attention were, of course, the German forces, marching along with the Gallians.

"What in the hell's going here?" said a Gallian Regular soldier as he and some of his comrades looked at the German troops who came into the base.

"I'm not sure, but those are definitely not Gallians," said another soldier as he looked at the large column of tanks, armored personnel vehicles, and long line of marching infantry.

"Drawing quite a crowd..." Jaden said, riding on the front of the Edelweiss as they continued towards the vehicle hangar. "This'll get old real quick..."

As the Edelweiss along with the Devastator returned to their hangars, the German Panzers and armored vehicles parked in a straight row in the parade ground. Garen got out of his half-track and began shouting orders for the men to line up, who do so. The tank crews also exited their vehicles, dressed in their black uniforms.

"Men! You did well during the first week since we arrived here," Garen began.

"Of course we did!" One of the tank commanders said climbing out of his own Tiger I. "This is what we do for a living afteral!"

This caused a few of the German soldiers to start laughing.

"Alright, alright, settle down!" Garen shouted and the Germans stopped laughing, "Even though we gave the Imperials a good thrashing, we also know that they would not give up without a fight. You now know what you can expect from. They will fight us with both tooth and nail in order to keep what they claim is theirs by right."

He then began to walk up and down the lines of men.

"But what they don't know, is that we are just the taste," he continued. "What we gave them at Barious and Kloden was hardly even a slap compared to what our entire combat forces can accomplish. I know each of you old warriors will be equal to thousands of those sickly soft children in the Empire - for we represent a force which can easily defeat an army of a million and one men!"

"We shall teach the Imperials the true meaning of Blitzkrieg!" Garen announced, "We shall strike without warning - and to those who affiliate themselves with the Darcsen Hunters - without mercy, striking as one hand, one heart and one soul! Shattering their dreams of conquest, and haunting their nightmares for generations to come! We will teach them what it sounds like to have our Jackboots make against their throats, as we attack the Imperials from the land, sea and air! And we shall make them regret for so much as taking a step into Gallia, and invoking not only the wrath of the Gallians, but also the wrath of the Wehrmacht!"

The German troops gave a cheer at that. All of them raising their weapons into the air.

Jaden watched from the hangar along with the Militia as he shook his head amusedly while chuckled.

"One thing about Germans, they know how to give Good speeches," The Japanese aviator said, while thinking the last part, 'Unlike that bloodthirsty Tojo,"

"They're high in spirits, I'll give e'm that." Largo admitted, nodding. "Honestly, we could use some of that… after how poorly things have been lately..."

"Yeah, I've heard how the majority of the General Brass of your army are nothing more than bloodsucking, spoiled, power hungry cowards," he said, "And worse, they're Nobles,"

"Not all of them are bad," said Largo, "General Roland Vinter of House Vinter is a capable commander, but unfortunately he's only a Brigadier, then there's Generals Vera Fuchses, Dietrich Norling, and finally, General Erwin Ahlberg. They're not arrogant like the major houses, but unfortunately they're only Minor Houses."

"Then they will be the ones my superiors will likely wish to do business with." Jaden said nodding. "They want their forces to be under the jurisdiction of competent commanders - not people handed the title solely because of who they were related to."

He then sighed before he smiled "Well, enough of that for now though." He said, "I've got a lot of work ahead of me, maintenance on tanks and such… I might as well give your tanks a look-see as well, see if I can up their performance at all..."

Largo blinked and looked at him with a confused expression, "I thought you were a pilot?" he said, and got uncomfortable at the smirk on Jaden's face.

"My friend, I may be just a pilot and expert on aircraft," he said, "But, I'm also good at ground vehicles and ships. I follow a motto, if it can be upgraded, upgrade it till ya can't upgrade no more!"

Largo looked pale as the thought of what this kid could do was scaring him.

"If the IJN would actually listen to me for once we wouldn't of been in the situation we're in with the Americans..." Jaden muttered to himself before he spoke up. "Anyways! If any ya'll need me, I'll be in the hangar!" With that said he grabbed a tool box and proceeded inside the closest hangar, twirling a monkey wrench in his hand whistling a tune.

Largo, along with some other Squad 7 members were sweating bullets.

"That guy scares me," said Vyse.

"Y-You're not the only one," said Edy.

"Largo, what have we just let into our hangar, near our tanks?" said Rosie.

"I… have no idea..."


Meanwhile - Ghirlandaio Citadel


"Woo boy..." Radi Jaeger said as he looked at the combat reports from Kloden and Barious. "Now this is quite the surprise… who would ever guess Gallia would have combat-capable flying machines, and such advanced tanks and armored units..."

Berthold Gregor coldly glared at a copy of the report as he gripped the top of his cane tightly.

"I heard that the Amerian Republics are researching the concept, but they're still in the experimentation process," the cold General said, "How is this possible for the Gallians to build something so advanced so quickly?,"

"These aircraft are leagues ahead of what the Amerians are building..." Radi said, "Their maneuverability is superior, as well as firepower and armaments… it took Selvaria's Valkyrian powers just to down one of their aircraft… and even then, they managed to take out the Batomy's so easily… though I'd like to know where the Gallians got such advanced Tanks and armored vehicles, most of their vehicles are leftovers from the last war."

"I am as curious as you are Jaeger," said Gregor as he looked at a picture of one of these tanks, "If anything, such a technology should serve the Emperor,"

Radi wanted to sigh at the man's blind loyalty to the Emperor, but, he managed to resist.

"Did you inform him of this...dilemma?" he asked.

"I've sent the report, but I have yet to receive anything from the capital." Gregor said, "We may have underestimated the fighting capacity of the Gallians… I recently received another report from the 9th Fleet… or rather what's left of it."

"What's left of it?" Radi asked raising an eyebrow. "What happened? I thought they were up against a bunch of Gallian Cruisers, their navy's not that advanced..."

"I believed so as well," Gregor said sighing, "But when they came back… only a handful of destroyers survived the battle, and had suffered massive damage. The Battleship, Cruisers… even the Leviathan were all sunk… reportedly by a fleet of unknown vessels, also utilizing these same aircraft with deadly efficiency."

Radi's eyes could only widen in shock at that, the Leviathan was the most advanced and powerful dreadnaught the Empire ever built, yet it was sunk so easily.

"I bet the Emperor will not be taking this loss well," he said, and Berthold just glared at nothing in particular.

"The Leviathan was the pride of his Majesty and our Empire, and it was destroyed in mere minutes! Of course he would be upset!" he said, clearly angered.

Selvaria meanwhile glanced at Maximilian, who had yet to say anything as he possessed a deep thoughtful expression. She dared not interrupt the crowned prince in his musings, until finally Maximilian spoke.

"For now, all we can do is proceed as we have before." He said, "But we must find out as much as we can about these new Gallian weapons of war..."

He then glanced at Selvaria and Radi. "Selvaria, Radi… I need the two of you to find out as much as you can about them." He informed as he stood up. "Princess Cordelia is hosting a banquet within the next few days… the two of you shall be attending the banquet, posing as the Count and Countess of Alsse."

Selvaria was looking a little hesitant at that, but managed to keep her emotions under control, knowing it was an order from the Prince. Radi meanwhile, just smiled.

"Well now, an infiltration mission into a party ,eh?" Radi said jokingly, "Just my area of expertise,"

"I expect both of you will get as much intel as possible." Maximilian said as he walked for the exit, "I will not have any further delays in our invasion of Gallia. Do not fail."

"We shall not, your grace." Selvaria said, as she bowed.


The Next Day

Randgriz


"No! No! No! That one goes there, and that one goes there!" Jaden shouted as he stood on top of a Gallian light tank with one of the engineers. "Give me the monkey wrench! Goddamn I swear you people need to retake your engineering course..."

"Oh come on! We're trying here!" said the Engineer, "But the modifications you want us to do to these things is impossible!"

A flick to the forehead sent him reeling back and falling off the tank. Jaden was glaring at the engineer, as he continued his work.

"Amateurs, the Darcsens do a better job than you guys ever could," he muttered, pointing his thumb over to where three Darcsen engineers were doing modifications to a Gallian Tank Destroyer. "They've already finished these same upgrades on five tanks in the last 24 hours, while YOU bozos haven't even finished ONE! Issho ni anata no tawagoto o Getto!"

"Stop saying things in a language we don't under-"

"GET YOUR SHIT TOGETHER!" Jaden said, lightly bonking the engineer in the head with the wrench. "Now, again!"

Leon Schmidt and Kreis Czherny watched as Jaden berated the more incompetent engineers into competence - the latter of whom sweatdropped as he facepalmed. "I never thought I'd say this… but somehow he's crazier than you Leon."

Leon however was doing the exact opposite, as he possessed stars in his eyes "It's just so perfect!" He shouted, "He's doing upgrades I never even thought about! I never thought we could make our old tanks move so fast! And did you see those new tanks they've given us? Oh they are just BEAUTIFUL, MAN!"

Kreis could only sweatdrop at his friend's antics.

"I stand corrected...again," he said, as Isara came over, "Oh, hey Isara!"

Isara nodded as she looked at Jaden work on the tank, "I see he's still giving the engineers a major earful, while at the same time modifying the tanks?" she asked, and Kreis sighed as he nodded.

"Yup, and Leon here has developed a fanboy phase," he said.

The word 'fanboy' seemed to snap Leon out of it as he glared at Kreis.

"Hey! I am not!" he shouted.

"You've practically been worshiping all of the things he's made!" Kreis retorted, "Face it, you've become a fanboy!"

Before Leon could form a retort, there was a loud honking noise, causing everyone in the hangar to blink before Jaden looked up and smirked. "Ah! They're here!" He said as he hopped off of his tank, and headed outside the hangar.

The others followed him outside and saw a group of trucks, and construction vehicles. However, what caught their attention the most was what was on the largest flatbed truck covered by a tarp.

The convoy stopped as personnel dressed in white uniforms began to disembark from the trucks. A German officer came out of the small Kubelwagon jeep, and approached Jaden.

"Lieutenant Commander Takeo?" the man said, and Jaden nodded, "I've brought the necessary equipment, personnel, and one of the aircraft you need. But Admiral Hoffman says that they'll need it back as soon as you're done with it,"

"Don't worry, it's just one plane." Jaden said, handing the man a folder. "Maps and specs are in there, get the crew over there ASAP - we've got a lot of work to be done, and not too much time to get it done."

"Got it." The man said saluting before he went back to the truck.

"Jaden?" The engineer looked back as he saw the Gallians behind him. "What's going on here?"

"Ah, right." Jaden said grinning, "Well, you see my superiors met with the Princess yesterday, and managed to establish a few deals. In addition to giving us a place for our troops and refugees to live, we were given an old abandoned tractor factory not too far north from here."

"Why do you need a tractor factory?" Kreis asked with a raised eyebrow.

Jaden grin never faltered "We're converting it," he said, "Into Gallia's first Aircraft Manufacturing plant, and the area surrounding it into Gallia's first Air Force Base!"

The Gallians all blinked at that, but before they could ask Jaden signaled the men on the flatbed to remove the tarp. When it was revealed what was under, the Gallians could only gape at what they were seeing.

"J...Jaden, that's a...," said Kreis, as his glasses looked like they were about to fall off.

"That's exactly what is my friend," said Jaden, "This may not be the Bf-109T fighter or the Ju-87 Stuka you saw in Barious. But, this single plane is good enough to get you started on aviation."

"This here, is the Fieseler Fi 167 Torpedo Bomber - though I like to call e'm Sealion's." He said, walking in front of the aircraft as the crowd surrounded it. "She's designed to drop 765 kg torpedoes into the water and hit enemy vessels below their waterline. It's these little puppies that helped us sink the Leviathan. They may be old - being biplane - but she's still effective."

The Gallians were stunned at this news. Though they weren't piloting the ones they saw in the desert, this was better than nothing.

Jaden's voice spoke up again, interrupting their thoughts.

"But first, for those of you who wish to become a pilot," he smirked as he brought out a book, "You're gonna go to school. I'm teaching you all not just how to fly one of these… and also, how to take one apart, and put it back together again." He tossed the flight manual into the hands of one of the Gallian engineers. "This is gonna be your homework for the next few weeks! After that, I'm gonna put you all through the flight course training!"

Leon was the first to jump at the challenge.

"Count me as your first volunteer!" he said with enthusiasm, causing Jaden to chuckle. Soon a total number of 15 volunteers stepped forward.

"Alright that's a good start," said Jaden, as his face turned serious "But know that this isn't gonna be a walk in the park, flying and building aircraft ain't nothing like working with Tanks and what you're use too. This is gonna require you to have split-second reaction timing, full awareness of your surroundings and airspace… one wrong move, and you'll find yourself diving at over 300 knots in the air."

There were a few gulps from the 15 volunteers, but none of them said a word, as Jaden continued.

"There are more hazards than that though," he said, "The Imps don't have plane's...yet! But, they can still find a way to bring one down. A heavy machine gun could easily take a plane down if the pilot isn't prepared! Its gonna be MY job to teach each of you how to survive up there!"

He then pulled out a large crate which was filled with instruction manuals for flying and aircraft maintenance and construction. "Alright, I want ya'll to start reading through these!" He said, "I want you to know each and every little detail about aircraft within the next few weeks! Got me?"

The group stood at attention and gave a 'Yes sir!' and Jaden nodded.

"Good," he said, "Now, for today, get a good look of the Sea Lion, more specifically the controls. Note, that not all aircraft share the same instruments. Remember that."

The group nodded and Jaden dismissed the volunteers and they immediately walked over toward the 167 to get a better look. He then turned to the Germans "Alright, the rest of you are to head to the place I indicated on the map," he said, handing the coordinates to the German engineer. "Start getting things set up there - once I get things set with the Gallians, some of their own engineers will head over there as well to help the conversion process, as well as begin constructing on the airfield."

The Head German engineer nodded as he took the coordinates and ordered the other engineers back on the trucks. They then took off for the abandoned Tank Factory.

"Hey, Jaden," Isara said getting his attention.

"What is it, Isara?" he asked, as the Darcsen woman smiled a bit.

"If you want, I can help point out other factories that were abandoned," she said, "Most of them might still have their equipment, but I don't know about any of the others,"

Jaden blinked "Wait, Gallia has other abandoned factories?" He asked, as Isara nodded.

"Yeah, after the first Europan war ended in 1915 a lot of manufacturing centers got shut down from bankruptcy." She said, "Most of them were older car factories and such… but I do remember the Kaiben Inc. building use to make old Gallian tanks before it was shut down for similar reasons. They were never reopened since newer factories got built, and it was considered more cost-effective to build new ones, than to modernize the old ones."

"Huh… well, their loss our gain." Jaden said with a grin, "We'll have to scout them out first though, we'll have to focus on the first factory of course. Once we get more resources we should be able to do more... thanks, Isara."

Isara blushed a bit at the praise, "I-It was nothing, I was just trying to be more helpful." she said.

"Nonsense!" exclaimed Jaden as he placed a hand on her shoulder, "It was a big help! Don't count yourself short. In fact, from what I saw of you, during the whole time trip from Barious, you're a skilled prodigy in engineering. Seriously, you should be a helluva lot more than a simple mechanic! You should be in charge of a whole corps of engineers!"

"I… doubt that'll ever happen..." Isara said, bowing her head slightly. "I doubt anyone in Europa would want to follow a Darcsen..."

"Darcsen?" Jaden asked with a raised eyebrow.

Isara blinked "Oh yeah… they said your people never met Darcsens..." she said, scratching the back of her head. "Well… you see, Darcsens are people who… well, look like me. Purplish hair and eyes… basically, thousands of years ago history says Darcsens began the Darcsen Calamity… burning hundreds of cities and farmland making wastelands like at Barious… it says the Valkyuru were the ones who stopped the Darcsens from causing further destruction… afterwards, as punishment… most Darcsens are barred from having surnames with very few exceptions like me… and are persecuted across Europa… especially in the Empire, who downright hunt us down..."

Jaden's eyes narrowed at that "So they're hunting your people down, for something you did millennia ago?" He asked, "That's a load of bullshit!"

Isara, again, blinked in surprise "E-Excuse me?" She asked.

"Its Bullshit! I doubt anyone alive today suffered from that Calamity!" Jaden continued, "Why keep a thousand year old grudge going like that?! Just because some Darcsens did something bad doesn't mean you should blame your entire race for their actions!"

Isara's eyes widened in surprise at that, clearly not expecting that reaction.

"I wanna know who're the Bakas that keep spreading this shit!" he said, "I'll introduce them to the business end of my Gunto!"

He then blinked as he realized something, "Speaking of which, I need to get back to the Graf Zeppelin, most of my stuff is still onboard!" he said, while Isara giggled at the emotion 180 he pulled.

"Thanks… Jaden." She said, "It's… not every day someone supports Darcsens… well, aside from my brother of course."

"Persecution and Stereotypes are bullshit anyways," Jaden said. "I don't form my opinions on someone just because of what ethnic group or whatever they belong to, I form my opinions on who that someone is as a person… I wish more people would be like that though… prevent a lot of trouble..." Isara saw Jaden gained a rather… thoughtful expression for a moment before snapping back to his happier mood. "Anyways, wanna help me out with this bird's maintenance? Gotta start somewhere, right?"

Isara shook her head of the thoughts, before nodding in excitement.

"Of course!" she said, as Jaden led the way toward the plane.

Not far away, Welkin could only watch with a smile as Isara interacted with Jaden. He was glad his adopted gained a friend in the pilot, something she rarely had in the past due to the persecution of her people.

"I've never seen Isara so excited before," said Alicia as she stood next to Welkin, "I mean I've seen her smile, but that's the biggest smile I've seen on her. She looks like a little kid in a candy store,"

"Same here..." Welkin said, "I've seen her happy before, but this… I've never seen her more happy than she is now..."

Alicia smirked slightly "I think she might like Jaden..." she said.

"Of course she likes him - they're getting along so great right now!" Welkin said, causing Alicia to blink before she sighed.

"Not like that," Alicia said, nudging him slightly. "I mean Really like him!"

Welkin blinked "What do you mean?" He asked, before the apprentice baker groaned, facepalming.

"Sometimes, Welks… I worry about you..." she said.

Before Welkin could form a retort, a Gallian soldier approached them. "Excuse me, Lieutenant Gunther?" The soldier asked, "Captain Varrot wishes to speak with you and Lieutenant Landzaat, ASAP."

Welkin blinked at that, before he nodded in understanding.

"Thank you, I'll go there immediately," he said and the soldier nodded.

"Lieutenant Landzaat has already been informed and is most likely already there," he said, and Welkin nodded, and returned the salute the soldier gave, who then turned and left.

"What do you think Captain Varrot needs?" Alicia said curiously.

"Don't know," he said, "Better go find out, I'll see you later Alicia. I'll tell you and the squad what the Captain told us,"

Alicia blinked at that, trying to form a reply but could only sigh.


Later - 3rd Regiment Headquarters


Shortly after being informed, Welkin arrived at the 3rd Regiment headquarters as he knocked on the door. "Welkin Gunther reporting Captain." He said, before opening the door and entering the room. Inside, as expected, was Captain Varrot sitting behind her desk, and Faldio standing in the room as well.

"I apologize for calling the two of you in on an off-duty day," Varrot said, "But Princess Cordelia has graciously extended banquet invitations to the three of us."

The two Lieutenants blinked at that.

"A royal banquet?" said Faldio.

"And we're invited?" said Welkin, while Varrot sighed mentally.

'I swear, they talk like twins!' she thought.

"Yes, of course, we're not the only ones she extended the invitations to," she said, gaining a curious look from the two young men, "But you'll have to find out later at the Castle,"

"Does it concern our new friends?" asked Faldio.

"Possibly," Varrot said with a small smirk, "Anyways, the two of you are being recognized for your actions at the Vasel Bridge, as well as your more recent ops. The event will be held tomorrow night at the castle."

"Oh… ah..." Welkin muttered, scratching the back of his head. "I'm not… good with formal stuff..."

"What, are you crazy?" Faldio asked incredulously. "Do you have any idea how rare a chance to meet the princess is?! They say House Randgriz are descended from the Valkyrur, making the Princess a Valkyria! And we get an audience with her!"

"Well… yeah, I guess..." Welkin muttered, causing Varrot to chuckle a bit.

"Just don't forget to bring your dress uniforms, gentlemen." She said, "This invitation is also extended to anyone in particular you wish to bring. I'll meet you at castle Randgriz tomorrow evening. You're dismissed until then."

The two saluted and left the office. 'Well, so much for bird-watching tomorrow...' Welkin thought.


The Next Day - Hotel room in Randgriz


Wagner sighed as he looked at himself in the mirror, dressed in his formal dress uniform as he looked at the assorted medals. Truth be told, he wasn't fond of festivities like the one he, his family, and Joseph are going to. But, unfortunately, this banquet is important not only for his people and the troops under his command and their families, but the Gallians as well.

"You always didn't like parties, Mein Leibling," said the amused voice of his wife, who walked over to him from behind and wrapped her arms around him. Nadette Wolfe was a woman who was the same age as her husband, but still looked as stunning as the day they first met. Her chocolate brown hair was in a braid that was draped over her shoulder, and the evening dress she was wearing was an emerald green.

"I know, and I still don't," he said, "Too much damn politics, and not to mention listening to people like Goebbels and Bormann, drone on and on about their Fuhrer's delusions for world conquest,"

Nadette von Wolfe giggled slightly "Well, at least we won't have to put up with them anymore," she said, pecking his cheek. "The worst we need to deal with for now is that Von Borg man you mentioned… though if you and Hoffman gave the Princess that pep talk, he shouldn't be an issue for much longer."

He chuckled at that, "You know, one of the sanest things that man ever said was that I had a silver tongue for inspiring others," he said, "Of course, I don't know whether to take that as compliment or an insult,"

Nadette tapped her chin with her gloved as she thought about that.

"Hmm, I think it's a bit of both," she said jokingly, causing the two of them to laugh until a knock was heard.

"Mutter? Vatter?" said the voice of their son and eldest child Mark, "Me and Selda are ready, and Admiral Hoffman and his daughter are ready as well, and the escort is waiting,"

Wagner sighed, as he adjusted his cap. "Well, showtime." he said, before he extended his hand to Nadette, who giggled as she accepted it before the two turned to leave their hotel.


Meanwhile - With Jaden


Jaden cursed slightly as he adjusted the collar of his white uniform. "I always hated these things..." he muttered. "Why did the Admiral ask for me to join him… he already has his daughter..."

He continued to fiddle with the tie for a few moments, before he heard a voice behind him. "Oh? Jaden?" He blinked before he turned around, and was surprised to see Isara standing there - now wearing a light blue almost Victorian-era like dress, and in her hands was the 'flying piglet' Hans. "I… didn't think you'd be here!"

"Oh! Ahh, Isara!" Jaden said, blushing a bit, "Yeah, ahhh… Admiral already left to meet the General. So Alicia said I could… take a ride with you guys… you ahhh… you look great!"

Isara blushed a bit as she hugged Hans a little tighter.

"Moink!" the piglet said in protest, making Isara gasp and loosen her hold on the winged animal, and chuckling sheepishly. Though the blush was still there.

"T-Thank you, Jaden," she said, "You look great as well,"

"Yeah… don't feel great though..." Jaden muttered as he continued to fiddle with the collar. "There's a very good reason I hate wearing these dress uniforms… too damn itchy..."

Isara giggled at that, "Welkin has the same problem, especially with the ties," she said, and Jaden groaned.

"Then he and I are a lot alike in that respect," he said, "I don't get why Military officers have to wear something so...flashy, and cumbersome, the combat dress uniforms work just fine!"

"Well, hopefully we won't have to put up with these things too much," Isara said. The two heard the sound of steps, before they saw Faldio, Welkin and Alicia walk down the stairs. "Ah! Welks, you ready?"

Welkin sighed "Well, as ready as I'll ever be..." he muttered, fidgeting a bit. "Still don't like the uniform."

"You and me both." Jaden said, causing Alicia to sigh.

"What is it with men and wearing dress uniforms?" She asked, "It's not that bad!"

"Hey, you don't have to wear one of these things!" Jaden exclaimed, indicating her own pink dress. "You have the excuse of being a guest… "

Faldio chuckled a bit "Well, it's only for tonight so bear with it." he said, "Come on, Ramal is waiting in the car."


Later - Inside the Castle


Castle Randgriz was bustling with activity as foreign ambassadors, dignitaries, nobles and other VIP's were arriving either by car or by horse-drawn carriages. People from across not only Europa, but other nations from across the globe had arrived to the banquet. Attendance was noticeably spiked though, as the increased rumors of Gallians possessing combat-capable flying machines spread like wildfire only a few weeks after reports were initially made.

One of the cars in the crowd approaching the castle stood out somewhat, possessing a bright white star, surrounded by four others - the military markings of a vehicle belonging to the United Amerian Republic.

Inside the vehicle, a middle aged man wearing a brown formal suit, with slightly greying black hair, and cobalt eyes looked outside as they approached the main entrance, where the other guests were leaving their cars, or horse drawn carriages.

"Ambassador Quinn," said one of the young officers with him, who was dressed in the formal military attire of the Amerian Army, he appeared to be 24 in age, with tanned skin yellow eyes, and brown hair. His skin and eyes identified him as a Dretan

"Yes Lieutenant?" said Derek Quinn, the Ambassador to the UAR.

"You think the rumors are true?," the officer asked, "About Gallia somehow acquiring advanced combat aircraft when we just started?"

The Amerian Ambassador sighed as he thought through the reports. "Normally, I'd doubt it..." he said, "Gallia is strong thanks to its Ragnite mines… but even they don't have the manufacturing capabilities of the larger superpowers like Ameria, Zipang, the Empire, or the Federation. Most of their equipment are leftovers from the last Europan War, and after shutting down so many of their manufacturing plants, by all means they shouldn't have this capacity..."

He then sighed as he set the report down, revealing a picture of the Leviathan. "But… results do not lie." he said, "There is no way a simple fleet of Gallian ships could sink a dreadnought like the Leviathan in such short time… not to mention destroy a Batomys-class Super Tank. We need to confirm whether or not these rumors are true or not..."

The young man nodded at that understanding it completely.

"And if they are true, sir?" he asked, and Derek sighed.

"Then let us hope they can be able to part with one of them," he said, "Our engineers back home are foaming at the mouth to study one of these aircraft. But, we have to do it with courtesy, respect, and no small degree of charm,"

The young officer grinned at that, "Well thankfully sir, you're the one who's good at that, since you're a politician. Me and Lieutenant Somne are just simple grunts who are paid to shoot not talk,"

"I can hear you, ya know!" said a female voice from the front of the car.

"Good, that's why I just said it," the Dretan said with a bigger smirk.

In the front passenger seat, a young woman, the same age as the man with red shoulder blade length hair tied up into a braided bun, with a few banes in the front, and aqua colored eyes, growled a bit at that.

"One of these days, Martinov, one of these days..." she muttered, as the car finally stopped, and the girl stepped out, wearing a woman's army dress uniform. She then opened the rear passenger door, allowing the Ambassador to exit the vehicle.

A little whiles behind them, another car awaited their turn in traffic to enter the castle as in the back seat, Radi Jaeger - now wearing a black and red tuxedo and orange sunglasses - let out a loud yawn "Well, damn me." He muttered, "At this rate, wouldn't the banquet end before we even get to the castle?"

Selvaria - wearing a deep purpleish/reddish dress sighed slightly "For the man who is the count of Alsse to say such words..." she said, causing Radi to smirk a bit.

"Well, forgive me, Countess of Alsse." He said with a chuckle, as Selvaria glanced away. "Come now. We're playing husband and wife, you know. It isn't good if you've forgotten about it."

"I have not forgotten it." Selvaria said immediately, "I just thought this smells of monkey business."

"What are you saying?" Radi asked, "You aren't thinking that this is just a banquet of enjoyment, right? Getting in touch with the Federation and UAR, while looking good for the Empire and Zipang… Gallia is trying hard to play both sides."

"Even so," Selvaria said, "It would still be fine without generals acting as spies."

Radi chuckled as he shrugged, as the car began to move once more. "Sorry, infiltration is my hobby." He said, "And this time it should be very interesting if we can find out if those aircraft really were Gallian… I heard the Empire's already investing a whole lot of new funds to their aircraft R&D after what happened… things are getting very interesting now in the Gallian Front."

"I can't believe the Emperor will approve of this since he shot the idea down numerous times," said Selvaria, with no amount of distaste lost, "He claimed such a thing is considered blasphemous, and that our Ground Forces and the Navy would be enough,"

Radi chuckled at that, "Well, the loss of the Leviathan, and a majority of the 9th Imperial Fleet, and the recent battles at Barious and Kloden woke him up to reality," he said, as the car finally came to a stop at the entrance and Radi stepped and turned back toward Selvaria. "Ready to go, Countess?"

Selvaria sighed, before she allowed Radi to help her out of the car, before the pair continued inside the castle, walking past the attendees.


Meanwhile - With Jaden and the others


Jaden was doing everything in his power to stop fidgeting with his collar anymore while in the crowd, but he still couldn't help but scratch at it. 'I will KILL whoever designed these things...' he thought to himself as he looked over the still arriving attendees as they entered the banquet area. He scratched his collar again. "Kami ga kin'itsu ni norowa..."

"I see you still haven't gotten use to the formal uniform?" a voice said from behind, and Jaden turned and smiled a bit at the person.

"Nope, not one bit Mark," he said, as Mark Von Wolfe, dressed in his own white formal uniform, with the rank insignia of Lieutenant, walked toward him. He had his father's face but had his mother's hair and eyes. He also stood the same height as Jaden, if a couple centimeters more than him.

He was getting curious glances from the other guests, who were wondering where he was from and what Army he belonged to. He wasn't the only one, as Jaden had been getting similar glances as well.

"You know," Mark said, with a sly smirk, "My father taught me a trick when it comes to itchy dress collars,"

"Yeah yeah, Hoffman told me." Jaden said, "Cotton turtleneck shirt with a soft leather lined collar. Haven't had the chance to get me one though, so yeah."

Mark sighed, shaking his head "I'll loan you one of my spares next time..." he said, as he looked at the guests. "Lot of people here..."

"Yeah..." Jaden said as he looked at them all, "Kinda weird… whole new world and all, new nations… yet it still feels so familiar-" however Jaden stopped as one person caught his eye. Walking down the hall was a woman with silvery white hair, and crimson red eyes with an older man. He looked at her for a moment, swearing he had seen her before…

'Wait...' he thought, as he imagined her with a lance and a shield, wearing a different uniform. 'Wait one goddamned minute here! THAT'S THE BITCH THAT SHOT ME DOWN!'

Mark blinked as he saw Jaden's expression switch from annoyed to furious in split seconds. "Jaden?" He asked, "What's wrong?"

"Her." Jaden growled out in a whisper as the two in question walked past them. "She's the one with the laser-shooting lance that shot my fucking Zero down!"

"Wha...?" Mark said blinking in surprise and turned in the direction that Jaden was looking and his eyes widened in awe at the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen, "...you mean that lovely vixen?"

Jaden just gawked at what the German said.

"Say wha-Vixen!?" he whispered harshly, "What in the hell is that suppose to mean!? She's with the EMPIRE, damnit!" Jaden began to make his way over to her, but Mark stopped him.

"Wait, Jaden!" He hissed, "We don't want to make a scene here! Not when we're in the middle of an alliance with Gallia!"

Jaden growled, but he relented. "Alright… But I'm keeping my eye on her..." he muttered, as he eyed the woman as she and her escort walked past. "...freaking laser beams, really?"

Mark could only sigh at his friend.

'What is it with Japanese and their high tempers?' he thought to himself, as he pulled out his pocket watch and looked at the time. 'Vatter and the others should be any minute.'

"Let's go, they'll be here soon." he said to Jaden, "And we should head to the throne where Cordelia should be,"

Jaden nodded stiffly, and the two left the hall, unaware they were spotted by Selvaria as well.

"Those two," she whispered to Jaeger.

"Hm?" Radi asked.

"Those uniforms… they aren't Gallian." She said, her eyes narrowing slightly. "But I've never seen those types of uniforms before from any other nation..."

Radi looked at Selvaria was looking at and his eyes narrowed slightly.

"Nothing I've seen before, either," he said, "But, we'll worry about that later. Right now, we have information to find,"

Selvaria nodded as they continued walking until her eyes caught sight of another familiar face, who was looking straight at her with wide eyes. Selvaria's own eyes widened at seeing the same militia woman who she had met back at Barious.

Radi noticed Selvaria stopping, as he rose an eyebrow "What's wrong?" He asked, snapping Selvaria out of her stair before shaking her head. "Its nothing." She said, before she glanced back, but blinked when she noticed the woman was gone.

Suddenly, she felt a feeling that she had seen that woman somewhere before...someplace other than Barious.

'What is this?' she thought to herself, 'Why do I feel like...I know her personally?'

She shook her head as she and Radi continued on. However a commotion was heard from the entrance, prompting the two to look behind.

"Hmm? What's this?" said Radi as she saw what looked like a small convoy of gray painted military vehicles, and a few staff cars pull up. A group of guards disembarked from the vehicles, and Selvaria immediately recognized their uniforms as the exact same ones the soldiers from the Barious desert utilized.

One of the guards approached one of the staff cars, and opened the door. Stepping out was an older man, wearing a dark dress uniform, with multiple badges and awards Selvaria had never seen across his chest. Though what caught her attention was the cross-like medal with crossed swords, and a gold oak leaf, around his neck. The man stepped aside, before he helped out another passenger - this one a woman about the same age, wearing an emerald green evening dress.

She had her chocolate brown, which had only minor greying, in a braided tail which draped over her shoulder, and had green eyes. She saw in the eyes of the woman which showed not only love for the mysterious officer, but also a fiery determination she hadn't seen in other women before.

She then spotted another guard open the door to the second staff, and out stepped a man with almost the same type of medals and awards, only his uniform was trimmed a bit in gold.

"Oh? Now who do we have here?" Radi asked with a small smirk, "Not Gallian… not Federation, but certainly not Amerian..."

He then watched as the second officer helped out a young woman, who dressed in a similar type of dress as the older woman, but it was colored differently, that being indigo.

"It's them..." he heard Selvaria say, and looked at the silver haired woman whose eyes were narrowed, "It's the same soldiers who helped the Gallians at Barious,"

Radi's eyes blinked in surprise, as the two Imperial Generals in disguise watched as the four walked on, while drawing curious eyes toward the new arrivals.

"Well… now things are getting interesting..." Radi said with a smirk, before the two continued. "We have more actors on this stage than I originally expected..."


Meanwhile - with the others


"They obviously had to forge their identities..." Faldio said, as he, Jaden, Alicia, Welkin, Mark, and Isara had gathered in one of the hallways. "But still, this is very bold for them."

"I wonder who the man with her is..." Welkin asked, and Faldio shrugged.

"I don't know..." he said, "But what are they doing here though…."

"They must be trying to find out more about us," Jaden said. "The people are thinking Gallia's made a fleet of super aircraft after what happened to the Leviathan and our recent missions. Things like that tend to draw a lot of attention." He sighed "Well, one way or another, after tonight the alliance between our fleet and Gallia will be made official..."

He then sighed a bit "As much as I want to gut that silver-haired laser-shooting woman like a fish… can't exactly do that now." He said, "The last thing we want is to cause a scene… let's just keep an eye out on them, and make sure they don't try anything… funny."

"Agreed," said Mark, "In the meantime, let's just act casual, and try to enjoy ourselves a little. I just hope none of the politicians who are racist try to talk about delusions or anything like that, it's the reason he's not so fond of parties like this."

Everyone seemed to chuckle at the younger Wolfe's attempts to lighten the mood, until Ramal slightly gasped. The others looked at where Ramal was looking, and their eyes all widened as Princess Cordelia approached, with von Borg and their escorts. "Princess Cordelia!" Ramal said in surprise, and the group wasted no time as they lined up, and bowed as the princess walked past them.

Borg glanced at Jaden and Mark for a moment, blinking curiously, but banished those thoughts for now as he continued walking.

Alicia was feeling nervous as the future Archduchess of Gallia walked passed, the young baker prodigy from Bruhl couldn't help but move her eyes up and look up at the Princess.

She noticed the semi-tired look in her eyes, but there was also a ray of...hope, she thought she saw as the procession continued on to the throne room. As soon as they were out of sight, she breathed a sigh of relief.

"That was intense...," she said, drawing a few chuckles from the group.


Throne Room


"Her Majesty, Princess Cordelia gi Randgriz, Enters!"

All eyes across the room diverted their attention towards the entrance of the throne room, as Cordelia and Von Borg entered the throne room, along with their bodyguard carrying the Princess's ceremonial lance. As she walked by, she glanced around the room, and she managed to locate General Wagner and Admiral Hoffman rather quickly. The Admiral smiled as he saw the princess, nodding as he bowed in respect, as did Wagner. Cordelia couldn't help but smile a bit herself, which thankfully Borg did not notice. 'Well… here goes… everything I suppose.' she thought to herself.

As she reached the end of the room, she and Borg turned around, as their guard presented her lance to Cordelia, who accepted it as she held it in her hand, planting it into the ground. "To be able… to invite so many guests from the Federation, and across the world to be together in this banquet fills me with endless joy." She said, as she managed to smile a bit. "It may be short… but I want you all to enjoy this time."

Von Borg clapped his hands, and moments later the rest of the attendees clapped their hands in applause for the Princess. However, before Von Borg could say anything else, Cordelia spoke up once more. "However… before we continue… I would like to address a certain… rumor that has been floating about these past few days."

This caught the attention of many of the ambassadors, as they began paying close attention. As did Radi and Selvaria who stiffened slightly. "Your Highness?" Borg asked, sounding rather unsure. "Rumors…?"

Cordelia smiled a bit "This was while you were away in the Federation, Prime Minister." she said, before turning back to the crowd. "Many of you have heard… about our recent victories in the Gallian Sea, where we sunk the Imperial Dreadnought Leviathan with advanced warships, and aircraft… as well as our victories in the Barious Desert, and the Kloden Wildwood, where we beat the Imperials back with superior firepower, and utilizing these same aircraft."

Ambassador Quinn straightened himself 'So… they are addressing it...' he thought.

"Many have been claiming these new war machines, aircraft and vessels belong to Gallia, and were manufactured here." She said, "This is… half true. While we did not make them… the people who had have recently sworn their allegiance to Gallia, to defend us from the Imperials… Ladies and Gentlemen… I wish for all of you bid welcome… to General Wagner von Wolfe and Admiral Joseph Hoffman, of the German Wehrmacht."

The two high ranking German officers immediately stood out from the crowd, with the said people now muttering very quickly. Quinn and his entourage were intrigued as they saw the two march up near the throne and made a sharp 180 toward the other attendees.

"They're the ones...who have been helping out Gallia Recently?" said Lieutenant Somne as she looked the officers up and down.

"It appears so..." Quinn muttered, as the Imperials also looked at the pair with interest.

"Well now… that was easy." Radi said with a smirk, "So these are the ones who sunk the Leviathan, and defeated Maximilian at Barious..."

Selvaria's red eyes narrowed more as she looked at the High ranking commanders of the force that have defeated her Lord's forces at Barious and at Kloden, and annihilating the 9th Fleet.

"For those of you who are wondering about their nation, Germany. I am sorry to say that their Homeland has been destroyed by an Imperial invasion and they're the only survivors of their military and people who managed to escape," Cordelia said, "So do not be confused if you cannot find it on any maps… they have graciously come to the aid of Gallia three times in the past few days, and both have offered the full support of their forces to defend Gallia against Imperial Aggression."

'Germany?' Radi thought with a slightly raised eyebrow. 'I never heard of a nation called Germany...'

"For a more detailed explanation I will allow them to speak," said Cordelia, and the two nodded, as Hoffman motioned for Wagner to go ahead.

"Thank you, your Highness," said Wagner as he turned to the gathered crowd, "I'll try to make this as understanding as possible for all of you, I'm not good at storytelling, only making them," he got a chuckle from Hoffman as well as a few others, "But please note that everything we tell you is the truth," 'Or at least… a bending the truth.' he added as an afterthought.

"Our Nation, Germany… use to be a powerful nation." He said, "High industrial and economic power, a hardy people… people would both fear and respect the power our nation managed to obtain, when barely twenty years earlier our nation was wrecked in an economic depression unlike any before. Our leaders… rebuilt our nation, rebuilt our strength, and rebuilt our pride."

"But… after gaining so much power, many of the people were blinded to what our Führer - our leader - was doing behind our backs." Wagner continued, "He began warmongering… conquering and annexing smaller nations to our cause… all while claiming the German Aryan race was the only true 'master' race… while scapegoating anyone who he deemed 'sub-human' or simply didn't agree with his philosophy… putting them in concentration camps, where they are either worked to death, or just gassed to death."

There were several gasps at that, as Wagner continued. "When the German people began fighting the Empire… myself and Admiral Hoffman knew that the Germany we've known for so long was long dead." He said, "We gathered the soldiers loyal to us, and their families… taking with us whatever ships we could, and obtaining Germany's only aircraft prototypes to prevent them from falling into Imperial hands… and we left our old homeland… hoping to prevent the same mistakes that our nation made, from happening from any other nation."

"The Principality of Gallia… reminds us much of our old home," He said. "And the Princess has warmly welcomed our people here… and for as long as we of the Wehrmacht live here, we shall continue to serve the Princess, and all of Gallia to the best of our abilities, and ensure that this nation shall never be threatened by tyrants ever again!"

The crowd of dignitaries were silent as they listened, all the while the disguised Imperials, the Amerian delegation, and finally Townsend himself grew interested. The silence was broken as Welkin and Faldio who had entered the throne room, along with Ramal, Isara, and Alicia began to applaud. Soon the whole room began to applaud, stopping any questions many of the delegates had to ask.

'Hook, line and sinker.' Hoffman thought with a small smirk. 'Stole the show from the Federation… '

"Thank you for all you have done, General." Cordelia said nodding, "It is reassuring to know that Gallia will not be alone in our fight against the Empire… though I do believe we have an award ceremony to continue here. We have here today Lieutenants Welkin Gunther and Faldio Landzaat of the Gallian Militia 3rd Regiment - the men who recaptured Vasel, Kloden and Barious!" Knowing that was their cue, the two Gallian Lieutenants stepped forward as they marched towards the front of the throne room towards the princess.

The German commanders stood out of the way. As the Gallian Militia Lieutenants made their way up to the podium, and bowed before the Princess.

"Have you read the file on those two?" Hoffman said, and Wagner nodded with a smile.

"I have, they sorta remind me of myself when I was younger. Gunther with his love for nature, and Landzaat with his hard work ethic and passion for archaeology." He said, as the young men received the Principality Medal of Honor for their efforts. He then turned as one of his officers entered, a case in his hand.

"Ah, thank you." Wagner said, accepting the case. Causing Hoffman to raise an eyebrow.

"What you got there?" He asked, as Wagner smirked a bit.

"After all they accomplished, I think they deserve a reward from us as well." He informed, as he opened the large case and took out two smaller cases, and handed the larger one back to the junior officer.

"For your brave actions, going beyond the call of duty, I present to both of you the Principality Medal of Honor." Cordelia said, as she presented to both of the Lieutenants their own Medal of Honor, "On behalf of all of Gallia… we thank you for all you have done."

"Lieutenant Gunther is the son of the late General Gunther, who showed outstanding service during the last war." Von Borg said, as he finally recovered from Cordelia's rather… sudden streak of boldness. "For as long as we have young men like them, Gallia will stand firm!"

The people all clapped in congratulation for the two young men, as Irene took a picture. However attention was returned to the German commanders as Wagner approached along with the two smaller cases he took from the briefcase.

"I was informed of the bravery that you two exhibited," he said, as he handed one of the cases to Hoffman who took it, a little curious about what was in it, "In Germany, courage is a true virtue among our people, many have it, though every now and then we encounter individuals with an exceptional amount of courage, both German and non-German… because of that, I believed it only fitting that I present the two of you… with these."

Wagner opened the case, revealing inside was a medal of some sort on a red and black ribbon. The Medal itself was gold, with the shape of a narrow cross, and four eagles standing on top of circles containing additional crosses. "This… is the Medal of the Order of the German Eagle." He said, "Germany would award these to foreigners who aided and supported our country… granted, they were originally for diplomats and nationals who once supported our past Fuhrer's ideas… these I had… specially modified. To commemorate your courage against seemingly overwhelming odds. I look forward to working with you in the future, Lieutenant Gunther, Lieutenant Landzaat."

With that he handed one case to Welkin, while Hoffman, while smiling, handed the case he was holding to Faldio. The two Lieutenants' faces all showing surprise and awe, along with the delegates at the two medals.

"Th...Thank you, sir," said Welkin as he and Faldio saluted, and the General and Admiral returned them.

"That was a noble gesture, General Wolfe," said Cordelia, and Wagner bowed.

"I know courage and intellect when I see it, your highness," he said, "and these two showed it in spades,"

Before anything more could be said, the participants all blinked as they began to hear a distant… humming sound from outside. "Ah… they arrived." Hoffman said, before he headed towards the exit. "If any of you still have… doubts about our airpower… please, follow me outside."

The attendees, more specifically the Amerians and Imperials, were all curious as they followed the two high ranking German officers toward the courtyard. It took a few minutes for them to get outside, and when they did, and looked up into the sky a flight of four Bf-109Ts flew over the castle at high speed, surprising the visitors.

"Holy shit..." Quinn muttered, as the four Bf 109T's split apart in perfect synchronization. Two of the Messerschmitts seemed to turn and approached one another, almost as if they were going to collide in mid air at incredibly fast speeds. However, at the very last moment, the two planes broke past one another, passing the other mere inches apart.

Another 109 was doing a series of barrel rolls and made a split-S and again flew over the castle courtyard.

"Whoa...," said Martinov as the fighters rejoined into formation and began to fly away, only for a loud screeching sound to take their place, as a Ju 87 Stuka Dive Bomber was in a dive. Most of the attendees panicked believing the aircraft will crash but then the Stuka pulled out of the dive, causing many to breathe a sigh of relief.

"Ladies and Gentlemen… I present to you all the pinnacle of German Engineering," Hoffman said smirking, "The Bf 109T Fighter, the Ju-87C Stuka Dive-Bomber, and the Fi 167 Torpedo Bomber! The aircraft which sunk the Leviathan, and destroyed the Imperial's little toy at Barious!"

Another trio of planes arrived over the castle, these being the said torpedo bombers with the rear gunners seen waving down at them.

"These aircraft have proven themselves in combat, and thus, with the renovation of factories here in Gallia, we will begin mass production," he said, "However, these models will not be the only ones to be built, as soon, with patience and time, new models will be built. And Aircraft shall not be all we produce, as we shall continue to improve Gallia's ground forces with superior tanks, armored vehicles, and firearms to further even the odds with the Imperials. And our naval forces shall also be integrated into the Gallian Navy, and over time more vessels will be produced to replace the older Gallian ships."

The foreign dignitaries were all shocked by this announcement, especially Von Borg, Townsend, and Quinn. The former two, were worried this will throw a wrench in their plans, while the final individual was thinking how this could help his nation in a way.

'Maybe...,' he thought as something hit him, 'Maybe the AVL plan will be able to gain more than just combat experience from this,'

Meanwhile, Radi looked up at the German airshow, and smiled as he saw the aircraft. 'Those two...' he thought, as he glanced at the General and Admiral. 'If they can pull this off… maybe… '

"I hope you've enjoyed this demonstration," said Hoffman, interrupting the two's thoughts, "If you plan on staying in Gallia for a longer time, we'll be more than willing to show you the airbase we're building, as well meet a few of the battalions. And if you have any technical questions, don't be afraid to ask our Engineering expert and pilot, Jaden Takeo."

He pointed towards where Jaden currently stood, as all eyes suddenly diverted towards the young man, who blinked in surprise at the sudden attention he was being given. "Oh Goddamnit Hoffman..." He muttered.

"Good luck, Lieutenant," said Hoffman smirking, causing the IJN pilot to glare.

'I'm going to fucking kill you, ya old bastard.' he thought murderously, 'Mark my words, you will suffer a thousand deaths before I'm through with you!'

Irene was having a field day as she was photographing the aircraft like crazy.

'Oh joy, this is GOLD!' she thought with a big smile on her face, 'This is gonna be the biggest scoop in HISTORY!'


117Jorn: See? Told ya it wouldn't take long!

Patriot-112: That's right! And what will happen in the future you ask? Well, just wait and see. Until then...

Both: JA NE!