Chapter 20

Reinvigorate

News about the successful of the Eastern Expeditionary Force spread throughout the continent and envoys from numerous races and cities flood the Imperial Capital. It was worth it as they had seen how the Apostle of Emroy humiliate the "Imbecile Bandit Prince Zorzal", and the Emperor had to take it without any protest, just like how they have to take every abuse, insult the Empire throw at them and can't do anything about it.

The Eastern Expeditionary Force finally cross the Gate and back to their home land with the fruit of their success. Many cry with joy and grieve for their fallen comrades. Even the Legate and his officers are caught up in the moment and forget about their plan. When they recompose themselves, Arthrun and Ari are long gone. A day of hard riding take them to the Volralden tribe and reunite with his squad and Giselle. That night, a big party is held in Arthrun honor and the ascension of Ren to become the Apostle of Lunaryur. Giselle invokes her Patron Goddess who bless Ren with the power to create darkness and serenity. After that, beautiful music start to be played by numerous different music instrument and moon light begin to shine upon Ren, the god Lunaryur appear within the light. All except Arthrun kneel down in reverence

"Arise my Apostle, from this moment onward, you are the Apostle of Lunaryur, god of music. You can play any instrument and sing any song, and the sound you make can manipulate the feeling of all being, whether powerful god, or weakly mortal, a blade of grass or a giant old tree, all will bend to your music and song."

Then the music and moon light disappear. When she tries to speak, her voice sound different, and when she flap her wing, instead of a flapping noise, soothing music fill the air. Even her footsteps make the hearts stir. Excited, she keeps on singing and dancing for the whole duration of the party. And true to the god Lunaryur words, Ren is joined in her jubilant by everyone presence, even the usually serious Ari. When morning come, Arthrun inform his host and squad about his order to return. Agron, Ren and Ari decide to go with him, The dwarves choose to return to their mountain to gather their kinsmen before joining him. The Volralden choose to stay in the ancestral home, but wish to have the protection and trade agreement with Orb Union, Arthrun agrees and gives them the list of everything they can trade. Tiber is selected to accompany Arthrun. Giselle leaves and is asked by the Chieftain Remus to delivers a string of Goblins ears to the Emperor as his congratulation. Giselle grins at the chance to deliver an insult to the Emperor in front of his court. Arthrun leads his group to the East, outside of view from the Volralden tribde and call the waiting the transport. It decloak and cloak again after the passengers have boarded.

"Sir, we will fly to Italica first, rest there for a night and back to Alnus base with Representative Cagalli and her Aid Meryn tomorrow."

"Why are we stopping there instead of going straight for Alnus?"

"Order by the Representative herself. Sir."

The transport decloak when 40 km before reaching Italica, within minutes, Arthrun and his group disembark with Cagalli, Meryn, Count Colt, Myui and the fairies waiting. The fairies rush in and cause some ruckus that Meryn has to tell them to go for the snack in the kitchen.

"Those fairies are not too troublesome I hope."

"Not at all, they are a great morale boost in Alnus base. You should have seen them work with our technician and engineer. And how the girls are dotting on them."

"Glad to be of help, I don't have the heart to leave them out there."

"I know, and I don't blame you or anything. And they are very helpful, much more than you first thought."

Both Cagalli and Meryn give him a big hug to the surprise of all presence. Arthrun introduce his squad to the Count and he introduce his daughter to him. Myui eyes him with certain interest and smile subtly. They retire to the conference room where Cagalli and Arthrun exchange information. The Count and Myui listen with intense as they understand the Empire will march on Alnus again and Italica is on its path.

"The Empire will attack again, but I am sure we can work thing out in Italica."

"Do you mean to use Italica to confront the Empire?"

"No, she means she wants to make sure Italica is secured."

"But Italica is right in the path, so reinforce and fight here is the most logical."

"I think the Emperor isn't going to attack Italica. His sole target will be the Alnus base. If he win at Alnus, Italica will be his. And he will want it and its wealth intact."

"Nevertheless, we can't leave Italica vulnerable, that's why we want to know if you are ok with the idea of having a small garrison here."

"I'm totally fine with it, and it will assure the citizen that Italica is protected."

"Then I am counting on your support for my plan."

Cagalli plan involves building a new wall and demolish the old one. And she explain that everything is prepared, only 6 days are needed to finish the wall and the demolition. Garrison of 1.000 soldiers with all support system will make Italica Impregnable. The Count agree as he knows the Empire will not march for at least a month. Then Cagalli informs him of an operation she is about to initiated.

"Secrecy is not a crucial factor, but it always satisfying to see the surprise on those arrogant Imperials."

"What do you have in mind?"

"Operation to do some house cleaning will be initiated."

"The scouts and spies of the Empire?"

"Precisely."

Kenny and his squad are travelling light and heading west, the mixed of merchants, travelers, traders, envoys … help them blend in without much problem, as is the local language learn from Arthrun. Being task to hunt down an individual isn't something new, but this time, this individual is well-trained and equip with gadgets that he has no idea what their use is. And it doesn't help as he is watched constantly by their Imperials master. Thankfully, he also picked out their double so they manage to slip out in the first night. With no idea where to look for Arthrun, Kenny decides to head West, hoping to incept Arthrun before he returns to his people. His reasoning is good, but he has no idea why nobody have any idea about a man with his description on the busy road.

The news increased military activity the Italica province doesn't bother the local as General Hazama had originally thought, on the contrary, the local interpret it as the commitment to safe keep the region from Imperial incursion. Special Forces trained by Arthrun prove their salts in cleaning up the region and soon the Empire has to rely on less reliable sources which a number of them are on the pay roll of the Count.

"Lord Marcus, Secretary Aristotle's list is telling me we are losing our grip on Italica Province, our spies and scouts are disappearing one after another. And the information we received can't be cross check. What do you propose we do? I don't want to blindly send in our main force."

"Your Imperial Majesty, I think I we have to rely on the demi-human and merchants for the information, and we have to send in our secret units into Italica along with hired adventurers to overwhelm the enemy."

"And do we have enough adventurers to assist the Black Watch?"

"Apparently around 2.000 return from the Eastern Gate, they were ordered to by Giselle."

"And what about the demi-humans? Aren't those combat capable mostly perish?"

"I think we have to resort to use slaves to supplement the current number."

"Then can they be counted upon not to betray us?"

"We can have their tribe hold hostage to ensure their obedience."

"Carry it out then. I want to know what is happening before we march."

Legate Diomedes leads his men straight to the Imperial Capital, enjoying the admiration, attention and envy glare from all the nobles and general as he passes their area. Soon, he will enjoy his great triumph, bash in glory and praise and even jealousy from the Western Factions.

In Italica, the Count and Myui are sending off Arthrun, his squad, Cagalli and Meryn and her fairies. He reaffirm his commitment to Orb Union and thanks them for their help in saving his city and domain. Then Myui quickly hand over something to Meryn, smiling innocently.

On the transport, Meryn open her hand to see a small diamond. Puzzled at the expensive gift, she looks to Cagalli and Arthrun.

"Will this diamond be considered as bribery?"

"Depend."

"On what?"

"My mood."

Meryn is speechless while Arthrun turns away, determines not to involve lest he becomes their target.

The new wall is built, higher than the old one, but look much simpler without any battlement and defensive feature. The gates doesn't inspire any confidence in holding out a battering ram which puzzle many. In the end, they shrug and leave it as it is built by the people who can kill 9 dragons.

The Imperial Capital is in an uproar with the entrance of Legate Diomedes, Lord Cotyss, Lord Raglan. The citizens are cheering wildly and throwing flower at the parading soldiers. The Giants control by the mages led by master Hepheston inspire fear in the citizen, but wild cheering again erupt as they know their Empire has be victorious. Thanks to the effort of downplaying the defeat of the Western Expeditionary Force and the siege of Italica, the people support for their Emperor skyrocket.

Commander Erwin and his officers, Captain Hange, Captain Carlsten, Captain Dennis, Captain Levi and Lieutenant Nathan watch as the people of this giant city gawk at them as some kind of spectacle. Despite their uncomfortable situation, they admire and envy them. To have a world without fear of being killed by Titans, to have magic and Wyvern and even gods to look after them. They can make out some word from the crown, commenting how they dress strangely, how their weapon look barbaric … But they have to endure.

Wyvern Knights fly in formation circle the sky above the Capital, colorful flag unfurl and fluster in the wind, the festive mood of the citizen know no bound as they spend their time and money on drinking, gambling, whoring and betting on beast fight.

In the Palace, the Emperor honor his commanders with golden swords and armors, conferring tittle on distinguished junior officer, throwing lavish monetary reward to the soldiers, and even grand freedom status to all the slaves that manage to survive the whole ordeal.

Cagalli and Arthrun are watching the jubilance in the Imperial Capital with great interest.

"Shrewd isn't he."

"Predictable though."

"If the come at us again, how should we handle them?"

"I shall leave it to you, after all, your acquaintance is with them."

They chuckle and continue to watch as it is the time for the numerous envoy and messenger carrying gift and congratulatory letter to present themselve. The last two messengers are from the Volralden tribe and Italica. All in the court room rise and react with surprise as Giselle enter.

"I bear the gift from the Volralden tribe to the East."

She holds up the strong of goblin ears for all to see. Shock and anger expression are shown but none dare to ask the reason and meaning behind this outrageous gift. The Emperor and especially Legate Diomedes have to do their best to remain calm. Being lift up high and slam down by a single disgusting gift from a demi-human and delivered by an Apostle shame Legate Diomedes to no end, yet he has to accept the gift or he will be reminded of his mortality with a swift slash of the scythe. Giselle smile deviously as she approach the Legate and put the string on him.

"My congratulation Legate, it's not a common sight for an Apostle to bestow a gift to a mortal."

Biting his teeth hard of this mockery, Legate Diomedes bows.

"It's an immense honor, Apostle."

"Enjoy yourselves ladies and gentlemen, I shall go to my mistress temple now. Farewell"

Among the angry murmur, there are some snicker as well, though many are sympathize with the Legate. Then come the messenger from Italica. As Legate Diomedes hasn't hear much about Italica due to the Emperor restriction, he is surprise at the messenger coming in empty handed.

"Greeting to you all. I am Lucan, messenger from Italica. I bear message from my lord."

Astonish at the discourtesy of the messenger, angry voice shout out for his execution. But the messenger remain stoic, open the letter and read.

"Congratulation, from Sovereign to Sovereign."

Then casually hand the letter over to one of the servant to take to the Emperor. The whole court room is silence, unable to believe or comprehend the message. Only the sound of the doors slam shut wake them up from their trance. Then outburst of anger and rage and swearing that Italica shall be razed to the ground and nobody in later generation will even remember it. Legate Diomedes has had enough, not only he was mocked by an demi-human tribe and an Apostle, now a mere count of a city dare to mock his achievement as well. He unsheathe his sword, swears loudly so all can hear him.

"I SHALL RETURN THIS MOCKERY WITH BLOOD, FROM NOW ON, THE COUNT OF ITALICA, THE VOLRALDEN TRIBE AND THE APOSTLE OF HARDY ARE MY ENEMIES. I SHALL HAVE THE SKINS OF THOSE STINKING VOLRALDEN AS RUG AT MY HALL, THE COUNT SHALL WATCH AS I VIOLATE HIS DAUGHTER EVERY NIGHT AND I SHALL CUT OFF AND BURN ALL THE LIMB OF THAT BITCHY APOSTLE AND LET MY TORTURER PRACTICE ON HER, THEN THAT BITCH WILL RUE HER IMMORTALITY. THIS I SWEAR IN THE NAME OF PALAPON GOD OF REVENGE!"

As the finishing touch, he cut his palm and squeeze the blood to drip on the floor. Then he storms out of the court room, leaving behind the stunned guests and Emperor. Soon they all excuse themselves, leaving a livid Emperor and his prince and princess. He is angry that his planned party to boost the morale ended in chaos, with no other choice, he leaves the court room, accompanied by his children.

On their way back to their camp, the Allied Armies commanders look at the street with worried eyes. The festive drinking has become a drunken riot which the local prefects have a hard time to suppress.

"Tonight is the most interesting night I have even had."

"Yeah. Humiliated in a banquet to honor his achievement. To reach so high only to be stepped on. I pity him."

"The Emperor souring face is all I need to keep me happy for the rest of my life, I had come prepared to see the smug on his triumphant face only to get his grimace face."

"But on the other hand, we are sure to march on Italica and Alnus hill soon. So what do you think?"

"Let's reach our camp first."

Thus they gallop away with their escorts, leaving a chaotic Imperial Capital behind with its sour mood Emperor. In the camp, their men I drinking and feasting moderately as they are forbidden to get drunk. They accept the order as each of them know they are technically in "enemy territory".

"Lord Duran, what is it the news from Alnus?"

"My lords, I have news from my associate in the merchant guild. The information is solid and have been checked. It's all real. Please read these documents carefully as i shall burn them later."

The lords read and discuss the content of the documents with worried look and doubt, in the end, they all become quiet and hand over the document to King Duran. He toss them into the fire.

"So what choice do we have?"

"Make contact with Orb and ask them to help us to defect or stay with the Empire and possibly doom all of us and our countries."

"But can it be true? One dragon is possible, but 9 of them including 2 adult Ancient Dragons? And to top it all, an Elder Lich? How can these things be possible?"

"Their weapons is that powerful. In fact, they can wipe out the Empire whenever they want. They just don't want to assume the responsibility for the aftermath."

"Such arrogant, are they thinking of playing god?"

"If only we can verify it with our own eyes."

"Well, if doubt is still lingering, I think we can ask the Apostle of Emroy for help."

"It attract the attention of the Empire. So we can't do it openly."

"Well, how about sending some of our men here to check? In the guise of scouting for the upcoming campaign."

"Emperor Molt is too cunning for that excuse to work. For now, we can only rely on the merchants for information."

With no method to verify the authenticity of the information received, the simply keep discussing plan for various outcome and retire to their respective camp.

Cagalli and Arthrun are join by Mery whom comes with a marked report. Cagalli scan it and the three head to CIC room. There, Lieutenenat Yanagida has been waiting with several record, picture and report compiled by his staff.

"So these Immortal are bred Hobgoblin that loyal only toe the reigning Emperor?"

"Yes, according to the video, audio and picture from our bug, they are bred and train by the Haryo Tribe."

"What is the info on this tribe?"

"Each member is selected and consist of mixed blood race. None of them is pure. They have been laid low to avoid attracting attention to carry out their plan of dominion."

"Well, being so subtle that nobody know except for the Emperor, their dream is quite ambitious one considering the Empire discriminating attitude toward non-human and non-imperials."

"They invest heavily on the Crown Prince to make him stupid and drop his guard. When he ascend the throne, they will gifted him a concubine that will bear him a long living and healthy son. Then he shall either be succeeded early or late depending on his performance in controlling the court."

"Such a long time plan, admirable."

"The record indicates their plan has been in motion ever since the 11th Emperor. But the following Emperors are quite formidable that they didn't dare to initiate their plan."

"And Crown Prince Zorzal comes along igniting their hope."

"Only to be crushed at the siege of Italica."

"They are hatching a new plan in which the current Emperor might be killed along with all the suitable candidate to succeed the throne, leaving Crown Prince Zorzal as the sole legitimate heir."

"So what are they planning about us?"

"They didn't plan to fight against us directly unless we interfere with their plan. But several contingencies have been planned including your assassination."

"They have infiltrated Italica?"

"Yes, with the help of the Butler. They have been spying for the Emperor, but withholding some information as well."

"Intriguing. Leave them be for now, have we learnt whereabouts of their location?"

"They have 4 bases, each with it's own purpose. The 1st on is at the Imperia Capital obviously, in charge of breeding program for their tribe and the production of spies, assassin and Immortal. 2nd is at Telta, handling slaves and money to acquire breeder and seeds. 3rd is at Rondel, they operate slaves trade, alchemy, magic related things and recruit rogue mages. 4th is at Proptor, shipbuilding and maritime trade with a bit of smuggling on the side."

"Clever, ehh?"

"So are we going to wipe them out?"

"Only if they plan to confront us. Otherwise, leave them be."

"Then I shall continue to keep watch on them. May I have permission to mobilize the new special force to deal with them at my discretion?"

"Sure, work with Arthrun to make sure none escape. I want full detail report on their capabilities ASAP."

"Yes, Representative."

Cagalli, Arthrun and Meryn retire to their room, with Arthrun making plan for an assault against the Haryo tribe. He isn't going to let them get away with planning an assassination on his fiancé.

Dawn comes and the chaotic night in the Imperial Capital ends, people getting up and cleaning the street or struggle to get home with big hangover. Heralds from the Imperial Palace rush out to every corner of the Imperial Capital announcing the will of the Emperor

"Hear ye hear ye, The Emperor has decreed that a demonstration is going to be held at the East of the Imperial Capital in this afternoon, there will be beast fight betweem the Orgre and Giant the Legate Diomedes brought back from the Eastern Expedition, and the new weapons and auxiliary troops."

The people are ecstasic at the news, gambling house begin to explore the bet ratio and sending their brokers to look for prospective client. At the field to the East, A makeshift arena is hastily erected.

Commander Erwin is in deep thought when a messenger arrive to announce he is to organize a demonstration of his weapons and to select his best soldiers to fight in the arena. When it is known that his men will be allow to take any weapons they want to fight, he simply nods in acknowledgement. Calling his captains to form a squad, they selected Mikasa, Armin, Eren, Arnie, Bertholdt, Reiner to form two strike teams, Lieutenant Nathan will be the leader with Ralph, Dren, Marco and Risa as supporting riflemen. 2 cannons are also prepare for the demonstration.

Afternoon come, in front of the demonstration team, hundreds of old armor and shield are place neatly in formation just like real soldiers. On the wall and the stands, all important looking figures are watching and discuss about the unusual equipped soldiers and strange big tubes. But Commander Erwin attention focus on the Violet Pavilion set up on the gate house. Seem like their Emperor and his family and close advisors are gathered up there for the show. The signal to begin is given by Legate Diomedes, Commander Erwin proceeds.

"First will be the sword"

Captain Levi unsheathes his sword and slash, cut cleanly through the shields and armors within reach. The crowd is getting excited.

"Now the fire arms.

Captain Levi take out his gun and shot. Each of his shot piece through the armor and shield will east. The loud bang of the gun startle them all. Commander Erwin notice that the Princess and Prince are having a worried look on them. The crowd recover from their shock and start their discussion again, more excited now.

"Rifleman, make ready and…. fire!"

BANG

"Reload….. and fire!

BANG

"Reload….. and fire!

BANG

"Reload….. and fire!

BANG

"Reload….. and fire!

BANG

"Reload….. and fire!

Each time they fire, the crowd get more excited, as armors and shields are shattered after each shot. Even the Emperor looks surprised and leans forward a bit. Then converse with his officers and advisors. The Princess and Prince faces are getting paler and paler after each shot.

"Cannons, prepare to open fire."

The gun crews push their cannons and ammo boxes into position and aim at the remaining targets.

"FIRE!"

The gun crews cover their ears as the cannons open fire.

BOOOM! BOOOM!

This time, some of the spectator fall of their seat who whose standings jump at the loud explosion. When the smoke clear, very few armored dummy are still standing. Bits of armor and shields are all over the field. Silence reign for a moment.

"This is the power we shall bring to bear on those insolent barbarian on the West, they will face the fury of the Empire. VICTORY TO THE EMPIRE!

The crowd cheer wildly, and the soldiers chant

"VICTORY TO THE EMPIRE!"

"VICTORY TO THE EMPIRE!"

The Emperor is pleased with the sudden surge of morale, but the look on his daughter and son isn't reflecting joy but fear. They have told him about Orb Union strength, but the new weapon of Legate Diomede surely is more than enough. Thus he is puzzled why the look on their faces. Commander Erwin doesn't fail to notice that. In his mind, there are two possibilities. 1/ The power of his weapon is much inferior to Orb Union's. 2/ They are ashamed to be shown how inferior their Empire military is. And Commander Erwin considers the 1st possibility is more likely as the rumors he picked up while wandering around indicated the Orb Union weapon is on a god like level to the Empire. Now he wants to plan his surrender to preserve his soldiers' lives.

Then come the final event, which also the event that gambler and nobles are looking forward to the most. A giant Ogre is sent into the arena, then follow by a Titan of similar size. The fight is essentially one sided as the Ogre is overpowered by the Titan and eaten alive. Despite the horrifying display, the people are ecstatic. Cheer and curses are heard. But the trumpet signaling the fight between the "Giant Slayer" and Giants is about to begin. The first round, 2 Ogres will fight against his chosen squad. The riflemen shot and disorientated the 2 Ogre by targeting their eyes, forcing them to keep one arm up to cover. This prevent them from being blind but it's enough for the scouts to surround and attack. Mikasa and Eren fire their hook at one of the Ogre at the chest, then drag it down while Armin use the jet booster to dash forward and cut through its neck, killing it instantly. The second Ogre fare no better, Bertholdt and Reiner using their jet boosters to dash forward got both its legs chop off. Annie casually walks toward it and cut off its right arm as it reach out to grab her, another slash at the neck and its head fall off. The fight was short and sharp. The crowd cheer wildly, whistling at Annie when she walks back to her squad. But when they think the fight is over, they are wrong. Three small doors open and a hundred Hobgoblins rush in. The crowd yell out in fear as the know Hobgoblins are both strong and cunning, they also know what will happen to women that get caught by them. Though surprise, the riflemen fire and kill several of them while the Scouts unholster their guns and pour fire into the Hobgoblin. When their guns are empty, Armin and Annie fall back to the riflemen to reload and support them while the others use their swords to slash at the Hobgoblins with precision skill and brutal strength.

"That's enough, fall back to reload."

They comply with the order and jump back. Lieutenant Nathan rush forward with two swords and dish out a stream flurry slashes that always draw blood, pieces of body part or limb occasionally flung out. Within a minutes, the Lieutenant is covered in a gory blood uniform. His swords come to a stop as he gasp for air and use the jet boost to jump up.

"Fire"

The riflemen and Scouts open fire at the remaining Hobgoblin. The scouts charge again when their guns are empty and the ensuring fight is completely a slaughter. The Hobgoblins are all dead. The crowd cheer and even throw flowers at the victors. Lieutenant Nathan and his squad leave with their head held high. Commander Erwin greet them at the entrance.

"Seem like we've make a strong impression on these people. In fact the impression is so strong that their Emperor 'grant us the honor of appearing in his court to receive praise'."

They all laugh at the sneering, then go back to clean up and join him to ride to the Imperial Palace. Once there, they are order to surrender their weapons by the Praetorian Guards. Commander Erwin had anticipated this and had ordered the weapons and equipment to be left at their camp. The captain of the Guard look quite displeased but lead them in the court room. Commander Erwin and his squads simply bow at the Emperor and this instigate a round of murmur and displeasing stares.

"Commander Erwin, your soldiers had performed exceptionally well in the service of the Empire. I look forward to your future contribution."

Commander Erwin and his squad stare at the Emperor in silence.

Moment pass and the Emperor is surprised at the silence treatment he received but decides to let it slide, in his mind, barbarian hardly know how to behave in the presence of their better.

"I shall assign you and your men to the command of General Horace, he is waiting for you at the main camp."

After they left, many petitions to punish them for their insolent behavior arise from the official, nobles, advisors and commanders. Emperor Molt shoots them down.

"They are of little consequence as they are barbarian. I have a big news to announce."

"Tomorrow, preparation for the Alnus Gate will start. In 5 days, we shall march. Inform all commander and officers. And I shall personally command this expedition."

The declaration rouse up all those present in the court room. They are elated and offer praise to the Emperor before excusing themselves to prepare.

Emperor Molt is now in his room, sipping wine and in deep thinking. Then his door swing open as his daughter storms in.

"Father, please reconsider. You are sending our army to die."

"Why do you say that?"

"I've told you about Orb Union and their military power, why didn't you believe me?"

"I believed you, that's why I wait for the new weapons and soldiers to arrive before launching the expedition."

"They won't make any difference. Please rescind the order and negotiate for peace."

"My daughter, you are too naïve. Will Orb Union simply agree to peace because we ask nicely? They won't. So with an army behind my back, I can negotiate with more leverage."

"There is no leverage, father. A million or hundred millions make no difference. And they will see your army as a sight of war instead. Do you want to destroy the Empire?"

"Orb Union wants to destroy the Empire. Whether by war or peace, so what choice do I have? Huh? TELL ME WHAT CHOICE DO I HAVE?

Shocked at enraged her father and find herself unable to answer, partly due to fear and partly due to not having any.

"And from what you told me, she is going to shame me in front of the whole world. How could I accept it without fighting back? Zorzal's humiliation is her doing if I am not mistaken. Do you want me to suffer a similar fate?"

"Maybe we could …..

"No, surrender and live in shame or die fighting. I choose fight. If you don't have anything more, leave me in peace.

Princess Pina looks at her father, bows and leaves. Her inner conflict begin to rise.

In Rondel, a heated debate about whether to join the Empire in the next battle against Orb Union or not between Master Cato and Court Mage Godasen.

"Rondel is an Imperial city, its inhabitants are Imperial citizens. The Empire has issued the call to arm and all loyal subject must answer. To refuse is treason."

"Rondel is an autonomous city, the Empire have no right to order anyone here. And remember the losses we had suffer."

The mages council read the list of their mages that join the two expeditions and sigh.

"Master Cato is right, to have some of the brightest mages to be killed in such endeavor is hurting us more. Have to read the list? Of 100 mages depart, 21 return."

"That's because our enemies are powerful. But only one of them remain now that the other one had submitted."

"But the remaining one has the power to kill 9 dragons in a short time, have the power to build a fortress in less than a month, has the power to fly faster and higher than anything we have."

"Irrelevant. Everything will be decided on the ground, not the air. If they are good at flying, let them fly, their sting can't change their inevitable defeat."

"They have metal giants that can transform into metal bird. Both forms have destructive power. How are you going to fight that?"

"We have new weapon and 5.000 giant slayers with us."

"And have you seen them actually kill a giant from Orb Union?"

"No, but I will when the Empire march on Alnus Hill."

The council is still indecisive until a voice from outside is heard. It was master Hepheston.

"I have heard the city of Rondel wants to stay out of the conflict, and I have come to give you my counsel."

"Very well, please join us in here."

Master Hepheston walks into the chamber confidently, joining Master Cato and Godasen.

"I was with the Eastern Expeditionary Forces, and soon will be with the Imperial Army that march on Alnus again. It's true that we mages suffered heavily, but this mean our role is crucial for the success. And Rondel can't stay out, nor will the Empire allow it to stay out. Orb Union hasn't dared to touch Rondel because of us, they fear our magic, fear the power we wield. The Empire may not be able to punish us, but we will be left isolated if we stay put. So far The Empire only suffer one set back due to inexperience commanders. This time, the Emperor himself will be in command."

The revelation of the Emperor personal leading the Imperial Army immediately stir up more debate. Ultimately, they decides to let whoever want to join depart with their blessing. Master Cato sighed at this irresponsible outcome. But he is determined to salvage the situation and depart to Alnus.