Chapter 11
Random Township, Local Tavern
Traveling to Alnus Hill on horseback took around 4-5 days from the Imperial Capital. The main road provided a moderate amount of stops for rest and overnight stays. Princess Pina and her cohorts traveled to Alnus with haste, along the way they heard more tales about the White Knights of Gardeeyan but also other tales as of late. Increased bandit activity surrounding Alnus, residents of Coda Village leaving their homes, strange Men in Green with metal carriages roaming around; to name a few, however those weren't the latest development.
The Bar Maid, a recent refugee from Coda Village, recounted her tale to the patrons. Explaining in detail what she had seen with her own eyes. Leaving Coda Village, the Noble White Knights, and the encounter with the Flame Dragon.
"A Flame Dragon?!" Exclaimed one patron nearly after chocking on his drink.
Taken at face value, the maid's tale was indeed a tall one, even for the standards of the Special Region. Given the circumstances of recent events, the tavern patrons found some semblance of truth with her tale.
"Surely you must be joking!" Another patron spoke up with disbelief.
"Impossible!" A third patron refuted.
The first patron that choked earlier spoke up to question the tale, "Are you sure it was a Flame Dragon? It could have been a Wyvern, Dragonewt, or even a Slither Wyrm." he argued with a reasonable assumption, anyone with knowledge on the Flame Dragon would know it's appearance is much sooner than expected.
The Bar Maid merely grinned a little wider, "I saw it with my own two eyes! It really was a Flame Dragon! It looked at me with eyes that said "pitiful humans"." She recounted once more her experiences then she thought of a question they were all wondering, "Who drove away the flame dragon, You may ask? There was three different types of people. One wore Green mottled green clothes, Humans. The Second type wore Grey and Light Brown Armor, also human and maybe some elves, and the Third were the White Knights." She continued with what she saw; the JSDF, Brotherhood, and Guardians, all of which engaged the Flame Dragon in some fashion.
Upon hearing White Knights they tavern erupted once more, "The White Knights of Gardeeyan!?" they exclaimed in unison, some with surprise and others with shock.
The Bar Maid's confident expression was an assurance to the patrons, "Yes! They are indeed honorable and humble as everyone makes them out to be." She explained before continuing with her job, "Their Magic is unrivaled, They rounded most of us up into a crowd then they used their magic to create a barrier to shield us from the Flame Dragon." she said remembering her experience.
The would-be Bar Maid stood with over a dozen refugees from Coda Village, all crowding around a single White Knight as directed by other White Knights and the other knights in brown and grey. She was afraid, she wanted to run, she didn't want to die like some many others that couldn't escape the Flame Dragon's breath.
As she panicked with the others constantly looking around, she caught a glimpse of something the White Knight in the center was holding; a perfectly round stone detailed with strange runes the size of an apple. Holding it up in the air, the stone began emit a faint glow and soon with all eyes laying on the White Knight it as if he was calling divine intervention from the heavens.
The Flame Dragon came for another pass, the people scream and panicked louder. The Dragon blew down on the crowd with it's fiery breath and awaited death, however then they realized they were not dead they looked and saw the White Knights of Gardeeyan put up a magic barrier that shielded them.
The Bar Maid noticed the Magic Stone the White Knight was holding had a pulsating glow. In awe, the crowd calmed down. Unbeknownst to the White Knights, this would be the day the Knights were no longer seen as Foreign Armored Mages but Warriors of Holy Light and the refugees from Coda Village will never forget this day.
The Bar Maid's thoughts were interrupted when someone spoke up, "Such Noble Knights." he commented upon hearing the actions of said Knights, the patrons all sounded an acknowledging hmm.
The was a moment of silence before another woman spoke up, tending to other patrons at the tavern, "Sadly, T'was not the White Knights that drove off the Flame Dragon." she explained garnering many intrigues expressions. This woman had been saved by the White Knights and the pleasure of traveling with Rory the Reaper along with her daughter, "It was the Green Dotted Men and Women." she stated to the patrons.
Men and Women, that was an odd combination for the patrons and some of which merely looked to each other, "Women, you say?" finally one spoke out. While it was rare to fight women on the battlefield it wasn't unheard of.
Remembering the Soldiers in Green, the Bar Maid can attest to that, "Yes, There were Three Women. One was a Foreign Beauty with a tall stature with beautiful, flowing black hair. The Second was a Cute Girl with a small frame and chestnut brown hair. The Third was a Light Blonde with lovely blue eyes, if she wasn't human I'd say she was an Elf." She recalls the appearances of the Kuribayashi, Kurokawa and Ilya.
"Beautiful Women!" One male patron shouted, the rest of the men all rose their glasses in unison and cheered.
The Bar Maid looked looked annoyed by the response, "Puh, You men are all the same!" she retorted before going back to what sue was doing earlier.
All the mean while, Piña and her companions were listening intently to what the Bar Maid and the Woman had to say about the White Knights, suffice to say they learned a little more than what's being passed around despite the rumors being unbelievable. Piña had an interest in the other two, the Men in Green and the Grey and Brown Soldiers, they were have never heard of until now and given the situation with the Whites Knights it's likely both the Bar Maid and the Woman were telling the truth. If so, then the Empire could have more potential enemies, Enemies Piña couldn't fathom fighting against especially not after driving away a Flame Dragon.
"What about the Knights in Grey and Brown?" Pina asked before the Bar Maid could leave.
Stopping dead in her tracks, the Bar Maid looked off in the distance as if to think about, "Hmm? Now that I think about it, I can't seem to remember." she said, as subtle and deliberate as it was, she knew what she was doing.
It was clear as to what she was doing, Hamilton then brought upon herself to reach for a Silver Coin and pay for the information, "I think this will jog your memory." she said.
Just as Hamilton finished the Bar Maid quickly swiped the Coin from Hamilton's hand, "Oh, I think I'm starting to remember something I forgot to mention." the Bar Maid gleefully said whilst holding the Coin closely.
Whether it was charity or payment, Hamilton smiled knowing the Bar Maid was happy, "What kind of magic did they use to drive the Flame Dragon away?" she kindly asked curious as to what those foreigners did to drive off such a massive deadly creature.
Pocketing the coin, The Bar Maid cleared her throat, "The Men in Green and the Soldiers in Brown and Grey, in all their infinite wisdom, conjured up That Thing." she explained.
"That Thing?" They group questioned.
"The Rod of Steel." The Bar Maid continued as best as she could describe it.
"Rod of Steel?" Once more the group questioned which wasn't helping a lot.
Norma, one of the knights assigned to Pina's group, was still rather skeptical, "Are you certain you're not mistaking it for the Gardeeyans' Magic Rods?" he argued. To the locals, the "Rod of Steel" could anything at this point.
Grinning in over confidence the Bar Maid straightened her stance, "This was an oversized Magic Wand, they used it to cast a spell." she reaffirmed, "The spell struck the Flame Dragon and blew off it's arm."
The woman from before overheard heir conversation and chimed in, "I saw it too, one of those Grey Soldiers shouted a magic spell; FUS ROH DAH!" she shouted shooting her arm out with a quick punch and resembled her stance to that of the Grey Soldier with said Rod of Steel.
"Yes, that's right, They used two of those Rods of Steel." The Bar Maid confirmed.
Curious, Hamilton wondered what these Rods of Steel looked like, "Are there any details about the Rods of Steel? What did it look like?" she asked listening with intrigue.
"Oh ho ho ho, Don't feint such innocence, The Rod looks like a Rod." The Bar Maid was quick to respond hiding a grin behind her hand and giggling like flustered girl, "Just like a man's thing, Large and Black." she simply says. Both the JSDF and Brotherhood rocket designs were different; The JSDF Panzerfaust looked like a beefed up RPG used by the Russians, the Brotherhood SMAW despite being modified still a resembled an American SMAW, Either way, the description of both and the comparison wasn't to far off; a long dark shaft with a rounded tip at the front tip, the JSDF weapon with more of a bulbous shape. With that, the Bar Maid left to attend to the other patrons.
The innuendo was obvious and the pun was very much intended. Hamilton got the picture and had a slight blush as she thought about it. Hopefully nobody notice so she reached for her drink to hide the blush and began sipping.
Piña picked up on this however and spoke up, "Hamilton, You're the one with the Fiancé." she told Hamilton reminding her of her commitment and called her out.
Hamilton nearly choked on her drink and spat it out, "I-I am Maiden! There's no way that I can talk about such Lewd Things!" She quickly defended with a flustered look on her face.
"Ho, Lewd things." Piña shot back with an unamused expression. Hamilton however, was completely stammered.
Moments go by in silence, Piña decided to shift the conservation and flaged down the Lady from before, "Fair Lady, Do tell of your encounter with these White Knights. Clearly you aren't from Coda Village." She said as the Lady approached the table.
The Lady merely nodded, "Yes, my Family and I were traveling until we were ambushed by Bandits, they killed my husband and when we were next the White Knights appeared and killed all the bandits with their Magic Rods." She recounted her encounter, "I prayed and cried out for help then they showed up at the last minute. I didn't believe the rumors until that day."
Piña had her answer, "Well, what do you think, Grey?" she asked her compatriot, seeing how he doubted the growing rumors.
Before Grey could speak up, Norma, another Knight from the Order of the Rose traveling with Piña answered "I'd say they were all tall tales, but all these rumors of White Knights has me wondering." He said admitting his curiosity too, "I'm more interested in the Green Dotted Mercenaries and the Grey and Brown Soldiers. We haven't heard anything about them until now."
The Lady was about to leave when Piña noticed, "Miss!" she cried catching the Lady's attention, "Was there anything about the Grey and Brown Soldiers you can tell me about? Anything at all?" she asked wondering if there were any details she could use to identify said soldiers."
"Hmm..." The Lady stopped to think, "They all appeared human for the most part, some of them had different tones of skin color, I think some of them may have been dark elves." she explained bein reminded of the Brotherhood Soldiers and how some of them had darker skin tones. To her, their armor was no different from Knights Armor but she did pick up on a small detail often overlooked, "Those Soldiers in Grey and Brown all shared the same symbol, it looked like a funny tree." she continued and took a finger, dapped in one of the drinks, and drew the symbol on a piece of parchment.
Piña took one look at the symbol and her heart sank, stomach churned as she recognized the symbol; The Symbol of the Bruhthahood. The same symbol she had seen in her dream. She stared at the symbol shocked along with her compatriots who were oblivious, she didn't tell her dream to anyone and yet this one Lady managed to draw the same symbol without having any prior knowledge of it.
The Lady coughed to get the attention of Piña and her cohorts, "Their leader, a woman, she has a fierce tone with a spirit made of fire and white eyes; cold white eyes." She said. Her last three words echoed in Piña head, along with flashes of those Stone Cold Eyes. The Lady continued her story, "She conjured up a sword from nothing, a magic sword or something. I personally saw her take down the White Knights with ease. Scary woman, even The Apostle of Emroy; Rory the Reaper, didn't do anything to help the White Knights." she said again recounting her encounter with the White Knights but also with these new Grey and Brown Soldiers.
With that, Piña was reminded of her dream when she saw Soldiers in Black Armor rush up a hill only to be cut down with ease. If these Black Armored Knights were just the same as the White Knights then she figured it wouldn't be impossible based on what she had seen and what the Lady told her.
Grey, Hamilton, and Norma thought of it as another tall tale however when they glanced over to Piña who had a troubled expression they began to reconsider. What if what the Lady said was indeed true, how would they even combat such a figure that has been said to rival an apostle? Times in The Realm were constantly changing, this time, it was changing in a different way no one was going to prepare for.
JSDF Headquarters, Alnus Hill, Following Morning
Things back at Alnus were more or less the same as they were before they began sending recon teams. Everyone was at their assigned posts, personal worked as they did, but for Itami he was having any of it. Itami wasn't looking forward to working with Rika let alone physical work, he mulled over it as he dragged his feet towards Rika's supple depot.
"There you are." Suddenly he heard a voice beside him call out.
"Huh?" Itami sounded then turned to look. Lieutenant Yaganida was leaning against the corner wall having a cigarette, out of sight from where Itami was coming from.
The Lieutenant casually took an inhale of smoke, "You're quite the slippery one." he said then exhaled.
If it weren't for Rika, he wouldn't have a very good excuse, "Well, Quartermaster Rika kindly asked me to help her out this morning." he responded rubbing the back of his head and giving Yaganida a nervous chuckle.
Yaganida didn't express any emotion for Itami and simply stared, "That's not what I was referring to." he said dismissing Itami's excuse regardless if it was relevant because that wasn't Yaganida's concern, "You were keeping Contact-Schedule, that is until you began "suffering" communication problems after repelling that Dragon." He explained what Itami relayed in his report. Taking another puff of smoke, Yaganida continued, "Did you think we'd order you to abandon the refugees?" he then questioned the Second Lieutenant.
Of course, Itami knew what he was talking about but that wasn't the reason why and he would most likely be reprimanded had he followed protocol so he quickly came up with an excuse, "Oh, well you see, that must've been because of some electromagnetic storm in the ionosphere." he explained ignoring that last question.
The Lieutenant was in charge for most things around Alnus and reported directly to General Hazama. A number of reports told to him by the communications personal is that there was interference with the radios that simply couldn't be placed so it would have to come from the atmosphere and can easily be blamed on the present Magic of the Special Region, "Perhaps, but that doesn't explain why you like playing behind the curtains." Yaganida agreed but them quickly reversed the subject back to Itami's actions.
Relieved, Itami smiled, "At least it makes me feel better." he said.
The Lieutenant didn't like this and shot a sun glare with his glasses, "That doesn't help me." he retorted. After finished his cigarette leaned off the wall and cocked his head right, "Let's take this somewhere else."
Itami followed the Lieutenant over to the command building and up unto balcony overlooking the JSDF Base. The view wasn't too great but nice enough you could see the tops of the many canvas tents and the Base's fortified concrete walls without being obstructed by buildings and tents.
The Lieutenant positioned himself alongside the balcony railing and looked off into the distance, "Listen Itami, This World, The Special Region is a treasure trove. Unpolluted, Clean Air, Untouched Nature, along with the vast resources that could completely overhaul The World's economy. Cultural difference from medieval times to the modern age, and the only connection to this world is Japan." He spoke freely but also with a hint of nationalism. It was clear the Lieutenant was deliberately steering the conversation to an eventuality in he near future.
Itami merely listened to the Lieutenant's words however no matter how deliberate the conversation was, Itami thoughts were only of the Brotherhood and Guardians he had run into. Despite being with them for a short time, he had seen enough during the Flame Dragon's attack that these armies clearly knew war. The JSDF might fair against the Brotherhood he thought but against the Guardians they would never stand a chance.
Yaganida continued, "The Politicians in Nagata-cho want to know; Is this something here worth turning America, China, and Russia...No, The World into our enemy?" He asked them turned to Itami as if he was wanting his advice but really ha wanted a personal opinion.
Again, Itami thought of the Brotherhood and Guardians, "How the hell should I know that?" He responded. America, Russia, and China would be the least of Japan's worries once they run into the Guardians and Brotherhood.
Yaganida sighed, he was clear enough he thought, "You don't get it. Wealth means power in our world." He simply said. If that were the case, then the Brotherhood and Guardians were extremely wealthy according to Yaganida, "In the extreme case, Japan could cut all ties from Earth and solely rely on this world." This caught Itami's undivided attention.
Thinking about the idea of Japan relying on the Special Region sounds like an ideal opportunity, however the current circumstances would jeopardize that and Itami knew that, then again they'll cross that bridge when they come to it, "So you want me to go ask the refugees where they get their Gold and Silver?" He then asked discarding his thoughts on the Brotherhood and Guardians for now.
A small smirk could be seen from Yaganida's lips, "You got a good relationship going with these people, if they don't know then maybe you could ask them who does know." he responded before adjusting his glasses.
Itami thought about how that would go over but he kept going back to thoughts about the Brotherhood and Guardians. Why were they here, sure a GATE may have opened in their world but Why? If they were well-off which was reinforced by Yaganida's words, then for what purpose does the Other Worlders have in the Special Region. Resources, Territory, Influence? Whatever their intentions were, they would have to hurdle the first obstacle of an Official First Contact.
As Itami quietly stood there thinking, Yaganida proceeded to leave but not before leaving the Second Lieutenant some parting words, "You'll be given a lot of free time soon, Itami. However you'll have to think about our future." He said as he left.
Itami does wonder about the future of the JSDF in the Special Region. While he anticipated to meet with the Guardians and Brotherhood again, the idea was unnerving because he might get to see much more than just an APC and Humvee. It troubled him to think about the aircraft and heavy armor they would have at their disposal, which he should be.
Itami's thinking was interrupted by a shout from below, "Itami! What are you doing up there?! I needed your help like-yesterday!" Itami flinched as the shouting, It was Rika having noticed Itami up on the balcony, "C'mon, let's go! Don't make come up there!" she snapped.
Somewhat frightened Itami nervously saluted, "C-coming!" he said before running to the door and making his way downstairs quickly.
Since their arrival, the refugees have been observing the JSDF work setting up a camp for said refugees. Tuka and Lelei especially watched carefully as the JSDF soldiers level the ground, pitch up tents, and distributing rations for everyone to have breakfast, overall being helpful was an understatement. Lelei however was more interested in the many large metal siege carriages of the JSDF at completed the work of one hundred men in mere hours, she was invested as to how the work and determined to learn what she can. Of course, she immediately picked up on the fact that each one had different uses for different tasks clearly shown to her as of late with the Brotherhood and JSDF vehicles.
Later it came around to do a head count of all the refugees and register the names. At first things were stagnating with the first few people but eventually it picked up as more people saw what was going on.
Lelei's and her Master went to resgister their names, "I am a Wizard, Master Cato El Altestan." He introduced cheerfully before turning to his apprentice, "This is my student."
"Lelei La Lelena" she simply responded.
It came around for Tuka to come up after several others, "I am the daughter of Hodoru of Coan Forest, Tuka Luna Marceau." she said nervously unsure how to act with many foreign eyes on her.
After several more refugees went, Rory was up next. Confident, Rory made sure to put on a display as to show who the JSDF were dealing with, "You may call me; Rory Mercury, I am an Apostle of Emroy. The God of Darkness, Death, War, Violence, and Insanity." she said with a seductive dark tone.
As things were getting back in order, Ilya Kasukezaki had a spare and free time to kill for the moment before her next duty. Aside from hanging out in her barracks, she would reminisce about her time in high school and the friends she made throughout despite being dealt a heavy hand in life, that being constantly put down, bullied, berated, and overall just being ostracized in general.
Deciding to go for a walk around the base, she left her barracks placing a pair of bluetooth earbuds in her ears at the door. Pulling out a device she found the sound she wanted and hit play.
(School Rumble 2nd Ending "Kono ippo susumu made, Tsugi no ippo made" - Play)
As the instrumental started, Ilya then started her walk and would sing along as the song played.
Sore ga hetakuso de, Nanka kuyashii kedo, Mada akiramenai, ne? Bonyari to shiteru, Yume mo sono uchi ni, Kiri ga hareta you ni shite miseru.
Singing with a soft voice, Ilya followed the perimeter of Alnus, passing by multiple personal whom all looked at her with acknowledgement or at least like she was crazy. Nonetheless, Ilya didn't care, she continued to sing and have a little blissful dance in her walk.
(That's my clumsiness, Its something vexing, but I can't give up yet, right? But, someday, even these hazy dreams, Will clear away like a lifting fog and can be seen.)
Kono ippo susumu made, Tsugi no ippo made, Jikkuri yuku kara, Mae ni susumu kara, Jibun no peesu de.
Lelei, having decided to learn as much as she can, stood with the JSDF personal preparing evening meals, determined to learn despite the language barrier. Ilya off in the distance could be seen walking along the fortification walls.
(Until I take this step forward , Until I take another step after, Because I'll continue carefully, I'll go on from before, At my own pace.)
Chiisana heya demo, Yabou ga tsumatteru, Ichi ichi, iwanai ga... Sorezore no jidai, Sorezore no jinsei, Dakedo tsunagatteru ningen mo yo.
In another area close to Alnus, a large group of refugees huddled together, mainly children and few adults, all chatted away their problems as well expressing their fears. Some of the children laughing despite their current situation. Ilya having made it to this side of the fortification simply by walking, she was still in her own world happily singing along.
(It was a small room, but it was full of ambition, One by one, unsaid was... Each area, each life, But that's that pattern that ties us all together.)
Kono namida ga aru kara, Tsugi no ippo to naru. Hakkiri wakaru yo, Mae ni susunderutte, Kagayaki no moto he.
Before Ilya left the fortification catwalk, she passed by Rory the Reaper whom she was looking off in the distance directly South-East, roughly where the Brotherhood FOB would be located. Rory too was determined, determined to find out the mystery that is the Brotherhood and Guardians.
(Because there are these tears, They will become my next step, I understand it perfectly, I am going forward, To the "radiance")
Kono namida ga aru kara, Tsugi no ippo to naru. Hakkiri wakaru yo, Mae ni susunderutte, Kagayaki no moto he.
Coming from the fortifications steps, Ilya walked by the Armory Depot. Hoth Itami and Rika could be seen carrying a large crate together. Poor Itami already looked overworked and tired but Rika on the other hand looked like she had just gotten started.
(Because there are these tears, They will become my next step, I understand it perfectly, I am going forward, To the "radiance")
The song ends when she gets back to her barracks. Having the song on repeat, it played back at 4 times in the ground she covered. Ilya wasn't going for record time, this was a song that spoke to her and often times she played it to "wash" her stress away and used also used it as a confidence booster.
JSDF Command Building
Lieutenant Yaganida had recieved and noticed there were some discrepancies happening around as of late and needed to inform the General. Coming into his office, he saluted and stood at attention, "General Hazama." he greeted.
Hazama saluted back, "What is it, Lieutenant?" he casually asked expecting the usual.
Easing his stance, Yaganida turned to his clipboard of the discrepancies he noted, "A couple of things." he said and began at the top, "First, we've also been receiving a strange noise on our communications equipment, there's something in the area emitting an electromagnetic frequency that's interfering with our radios. It could be the atmosphere, however..." he explained but coincidentally mentioned Itami's excuse for lack of communication. As he finished he trailed off and turned to a page behind top.
General Hazama was curious to say the least and allowed Yaganida to continue. Patiently waiting for Yaganida to start up again.
Looking over the papers to make sure they were accurate, he started speaking again, "...Upon further investigation, we discovered the frequency is actually a signal being broadcasted though EMFs. Our radios picked up traces of voices amongst the static."
Surprised and skeptical, Hazama scoffed, "A signal? Voice in the Static? Highly unlikely." he said dismissing Yaganida's report.
Yaganida expression had a slight frown because he had in Hazama's response when he was told about it but after confirming with the communications personal several times he became convinced, "Regardless, we're treating it as an anomaly." The Lieutenant continued but Hazama could argue, Yaganida spoke up first, "We've been trying to decipher this anomaly as of late and began sending drones for aerial recon to survey the surrounding area for anything that could produce an electromagnetic field on the frequency however..." he said and once against trailed began going through his clipboard to support the claims.
Hazama was going to protest but when Yaganida began going through his clipboard he refrained from speaking and waited for the Lieutenant.
Yaganida then took one of the pages with an image on it from his clipboard and places it in front of Hazama to look at, "...one of our drones picked this up." with that, Yaganida patiently waited for Hazama to respond at the image on the page.
The Image was taken from an aerial drone's view as used for reconnaissance and intelligence purposes, it showed a large clearing with at least four different fortifications with approximately 1km apart from each other, A large runway spanning a several of football fields in length, a war-torn area filled with destroyed buildings and trenches which were clearly used for training, and a decent sized motor-pool. Each of the four fortifications had perimeter walls that were different from the next. The smallest of the fortifications appeared to have GATE with wooden walls. The second smallest looked consistent to that of a prison with a double chain link fence. The second largest had what appeared to be two different style buildings, one of them being similar to modern design and the other looking straight out of a sci-fi movie, The largest building there appeared to be a command center of sorts, the perimeter walls was concrete with sandbag placements at the entrances. The Largest of the Fortifications had a combination of the sci-fi and modern buildings, which looked like multiple barracks' placed neatly and orderly.
General Hazama frowned with confusion and shock with a side order of disbelief, "That looks like a Military Base." he finally muttered with a semi-serious tone.
"We believe it is sir." The Lieutenant agreed, "Furthermore, Fifth Recon Team still hasn't reported in. I'm beginning to wonder if this Military Base has anything to do with that." he added noting the absent recon crew captured by the Guardians.
Hazama paused to think about it for a moment before speaking, "Let's not jump to conclusions just yet." He said expressing caution.
"Whoever owns that Base has an active military presence there. The layout of the Base is inconsistent with what we're familiar with, unfortunately." Yaganida explained. Most base layouts were generally the same in Earth's Militaries but this was rather odd to be that spread apart based on the image. The Lieutenant then proceeded to place both his hands on Hazama's desk and lean forward, "Sir, it's likely that these people aren't from the Special Region nor do I suspect they are from our World." he said in a lower tone, whether it was personal opinion or to get a point across.
Hazama rose an eyebrow in response getting the hint, "Are you suggesting that another GATE has opened up?" he asked, he knew the Lieutenant wasn't going to outright say it but they both understood that was the case.
Yaganida leaned off the desk and shifted his glasses, "We don't want to draw any conclusions prematurely, but it looks that way, I'm afraid." he said returning to usual addressing stance.
Hazama contemplated the evidence put before him, "Hmm, Strange Signal, Missing Recon Team, Military Outpost. We don't want to cause a panic but at the same time we need to be more cautious, The defense of Alnus Hill left us bare and the last thing we want is a full scale war with an army we know next to nothing about." He explained, that goes without saying because if Earth happened to find this out, then it's likely the Americans, or even the UN, would get involved. That was something Hazama didn't want because it would have foreign troops on Japanese soil. The General couldn't stress the complications as a result. Raising a pointed hand, he spoke, "I also need to point out that these people aren't our enemy unless proven otherwise, we need to consider the benefits as well as the consequences regarding this "army"." he added, realizing this could benefit the JSDF in the long run if there was a chance for an alliance.
Lieutenant Yaganida knew what the General said and smiled in response, "Based on the layout, we can safely assume there are two factions at this outpost, likely a coalition of sorts." He explained, although obviously. Yaganida then dropped his smile as he realized he failed to address something important, "General, I don't need to stress that if these people are here for the same reasons we are, we could be looking at a resource war." he said then gave the General a semi-serious look with concern hiding behind it.
The General looked unfazed by what Yaganida had told him, "I'm well aware of that, Lieutenant. If Fifth Recon doesn't return soon, I want a recon team to confirm the location of that Base and continue observing with aerial drones. Find out what we are dealing with and hopefully find out what happen to our men." he ordered.
Nodding, Yaganida acknowledged the order, "Of course sir, I'll let the Major know." he said before saluting and leaving the room to inform the Major, discretely of course. As he walked down the hall, Yaganida had a minor thought creep into his mind; Did Itami have an encounter with this "Other Army" which resulted in lack-of-communication? A reasonable individual wouldn't deny that coincidence.
As he left, Hazama returned to the Image of the Base. Based on the Image alone, the JSDF wouldn't stand much of a stance against this unknown military force, especially with those belonging to the Sci-Fi faction. The JSDF had only just got here and this Base looked like it had been there unchecked for months, General Hazama wanted to keep the UN out and avoid an altercation with this new group. He was dealt a new set of cards against unknown players and he needed to play them carefully.
Brotherhood FOB
A lone Guardian Trooper cautious stepped forward in the alleyway between buildings, weapon raised and constantly checking his sectors. Things weren't so ideal than he'd hoped. Stopping at an alley intersection, he leaned against one of the corner walls and slowly peaked out his head to see if there was anything there.
There was nothing but a way into the courtyard of the FOB which appeared empty. Just as he scanned the area, something struck the side of his helmet then he fell limp dropping to the ground. Peering from one of the windows of the building with a clear sight of the fallen Guardian Trooper, A Brotherhood 1st Marine had her weapon trained on the intersection.
The name on the chest plate said "Rathsi" followed by a Corporal's Chevron. Corporal Rathsi continued to aim down the intersection incase any other Guardians appeared, "Three down, two to go." she said to herself with a middle-eastern accent. She then takes her attention from the intersection to scan across the windows on the far side of the courtyard, just as she spots some movement on one of the rooftops she immediately ducks and as she does so, a Bolt of Energy flys in and strikes the wall leaving behind a burn mark.
Atop the building, the Guardian zeroed in on Rathsi gets up and quickly vacates the area. He jumps off the building and runs inside the same building. The second and final Guardian has the door covered as his comrade runs in.
"Did you get one?" The second Guardian asks.
"Nah, He ducked as I took the shot." The sniper Guardian replied believing the Brotherhood soldier to be a male, "Looked like he was alone."
The second Guardian had a realization, "If he was alone then that would mean-" stopping mid-sentence as a Frag Grenade was thrown in from the window. Standing on either side of the window, a pair of Brotherhood Marines stood by waiting for the explosion.
Boom*After the explosion the Marine Pair hoped inside to clear the building. The Guardian Sniper was slumped against the wall slathered in black residue from the grenade. Coming around the corner, the Second Guardian sprayed a hail of bolts nailing both Brotherhood Marines. Both of them dropped to the ground, "I didn't think that would work." he said to himself.
It wasn't long before he left the building and continued on with his objective alone, making his way towards a Canvas Tent placed in behind the command center of the AO. Rushing inside, weapon raised and ready to engage the only Brotherhood Marine left but no one was inside the canvas tent. There was no way he was there first but he was anyway. Rather than wait for Corporal Rathsi, he immediately went for the objective which was placed in a Big Military Crate. Going to open the Crate, he placed his weapon down and noticed something was off, he froze and listened as well as scanning the tent. His intuition told him just to take the crate alone but he had no time for the Brotherhood Marine left would ambush him.
Quickly opening the crate, which he failed to notice it was already unlocked, he flipped the crate's hatch and was immediately met with a pistol barrel pointed to his head. *Bang* the Guardian dropped to the ground.
Climbing out of the Big Military Crate, Corporal Rathsi checked the Guardian she just shot before going for the objective which she placed on a table beside the crate; A Data Drive. After picking up the Data Drive, she took her radio, "Objective secure, All Targets Eliminated." she said.
There was a brief silence for the moment until there was a pulse wave that blew through the AO, "War Game Simulation, Over. Brotherhood 1st Marines is the Victor!" A monotoned voice said via intercom echoing through the AO.
"Ugh, That wasn't fair." The Guardian on the floor had said.
Corporal Rathsi rolled her eyes in response and folded her arms, "Oh please, Since when is War ever fair?" she argued.
The Guardian gets up from the floor but as he does he speaks, "There's a reason there's Laws for War." he argued back.
The Corporal just about to burst laughing but manages to snicker instead. "You sound like a politician." She shot back. Rathsi then unfolds her arms and squares up to the Guardian Trooper, "Do you think your enemy will play by your rules? We might as well use swords to combat the enemy of this world if that's the case. Do you believe they have Laws of War? What about Prisoners-of-War, would they treat us fairly? Would be any different if the roles were reversed?" She barrages the Trooper with questions.
"Okay!" The Guardian yelled making Rathsi stop with the questions, "You made your point. Sheesh." he said with defeat then walked off to meet with his teammates.
Rathsi smiles confidently knowing she'd won that argument. Taking off her Standard Protective Helmet, she runs a hand through her glossy raven black hair; it was a boys cut with a typical tapered style, very tomboyish in general. After a moment, she is greeted with her squad who all congratulate her for getting the win. They proceed to leave the training grounds and allow the other squads to try a different war game.
In the Command Building, Yuki and the others were too busy to care about the war games results even if the Brotherhood won 6-of-4 times. The Brotherhood Personal were frantically at their workstations on their terminals. Some moving about the room bring papers to and from other workstations. Since Yuki's command desk was in the middle, she and her second-in-commands were there as well as the Comms Personal.
The Comms Personal basically just became the de-facto secretary for the Commander-Supreme as she was in the shadow of Yuki when she was around, "Commander-Supreme, The Eisenreich and Brotherhood Engineers have arrived, as well as supplies from the Reich and the Mainland." The Comms Personal announced.
Without looking, Yuki acknowledged with a nod, "Good, Have the Engineers start construction on the Runway Hangers and expand the Runway." she explained to the Comms Personal and glanced over who then responded with a nod and went to her ear piece to announce the order. Yuki then turned around to her Commanders, "Have the materials for the K-97s arrived?"
"Yes they have." Commander Hanai said before pulling up the invoice and manifest on Yuki's terminal delivered and received at the GATE, "As it stands now, we can afford to construct at least 3 Interceptors, Maybe 4. We'll have to send for another request at later date."
"I suppose that'll do." Yuki said with a sigh. She then turned to Commander Jarrus, "What do we have for Gunships?" she asked.
Jarrus was on a tablet going through reports and manifests, "Nothing, but the Guardian Chancellor had requested for T-4011s Transport shuttles, We received 6 so far." he answered before taking a file on his tablet and with a quick flick of his wrist, the file appeared on Yuki's terminal with details and schematics of the Guardian Transport Shuttles.
The T-4011 Shuttle VTOL resembled a large Mi-35 without the helicopter propellors, it had a short stubby fin in place of the Mi-35 tail. The Guardian VTOL was double the width to the of the actual Mi-35 allowing for double the space and side-by-side piloting. The VTOL had a couple of basic weapons; A rapid firing laser on the nose, and a pair of laser beam weapons at the end of it's stubby wings. It could be outfitted with heavier munitions however the Guardian Laser weapons were powerful as is.
Yuki once again sighed, "I guess that's the best we can do thus far." she said. Clearly she knew the Coalition was lacking solid support overall. Ground Infantry and Vehicles could only do so much.
Jarrus, still on the tablet continued with the manifests, "Also, Your request for more Tortoise HBTs have arrived as well, bumping up our numbers from 8 to 16." he announced, prompting Yuki to shoot a double thumbs up.
"Preparing for War are we, Commander-Supreme?" a voice asked aloud. Coming from behind the back area of the office, an officer in a long white overcoat came over.
"Chancellor Tykus." Yuki greeted forgetting he was there too. She watched him approach the desk with Jarrus stepping aside to make room for the Chancellor, "Perhaps you can help us by requesting for more resources from the Guardian Empire." She told him.
The Chancellor nodded and smiled, "Well, I've taken the liberty and requested for more T-2410s AA vehicles but also a couple of T-5410 Fighting Platforms. With Colossal-Classes running about, we certainly could use the Firepower." he replied and with that Yuki was satisfied with the answer.
For the remainder of the day, Yuki and her Coalition heads would organize and list whatever they would need and determine which was a priority as the requisitions would be restricted to a per-kilo limit.
Outside, Mintah and his Guardian buddy; Fruya, were standing in line at the Quartermaster's supply depot. Mintah, being injured, needed to hand his equipment while he recovered from his escapade.
Fruya, having Mintah's duffle bag in hand to help him, constantly looked over Mintah, "You sure you're good?" he asked.
Mintah, in traditional Brotherhood Combat Fatigues standing there with an arm sling and a bit rough looking but nonetheless able to walk, "Yeah, I probably won't be deployed anytime soon though." he answered, "We have more than enough troops and equipment here to take this world. I also heard we're getting more reinforcements, I'll be lucky if I see combat again."
The Guardian looked confused, "What, we're getting reinforcements?" he questioned. Fruya figured they had more than enough soldiers but reinforcements seemed overkill.
Mintah looked around as if to check if someone was around before leaning to Fruya, "Rumor says it's Eisenreich." he told him with a low tone.
Fruya in turn was taken back but didn't show his expression, his body language said enough as he took a step, "I didn't think those fascists would manage to get through the checkpoint." he responded.
Mintah agreed with a nod, "I didn't either, Hopefully Commander-Supreme knows what she's doing."
At this point, The Quartermaster was ready see the two, he coughed to get their attention and motioned them to step forth. Fruya stepped up and placed Mintah's duffle bag on the counter between the Quartermaster and the two.
"Hey." The Quartermaster greeted before taking Mintah's bag and begin unload the contents for inventory.
Before Mintah could respond, he sees a little creature lazily wearing a Brotherhood patrol cap in back organizing equipment from the other Brotherhood Soldiers, "...Hi." Mintah manages to mutter. The little creature was clearly a goblin, the only goblin interested in technology; Olok.
The Quartermaster could easily tell Mintah was staring and paused his work, "Don't pay him any attention, You deal with me and me alone." he said with a demanding tone.
Mintah took his eyes off Olok and to the Quartermaster, "Right." the Ranger acknowledged.
The Quartermaster continued with the inventory. Clipboard closeby, the Quartermaster went through the checklist; Damaged Vest, Slightly used Rifle, Broken Knife, Dirty Shin/Forearm Armors, etc. Mintah stood there with Fruya waiting for the Quartermaster to sent them off when he was done.
The Spiritual Realm, Eisenreich Crown City
The Eisenreich Crown City, built between several peaks of high mountains dividing the city into 4 sections; The Royal, The Industrial, The Residential, and The Commercial, with bridges connecting to each part of the city. The Royal Section was on the higher peak, Both the Industrial and the Commercial were more-or-less level with each other, and finally the Residential Section was the lowest but larger than the others. Spread throughout the Mountain side overlooking and encircling the Crown City were towers each with connecting gondolas, these towers were used by police and military personal overlooking the city as well as providing overwatch outside said city. The Buildings were very consistent with those of the Victorian Architecture, however in place of stone was steel, the finest and refined steel one could forge it might as be titanium however it did need replacing from time to time. What made Eisenreich so successful is that the Reich sat on top of Live Iron Ore deposits, these deposits would bleed Iron Ore on a monthly basis and over the countless generations Eisenreich have mastered the metal, and metal became the very soul of Eisenreich.
Being been the Royal Section several times, a female officer, dressed in your typical black Schutzstaffel uniform with the exception of bare shoulders in place of shoulders, walked down the hall within the Kaiserschloss, Eisenreich's Imperial Castle. She was summoned by her superior and called to the castle, why she was there she will so find out. Walking through a door, she sees a man wearing royal clothing fit for a prince sitting at a table, "Mein Kaiser." The Female Officer greeted and gave a courteous bow. The apparent Kaiser saluted back in response, "You summoned for me?" she asked but more for confirmation.
"I did, Kommandant Blitzjäger." The Kaiser answered and motioned her to close the door which she did and sat down at the table across from the Kaiser, "On orders from the Führer himself, I've been tasked with gathering assets for a special force. Originally, Kaiser Bergfuchs was supposed to be responsible for this but he's being reprimanded by the Führer, something to do with insulting a Brotherhood Official." he explained, a smirk could be seen on the Kaiser's mouth at the mention of Bergfuchs.
The Officer, Kommandant Blitzjäger, took a moment to think about the Brotherhood. Oh, how she loathed them, she hated their nationalism and having to work with them because they acted like bloodthirsty marauders on the battlefield. Despite her reservations, there were some ideas where she loved about the Brotherhood. When Eisenreich had a civil war, the Brotherhood intervened and had both sides concede, Blitzjäger was a huge supporter for Eisenreich joining the Brotherhood as it's 9th Division, she especially loved how the Brotherhood cares deeply for it's people; which was a major factor that started the Second Great War.
Blitzjäger's thoughts would be interrupted when her Kaiser spoke up, "This wouldn't be the first time Herr Kaiser Bergfuchs got reprimanded but I disgress." He openly said. The Kaiser then brought out a sheet of paper and read of the details, "His Excellency, requested for a Battalion of our best, brightest, and specifically Open-Minded." he relayed the information, by order of the Führer of course.
Blitzjäger frown in confusion, "I'm sorry? Did I hear that correctly?" she questioned.
The Kaiser chuckled at Blitzjäger's response, "That's what I said when his Excellency gave the orders." The Kaiser admitted. Placing the paper beside, he continued, "The Battalion itself acts to that of a Task Force, pulling individuals from all branches of the Reich. As for you, I summoned you because you expressed a willingness to command troops, with your service record with the Bundes Schutzgruppe I've no doubt you're the better option."
The Bundes Schutzgruppe was more-or-less the Federal Police, Intelligence Agency, Special Forces put together. Blitzjäger's name was actually a title she had earned along with her rank of Kommandant, needless to say her service record was a very good one.
Blitzjäger was speechless she was given such an honor, to be able to command troops on the battlefield as opposed to intelligence work. She rose a hand and placed over her heart before she bowed in her seat, "You have my eternal gratitude, Mein Kaiser." She muttered, with her head down she hid the tears forming in her eyes from the exuberant feeling she was feeling, "Gratitude that is only rivaled by my service to the Reich."
The Kaiser could feel her emotion based on the tone of her voice, "I like the enthusiasm however I will not be your reporting official." he told her which prompted Blitzjäger to look up at the Kaiser teary-eyed and confused once again, "I'm under obligation not to share details but This Special Battalion is being handed off to the Brotherhood." The Kaiser continued.
Blitzjäger fell quiet. She didn't know what to say, yes she got what she wanted but there was a cache, she was being handed off to those she loves and despises.
The Kaiser waited a moment before speaking again, "That being said, What are the criticisms about the Brotherhood do you have? Do you feel comfortable being commanded by individuals not of the Reich? How would you represent the Reich in the "peaceful" presence of your enemies?" He inquired with a barrage of questions. Of course, there was a cache especially with questions like these.
Finally snapping out of her "dot EXE not working" moment, She wiped away her tears and spoke, "Why so inquisitive?" she asked returning to normal.
"I'll be honest with you, We're looking for Open-Minded, Unbiased, and Rational Individuals." The Kaiser told Blitzjäger. All things considered, most of Eisenreich supported the Brotherhood but there was a bias for, almost as if Eisenreich was the Brotherhood's "good boy" dog. The Kaiser then points to the wall, in the general direction of the Royal Throne Room, "His Excellency orders it to be so."
Blitzjäger had trouble wrapping her head around the idea, "I don't quite understand, Mein Kaiser." she admitted. Where was this going she wondered, theres no way selection was that extreme.
"You will." The Kaiser simply answered and before Blitzjäger could speak, he rose a finger, "Save your Criticisms and Convictions, they are not for me."
"Very well." She complied with a nod. She hen changed the subject, "If I am to be in charge of this Special Battalion, who will be under my command?" she asked leaving the idea she wasn't going to be picked and intentionally left ambiguity.
The Kaiser then pulled out a manifest of the Task Force and read over the points, "Several Companies of Infantry and Armored Units, Scientists, and a couple of platoons from the 5th Königliche Rittergard." he explained.
Like the Main Three, Eisenreich had it's own Order serving alongside their Armed Forces, and of course the Order Members, their "knights", were superior to their Armed Forces. Eisenreich's Knights were equal to that of the Guardian, Assassin, and Brotherhood Order Members and could stand toe-to-toe with them.
Consider what the Kaiser had said, Blitzjäger was taken back especially after hearing she would be in command of a few Knights, "Why The Order of the Metal Stone? I thought The Order of Golden Steel was the best?" she questioned. Normally, the latter of the Orders would be first in line tor combat and well-known throughout the Reich, they were the SEAL team 6 as opposed to the other SEAL teams. Both Orders were just as lethal as the next, fact is one of them got more credit and more recognition.
The Kaiser expected this and nodded in response, "Naturally they both are, however Metal Stone has fought more battles than Golden Steel." he answered, "Besides, a Battaltion like this hardly calls for more soldiers than it already needs."
With that, Blitzjäger was satisfied with his answer, "When would I take this Battalion to the Brotherhood?" she then asked a different question.
Moving this along, the Kaiser put away the manifest, "Right now, we're gather the assets and resources to go along. During that time, this time, you're going to meet and be briefed by the Führer about your mission. Do you understand?" he explained and motioned for someone to enter.
"Yes, Mein Kaiser." Blitzjäger acknowledged as someone came in from the door. The person was one of the Führer's aide holding a tablet. based on the design, the tablet was of Brotherhood in origin.
As the aide sat himself down beside the Kaiser, "Now, Let's start the interview, Herr Kommandant. Hail Reich." he said then proceeded to salute; the Kaiser crossed his arms over his chest forming an X.
Blitzjäger followed suit and did the same thing, "Hail Reich!" she confidently and assertively yelp then shot both arms out and up with closed fists; typical superman flight pose or rather Raiden's torpedo punch.
The more you know:
Guardian T-4011 VTOL Transport Shuttle - Often used to get around from place to place by Guardian Officials. It is primarily used by Guardian Infantry as it provides a blend of transportation and support.
Eisenreich's Bundes Schutzgruppe - As mentioned before, the BSG is a combination of Intelligence Agencies, Federal Police, and Special Forces. Formed after Eisenreich's Civil War, the BSG acts as it's own entity to prevent destablization from the People, the Führer and his Kaisers, and whatever Council in power. BSG acts solely on the policies on behalf of the Reich and only the Reich, but given the BSG greatly respects the Führer they often act on the request of the Leader sometimes overlooking theirnown policy.
Eisenreich's Königliche Rittergard - The Knight's Order is Eisenreich's equivalent to the Main Three's Orders. Once serving as sepcialized units during the First Great War alongside standard infantry, now the symbol of Elite Knights. Following the Second Great War, Eisenreich ultilized these knights to go against Order Members of both Guardians and Assassins, as a result they are seen as a force to be reckoned with.
AN: Hi, So how have you liked the story so far? I admit it seems rather slow in general. I write this during my breaks at work slowly "chipping away at the stone", figuratively speaking. Anyways, hoped you enjoy the story whule I work in the next chapter.