We return to The Will of Resistance, although Resistance is not a thing anymore. Anyway, as you remember, last time, we finished the adventure in Rondel with pretty unfortunate news. Seems like Sadera decided to do a little cleansing in it's upper echelons. And they are really eager for the word 'cleansing'. And, of course, Coalition Forces can't allow this to end successfully.
Also, this chapter is the last at least loosely based on the source material. After that, situation is gonna slightly turn for the Coalition, but this is the story for the future.
For now, let's go and get this done.
Chapter 39
,,Great Purge"
September 25, 2151
18:59
United Nations Headquarters, New York City, Earth
General Secretary Vander Orcan stood in the window of his office, watching the East River flowing next to the building. He was thinking of all the information coming from the Special System lately. Now, that Holy Order was almost gone, it was their main concern. Emperor Molt and all his buddies still needed to be brought to justice. Hague was literally itching for them to come and get acquainted.
Knock on the door stopped his thinking.
"Come in."he ordered.
The door opened and his secretary came in.
"Sir, leaders of Great Five are awaiting for you to accept the call."secretary said.
"I'm on it."Orcan replied.
Secretary nodded and closed the door. Orcan approached his chair and took a seat on it. Next, he pressed console on the desk and four holographic windows appeared in the air before him. After few seconds, faces appeared in them. But these were not the faces of people, which met over a year ago, when Volgradov was still in charge.
First of, Chakdrik Matriarch. Granddaughter of Matriarch Haxaria Novit, daughter of Matriarch Havedia Novit, Truria Novit. Last time Orcan saw her, she was just a little baby, held by her mother. But, of course, with Chakdrik's short lifespan, it was only a matter of few month, before she took over. And already, she held her successor in her hands. General Secretary was always fascinated by Chakdrik race and how they managed to build working society, even when every year, most of the generation died off and was replaced. But well. Nature was at work here.
Second, was newest President of Nashini Republic, successor of Moa'Likra, President Qor'Protr. His victory in elections two months ago was a real shocker. He was starting from newly created party and nobody expected him to defeat beloved leader, which led Republic through Great Galactic War. However, great support he received from citizens of Nashini colonies, which came from promising them new funds and development plans, played the main role here, as from entire NR, he won with stunning 84%, while Moa'Likra received the second highest score of only 9%. And, unlike majority of galactic community expected, he went to action right after he was sworn in. Already, convoys with funding and new infrastructure were on their ways to the outer colonies.
Third, was the current Regent of United Shakayan Kingdoms, Minister of Culture and National Heritage, Rugman Frotgman. Queen Kalisa was still recovering after failed coup by her son and for now, Minister was in charge of all Shakayan resources. Fortunately, he was one of the most loyal members of Royal Parliament and there was no risk of him trying to take over. Everyone, even Orcan, knew that.
And finally, the newest addition to the group. Army General Ytus Norper, former commander of Tertan Defence Force Varian Contingent, now, commander of Tertan Loyalist Force, which stayed loyal to former government, although it was destroyed alongside Tertan System. General Secretary could easily see the tiredness on his face, even behind the breathing mask. TLF constantly clashed with forces of newly declared Tertan warlords and dwarf-states, which sprung out from the Federation. Entire Tertan Space was engulfed in chaos and nobody knew, how long will it take to stabilize it. Not to mention, that situation of Tertan troops beyond the Gate was also concerning. Many of them came from colonies, which found themselves under control of warlords. Nobody knew, if, or when, these troops decide to say 'fuck it' and open fire on their brothers in arms and other Coalition troops. For now, they were under constant surveillance.
General Secretary looked at the face in front of him for few more seconds, before clearing his throat and starting to talk.
"I'm really glad, that all of you decided to spare me some time, ladies and gentlemen."he said for the start.
"If it was needed, we had to."President Qor said.
"Situations in our spaces are slowly going back to normal even faster than expected."Minister Rugman added."It will probably take at least one more year to eliminate what remains of HO and their loyalists."
"Same here."Matriarch Truria joined."I'm still surprised, that some of HO remains managed to hide on Chakdria for so long. But the jungles didn't help them after all."
Next, all looked at general Norper, which just sighed deeply.
"We're doing our best, but rebels are constantly pushing from all sides."general explained."And I couldn't sleep tonight."
"What happened?"Orcan asked.
"Yesterday I visited one of planets we recently retaken. It was full of mass graves, filled with children."
All leaders shuddered after hearing this. Slowly but surely, Federation started changing into giant cauldron of violence, which reminded General Secretary of what happened in Syria over a century ago. New reports didn't make anything look brighter.
"Sorry, I shouldn't ask."Human leader said.
"Don't worry, I don't hold a grudge."general said, invisibly smiling under his mask.
"Anyway, why was this meeting called?"Qor asked.
Orcan grabbed tablet laying next to him and pressed something on it. Not long after, other leaders grabbed their tablets and saw incoming messages, decorated with UN logo. They opened the messages and started slowly reading them. General Secretary watched them for the time as they read, and waited for them to end.
"Few days ago, our intelligence gave us information about political situation in Sadera."Orcan said, when they again looked at him.
"According to this report, Imperials decided to do a bit of political cleansing."Rutgman said. He shuddered. Although Succession Crisis was over two hundred years ago, it was still fresh in minds of many Shakayans. Situation like this also happened back then.
General Secretary nodded.
"Exactly. ICTA, which already infiltrated several high-ranking officials' surroundings, gave us information about some kind of rift in the Senate."
"In short, they're breaking apart."Truria said.
"Exactly. Currently, the are two factions in the Senate."Orcan showed two fingers."Imperial Faction, which still supports the war and wants to fight, until we're out of the Special System. And Peace Faction, which wants Emperor to sign peace and agree to all of our demands. The issue is, Peace Faction is pretty small in number, unlike the other ones."
"And what is this…O-prich-ni-na."Norper read. He still had hard times learning any of Human languages and considering that this was a name coming from some form of Latin, his troubles should be expected.
"It's a short. In their language, it means 'Committee for Protecting and Restoring Emperor's Authority."Orcan explained."They are basically a kind of secret police, called when situation demands it."
"I have to say, they think they're better than anyone even in their naming convention."Qor stated.
"Aren't they?"Orcan agreed, rising his eyebrow and smiling."But this is of no laughing matter. Our agents in Sadera reports of Oprichnina rounding up the most important members of Peace Faction day after day. There are still many free, but nobody knows, how long will this last."
"How many of Peace Faction members are currently in captivity?"Truria asked.
"From two hundred fifty that exist?"General Secretary replied with question."Over one hundred and fifty."
"Well, they certainly aren't slacking off…"Norper stated.
"True. This is why we prepared this."
One more time, Orcan grabbed his tablet and sent document to other leaders. Once they received it, they looked at it.
"What is this?"Rutgman asked. As Minister of Culture, he didn't understand all this militaristic language, which filled the document.
"It's a plan of operation."Norper said, as only military officer in the group.
"Yes."Orcan nodded."It was created in few hours, by Geneva. In short, we're planning to perform a full-scale operation, aimed at liberating these senators and bringing them under our protection."
Matriarch Truria narrowed her eyes.
"And why are they so important?"she asked.
"Well…After we get the current government of Sadera and place them on some penal colonies, we need someone, who will be willing to take charge of everything."General Secretary explained.
"Sounds reasonable."Truria stated, putting the tablet down and again turning her attention to her child.
Meanwhile, general Norper looked closer at the document and when he saw a certain part, he widened his eyes. He looked at Orcan, with visible irritation on his face. Just like analysts expected, he didn't like it.
"What is it, Ytus?"Qor asked.
"Read paragraph 9."Tertan general replied.
All leader looked at said paragraph and also widened their eyes.
"What?"Qor asked."'At the time of operation, all units across the Gate come under the command of Human Headquarters'. We have to give you all our troops out there?"
Orcan sighed. Following the dissolving of the Resistance Alliance, all military forces forming Resistance Armed Forces, again came under control of their national commands. And due to how many of them survived the war, none of the species was willing to give their forces under someone else command.
"Yes."General Secretary simply replied.
"This…"Rutgman seemed to look for something to say, but didn't know what.
"Before any of you start protesting, let me tell you why we decided about it."Orcan tried to calm them all down."Not only your forces were depleted by the war. With Task Force 03 gone and overtaking of the action by TF01, we didn't realize, that forces attached to TF01 were smaller than TF03 and was making up with high-tech equipment. But with your troops, we might have enough forces to perform that operation. Most of our forces are spread around the planet and making new alliances on Orisia and Gernea. Not to mention, that we're also starting to perform scout missions on forth continent."
Four leaders looked at each other and sighed.
"Alright. We can give you under your command our forces in Special System."Norper said.
"I promise, they will return under your command once the operation is over."Orcan promised.
"Of course."Qor nodded.
"With this, I declare this meeting over. Thank you for giving me some of your time."General Secretary said with smile.
"Of course."they all replied.
Not long after, they all disconnected and returned to their duties. Meanwhile, Orcan pressed his intercom button.
"Cindy?"
"Yes, sir?"secretary asked.
"Call Richards. He's got a green light."
19:43
Fort Terhis
Sudden battle alarm surprised all soldiers currently living in Fort Terhis. The following information about upcoming operation sent even more confusion. Nonetheless, they quickly gathered their equipment and went to the meet with their commanders.
White Squadron was the last to reach meeting with the air forces commander in the briefing room. They walked in and took a sit.
"Sorry for being late."Ester said.
"Reason?"base's air controller asked.
"Well…Yuko had problems with her stepsister."Liz said.
Everyone looked at Yuko.
"What? You know how Seyi is fond of me, right?"the Japanese replied.
"Riiiiiiight…Anyway."air controller said."We can begin the briefing.
He turned on the screen, which showed a photo of are between Fort Terhis and Sadera, made by Hope the day prior.
"As you probably know, fifteen minutes ago a battle alarm was declared."he started."It's because of newly approved Operation: Viper."
"And what is this about?"one of Nashini pilots asked.
"Because of current situation in the Imperial capital. Our agents in the city started reporting of enemy's secret police rounding up members of faction in Imperial Senate, which wants to sign up peace with us."
White Squadron nodded, well aware of the situation. On the way to Fort Terhis from Rondel, Grey explained them the situation with Oprichnina and what were their duties. Immediately, they knew, that they will be ordered to deal with them sooner or later.
"So, get to the point."Dora said.
"As you wish."air controller nodded."Tomorrow in the morning, the operation will start in full swing. Tonight, first strike will take place."
"Huh, that would explain our orders about getting to our planes after briefing over."one of Chakdrik pilots murmured.
Map then zoomed at Sadera and showed map of the city, with several red circles.
"Chakdrik airstrike is aimed to destroy majority of enemy military objects in the city. More precisely, barracks, stables and all other things, which are important for their military machine, that were rebuilt after our airstrike from August 27 last year."
Pilots smiled. Most of them were part of the memorable operation form last year.
"But this time, this operation is aimed to clear way for the airdrop, which will take place at 8000 hours tomorrow. This will be the second phase of the operation."
Several silhouettes in shape of Human Skyhawk dropships, flying over Sadera and dropping allied troops in Akusho. Entire district immediately changed color from red to blue.
"Our troops will take over Akusho, which, as you know, is already our main center of operations. Our special forces in the meantime try to reach members of Peace Faction still free and rescue the ones that are held captive. They all will be brought to Akusho, from where they will be evacuated to Fort Terhis…"
Map again showed entire area from Fort Terhis to Sadera, this time with blue arrows, pointing from Akusho to Alnus and from Alnus to Italica.
"…and after that, to Italica, where per our request, Countess Myui will prepare places for them to stay and wait until war is over."
"Seems pretty solid."Dora admitted.
"Indeed. Works on this plan started immediately after we got first reports from Sadera."air controller said."Additionally, all units currently in Special System come under the Human command. After operation is over, they will be returned under their respective commands."
All alien pilots in the room nodded. Although politicians would not agree with this, they knew, that such operation needed joint command, if it had to succeed.
"So, what are we gonna do during this operation?"Aqi asked.
"Your job, is to escort allied transports into and out of Sadera. Who know, if there won't be another big dragon out of nowhere, this time serving the Imps?"air controller asked.
"Sounds good to me."Nashini pilot stated.
"Good. You better go to sleep for few hours, because early in the morning, you will be needed."
Later…
23:58
Saderan skies
Flight of five Chakdrik X-58s, a prototype, Stealth fighter-bombers, aimed to perform fast-attack and precise strike operations without being detected by radar, was slowly making it's way through the night. Designed by the Xezeri Corporation, it came too late for Great Galactic War and as of now, couldn't be tested against enemy radars. But for now, the pilots didn't care too much about that. For now, they cared only about the job they had to do.
"Sekur 1 to all Sekurs, report."leader of the flight, colonel Gruit Frex, said to his team.
"Sekur 2, standing by."
"Sekur 3, standing by."
"Sekur 4, standing by."
"Sekur 5, standing by."
"All units, seven minutes to point Sdotr, then we turn hard right and fly straight to Sadera."Frex reported.
"Roger."all four wingmen replied.
Although any form of enemy's air defense was pretty much incapable of shooting down any of Coalition's craft, it was decided, that this attack will be performed from North, South, East and West, with his group striking from the North, to add to the scaring factor of it. After all, Saderans couldn't expected something like that. Colonel smiled, as he pictured all enemy troops shitting their pants.
Seven minutes slowly passed as five out of twenty Chakdrik craft flew through the night, under the moonlight. When Frex looked at his radar, he saw that they were already passing through the point.
"Okay, everyone, ninety degrees right."he ordered.
"Copy that."came the stream of replies.
Five machines turned South and started flying towards Sadera. Colonel connected to his Squad Battlefield Information System, a Chakdrik network-centric battlefield system utilized by all branches of Collective's military. SBIS immediately connected with commanders of remaining four squadrons and that way, colonel could see every allied signal on his HUD. Not only that, but thanks to the system, only one machine could have it's radar activated, while others simply received information from it. This easily lowered the risk of being detected. Not like this meant anything now, but Frex really liked using it.
"Okay, to all units taking part in the mission."Frex said in the radio."All targets are about to be in range within five minutes. Be advised."
"Copy."all other fifteen pilots replied.
Five minutes later, colonel saw map of Sadera appearing on his HUD, with several red circles all over the city. He smiled.
"All units, rain fire."he ordered.
Not long after that, forty high-velocity, Stealth O9R4 missiles fell out from Chakdrik wings and flew towards their targets, not even leaving any form of trail, except thermal, behind them.
With this done, all fighter-bombers turned around and started returning to Fort Terhis.
Meanwhile…
Outskirts of Sadera
"Calm down, calm down!"Saderan soldier exclaimed.
His wyvern didn't even want to think about that. Why did this stupid animal started behaving like that? Just few seconds ago, it simply laid in it's box and now, out of nowhere, it behaved as it wanted to run away as fast as it could. Soldiers remembered hearing, that animals and demihumans can detect danger before it appears, but he didn't believe that. How could something that stupid dod that?
"Having problems, Marxius?"the Wyvern Master of this stable asked.
General Marxius Tomprius looked at the old man, veteran of many Imperial campaigns, which already retired from frontline combat and decided to work at place. Marxius, being the commander of XXth Wyvern Corps, tasked with air defense of Sadera itself, didn't want to say that he had problems. He had his position for roughly over a year, when previous commander of the unit died during Otherworlders' air raid on the city. He knew his position was hard to keep and if something bad happened, his head would be the first to fall.
"Of course not, Gregian."Marxius replied, pulling the wyvern's leash once again.
"I see otherwise."Gregian stated.
"This stupid creature just can't understand, that it's safe here!"Corps' commander exclaimed.
Gregian just shook his head and came up to the wyvern. He placed his hands on the creature's neck and started scratching it. Wyvern stopped jumping up and down and simply laid down on the ground after few minutes.
"How did you do that?"Marxius asked.
"Simple. After working with them as long as I do, you will also find their sensible points."Gregian replied."Yours, for example, loves when you scratch it's neck."
"Weakling."general mumbled.
"Just because it likes when you pet it, doesn't mean it's weak."
"I does. It has to be ferocious, if it wants to help us win this war."
"War, which we're already losing."
Marxius started shooting bolts at Wyvern Master.
"Don't eve say word 'losing'. We never lose."
"Last year seems to say otherwise. You will see. This war will be over, before it hits two-year mark."
"You old, wrinkled…"
Marxius stopped, because he, as well as Gregian, heard something. It resembled humming, but somehow…unnatural. And it was becoming louder and louder.
"What is that? Marxius asked.
"I have no idea."
"Oh, now you don't?"General still tried to keep his vision of himself, as never backing down."Listen, you…"
He was never meant to finish this sentence, because of Chakdrik Thermal Missile, which hit the stables, consuming him, Gregian and all wyverns in the building.
Forty missiles fired by Chakdrik machines appeared over Sadera, bringing panic to the city. Literally all managed to hit their targets, from simple road blocks, to biggest warehouses. Balls of thermal energy sprung out all over Sadera, lighting the city, as if it was middle of the day. Sudden as this attack was, it quickly ended and Saderans were left with what remained of their military installations.
"This is Sekur 1 to all squadrons, amazing job."Frex said in the radio."All targets destroyed. Return to base at once."
"Roger."all nineteen pilots replied.
Twenty Chakdrik fighters turned around and started making it's way back home to Fort Terhis.
September 26
08:00
Alnus Field
Coalition dropships started heating their engines already half an hour ago, when soldiers were taking their equipment and weaponry. Fortunately, they already prepared them the previous day and gathering all of it was no problem for them. When this was done, they quickly ran to the field and waited for their commanders to give them orders.
After waiting for few minutes and having a little talk, the commanders appeared and stood in front of the soldiers.
"Is everybody here?"Nashini commander asked."Good. I'll give all the honors to my Human friend. Ares?"
"Thanks."Human commander said."My name is colonel Ares Patrakis. And in today's operation, I will be commander of all of you."
Soldiers murmured between each other.
"Be quiet."Chakdrik commander ordered.
"Thank you."Ares said."As you know, our goal is to secure the Akusho District of Imperial capital. Our friends from Drop Corp will be our vanguard and secure the landing zones for us. We wait until our agents and commandos bring all members of Peace Faction to the district and after that, we're getting away from there as fast as possible. Is that clear?"
"Sir, yes, sir!"all Marines replied.
"Good! Then get into your dropships and let's give the Imps some nightmares!"colonel exclaimed.
All soldiers cheered in agreement and quickly turned towards their dropships.
As this was happening, preparations in the orbit were in full swing as well. Soldiers of the DPC quickly ran to their drop-pod launch area and started getting into them.
Lieutenant Budi strapped himself up and looked at two other soldiers besides him. Although being part of TF03, his soldiers survived the ending phase of GGW mainly because they were moved to Selene.
"Once again, into the middle of hell, huh?"one of them asked.
"It depends on who you ask."Budi replied.
"What do you mean, boss?"second soldier asked.
"Well, in my opinion, there will be hell…for the Imps."Budi answered.
All three laughed and soon, their pod was launched, following fifteen others fired by Hope, straight down onto Sadera.
At the same time…
Sadera
Emperor Molt, Prince Diablo and Crown Prince Zorzal were sitting in the Throne Room, thinking. The attacks of last night managed to get them out of their beds and were true surprises for them. According to all reports, at least half of the city's garrison, including all wyverns, was killed and majority of the weaponry they had was destroyed.
And the fact, that Otherworlders decided to strike, could mean only one thing…
"They're going to attack us soon."Zorzal said firmly.
"Why are you so sure about it, brother?"Diablo asked.
"Don't you see it?"Crown Prince turned to his brother."Every time they launched any form of attack, it was preceded by something similar. They are planning something…but what?"
"I'm sure it can't be that bad…"Younger prince tried to calm his brother's instincts down.
"And what will you say, when they knock at our door?"
"Silence."Molt said.
Two princes looked at their father, then back at each other and fell silent. Emperor looked at them silently for few more seconds.
"If you're right, Zorzal…"he finally said to his eldest son."Otherworlders could actually attack us. But we need to find out, what is their goal."
"These barbarians just attack when they want, for no reason."
Molt sighed. Although the traitor which gave them information about Resistance did it over a year ago, Zorzal still saw the alliance as nothing more, than simple barbarians. Not to mention his bad mood, after learning, that his plan of assassination failed miserably.
"Maybe we should…"Diablo wanted to say, but was interrupted.
The door leading into the Throne Room suddenly swung open, as one of Oprichnina, with the organization's characteristic wolf skin on his head, ran into the room, completely out of breath and knelt before the three royals.
"My Emperor."he said.
"What is it?"Molt asked, letting him to stand up.
"I bring information from Lord Luflus."he said.
"What information?"Zorzal asked.
"We were observing homes and residences of remaining Peace Faction's members, which were still free."Man took a deep breath."About two ago, we observed several hooded people visiting them."
"What is so strange about it?"Diablo asked.
"Well…"Man tried to calm himself down."They, together with their families, left alongside these hooded people."
Hearing this, all three widened their eyes in disbelief.
"AND YOU DIDN'T TRY TO STOP THEM?!"Zorzal shouted.
"We had to report to Lord Luflus first…"
"You imbeciles!"Crown Prince continued."You should take action!"
"We didn't know, who these people were…"
Zorzal just tightened his fists and imagined, how he simply cuts this man's head off, just for fun.
His thoughts were interrupted by another soldier running into the Throne Room.
"Your Majesties!"he exclaimed, not even kneeling."You have to see this!"
"See what?"Diablo asked.
"This way!"
Whole group followed the soldier, as he led them through the corridors of the palace. They were all concerned. If this soldier had something to show them, this couldn't mean anything good. After some time, they reached the balcony, which overlooked the entire Sadera and there, soldier pointed up. When everyone looked in that direction, they where shocked.
What they saw, was something similar to fifteen meteors coming down from the skies in straight line. However, they started to visibly slow down. As this happened, the three clearly saw white letters on their sides spelling 'United Nations'. They knew that name. It was one of Resistance members.
"What…is this magic…?"Zorzal asked.
Molt had no response to that. All he knew, was that Otherworlders really had no honor, if they used such magic to attack the city, instead of fighting like real men, face to face.
Slowly, the 'meteors' started falling into Akusho and not long after, they heard characteristic sounds of enemy's weapons coming from the distance.
"I want all available soldier to converge on Akusho right now!"Molt shouted.
"Yes, Your Majesty!"the soldier replied.
"Oprichnina has to strengthen the security of the Citadel! And find and capture any member of Peace Faction that is still free!"
"It will be done, my lord!"Oprichnina man answered.
Both quickly left the balcony and then, the palace. If Otherworlders really wanted to attack Sadera, Emperor had to make it as costly for them as possible. And he surely wasn't going to give them the Peace Faction without a fight.
At the same time, in Akusho, soldier of the Drop Corp quickly went to work. Once the pods landed and soldier came out of them, dumbstruck members of City Watch, which just so happened to be there, were quickly taken care of. People of the District, seeing this, quickly started running to their homes for safety.
"Secure the area!"Budi ordered.
"Yes, sir!"soldiers replied.
They quickly ran in all directions, searching for cover and setting up snipers on the roofs. Meanwhile, Budi came up to one of the buildings that was nearby and knocked on the door. It was opened by a blonde-haired woman with wings.
"Is this the 'Playful Elf'?"Nigerian asked.
"It is."Misery replied."Come in."
The door was wide open and DPC officer walked in.
Inside, he saw, except of former workers and Coalition agents, he also saw large number of Imperial Senators and their families.
"I see you were quite at work."Budi said, looking at Ohronog, with his two Xarars at his side.
"Oh, you know, we started rounding them up here yesterday."Tertan intelligence officer replied.
"I see."
"Excuse me…"one of the senators said."I guess that all of us here wants to know one thing. Why have we been brought here?"
Budi risen his eyebrow and looked at Ohronog.
"You didn't tell them?"he asked.
"Well, we couldn't risk, if someone turned out to be a spy."Ohronog replied.
"Eh…"Budi shook his head."As you probably know, Emperor activated Oprichnina lately and started rounding all members of Peace Faction…"
All senators and their families nodded.
"…so our command decided, that it would be only appropriate to help you get out of the city."
"Really?"another senator asked.
"Yes. After we get out of here, you will be transported to Fort Terhis, where after some check-ups, you will be sent to Italica, where Countess Myui prepared places for you to stay."
"But wait…Many senators were captured, their families too. What about them?"
"Don't worry, we're gonna deal with that too."
When he said these words, they all heard a cannonade from the outside.
"Boss, we got enemies coming through the main gate to the district. And there is a LOT of them."Budi heard in his radio.
"Sorry."Drop Corp officer said and turned around."I have things to do."
Saying that, he turned around and stepped out of the building. Outside, he could see his soldiers on the roof firing at the approaching enemies.
"Okay, you Imperial scum."he muttered."Show me, what is your worth."
And with that, he also went into the fray.
08:12
The Citadel, outskirts of Sadera
Building known as 'The Citadel' was probably as old as the city of Sadera itself. It is said, that in the past, when city was just a small village in the middle of nowhere, it served as a defensive fort, which protected the city from the attacks of barbarian tribes roaming the lands and pillaging. However, once Sadera became what it was today and Empire started growing it's borders, the fortress didn't need to serve it's function anymore.
So, instead of tearing it down, it was repurposed and became the main prison, where Emperors put their enemies to die out in darkness, solitude and oblivion.
And it was currently a target for several Coalition dropships, from which two were simply Shakayan Gazer-9s, while the third was Akula Heavy Dropship, aimed to transport the prisoners to Fort Terhis.
"ETA, three minutes."dropship's pilot said.
"Copy that."commander Dep'Wesa of Nashini Phantom Commandos replied.
He looked at the mix of Shakayan and Nashini soldiers he had under his command. Both groups had different tasks. Phantoms had to go in and quickly clear the floors from enemies, while Shakayans had to be the clean-up team and had to free any prisoner they could find. Not to mention, that their dropships had to give air support.
"We're about to land, so get your stuff ready!"Dep ordered the soldiers.
Shakayans and Nashini quickly started checking their gear and making sure it was in best shape possible. Not long after, they all felt as machines touched the ground. Back ramps opened, letting the sunlight get in.
"Go, go, go!"Nashini ordered.
Soldiers poured out of the Gazers and started setting up a perimeter around the LZ. Almost immediately, a spear pierced the ground right next to one of Nashini. Said Nashini looked up and saw enemy soldier looking out the window. He aimed his weapon and him and sent him to his underworld.
"He thought he could be a smartass…"Phantom said.
"No time for that now."Dep stated."Let's move, Phantoms."
Nashini stood up, while Shakayans continued to secure the area. Commandos approached the door and set themselves up on both sides. Dep slowly opened the door a bit and heard a chatter behind.
"Flash-bang."he ordered.
Another Phantom approached the door and threw said grenade inside. Saderans inside looked at the strange object for few seconds, before it exploded loudly, blinding them with bright light. One of them even swung the door open, trying to escape, but was grabbed by a Phantom and quickly silenced with several stabs.
Other Nashini, in the meantime, moved inside and fired at all enemies they could noticed. It was over in few seconds. Floor was now being colored by large stains of blood coming out of holes in enemies' bodies.
"Clear."one Phantom said.
"Clear."second Phantom confirmed.
"Move, first floor."Dep ordered.
The defining factor of Phantom Commandos was a fact, that they appeared and disappeared like, well, phantoms. They acted fast and barely stopped to take a breather. After dealing with one target, instead of waiting, they just confirmed the execution of the mission and moved forward. Just like now.
They approached rock stairs leading to the upper floor. As a greeting, they received a fireball flying down from top of the stairs.
"Holy fuck!"Phantom exclaimed, when fireball landed at his feet.
"Oh, you motherfucker…"second commando said.
He put ammo in his underbarrel grenade launcher and stood in front of the stairs. Before enemy could react and grenade flew in his direction. Member of Oprichnina standing on the top of the stairs disappeared in fire and red mist.
"Clear."commando said.
"Move."Dep ordered shortly.
Commandos lined up against the wall and, securing each others' backs, started climbing up. Fortunately, there were no more surprises waiting for them on the stairs. However, when they climbed on top of them, it was a different story.
Once they entered the corridor, they were met with around twenty enemy soldiers, armed to the teeth, with their shields joined together, spears in front, forming five lines, four soldiers each. But this wasn't a big obstacle for them.
"Get them out of my sight."Dep ordered.
But before his commandos could do anything, their job was already done. It so happened, that this corridor had windows opened to the outside. Just as commandos started lifting their weapons, they heard a familiar rattle and soon, streams of hot lead flew in, piercing the walls, slaughtering the enemy soldiers. Blood and body parts flew everywhere and as suddenly as it started, it became silent again.
"This is Hronk 1-1."they heard a voice with Shakayan accent."You're welcome."
"Thanks, Hronk 1-1. We owe you something stronger when we're back."Dep answered the Shakayan pilot.
"Keep you by word!"pilot laughed."I'm gonna do more runs on upper floors, so be advised."
Commandos heard the sound of engines increasing power and soon, more rattle came to their ears, accompanied by the screams of slaughtered enemies. Not waiting for anything else, they quickly moved forward.
Remaining floors were cleared after just few minutes. Most of the enemies were taken care of by the dropship, leaving only few for Nashinis to finish. Commandos did that without much remorse, as this was what they were trained to do.
As they moved up, Shakayan medical and rescue teams moved in, opening the prison cells. Inside, they were content to see the senators held captive, alongside their families. They quickly helped them all to get out of the cells on all floors and led them outside, into Akula. There, with help of Human crew of the dropship, they tended the ones which already were treated with various torture methods. Thanks to large capacity of Akula, which could fill roughly 300 people inside, there still was enough place to lay them down.
Soon, Phantom Commandos exited the Citadel and seated back inside of the Gazer. Shakayan dropships and Akula quickly took off and turned around towards Fort Terhis.
Entire action took fifteen minutes from landing to evacuation.
08:29
Akusho
Lieutenant Budi sat on top of a building overlooking the approach to the street where Playful Elf was situated. More precisely, he was looking at what was laying on it. Around eighty bodies of Imperial legionnaires, which survived night's bombardment and tried to assault their positions, now laid dead, with their blood mixing with mud. Already, several crows which flew by, sat on them and started nibble on them.
"Damn, if that isn't grim…"sniper next to Budi said.
"I have to agree."Nigerian replied."But it's their own fault, that they came here, feeling all powerful."
"Yeah, but…You ever feel sorry for them?"sniper asked.
Lieutenant looked at him and risen his eyebrow. He tried to remember his name. Matias, that was it. Good guy, straight from Baku. A bit naive, but when it came to killing, he didn't hesitate to pull the trigger. And his ability to pick off targets from one to two kilometers without much counting was the thing that impressed the recruiters and instructors.
"Why should I?"Budi replied."They were the ones who attacked us. This is just the price they had to pay."
"But this entire thing felt unfair from the very beginning."Matias stated.
"As I said, it's all their fault."Budi summed."They should think twice, before attacking left and right."
"Maybe you're right, boss…"
Matias looked down his scope and towards the approach. He then frowned, when he saw something strange out there.
"Sir?"
"Yeah?"
"I can see fifteen people approaching."
"Armed?"
"I dunno…"
"What do you mean 'you dunno'?"
"They don't seem to have any weapons…They are just dressed in purple robes and wolf ski…HOLY SHIT!"
"WHAT?!"
Before Matias could reply, a fireball hit him spot-on. Sniper was thrown away a few meters, before being grabbed by another DPC soldier and being pulled back into the building, where medics set up their makeshift hospital.
"Fuck, get over here!"Budi shouted at two soldiers on the other side of the roof.
They quickly came up to him looked down the sights at the incoming group. Budi activated zoom in his helmet and looked at the fifteen people at the approach. They were really dressed in purple and wolf skins on their heads. In their hands, they held some strange sticks, which they pointed towards positions occupied by his other soldiers.
Next, the fifteen men fired several fireballs at the DPC soldiers. Budi took cover with his soldiers, as fireballs collided with the wall on the roof. Other soldiers also started to hide, as wave of fireballs hit their covers.
"Shit!"one of soldiers with Budi said.
"What do we do, boss?"second soldier asked.
"They can't fire these fireballs forever, right?!"Budi replied.
As he said that, they heard an explosion.
"What the hell was that?!"Budi shouted.
"Boss!"he heard in radio.
"What?!"
"One of these fireballs just hit Guzchenko in the back!"
Guzchenko was soldier taking care of anti-armor grenade launcher. Of course, he held the missiles in backpack.
"Are they…?"Nigerian asked with breaking voice.
"Unfortunately, sir."same soldier replied."Entire floor went to hell."
The weight of what just happened hit Budi with strength of flying anvil. By the entire war, Resistance and then Coalition didn't lose a single soldier. And now, some lucky motherfucker with fireballs managed to score a hit on backpack filled with missiles. Guzchenko was accompanied by three other soldiers, which meant, that after over a year, war took first victims on Coalition's side.
"Damn it!"Budi shouted.
Suddenly, all the fireballs stopped flying for some reason. This was the signal for the DPC soldiers.
"Kill the fuckers!"lieutenant ordered.
Soldiers jumped up from their covers and started firing at the Oprichnina at the approach. Secret police members widened their eyes and were quickly destroyed by the wave of lead approaching them. Soon, they joined eighty other dead soldiers.
"Clear!"Budi heard in radio after few seconds.
"Good. Keep an overwatch, inform me about everything."lieutenant ordered.
"Of course."
Budi stood up and turned around. The thought, that he just lost four soldiers because of some lucky shot still ringed in his head. Media and public opinion will tear him apart, he was sure of that. Goodbye stainless career and praises from superiors. This all will soon become a distant memory.
Lieutenant went down the ladder leading to the lower floors. He had to know, what happened to Matias.
After going down the stairs, he found himself in makeshift hospital set up on the lowest floor. There, he came up to only place, which had someone laying on the table. There were two medics standing around it. Smell of burnt meat was in the air.
"Is that…?"lieutenant asked.
"We tried our best, sir…"first medic said.
"There was nothing we could do…"second added.
Budi held his breath and looked at Matias. Young Azerbaijani looked like a piece of coal, with all the area affected by fireball simply burnt down. Lieutenant thought about vomiting, after he saw Matias' helmet literally melted with his head, same as the uniform melted with is body. Budi cursed under his breath. The number of people he lost just went to five.
"What do we do, sir?"first medic asked.
"Take care of him. The body needs to reach his family."Budi ordered.
"Yes, sir."second medic said.
Lieutenant was about to walk out of the building, when he got a call on his hand terminal. He accepted and soon, face of agent Ohronog.
"What is it?"he asked.
"We want you here, right now."Tertan replied.
"I hope it's important."Budi stated."I just lost five men and I'm pissed off."
"Yes, it is. See you in few minutes."
Call ended and Budi quickly left the building, making his way to Playful Elf. There, he again looked at former workers, now taking care of senators and their families. But he just passed by them and went to Ohronog, sitting on a chair, with his Xarars by his side, as always.
"What is it?"Budi asked.
"I just got information."Ohronog replied."Our forces raided the prison, where other members of Peace Faction were held. All were rescued, along with their families."
"Is that all you wanted to tell me?"irritated lieutenant asked.
"No. There is one more thing."Tertan stated.
He stood up, approached the lieutenant and said:
"It seems, that we're missing one person."
"What do you mean?"confused Budi asked.
"I asked senators, who is in charge of the PF. They said, that it's a guy named Marquis Garcel."
"So?"
"He's not here. Nor was he in the Citadel."
Surprised lieutenant looked at the Tertan agent.
"Then where…?"
"From what they said, today, he was to go and eat breakfast with the Tyueli family."
"Why are you telling me this?"
"We need someone to go and get him and, if possible, the Tyuelis, which I heard wanted to join the Peace Faction."
"Then I'm sad to inform you, that we don't have any possibilities to do this. We don't have dropships to go in and take them. Someone else needs to do it. What about our support, by the way?"
"Good news and bad news."
"Start with bad news."
"Half of the dropships that had to take part in the operation had a sudden mechanical failures."
Budi couldn't believe in what he was hearing. Sudden mechanical failures? Why now of all times?
"How do you Humans call it?"Ohronog asked, scratching his cheek."Shitty luck, I guess?"
"You know something about it?"Budi asked, suspicious.
"First One forbid."Tertan agent said."I just have suspicions, that it may have been a work of some sympathizers of one of warring states in Terta."
"It is a possibility…"Budi stated, remembering, that there were currently tons of smaller or bigger states in place of former Federation."And the good news?"
"There is small force of two dropships coming."
"Always something. Contact one of these dropships and tell them to go to Tyuelis' place. They have to get them out."
"Sure thing."
After saying that, Budi turned around and left.
08:57
Tyueli Estate
Marquis Garcel, leader of the Peace Faction and guest of the Estate, was standing in front of a large window. Just as everyone, he also witnessed the Coalition's landing in the city and didn't know what to think about it. From one side, this could mean, that Otherworlders finally started their assault on the city. While it also could be a simple terrorist attack, aimed to lower the morale of Imperial citizens. Whatever it was, maybe Molt will understand, that this war couldn't be won.
"Mister Garcel?"he heard behind him.
Senator turned around and saw Sherry, the young daughter of the Tyueli family, standing there and looking at him. He smiled warmly at her.
"What is it, Sherry?"he asked.
"My father says, that he wants to talk with you now. He's done with all his errands."Sherry replied.
"Then lead the way."
Girl bowed and turned around. Garcel followed her. After breakfast they had together, Tyuelis had to go and take care of some errands they had, before being able to talk with him. Now, that they were done, they could start talking.
He knew that it was a bad idea to talk to them now, when Oprichnina was on the loose, but he needed any support he needed. The war, which dragged on for a year already, started to take toll on the Imperial economy, as mines were starting to barely keep up with iron needed to make armor and weapons.
Not to mention, that he also heard reports of what was going on beyond the ocean. Orisia and Gernea also became the fields, where the war reached. Blessed Empire of Orisia, once biggest rival of Sadera, after stopping the Noble Rebellions, now under the name of Kingdom of Western Orisia, became a state partially controlled by the Otherworlders, as King Alexios signed some agreements with them. His army was even supplied by Otherworlders. Same with Kingdoms of West.
Gernea was no better. Spies of the Empire gave information, that the Otherworlders' envoys managed to sway the leaders of several other countries on the continent, like Araluen, Skandia, Celtia and even Galica. For now, only Araluen had any form of Otherworlder weapons in their army, but it was just a question of time, before supplies will start coming to other countries.
Empire was being surrounded from all directions, that was for sure. Sooner or later, all this power will rain on them. This is why he needed to work.
Sherry led him into the dining room, where they ate breakfast that morning. There, he already saw Lord and Lady Tyueli, sitting and waiting for him.
"Please, take a seat, Lord Garcel."Lord Tyueli said.
"Thank you."Garcel replied and sat down.
Senator took a sit and looked at the two Tyuelis and their daughter.
"I'm really happy, that you decided to listen to my proposal."he said.
"Of course."Lady Tyueli replied.
"So, we're all ears."Lord Tyueli said.
Garcel cleared his throat and started:
"I want you to openly support the Peace Faction in the next voting. We need to sign up peace treaty with Otherworlders, or we will face imminent destruction. Molt can't understand this and he needs someone to speak to his mind."
"We are well aware of this."Lord Tyueli said."And our answer is simple. We will support you with all we can."
"That went easier than expected."Garcel thought, but said:"Thank you then. I really appreciate your support. Now, I will be going."
"I don't think you will…"a new voice said.
Everyone turned around and saw members of Oprichnina entering through the main door. They were accompanied by no one else, than Lord Luflus himself. Leader of Oprichnina had a vicious smile on his face.
"As I expected of traitors…"he said."Conspiring behind the back of our almighty Emperor."
"Who allowed you to come in here, Luflus?"Lord Tyueli asked.
"I allowed myself."leader of Oprichnina stated."I can get everywhere, where treacherous elements lurk."
"We're not traitors."Garcel protested."We're doing anything to save anything from the Empire."
"Liar! If you wanted to save the Empire, you would do your best to defeat these barbarians from behind the Gate!"
"Don't you see this, Lord Luflus?"Lady Tyueli said."If this war continues…"
"…we will take over their barbaric settlements and burn them down. Nothing can rival the power of the Empire."
"If so, then why is this war still continuing after a year?"Garcel asked.
Silence hung in the air, as Luflus tried to keep all his anger inside of him. He pointed his finger at them.
"Kill them all."he said in low, cold voice.
Oprichnina members came up in front of him and prepared to fire their fireballs at the four. Garcel looked at Tyuelis and saw Sherry cowering behind her parents, as a scared child she was. Senator thought, that only miracle could save them…
Meanwhile, on the outside, a lone Coalition Skyhawk dropship was approaching the estate at full speed. Inside was a group of Human Marines, which were originally ordered to go to Akusho and support the DPC, but suddenly, they were ordered to go to this estate and save the so-called 'leader of the Peace Faction'. And because they were Marines, they had to do the task.
"Alright, get your stuff ready."commander ordered."I want you to be ready for any opportunity that can come up while we're down there."
"Roger."Marines replied.
Commander then looked at one of his soldiers, a Latino in middle of his twenties.
"Sanchez."he said.
"Yes, sir?"Sanchez replied.
"Don't mess anything, will you?"
"You know me, boss."
"Yes. That's why I tell you not to mess anything up, like on Striga V."
"I tried to capture that guy, but he resisted! Not my fault he got accidentally shot!"
"Yeah, right!"
"Eh, captain…"pilot said in commander's radio.
"What is it?"captain answered.
"We're seeing some people in front of the estate."
"Enemies?"
"Possibly. Orders?"
Captain looked at his Marines.
"Light them up."he ordered.
"On it."
Oprichnina guarding the outside of the estate were surprised, when big shape appeared in the sky above them. They were recently recruited for the force from some further parts of the Empire and didn't have the pleasure of meeting or seeing anything Coalition related. But now, they had the opportunity to see it first-hand.
Before they could react, dropship opened fire with it's guns. Bullets started hitting the ground, throwing large parts of ground into the air. Oprichnina members were too slow to do anything and soon, bullets started reaching them, making them all disappear in red mists, as they were torn apart by the impacts. In few seconds, all contingent of Oprichnina on the outside was erased from existence.
"What's going on out there?!"Luflus shouted, hearing the staccato on the outside.
Even Oprichnina with him stopped doing what they were doing and looked back to the direction they came from. Next, they heard wheezing sound over their heads. Oprichnina members looked up, to knowing what to expect.
"Don't panic…"Luflus said, with panic slightly present in his voice."Whatever it is, we'll…"
Before he could finish his sentence, the windows were broken and Human Marines came through them on ropes. They landed in the dining room and quickly, using their HUDs, quickly identified the targets they had to take care of. All guns were turned to Oprichnina and soon, cannonade sounded, as bullets quickly eliminated the targets. Soon, the ground was covered in Oprichnina's dead bodies.
"Clear!"one of Marines said.
"Clear!"second Marine said.
"Good."Sanchez stated.
Next, he turned to Garcel and Tyuelis.
"Who are you…?"Lord Tyueli asked.
"Lieutenant Alvaro Sanchez, United Nations Space Alliance Marine Corp."Sanchez replied, saluting."We're taking you out of here."
"Really?"Garcel asked.
"Really. Let's go."
Quickly, the four started walking towards the Marines. Entire group turned towards the exit and wanted to leave, when they heard someone's voice:
"No…I won't let you!"
Luflus, which survived the slaughter by falling onto the ground, quickly jumped up with dagger in his hand. And instead of going after Garcel, Lord or Lady Tyueli, he surprisingly went after Sherry.
"No!"Lady Tyueli exclaimed
Sanchez reacted in a blink. He quickly got himself in front of Sherry, shielding her. He reached to his belt and pulled out a silver item from there. Luflus was just few centimeters from him, when upper part of the item extended and sharpened, piercing straight through Luflus' heart. Leader of Oprichnina died, before he could even wide his eyes from surprise.
Sanchez shortened the piercing end with one click on the item. Lifeless body fell on the ground.
"You…saved me…"Sherry said.
"Sure. That's what Marines do."Sanchez replied with smile.
Before he could say anything else, girl approached and hugged him. A bit surprised by this, he returned the hug.
"Thank you."she said.
"No problem."
Sherry stopped hugging him and quickly returned to her parents and Garcel.
"If I may know…What was that weapon you just used?"Lord Tyueli asked.
"This?"Sanchez said, pulling the same item out."It's telescopic spear. I received it as a token of gratitude from duke of Frasharans. These guys were grateful I saved their leader from burning ship once."
"Impressive…"Garcel admitted.
"But I don't think it's time and place for this."Marine stated."Let's get out of here, before more of these freaks turn up."
"Agreed."Lord Tyueli said.
Marines and group of nobles under their escort quickly left the estate. They made their way to the dropship, which touched down just outside. Nobles ran inside, while Marines quickly eyed the area.
"Okay, we can go!"captain shouted.
Marines ran inside and took their places, as machine started taking off. Tyuelis once again looked at their estate, as if they were saying goodbye to it.
"Don't worry, you'll get back here."captain said, sitting in front of them.
"Really?"Lady Tyueli asked.
"Yeah. When all of this is over, we're all gonna go back home…"
Captain leaned back in his chair and took of his helmet. The task was done. Now, to take these people to Fort Terhis.
Back in Akusho…
"Just keep firing!"Budi ordered.
"What do you think we're doing, boss?!"his soldiers replied.
Normally, he would scold them for talking back to their commander like that, but right now, he had other things to worry about.
Budi and five other soldiers, two DPCs and three Marines, were sitting on a makeshift barricade made out of some wagons they managed to find, deserted in the district's alleys. In front of them, was a large group of Imperial cavalry charging at them, even though they were being cut down one by one by the wave of fast-flying lead. Maybe they were not able to completely break the resistance of Coalition troops, but they were doing one thing good: eating away all the ammo. Even Marines, which just arrived via two dropships, which were now flying around and supporting them, were slowly running out of rounds. And two dropships also weren't doing good jobs, scared, that they might cause some civilian casualties by firing into the maze of buildings.
Lieutenant wondered, how was it possible, that Imps still had so much troops at their disposal after yesterday's night bombing. Only thing he was happy about, was the fact that sky was clear of enemy fliers. And may it stay like that for longer period of time.
"Shit, shit, shit!"one of Marines next to Budi exclaimed."I'm out!"
"Keqiang, give him a spare one!"Budi ordered.
DPC soldier pulled out a spare magazine from his vest and threw it at the Marine, which caught it mid-air and loaded it into his weapon.
"At this pace, we're gonna be screwed!"DPC soldier shouted.
"We will, if you don't stop talking!"Budi stated.
Right then, his radio came to life.
"Budi, how are you doing?"Ohronog asked.
"Like shit!"lieutenant shouted back."Air units confirmed, that we're facing around two hundred enemy riders! We're barely able to hold them!"
"I thought that previous enemy assaults managed to dry out enemy troops?"Tertan agent asked.
"They were probably performing a recon by fight! Now they decided to get the hard ones to battle!"
"Okay, how long can you hold?"
"How long?! Where did that come from?!"
"I have good news."Smug could be clearly heard in Ohronog's voice."You're gonna get support pretty soon."
"What? Support? When?"
"About…"
Before Ohronog could say, everyone heard the characteristic sound of engine rumbling. They looked behind and were shocked, surprised and relieved because of what they saw there. From behind the nearest turn, there were two French-made VCB-5 armored personnel carriers, accompanied by a single GAZ.
"…now."Ohronog finished.
"Get off that barricade!"a new voice was heard in Budi's radio.
Lieutenant, along with DPCs and Marines quickly jumped onto the ground, while two APCs drove past them, breaking through the barricade. Next, they opened up with their forty millimeter cannons. Imperial cavalry was both surprised and shocked by the appearance of these two steel creatures, but they didn't have a lot of time to think, when VCBs started slaughtering them. Air was filled with the sound of screams of men and neigh of horses, as two vehicles, like machines they were, didn't even pay attention to that, as they were cutting a bloody corridor through the cavalrymen.
Meanwhile, GAZ stopped right next to Budi. The door opened and a bulky man with tanned skin and Asian face features stepped out of it. He had UNSA Army uniform and major's rank presented on his epaulets.
"Major Bayani dela Cruz, commander of 501st Mechanized Infantry Battalion."the man said.
"Lieutenant Nihanudu Budi, Drop Pod Corps."Budi replied.
Both officers saluted to each other.
"I see your asses were really on fire here."dela Cruz stated.
"You could say it like that…"lieutenant agreed."But wait. How did you even get here?"
"Let's just say, that Tertans had some of their Heavy Dropships ready. Just needed to talk to one of them and our platoon was moved here. We made a big hole in the wall and here we are."
"Nonetheless, thank you for your help."
"Always."
They again looked in the direction of two APCs moving forward.
"Are these Heavy Dropships still here?"Budi asked.
"Who do you think I am?"dela Cruz smiled, showing off a gold tooth.
Right then, they were both covered by large, dark shadow. Budi looked up and saw characteristic, black-red pattern on the hull of Tertan machine.
"Just tell everyone to go to the roof and we're gonna pick them up."major continued."Also, there are transport on the way to pick all of you up."
"Thanks."
Lieutenant turned around and quickly gave the information to Ohronog. Tertan agent was more than content to hear, that the evac for Peace Faction senators have arrived.
Tertan B-D-076 Heavy Dropship flew closer and hung up in the air near the edge of the Playful Elf's roof. Soon, first VIPs, accompanied by ICTA agents and former workers of the tabernacle, started going out on the roof and entering the machine. There was place for everyone and soon, entire crew of the hideout was inside. Playful Elf was busted anyway, so it was better to take the agents too.
Machine soon closed it's frontal ramp and started flying away from the battle-torn district.
"This is Freg 1, how is the air?"Tertan pilot asked.
"Clear as ever."Ester replied.
White Squadron was the one who escorted the dropships to the city and now, they were escorting them back.
"Understood, got all VIPs, their families, agents and our associates on-board. Going back to FT."
"Understood, we'll escort you."
Budi watched the giant machine fly away. Two VCBs again passed by him and dela Cruz, this time going back to also get evacuated.
"Alright boys, call in the birds. We have nothing else to do here."he ordered.
Not long after, dropships touched down and took off again, with all soldiers on-board. Entire operation took a little over an hour and although the fact, that half of Coalition dropships taking part in it had mechanical failures and couldn't take off from Alnus Field and it took first five lives on Coalition's side, it was clearly a great success. All Peace Faction senators, together with their families, were quickly transported to Fort Terhis, where medical teams did some check-ups, after which they were allowed to go to Italica. There, they were greeted with great sentiment and shown their places.
Two days later, together with Pina, Marquis Garcel declared the creation of Falmartian Parliament in Exile. Pina made senator Garcel first Prime Minister, at the same time nominating some other senators Ministers. Although most of them, like Minister of Defense or Infrastructure were not needed for now, she explained it as preparation for post-war times.
In short, Coalition could celebrate another great victory, while Sadera had to swallow another embarrassing defeat.
But both sides were unaware of the fact, that all this war was going to be turned around by 180 degrees.
September 29
12:43
Imperial Palace, Sadera
Emperor Molt was sitting in his throne, supporting his head with his hand. Just half an hour ago, he received an information, that somebody wants to meet with him. But he came here ten minutes ago and still, there was nobody coming. He started getting inpatient and irritated.
"It's a ruse…"Zorzal said."Someone made fun of us…"
"Calm down, son."Molt said.
"If someone really wanted to meet with us, he would immediately come here! They're mocking us!"Crown Prince exclaimed.
"Calm down, brother."Diablo said.
"If only…"
Before Zorzal could finish, the door slightly opened and one of the guards looked in.
"Your Majesty, someone to see you."he said.
"Let in."Molt ordered.
Guard nodded and disappeared behind the door, which soon after opened fully, revealing the one who wanted to see them.
It was clearly a man, as he had a long, black beard coming from under the hood covering his eyes. He was dressed in black cloak and with every step he made, they could hear some metal ringing. He approached them and knelt on one knee.
"Emperor Molt, Princes."he said.
"Stand up."Molt ordered.
Man complied.
"Who are you and what brings you to my great city?"
"My name is King Tyrranius of Clan Ektrim, ruler of Alantian Clans."the man introduced himself.
Molt, Zorzal and Diablo risen their eyebrows.
"I'm sorry, King Tyrranius, but I think I never heard of this 'Clan Ektrim' and 'Alatian Clans'."Emperor stated.
In response, Tyrranius laughed slightly.
"You dare laugh at the Emperor?!"Zorzal exclaimed.
"How could I, Crown Prince Zorzal?"Tyrranius bowed."I'm not surprised you never heard of us. We're very…secretive people. We rarely contact other realms."
"Alright then…"Molt cleared his throat."What is your purpose here?"
"My purpose is one and only."Tyrranius said, taking off his hood and revealing head covered by gray hair. He also stood up straight, as it turned out, with his height reaching slightly over two meters."I want to help you destroy the ones you call 'Otherworlders'."
Emperor and his sons risen their eyebrows.
"Why?"Diablo asked.
"They're a danger not only to you, but us Alatians, as well. We can't let them simply go around the world, as if it was theirs."king explained.
"I hope you have something better to offer than Soutland…"Zorzal scoffed.
Ever since Zander made his country join the war, this helped nothing. His troops, which he was sending to Falmart, died in battle as quickly as Imperial ones. Not to mention, that with their foothold in Western Orisia and Kingdoms of West, they started performing air attacks on the Kingdom.
"Oh, Crown Prince, we have a lot to offer."Wide smile appeared on Tyrranius' face."We can give you the power even bigger than the one Otherworlders have."
"You do?"Molt asked, as his interest was peaked.
In response, so-called king grabbed his cloak and tore it off himself. What they saw under it, didn't look different from standard armor worn by soldiers. However, they widened their eyes, seeing as some of it started glowing blue and wheezing sound could be heard.
"I can give you our armor, weapons and more. All you will demand."Tyrranius continued.
"And what will we have to give you in return?"Zorzal asked, suspicious.
"Nothing. It's a token of our newly created friendship. So?"
The three looked at each other for few seconds, before Molt finally stood up.
"King Tyrranius of Clan Ektrim, I hereby accept your proposal."he declared.
"Thank you, Your Majesty."Tyrranius said.
He approached the Emperor and shook his hand.
"Trust me. Together, we will rule this world."he said.
"Yes. Yes, we will."Molt smiled.
XXX
And here is the end of this chapter. The introduction of King Tyrranius is a sneak peak for what will come in next several chapters. And trust me, stuff will happen. Coalition has no idea, what's coming for them. But to find out more, you have to need for the next chapter. Sorry.
So, anyway. See you later!