AN: I'll be surprised, Historia Shoukan literally has the fastest view growth rate compared to the rest of my stories. I'm totally convinced now that being the progenitor of this cross-over idea must be the cause for this. Well, don't let me stop you reading this, then.
Historia Shoukan Chapter 4
Operation Dragon Subjugation
Date: April 12th, HS 2069/CC 1639
Location: Qua-Toyne/Louria Border Perimeter
Place: Magus Trio Joint Forces Command HQ
"Welp, that's one huge army... At least for their standard. And they seem pretty intent on reaching Gim, too... If this place fall, then Louria will wreck Qua-Toyne."
The one who spoke just now was one of top Gensokyo Incident Resolvers and member of GUF Vanguards, Marisa Kirisame. She leads "Kirisame Elite Corps", a force of fairies and golems armed with the firearms she made. Currently, only the fairies that is being called for the imminent war between Qua-Toyne and Louria. She's currently wielding one of her firearm created after the Reunification, which is a Hakkero Gatling Cannon. Basically, a magical M61 Vulcan. Since she's a huge subscriber of Superior Firepower, this totally suits her. Her race is Human.
"That should be obvious. Qua-Toyne basically became the number 1 agricultural country in this world. They actually feed both themselves and Quila before we came and add Fenn and Gahara. There's a reason Louria focused their attack here."
Another person replies. She's Patchouli Knowledge, one of Scarlet Devil Mansion Fighters and the creator of golems that she and Marisa uses. Both she and Marisa are locked in some kind of rivalry when it comes to their forces. She leads "Voile Defense Corps", a force comprised of golems, fairies, and arthropod robots. Just like what happened with Kirisame Corps, only Voile Corps fairies that is currently being called. Robots are definitely overkill, so she decided not to use them for this war. She currently wields a Fire Cannon. Her race is Natural-born Magician.
"Can't we just go and invade Louria directly? I totally hate their national policy."
Now it's Maybell, one of the "unique" existences according to Qua-Toyne, Quila, Fenn, and Gahara. In actuality, she's one of Alice Margatroid's dolls, and the only one with true sentience. The aforementioned puppeteer can only shake her head lightly seeing the green-haired sentient doll being livid.
"I don't think so, Maybell. This isn't Sengoku Gensokyo. Certainly, Kokusho spies have confirmed that Louria will attack Qua-Toyne, but we need a justified reason to retaliate. Confirming the invasion by repelling it would be a good start."
Alice Margatroid is the most well-known doll user in Gensokyo. Her "Rainbow Dolls Legion", in fact, are entirely comprised of them. She actually has two doll classes that are bigger than the rest of her dolls, but decided to not use it for the same reason as Marisa and Patchouli. Her race is Human-turned-Magician.
Together, they formed "Magus Trio", a group of magicians that capable of raising their own forces to participate in Sengoku Gensokyo tournaments.
"Speaking about the wyverns that won't engage in the naval battle, what will you do about that, Yasei? I already finished barricading the entire city with my Spell Cards, Dream Sign 'Duplex Barrier' and Boundary 'Duplex Danmaku Barrier'. You don't need to worry about the shrine. Shinsei is in Gensokyo maintaining it."
This time, Reimu is the one who speaks. Marisa really did have a great strategic mind by prioritizing Gim defense since it is the outermost city under Qua-Toyne jurisdiction. And Reimu is the perfect person for the job of securing the perimeters, as proven earlier. She's one of GUF Guardians for a reason.
"I'm already ahead of you when it comes to that, Reimu. Special Dragon Division 'Yoruryoshi' will be the one who deal with them alongside Qua-Toyne 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron led by Maarpatima. The division codename should give you enough hint of who I called here."
Turns out, Yasei did keep his word when he said he'll wait in Qua-Toyne. In fact, he also joins the frontline as well. And judging from the surprised look on Reimu's face, the Dragon Division that Yasei mentioned is led by a famous group that came from a dimension connected to Gensokyo.
"You don't mean... The Nachtjäger?!"
"The very same. Besides, I'm sure Kasen will gave the Lourian navy a surprise since she decided to ride Rashomon."
"... I can only wonder what type of dragons those two will ride..."
"We both already knew the answer, so this might as well be a rhetoric statement."
And just like Kasen's Draco Corps, this Special Division also have Special/Named Dragons. Two of them in fact, although these dragons are obviously weaker than Rashomon, since it turns out that he's the very same Flame Dragon that GUF and UNM encountered during Coda Village evacuation back in 2041!
(AN: Yep. Rashomon is the original Flame Dragon from GATE Jieitai. The one cloned by Epsilon Army for GUF to use have weaker stats compared to him and more comparable to Gahara and Emor Wind Dragons. And if you can't guess two dragons that Nachtjäger leaders rode, I'll be disappointed. In case you wonder, I'll rename them. Imagine Louria's surprise when they found out about GUF Dragon Riders...)
In the meantime, Historia Alliance already linked up their battlefield control for better coordination.
Back with Qua-Toyne soldiers that are being stationed near Magus Trio Joint Forces' base, they saw the aerial infantries (GUF Fairies) for the first time in amazement. Kirisame Corps fairies in particular, showed excellent battle and tactical prowess that wouldn't lose to one of UNM aerial infantries. Just by looking at their equipment, it's clear that they can easily conquer Rodenius if they wanted to. Fortunately for Qua-Toyne, Historia Alliance decided to be forthright with them, Quila, Fenn, and Gahara by showing that Earth is real. That kind of trust is what assures these countries that allying with the Dominion is the right idea.
The mages stationed there noticed that these fairies also have huge magic powers. Since they're trained to use firearms, it shows by the fact that the magic flow inside them is steady and in control at all times. Earth-Gensokyo Reunification in 2020 clearly did them a favor.
Once Marisa, Patchouli, and Alice came out to inspect the fairies, the mages noticed that their magic powers easily overwhelm everyone present minus Maybell, Reimu, and Yasei. The former have a notable magic power on her own while the last two managed to tone down their power level so the mages won't have a heart attack.
(AN: Literally, I might add. Reimu and Yasei are just that strong. I'd chalk it to them being flagship characters of ZUN (Reimu) and me (Yasei).)
"Okay, you fodders! Move on to the next drill!"
"Yes, ma'am!"
"Fodders?!"
There's a good reason for Qua-Toyne force's surprise, since fairies in Gensokyo are weaker than humans barring few exceptions. However, their massive number means it's pretty easy to make an army out of them. Historia Alliance have confirmed that many fairies start appearing in Historia Shoukan Dominion during the 7 year period of building it, implying that fairies are creatures born from nature.
Alice deems it necessary to show her Doll Legion's prowess in order to show Marisa and Patchouli 'how to actually manage an army', although she's aware that she needs greater concentration to do so compared to her peers, and the only reason her brain isn't overloaded is because of Maybell, since she can talk to her dolls. In addition, she already built several Alpha Dolls that served as Legates of various doll classes that she owned, with Maybell as her Legate Praetor.
In fact, Alice formed Rainbow Dolls Legion first, since they saw action as early as 2003! So her claim of showing her peers 'how to actually managing an army' is very well-deserved. Patchouli's Voile Defense Corps formed in 2007, and saw expansion in 2011, the same year as Marisa's Kirisame Elite Corps' formation. Clearly, Alice is the veteran here.
And it clearly shows. To further help her in managing her army, the grimoire she owns is actually installed with a real-time strategy interface, which is linked directly to Historia Alliance battlefield control.
There are few whispers here and there from Qua-Toyne force that GUF and UNM have four-legged wyverns. They're already aware about Gahara's Wind Dragons after joining the joint military exercises, so they're not as shocked compared to the first time. What still made them shocked is Kasen and Rashomon beating 3 groups of 4 Wind Dragon Riders, with Susanoo and Aramasa on the last group.
Little did they knew that they'll see said four-legged wyverns sooner than expected...
Date: April 12th, HS 2069/CC 1639
Location: Gim, Western Region of Qua-Toyne Principality
Place: Western Knights Order Garrison
Moizi, the Commander of the Western Knights Order, feel uneasy.
The total forces of Qua-Toyne Western Region Army was 2,500 rangers, 200 sharpshooters, 500 hand cannoneers, 200 dragoons, 100 hussars, 24 wyvern gunners, and 30 mages.
The entire Qua-Toyne forces has received significant upgrades ever since they enters a military alliance with the Dominion. Although they only trained for few weeks at most, they showed a promising prospect.
UNM decided to bring in 40 Gorgon Koalistiya-SV and installed 5 Tremor AGASes for fire support. They're located at a base east of Gim and are on stand by.
Because of the semi-emergency system, it was a considerable force considering Qua-Toyne's resources, but the enemy forces that they could see all along the border surpassed them. All of the communication from Qua-Toyne's side had been completely ignored by Louria.
Some of the citizens had already started evacuating from Gim and Qua-Toyne government had also called for the citizens to evacuate. Not only that, one particular Dragon Division from Historia side also took the initiative and spread the news in order to ensure the evacuation process will be fast and smooth.
"Are there any replies from Louria?"
Moizi asked the communication magician.
"At the moment. there are no replies. Although we are certain that the messages had been received by the other side, but they are still being ignored."
If there was a difference in the amount of military forces, then depending on the strategies, they could fight without losing the battle. Normally, when faced against the overwhelming number shown by Louria Vanguard Force, it will be a slaughter for Qua-Toyne. However, because the military upgrade after arquebus has been introduced, if they can conserve their ammunitions, they'll be able to hold on for days.
"What did HQ say about our request for reinforcements? I honestly don't know much about Historia's full strength."
"Well, we already tried, but HQ said that the Dominion already send reinforcements and are currently preparing defensive line on Gim. At the very least, HQ confirmed that a Dragon Division from the Dominion is already on the field. Furthermore, the 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron are accompanying them."
"That reinforcements are too- Wait, what did you just say?! They have a Dragon Division on the field?! And our 1st Dragon Sharpshooters too?!"
"Yes, sir. In fact, said division is currently urging Gim citizens to evacuate at a faster pace."
"And here I thought their reinforcements are too small... I should've known that their arsenals renders number useless. The fact that they even able to gave Gahara a run for their money should've made it obvious."
At the city itself, 10 Pathfinders separate themselves and taking position for every single high vantage they can find. After confirming their positions via battlefield control and making sure that there are no civilians in the city, the lead Pathfinder then informs 'Yoruryoshi' Division.
"Nachtjäger 1-1, this is Pathfinder Alpha. The western region of Gim has been fully evacuated."
"Copy, Pathfinder Alpha. The eastern region has been fully evacuated as well. We're moving straight to Magus Trio's location."
Soon after that, Tatsumi began to wonder about something that UNM told him beforehand. (AN: If the first thing in your mind when hearing 'Tatsumi' is Incursio, kudos for you.)
'I heard that there is Qua-Toyne officer that wish to see how we'll deal with the Lourians. Let's not disappoint them, then.'
Location: Fortress City Ejey, Qua-Toyne Principality
A single C-130J Super Hercules is currently heading to Ejey. The reason for this is because the general stationed there, Nou, requested to be an observer for Qua-Toyne. Previously, he has read the letter regarding reinforcements from Historia Alliance. Said letter also contains a request for an observer from Qua-Toyne.
Gensokyo Union Fighters has sent Kirisame Elite Corps, Voile Defense Corps, and Rainbow Dolls Legion to form Magus Trio Joint Forces. They're currently stationed at the border region. United Nations Military also dispatched 40 Gorgon Koalistiya-SV and installed 5 Tremor AGASes for fire support. We requested an observer from Qua-Toyne to witness how we deal with Lourian forces.
Having heard about the fact that Historia Alliance also have Dragon Riders and fully intent on giving Qua-Toyne 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron their first taste of combat, Nou calmed down. Furthermore, the arquebuses introduced have significantly increased Qua-Toyne's military power. With that assurance, he feels that Ejey will be safe.
"Prepare the escorts! I will join them!"
"Sir!"
Later...
Aboard the C-130J Super Hercules, Nou and his four guards are still surprised at the fact that they'll witness the first combat deployment of Qua-Toyne 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron. Furthermore, this plane has been retrofitted with a battlefield control system which allows Nou to see the entire battlefield just by watching the live feed from the front line.
The pilot of this Super Hercules is none other than Arcluz Corazon, Air Chief Marshal of Gensokyo Union Fighters. Currently, he's leaving the plane in Autopilot mode as he briefs the observers from Qua-Toyne regarding the operation.
"Let me brief you all about our plan. This aircraft will be the command hub for all Alliance aerial assets. Currently, the only asset present is the Special Dragon Division 'Yoruryoshi'. Louria force's composition consists of 30,000 personnel with 150 wyvern riders. They're now preparing to attack Gim and we will eliminate their wyvern riders."
"Wait, did you just say, 'eliminate their wyvern riders'?"
"Yes. That way, we will deprive them of their air force. And this might surprise you, but we have a specific command to not kill the wyverns. One of the Union Sages, Kasen Ibaraki, has ordered us to capture as many as possible for study purpose. For the battle itself, we'll be stationed here, patrolling Gim and Ejey."
"What will you do about the captured wyverns?"
"We will send them to the bases that the Dominion build in Qua-Toyne. And we also planned to hit them with artillery strikes once the number reached 200,000 personnel."
Nou was stunned to see Historia Alliance's intention to fight half of Louria's Subjugation Army, even without assistance from Western Knights Order Garrison.
Arcluz already returned to the cockpit and messages 'Yoruryoshi' Division.
"You're good to go, Nachtjäger 1-1."
"Copy that, Hercules Seraph."
The combined force of GUF Special Dragon Division 'Yoruryoshi' and Qua-Toyne 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron immediately went to intercept Lourian wyvern riders.
Location: Qua-Toyne/Louria Border Perimeter
Currently, all of Magus Trio forces hold their position at Marisa's insistence, much to Alice and Patchouli's confusion.
'This is so unlike her...'
They both thought at the same time.
You'd expect someone like Marisa to just go Leeroy Jenkins, but she already have the plan to maximize the destruction by calling artillery strikes from UNM once 200 thousand Lourian personnel gathered outside Gim. This plan is already forwarded to Arcluz, who is currently patrolling Gim and Ejey with C-130J Super Hercules.
This, turns out, is one of the contingencies planned by Historia Alliance. Another contingency is for the Naval Patrol Task Group to decimate the entire Lourian naval force.
The barrier is already finished and Reimu just need to wait for Marisa's signal. Sure enough, the latter noticed a movement from Louria.
"Okay, here they come! Do it now, Reimu!"
"Got it, Marisa! Spell Card Lethality Restriction, lifted."
Immediately, all forces stationed near Gim moves to fill the defense perimeter. When they heard the rumbling sound, it suddenly stopped. The wyverns also attempted to fire at Gim, but it remain unscratched.
"Are we... alive?"
They saw that the city didn't receive any damage, and not even multiple fireballs from Lourian wyverns can break it. Lourian forces that attempted to enter the city are stopped by the barriers, and they're unable to pass.
Moizi is clearly shocked seeing that Gim is protected by a pair of barriers. He's going to dispatch the wyvern gunners to intercept, but it seems that won't be necessary. At least, he can be at ease for a while.
Reimu is barely even winded at all despite having to maintain her two Spell Cards for an extended duration.
Louria Vanguard Force: 30,000 soldiers and 50 wyverns
"Attack!"
The soldiers with the aid of wyverns are charging into Gim. The wyverns increases the fireball rotation in their mouth before then firing it in sync. Surprisingly, their attack didn't work, and the soldiers stopped when they stumbled upon the barriers that Reimu placed beforehand.
"What is this!"
"Mages! Destroy this barrier!"
Several mages casts magic disruption, but when they tried again, the barrier is still there. Detour is impossible since the entire city is covered by the barrier and besieging it is also out of question.
"Damn it! Did they have a Grand Mage for this?"
Yasei, who noticed their frustration via Living Radar, snorts in response and comments to himself.
"Nope. But we have a Hakurei here. And she's our Barrier Maiden."
Meanwhile, Lourian wyverns are flying around Gim to find a gap or way to breach it. From a distance, they suddenly spotted a few spots. There, they saw 12 Qua-Toyne wyvern riders, 4 wyverns with 4 legs, and what made them shocked, is the fact that there are two dragons approaching them!
"Enemy air units attacking!"
But when the wyvern rider commander is about to give order to strike, he suddenly thrown off from his wyvern and the wyvern itself suddenly flinches. The soldier next to him was surprised to see the commander has fallen.
"W-what was that!?"
Unknown to them, turns out, Tatsumi has used his Tyrant Aura to immobilize Lourian wyverns after Mine fired the first shot with her Pumpkin.
The wyvern rider commander just got head-shotted and the body slams right into the barrier, before slowly sliding to the ground. With that kind of speed, it requires an excellent sniper to snipe it from the distance of 2 kilometers.
Fortunately, Mine is more than qualified for that. Someone in Gensokyo certainly did her a favor by constantly upgrading the Teigu's specs. (AN: It's not Marisa, but someone else. This character belongs to a fangame.)
Immediately after that, Lourian wyvern riders became easy pickings for Maarpatima and Qua-Toyne 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron, since they only need to find a good position to shoot them down.
"Guah..."
"Argh..."
"Sto-"
The citizens of Gim and Western Knights Order Garrison witnessed Lourian wyverns being immobilized and the riders became easy pickings for the 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron. From Lourian perspective, what they can see is strange four-legged wyverns following two dragons that they thought are responsible for immobilizing their wyverns.
Soon enough, many of the riders has been eliminated. Those that aren't picked off realized the futility of fighting back and raised their hands. The shootings immediately stopped.
Needless to say, this caused panic among Lourian forces. When they were about to withdraw, suddenly 'Yoruryoshi' Division and 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron decided to withdraw since their goal is achieved. Obviously, the immobilized wyverns are now forced to follow them since Tyrant Aura is still in effect.
"Nachtjäger 1-1 to Hercules Seraph, we captured all enemy wyverns for this operation."
"Acknowledged, Nachtjäger 1-1. Escort them to the nearest Dominion base."
"Roger, Hercules Seraph."
Lourian forces fell silent. Why they haven't destroyed them immediately? Some of them even questioned this, but decided to continue to lay siege on Gim. So many methods has been attempted to break the barrier, but nothing works. They then decided to set up camp around Gim while the scouts search for another way to enter Qua-Toyne.
Location: Eastern Region adjacent of Gim, Qua-Toyne Principality
Place: UNM Artillery Fire Support Base
It just so happened that the nearest base is owned by UNM.
"Nachtjäger 1-1 to Artillery Command, we brought Lourian wyverns and ten surviving POWs."
"Artillery Command here. Land them on the northern area of the base. Sage Ibaraki will be waiting there. We'll handle the POWs"
"Affirmative."
Immediately, said area became full of activity. Not that it isn't already like that ever since Kasen and Rashomon arrived there after hearing about 'Yoruryoshi' Division engaging Lourian wyverns at the border region. There, the Special Division dragons land first, followed by Lourian wyverns. Qua-Toyne 1st Dragon Sharpshooter Squadron hold their breath upon seeing the size difference between 'Yoruryoshi' Lead Dragons and Rashomon. The surviving Lourian prisoners, on the other hand, can't say anything when seeing Rashomon. Even if they managed to capture Gim, there's no doubt that this behemoth could crush all of the invasion force by its lonesome.
Noticing the stunned silence from Lourian prisoners, Rashomon looks at them before he snorts and minding his own business. Namely, 'talking' with two 'Yoruryoshi' Lead Dragons, Kosei and Shubi.
Obviously, their manacomms are seized and tampered to deny Lourian Subjugation Force the knowledge of what happened to them. Historia Alliance already learned the lesson ever since they faced Saderan Empire back then.
Aboard the C-130J Super Hercules, Nou was silent when he saw Lourian wyverns from the live feed. And he is immediately stunned when he saw how big Rashomon is. Nevertheless, he is impressed by the fact that the wyverns are captured perfectly, since there's not even a single wound detected.
Meanwhile, Wave, one of Nachtjäger leaders besides Tatsumi, was speaking to an UNM officer responsible for handling the POWs.
"Nachtjäger 2-1. We're transferring the POWs to your jurisdiction."
"Understood. Good job up there. A group of Epsilon Empaths have just recently arrived here, so you don't need to worry about the wyverns. They're in good hands."
"Thanks for the assurance."
Soon after that, Kasen immediately contacts Arcluz to inform him about the next target.
"Brief them about the upcoming Maihark Naval Engagement. I'll take 'Yoruryoshi' Division with me and land them on my special Dragon Carrier. 'Kaminari' Division is ready to be deployed and just waiting for my signal. I believe Reimu already have enough foresight to barricade the entire border."
"Copy that, Sage Ibaraki."
Back to the C-130J Super Hercules, Arcluz immediately starts the new briefing.
"Magus Trio will hold Lourian Subjugation Force at bay until the target number reached. If you wish to see the upcoming naval engagement near Maihark, we will depart there immediately for the next wyvern capture operation. This time, we have prepared Wyvern Carriers specifically designated to house them."
"O-of course! Please take us to Maihark now!"
"As you wish. Next destination: Maihark. The barrier on Gim will hold on for long, so take your time and relax."
Nou fell into silence upon hearing that. Arcluz said that as he's really calm and relaxed. It's as if he knew that nothing Louria can throw will break the barrier. Furthermore, the joint military exercises showed that Historia Alliance can easily take over the whole planet since their level are beyond the Civilization Area Superpowers.
Perhaps, they might even able to give Ancient Sorcerous Empire a run for their money.
With that in mind, Nou watches as the C-130J Super Hercules joined 'Yoruryoshi' Division to rendezvous with Vritra and Fafnir. They have more wyverns to capture and a fleet to decimate.
Timeskip: 2 days later
Date: April 14th, HS 2069/CC 1639
Location: Port Maihark, Qua-Toyne Principality
Finally the information that a fleet of over 4,000 ships departing from Louria Kingdom was conveyed and Qua-Toyne Principality Navy's 2nd Fleet, which was based in Port Maihark, gathered its ships.
Each ship folded their sails and prepared for the upcoming battle. The sailors inspected the ladders for raiding enemy ships and loaded fire arrows and ignition oil into the ships one after another. Wooden shields to ward arrows were placed at regular intervals on the deck, and large ballistas were deployed beside the ship.
The number of ships Qua-Toyne deployed totaled at 50.
Historia Alliance helped strengthening the ballistas by increasing the durability and installing a more flexible string. Not only that, they even added an iron sight to each ballistas to increase its accuracy. This allows the ballistas to be used as a viable anti-air placements, since the iron sights have increased the ballista's maximum range significantly.
"What a magnificent scenery..."
Admiral Pancare was looking at the sea where a line of military ships lined up.
"But the enemy's fleet numbered more than 4,000 ships... I wonder how many men I can keep alive..."
He revealed his honest opinion. In front of an overwhelming number, a sense of insignificance filled his heart. But he steeled himself. There was no sense in giving up early, even in the face of impossible odds. While he is grateful that Historia Alliance helped strengthening their naval force, he hoped that they will actually reinforce their position.
"Admiral, we received a message from Navy Headquarters."
The young officer, Breweye ran toward him and reported.
"So it comes. Read it."
"Yes, sir! 'In the evening today, a Patrol Task Force consisting of 17 ships from Historia will arrive on Maihark offshore as reinforcements. Furthermore, they have deployed GUF 5th Wyvern Division 'Kaminari' and redirected GUF Special Dragon Division 'Yoruryoshi' to secure air superiority. Since they will attack Lourian Fleet before our force, they need one officer to board the flagship as observer officer.'... That's all."
"What? It's only 17 ships!? Is there not an error for 170 or 1700 ships?"
"There is no error."
"Do they really want to do this? ... I need to ask Captain Midori of Warship Pima about his opinion. He and his crew reported a contact with one of their ships months ago. If I can get the needed assurance, I will authorize this."
Even though Qua-Toyne had established diplomatic relations with Historia, except for some Foreign Affairs officials, at this time, only the Dragon Knights knew Historia's true strength. Pancare had never seen a Horizon Destroyer, so this was a natural reaction. Fortunately, one of the warships of the 2nd Fleet, Pima, has confirmed a contact with one them back in the first month of the year.
Pancare then contacts Midori via manacomm.
"Captain Midori of Warship Pima here. Do you need something, Admiral?"
"What do you think about our odds, Captain?"
The answer he received is totally unexpected.
"Rest assured, Admiral. We will win."
"That would imply that we don't even need to do anything. Is that correct, Captain?"
"Correct, sir. Besides, their ships are bigger and stronger than ours. They even build their own Wyvern Carriers after I tip them about Parpaldia Empire's Wyvern Carriers."
"I see... Thank you for this information, Captain. Return to your duty."
"Sir!"
The fact that Historia Alliance decided to send in their wyverns and dragons are more than enough for Pancare to rest assured.
"I will go."
Breweye immediately spoke up.
"My swordsmanship is the highest in the Navy. So if it becomes a melee fight, my survival rate is the highest. Furthermore, Historia already dispatched their own wyverns and dragons. If Captain Midori speaks highly of them, perhaps we will have a chance of victory."
"I'll leave it to you then."
"Yes, sir!"
Timeskip: Few hours later
Port Maihark was in a great clamor like a madhouse. Everyone raised their voices in wonder and admiration. The citizens living nearby, the soldiers, and the sailors altogether were gazing at the direction of the sea.
"These things are huge"
"Unbelievable, are they really ships?"
"Is that a mountain floating on the sea?"
There were many shouts and yells.
Breweye could not believe his eyes. The size of the ship was completely beyond his common sense.
Just by measuring with the eye, one of the ships had an implausible estimated length of no less than 160 meters, which gave off a bizarre presence. There were talks about how when Warship Pima made contact with Historia, it boarded a 160 meter long ship, but he thought that they were just lying to exaggerate their accomplishments. However, the reality was: 'that ship really existed', and it's not the only one of its class. Despite being anchored far away on the offshore, it was still absurdly large in appearance and had no sails. And this is not the biggest ship Historia has!
Eventually, something flew away from that large ship. He had eyesight good enough that he could see that there were people riding in it, so he understood that it was some kind of vehicle. On the top of the vehicle, there was two things like elongated boards spinning around in high speed.
Although he previously had received a message about how he would be picked up by the other party, when Breweye actually saw this other way to fly in the sky that wasn't a Wyvern, he was at loss for words. As it approached, there was an unfamiliar ringing sound and a loud unnatural flapping sound which put fear into the surrounding people. Eventually, a violent wind began to blow as if it could blow away anything nearby.
When the vehicles had landed in the plaza, the wind and the sounds gradually abated. A door on the vehicle's side opened, a woman appeared from it and started to move with a steady gait towards the gathered crowd.
Breweye stepped forward and the woman standing in front of him saluted.
"Здравствуйте. Greetings. I am Masha Medvedya, UNM Officer assigned to HSD Naval Patrol Task Force. For this occasion, we've been specifically instructed to pick up an observation officer from Qua-Toyne Principality."
(AN: Let's just say this Masha actually have an Ursa Major as her companion to complete the comparison. I'm pretty sure you guys already think about Masha and the Bear, so might as well run with it.)
Breweye replied in a hurry, while being slightly confused about a paricular word and also impressed by Masha's prompt behavior.
"Nice to meet you, I am Breweye, the operations staff of Qua-Toyne Principality Navy's 2nd Fleet. I'm grateful for Historia Alliance's reinforcements."
"I believe that you had been informed in advance, but have you finished your preparations for boarding?"
"Yes. I will be in your good hands."
Breweye held his the luggage and timidly boarded the vehicle ──something that was called a tiltrotor, 'V-22 Osprey'. There were no decorations inside the aircraft, but the seat was fluffy and comfortable to sit on.
Once again, the tiltrotor's engine speed accelerated and there were a strange sensation of floating. Although it was somewhat slower than a wyvern, there were no jerky vertical movements caused by flapping, and the smooth ascend of the tiltrotor astonished Breweye. This vehicle could fly without almost no shaking and was much more comfortable than a wyvern, moreover it could transport large numbers of people or goods.
While in the middle of the flight to the flagship, he kept admiring the usefulness of the tiltrotor.
Place: HSD Kuznetsov Dreadnought of HSD Naval Patrol Task Force (Code: Patrol Flagship Kuznetsov)
When the tiltrotor approached the dreadnought located far from the port, he was overwhelmed by the size of the flagship that was incomparable when seen from the shore.
"What's with this ship size! ... Ah, I understand, if the ships are this big, then a large number of personnel could board it, and so when it becomes a melee fight, they could capture the enemy ship one by one through overwhelming numbers. As the number of captured ships increased, the fighting power will also be quickly increased, so this one ship alone would certainly be able to deal with dozens of ships."
Using his own knowledge and logic, he was trying to make sense of the dreadnought, but finding himself unable to do so.
Breweye alighted on the ship deck that was wide enough for a cavalry battle.
'The floor is hard... This is... made from iron? How could it float in the sea? What kind of magic is this? A ship should be constructed from wood...'
With the incomprehensible fact of an iron ship floating in the sea as the beginning, Breweye's confusion kept increasing. As he was told by Masha, he entered the ship's interior.
'... The inside... is bright. Did they burn something? No, light magic? Is this a magic ship?'
After being guided into the ship interior that was so wide that it felt like an illusion, Breweye arrived at the bridge, and became confused.
That's because he couldn't find the ship captain. Until he realized one thing.
Masha is the Captain of Patrol Flagship Kuznetsov and Lead Officer of HSD Naval Patrol Task Force!
Amused at Breweye's realization, Masha coughs to inform him that the briefing will start. She then immediately opens the battlefield control system to open the discussion. Needless to say, Breweye is caught off-guard by this.
"This might be sudden, but we've located the position of Lourian naval force. It's about 500 kilometers from our current location. Their speed is very slow, about 5 knots, but they are heading towards our direction. So we planned to leave tomorrow morning alongside 'Kaminari' Division and 'Yoruryoshi' Division to approach Lourian fleet. Then we'll issue a warning to them to turn back. If they don't abide, then after we fire a warning shot, we will eliminate them entirely. So please relax yourself inside the ship until tomorrow."
"Eliminate them entirely... Eliminate, entirely?"
How absurd. There were only 50 Qua-Toyne ships and 17 Historia ships. Only 67 vessels couldn't possibly confront 4,400 vessels.
"Ah, no. Of course if the enemy turns back, or begins to surrender or escape, then we will refrain from attacking."
"That's not what I meant... Certainly our country has prepared 50 ships. Will we perform this operation with only 67 ships? This might be rude to ask, but have you been informed of the enemies' number?"
Breweye was concerned that Historia hadn't been informed of the enemy's size.
"We already acquired the number from our intel. There will be no need for escorts from Qua-Toyne Navy, so we will ensure your safety. Please be at ease while performing your duties."
Breweye was surprised again. Historia intended to challenge a huge fleet of 4,400 ships by themselves without cooperating with Qua-Toyne Navy.
But perhaps, their 'Kaminari' and 'Yoruryoshi' Divisions might be the key for this operation.
Breweye's Diary, 14th Day of 4th Month of Year 1639 Central Calendar
I boarded the Historia flagship safely as Qua-Toyne Principality's citizen.
The flight until the ship was extremely comfortable, the interior of the metal ship with a size beyond the norm also had a fixed temperature. In addition, it is bright even at night. Although I should be in the middle of the sea, the swaying of the waves are inexistent. Everything is out of common sense and so, I am very astonished.
In my meeting with the captain, when she told me that they will challenge Lourian's 4,400 warships with just 17 ships, I at first thought that they were suicidal. But after I observed this ship's interior, its size, and then its metal construction, then I understood that fire arrows or ballista wouldn't be able to damage it for sure.
On the other hand, the ship's deck is so high, so the arrows fired from that higher altitude will surely hit the enemy ships. There are no fixed-installed weapons like a ballista, but it is highly probable that the weapons are portable and will be deployed when they enter battle preparations. Although for a moment, I was in despair that there were only 17 ships, there is a possibility that enemy's attacks won't be effective against this ship. Historia seems to possess absolute confidence in the battle.
To be this nervous as an observer officer, this is the first time I've felt this way ever since I had been born. The only thing that eased me is the fact that they already send in their wyverns and dragons to secure the air superiority.
Place: Patrol Flagship Kuznetsov, Captain's Room
Masha was talking with her XO.
"Well, I certainly didn't expect to actually going to face a medieval naval force. This reminds me of a story I heard as a kid."
"I feel you, Captain. The Saderans had invaded Earth unprovoked, and they almost got massacred for their troubles. To be honest, I'm just glad we managed to repel Lourian land forces 2 days ago. The Union really did deliver."
"Well, we can expect the same thing this time. A warning shot won't deter them, so we can only retaliate."
"My thoughts exactly."
Both Masha and the XO didn't want to spill needless blood. There should also be some of Lourian soldiers who didn't want to kill people, too, just like their own sentiments. Alas, World War III basically forced UN forces to be vigilant at all times. And their experience when dealing with Saderan Empire basically shows that medieval forces can only be deterred by overwhelming might.
"But don't you find it strange?"
"About what...?"
"The equipment of Louria and Qua-Toyne are medieval-era. Well, they have dragons and wyverns and communication devices called manacomms, so they are more advanced than Earth's medieval era."
Masha remembered the documents that representatives and KVL Shadow Division brought back from Louria Kingdom. When they compared the appearances depicted in clear photographs and the remaining drawings of their own documents from Earth, they couldn't get rid a sense of discomfort no matter what.
"The ships of Lourian Navy are wooden ships like in Japanese Kamakura period, it's not a ship-of-the-line. In addition, the information said that the total forces of this fleet is 140,000 men with 4,400 ships, which is actually exactly like that decisive battle that Japan had once experienced."
The XO made a surprised expression.
"It's the Second Mongol Invasion, Kouan Campaign, right?"
-Insert the details of Kouan Campaign here.-
"No wonder Japan created a word based from that invasion. 'Kamikaze', I believe? All things considered, UNM now have manpowers numbered in hundreds of millions with billions as reserve. We already far outnumber them and have more advanced technology as well, so there's no reason to fear them. I still want us to be cautious, regardless."
The conversation between Masha and the XO continued until close to lights-out time.
Date: April 15th, HS 2069/CC 1639
Location: HSD Naval Patrol Task Force and GUF Dragon Force
HSD Naval Patrol Task Force departed as scheduled. The task force gradually increased their speed and drew white wake trails on the ocean.
"What a speed!"
Breweye continued to be astonished like he was yesterday.
"This speed has far surpassed that of our army's fastest sailing ship! However... the distance to the other ships is too far. Did their battlefield control mitigates this somewhat...?"
On the other side, Vritra and Fafnir also departed shortly after 'Kaminari' and 'Yoruryoshi' Divisions are prepared. In fact, they departed ahead of HSD Naval Patrol Task Force.
Nou, who is currently aboard GUF Special Dragon Carrier Avicii, is stunned.
(How many times am I supposed to feel like this?! It's like I'm permanently in a state of shock!)
The fleet headed west at a speed of 20 knots. About 10 hours after departure, on the other side of the flat horizontal horizon line, Lourian Navy could be sighted.
The naval battle, which stirred the New World's history, the so called 'Rodenius Grand Naval Battle' in the future, was about to begin.
Location: Lourian Eastern Subjugation Navy
"What a sight, so beautiful..."
The beautiful sail ships traveled through the great ocean with the wind full in their sails. Their number was 4,400. A large amount of sailors and landing troops were on board as they headed to Port Maihark. As far as the eyes could see, there were only ships. The ocean couldn't be seen. This expression wasn't just mere words.
After a preparatory phase of over six years, with the military assistance from the Papardia Empire, this large fleet was finally completed. There was no means to defend against this large fleet on the Rodenius Continent.
Perchance, they could even conquer the Papardia Empire. Or so Vice-Admiral Sharkun thought.
'No. After all, Parpaldia Empire seems to have a weapon that can destroy an entire ship, called a 'gunship'...'
With his reason, he calmed down the flames of ambition which showed up for a moment. It was still dangerous to challenge the Superpower of the Third Civilization Area. He looked at the eastern sea, which he ought to conquer from now on.
'... Hmm? There is something flying towards our direction.'
An inorganic object shaped like an insect, came flying with a rattling noise towards Lourian Navy. At that bizarrely shaped flying form of the object that he never seen before, slight fear sprouted up inside Sharkun's heart.
'Is that a wyvern? ... No, it's not. What is that thing!?'
The weird object, that had four lines of different colors painted on its white body, hovered around in the sky where no arrow could reach and then it spoke up to the fleet with a loud voice that couldn't be considered human.
(This is Historia Shoukan Dominion Navy. Warning to Louria Kingdom. The location ahead are Qua-Toyne Principality's territorial waters. Your country has invaded Qua-Toyne and supports the genocide of all demihumans. Because of that, we cannot allow your fleet to proceed. Turn back at once and return to your country waters. I repeat ──)
Apparently there seemed to be people inside that flying object. Sharkun had heard a story about how the Prime Minister had turned the diplomats of a country called Historia away and refused to deal with them. However, just by looking at that flying object, he was doubtful if Historia is really a barbarian country like the politicians had said.
There were people who drew their bows towards 'the object', but the arrows couldn't reach it at all and pitifully fell to the sea. That strange object repeated the same message and after some time had passed, turned around in the sky and left towards the eastern sky.
After a while, he could see one small island on the sea ahead.
'Is there an island in this place...? It can't be, the island is moving...! Impossible! Was that a ship?!'
The ship, which he mistook for a small island, cut the path of the fleet's front row's sailship at a tremendous speed and began to travel parallel with the ship. Their distance was about 300 m.
"What, is that thing...? Such a huge ship."
Sharkun was a bit uneasy, but there was only one opponent. He had 4,400 ships at his side, so it was absolutely impossible to lose. However, the sailors had the same uneasiness towards the strange ship like him.
(Turn back immediately, or we will open fire! I repeat, turn back immediately, or we will open fire!)
Just like the previous flying object, with a loud sound, the ship issued a warning.
Sharkun thought about what they meant by open fire and judged that perhaps it was a means of attack, before he ordered the starboard fleet to attack. The sail ships began to turn starboard and closed the distance with the destroyer.
"How big..."
Since the flying object that appeared mentioned Historia, this ship might belong to that country as well. The captain of the warship who was ordered to fire the first attack at the foreign ship had a slight anxiety. At any rate, this was a huge fleet of over 4 thousand ships. To be given the honor as the foremost spear, there was no way he going to miss it.
"Prepare the fire arrow! Don't use the ballista yet! When the distance to the enemy ship is 200 meters, release them!"
Under the instructions of the warship captain, the crews dipped the arrow tips into the oil pot placed at the deck and ignited them with the torch. While the archers felt the heat from the flames, they drew their bows towards the enemy. They closed the distance to the enemy ship until it reached 200 meters.
"Release!"
The fire arrows were launched at the same time from the warship and drew a parabolic arc in the air as they flew towards the enemy ship. The fire arrows that were released continuously in large quantities, pierced the outer hull of the enemy ship and burned the ship ─ ─ or was what should have happened.
What they saw shocked them. A red barrier engulf the entire ship and repels the attacks from Lourian Navy. Immediately after that, the barrier dissipates. This is the introduction of Iron Curtain, one of two technologies that UNM use most.
The attack didn't affect the ship's capabilities at all. However, it rapidly distanced itself from the fire arrow's effective range. It instantly separated itself from the fleet before turned around and stopped at a distance of about 3 km.
"Hahahahahahaaaaaa! They ran away!"
On the deck, the sailors mocked the ship and let loose their jeers. Of course, their jeers wouldn't reach the enemy. However, the captain couldn't hide his surprise at the fact that the enemy was totally unscathed and at how fast the enemy ship's speed was.
"The fire arrow didn't stick at all. That red barrier must be the cause..."
How will he defeat the enemy, the ship's captain racked his brain.
Sharkun, who was closely watching the first attack, felt an uneasiness pass by his mind.
"So they ran away. Well, no matter how big their ship is, they couldn't do anything with a single ship. However... The attack just now was not effective? Also, it's fast even though it's big. To display such speed even without any means to receive the wind, just what..."
The Horizon Destroyer has received an attack and immediately contacted the Kuznetsov Dreadnought to gain permission to engage.
"We've taken fire. Permission to engage?"
"Granted. Show them the might of the Alliance."
"Affirmative. Engaging the enemy fleet. Ready the cannon! And launch the Osprey!"
The 155 mm cannon installed on the bow of the Horizon Destroyer rotated and pointed its muzzle at the enemy ship. Furthermore, a V-22 Osprey has been launched, armed with M2 Browning MG and M134 Minigun. Said Osprey is patrolling the Horizon Destroyer.
"Main cannon, fire!"
At that signal, the Horizon Destroyer fired at Lourian Navy.
Around the same time, the rest of the Patrol Task Force and the wyvern capture fleet Chrono-shifted near the location of the Horizon Destroyer.
The good-sighted Sharkun noticed a slight change in the enemy ship 3 km ahead. The iron pole attached on the front of the large ship looked like it was turning towards Louria Kingdom Navy.
"What's with that pole?"
The next moment, smoke came out from that pole.
'Smoke? So it started to burn by itself?'
Immediately after Sharkun wondered about that, the sail ship that was sailing in the foremost position suddenly exploded. Parts of the exploded wood, ship parts and what looked like human remains scattered and rained down onto the deck of the surrounding allied ships. Then, after a delay of several seconds, they could hear a sound like something was exploding from the direction of the enemy ship.
"!? Wh-what is happening!? Impossible? An attack by the enemy!? Ho-... Just how did they attack from that distance?"
At this power that they never experienced before, every single crew member on the fleet viewed this scene with eyes wide open from shock.
"This is bad... But, it's fortunate that the Wyverns could reach this place. Communication officer! Request the HQ for air support! Say that 'We are engaging the enemy's main fleet!'"
Although the blown apart ship still had its keel intact, before long water rushed in through the holes and it quickly slanted and sunk together with its still surviving crew.
"Fuh... A magic weapon of such power, but it seems that it's not able to fire repeatedly..."
When the Horizon Destroyer didn't shoot for the second time, Sharkun made such a judgment.
"Lower the fleet's speed. Together with the air support from the wyverns, we will push an attack straightaway."
Sharkun's fighting spirit was rekindled.
Place: Patrol Flagship Kuznetsov
Shortly after the rest of Patrol Task Force Chrono-shifted near the Horizon Destroyer's location, Masha noticed something on the battlefield control.
"Hmm?"
She detected an activity from Louria's capital, Jin-Hark. The battlefield control shows that Lourian wyverns are being prepared for departure and the numbers being prepared are around 350.
"I need to double-check this."
She then immediately contacted Arcluz, who still flies the C-130J Super Hercules.
"Hercules Seraph, this is Patrol Flagship Kuznetsov. I've detected 350 Lourian wyverns in Jin-Hark being prepared for launch. How copy?"
"Copy, Kuznetsov. I got the same number. I'll inform Sage Ibaraki about this. Sage Ibaraki, this is Hercules Seraph. Both I and Kuznetsov have confirmed the enemy wyverns' movement."
"Got it, Hercules Seraph. 'Kaminari' and 'Yoruryoshi' Divisions are ready to be deployed. Kuznetsov, keep looking at the battlefield control and signal me when there's a confirmed launch."
"Affirmative, Sage Ibaraki."
"Kuznetsov, I don't think they'll be retreating anytime soon."
"This is just expected from a medieval naval force. In the meantime, are Vritra and Fafnir prepared?"
"They are, Kuznetsov. I'm sure Sage Ibaraki will gave them the signal."
"Acknowledged, Hercules Seraph."
Masha then continues monitoring Lourian wyverns' movement.
Place: GUF Special Dragon Carrier Avicii
While this is indeed within her plan, Kasen didn't expect that the numbers will be that big. She then immediately requested for another Wyvern Division.
"Shoukan Command, this is Sage Ibaraki. We've confirmed the enemy wyverns' movements. Requesting another Wyvern Division."
"Acknowledged, Sage Ibaraki. Currently, the 4th Wyvern Division, 'Ryuusei', are free. Should I connect them to you?"
"Please do so, Shoukan Command."
Few seconds later...
"Rakuryuusei here. Is there anything we can do to help, Sage Ibaraki?"
"Rakuryuusei, prepare 'Ryuusei' Division for naval engagement and Chrono-shift near my position. Lourian numbers are higher than I expected."
"Affirmative, Sage Ibaraki."
Back to SC...
"Shoukan Command, I also requested the remaining Dragon King-class Wyvern Cruiser Carriers to be deployed at once. Chrono-shift them near my position as well."
"Acknowledged, Sage Ibaraki."
Now Kasen can only hope that Tiamat, Yu-Long, and Midgardsormr (the biggest Dragon King-class Wyvern Cruiser Carrier) will be enough to help Vritra and Fafnir capture the remaining Lourian wyverns. The 50 wyverns from earlier has been transported to Historia mainland.
Location: Jin-Hark, Louria Kingdom
Place: Capital Guard Knight Order Command HQ
"A manacomm message from Louria Kingdom's Eastern Subjugation Navy, 'We're currently engaged with a ship that is believed to be the enemy main fleet. The enemy ship is big and equipped with a powerful magic weapon. This weapon already sunk one warship of our fleet. We request air support for counterattack.'... End of message."
"Well-well, so it's the enemy's main fleet... Very well, dispatch the entire 350 wyverns."
Patagene's mouth tip crooked as he gave the order the manacomm operator.
"Ho-... However, sir, we had already assigned 150 wyverns to the vanguard army and they already lost 50 of them. Right now they don't know if they can launch it again or not. Furthermore, we also need 100 wyverns for capital defense."
"Are you not listening? Every wyvern. If it is the enemy's main fleet, this will be a decisive battle, so we must seriously throw our weight on them. ──What? Do you think the enemy have any capabilities to reach the Capital?"
"I see, I understand. 'Informing all Wyvern Squadrons. We received a communication from Eastern Subjugation Navy at sea west from Maihark. They are engaging the enemy's main fleet. Every Dragon Knight on standby has been ordered to depart and support the navy! I repeat ─ ─ '"
The Dragon Knights who were waiting for their turns to shine shouted their cheers. The 350 wyverns, which had their emergency scramble order, flew to the sky one after another.
Location: HSD Naval Patrol Task Force
Place: Patrol Flagship Kuznetsov
"!"
Masha paled at Lourian wyverns' movement. She then immediately contacted Kasen.
"Sage Ibaraki, this is Kuznetsov. Lourian wyverns' launch confirmed."
"Got it, Kuznetsov. I've managed to ask for additional reinforcements earlier."
"Слава Богу... (Thank God...) I'll leave it to you then, Sage Ibaraki."
"Copy that, Kuznetsov. Deal with their fleets for us."
"Roger, Sage Ibaraki."
The rest of Patrol Task Force then converges to reinforce the lone Horizon Destroyer.
Shortly after that, Masha noticed that there are multiple new friendly signatures on the battlefield control. She smiles, since she knew what that means. (AN: Say it with me.)
"Reinforcements have arrived."
(AN: Called it. You can't do Command and Conquer without recognizing this Most Wonderful Sound.)
Place: GUF Special Dragon Carrier Avicii
The Special Dragon Division 'Yoruryoshi' are currently preparing for the engagement against Lourian wyvern forces. Besides them are four Wyvern Carriers, two from each side, that carries 4th Wyvern Division 'Ryuusei' and 5th Wyvern Division 'Kaminari'.
Right now, they only need the final confirmation from all Dragon King Wyvern Cruiser Carriers.
"Attention, Tiamat, Yu-Long, Vritra, Midgardsormr, and Fafnir have arrived at the destination."
That is their confirmation.
"Rakuryuusei ready." (Ryuusei Division)
"Raijuu ready." (Kaminari Division)
"Nachtjäger ready." (Yoruryoshi Division)
"Sage Ibaraki here. All hands, prepare for air combat!"
The full line-up of deployed GUF Dragon Forces are as follows.
- Rashomon (Flame Dragon) (Rider: Kasen Ibaraki)
- Mizubara (Water Dragon) (Naval Asset)
- Kosei (Hybrid Dragon) (Rider: Tatsumi)
- Shubi (Hybrid Dragon) (Rider: Wave)
- 6 Lead Common Dragons (Riders: Akame, Kurome, Mine, Seryu Ubiquitous, Mukou, Ryouko)
- 24 Dragon Gunners
- 96 Wyvern Gunners
Total number deployed: 130
'Looks like the Patrol Task Force will be enough to cover the Dragon Kings.'
Kasen thought as she lead GUF Dragon Force to meet Lourian wyvern force.
(AN: For Touhou fans only. Yep, I made Mukou a humanoid Raijuu because well, I need someone to actually fill the Division leader slot. Fortunately, I got enough canon info to pull this off. As for Ryouko, just type 'Touhou Rakuryuusei' and 'Touhou Saikotan'. You'll see why I decided to add her as well.)
Location: Lourian Dragon Corps
Louria Kingdom's Dragon Corps had departed to give naval support. This operation with 350 units, the largest one in the Kingdom's history, overwhelmed those who were on the ground and saw their gallant figures.
Aglameus, the Captain of the Dragon Corps, had already convinced himself of their victory.
The report from the manacomm stated that it is the enemy's main force, but Qua-Toyne Principality naval strength would be around 50 vessels at best, even if they are more powerful than this, it would be just about 100 ships at the very most.
The Navy alone was probably enough to destroy it, but perhaps Vice-Admiral Sharkun intended to keep the damage of the Kingdom's Fleet at the minimum and also showcased the tremendous number and power of the Louria Kingdom's Army and the Dragon Corps.
This was the first time so many wyverns were mobilized for a single combat operation, and with squadrons this big, they could able to defeat even the legendary Magic Emperor Army. There was no way that they would be stopped by something on Qua-Toine Principality's level.
Not only Aglameus, but every wyvern riders also thought so.
Location: North Rodenius Sea
Looking up at the sky, more than one hundred wyvern/dragon gunners deployed by GUF approaches Lourian naval force. Since Louria has dispatched three hundred and fifty wyverns, they hoped that their wyverns can dominate the airspace. Vice Admiral Sharkun looks at the opponent's wyverns with a sneer.
But once they got closer, much to his shock, there are three true dragons being deployed from Historia side! Unknown to him, a Water Dragon also being deployed, and is currently submerged beneath the sea.
"Target in sight."
Mine said as she located Aglameus.
"Alright, the operation objective is still the same as the one in Gim. We'll capture their wyverns here. Because their numbers are seven times larger than before, all Dragon King Wyvern Cruiser Carriers has been deployed for this operation. Furthermore, 'Yoruryoshi' Division is now at full strength and 'Ryuusei' Division will join us. This will be a heavy fight, so be careful. Nachtjäger 1-1, we're counting on you to immobilize their entire wyvern force. But don't push yourself too hard. If you can't do it anymore, we'll retreat with what we got."
"Copy that, Sage Ibaraki. Leave it to me."
"With that said, engage!"
When Lourian navy prepare to engage Historia wyverns, the sailors look dumbfounded as the enemy wyverns just pass through them without any fight, though the presence of the dragons made them glad they didn't do so.
When Lourian wyverns arrived to reinforce the fleet, suddenly some riders are being thrown away from their wyverns, including Aglameus. Some ships got damaged because few riders fall into the decks, with one unfortunate ship immediately explode due to the grazes that lit up fire on the ammunition storage.
"We still have large number! Destroy them!"
But suddenly, all Lourian wyverns became immobilized. Quickly enough, the Dragon and Wyvern Gunners takes down Lourian riders. Rashomon actually patrols the surroundings to ensure that there won't be any funny idea from Lourian navy.
Tatsumi was counting the riderless wyverns while maintaining his Tyrant Aura.
"195... 196... 197... 198... 199... 200! Now!"
Immediately, Historia Gunners stop shooting, and withdraws with the riderless wyverns while the remaining one are freed from Tyrant Aura.
"They're running away! After them!"
Few minutes ago...
"Once the count reaches 200, I suggest we withdraw immediately, Sage Ibaraki."
"Is that because you reached your limit, Nachtjäger 1-1?"
"No. That's because I have a better idea. Why don't we lure them to our Dragon Kings?"
"That's... That's brilliant! We'll do what you suggested, then."
Presently...
As it turns out, there is a slight change of plan that worked in Historia's favor. The Dragon Kings are currently crewed entirely by Epsilon Empaths, and luring the rest of Lourian wyverns there means Historia can focus on capturing them without having to worry about getting in the firing range of Patrol Task Force.
Once all Lourian wyvern riders are no longer in the firing range, Kasen signals Masha.
"Kuznetsov, you're good to go."
"Affirmative, Sage Ibaraki."
"Now! While they're busy dealing with our wyverns! Attack their fleet!"
Vice-Admiral Sharkun didn't want to waste this opportunity. Hearing that many of their riders being shot down, including Captain Aglameus, he didn't want to waste their sacrifice. But, what he saw next was a terror for him. Once Lourian wyverns caught up with Historia flying force, they immediately got immobilized again, and the riders once again became easy pickings.
All of the sailors who witness the slaughter fell silent. Not only they're unable to fight Historia dragons, their wyverns are cleanly captured by Historia forces, completely depriving them of their air power. Unlike in Gim, this time, no Lourian riders survived.
All 350 Lourian wyverns are captured flawlessly by Historia force, as they're being directed to land at Tiamat, Yu-Long, Vritra, Midgardsormr, and Fafnir.
"Are we... fighting against the legendary Mage Emperor Army...?"
In front of the overwhelming strength of the enemy, Sharkun muttered in an unhinged mental state. His hands were shaking and his feet also began to shake. He didn't know how to say this.
However, the tragedy play didn't turn a blind eye to them.
On the far side eastern horizon, vessels similar to the huge monstrous ship in front of them appeared. There were nine. Perched on their entirely gray hull was the magic weapons that had mowed down the warship. Their flying objects are now aiming their weapons to the fleet.
Furthermore, seven ships bigger than these monstrous ships joined them.
Their weapons that previously eliminated warships in the blink of the eye, turned towards Lourian navy and unleashed a storm of destruction.
In Rodenius history, what decides the outcome of a naval battle is a clash of sailors, which is to say, a melee combat. Although it is possible to damage the hull with ballista or ignite them with a fire arrow – though, it rarely burns – to damage the ship to a certain extent, in practice, the ship is indestructible. Since the melee combat decided the battle, in the end, the number of sailors eventually is the deciding factor.
For the invasion this time, they had gathered 4,400 warships. It would be a different story if the opponent is the Superpowers of the Three Civilization Areas, but it won't be defeated by a frontier nation. No, with this great number, they believe they could even compete with the Superpowers of the Three Civilization Areas.
Or so they thought, until two hours ago.
Contrary to the expectation, only Horizon Destroyers that are currently wrecking havoc upon Lourian navy, with the Kuznetsov Dreadnought throwing in Snowstorm ballistic missiles here and there. All in all, this is more like shooting range for Historia navy.
The numbers of the roar from main cannons from the Horizon Destroyers and Snowstorm missiles that Kuznetsov Dreadnought launched combined was the number of how many Lourian warships sunk. However, 4,400 ships were a lot.
Perhaps because of confusion or unrest, Lourian navy was moving chaotically. However, there was no sign of retreat. The ammunitions from both Horizon Destroyers and Kuznetsov Dreadnought isn't even exhausted, but Historia feel that this will be overkill. Because of Chrono technology, any ships can request ammunition restock and it will be delivered straight to them.
"Cease fire."
Much to their horror, this time the V-22 Ospreys are the one who lay waste on them. A ship's hull and deck were filled with holes that it slanted, the oil for the fire arrow was ignited by the torch fire and engulfed the ship with fire. Another ship sunk when its inner deck was flooded with water.
The deeds were performed businesslike and one by one, the enemy ships were sent to the bottom. But the disaster did not end there.
The very same Dragon and Wyvern Gunners that captured their wyverns joins the fray as they bombarded the ships with various weapons under their disposal. Lourian navy is clearly being terrorized down to the depths of the ocean.
With the surrounding no different from a hunting ground, Lourian navy fell into panic.
"Damn it! Those monsters, we can't win against them! Damn it! Whoaaa!"
One ship, and then yet another ship, one by one as the time passed by, friendly ships was sunk at an unbelievable rate.
"... So, this is it."
Vice-Admiral Sharkun had gone beyond despair and reached the point of resignation. They can't win no matter what.
If this situation continues, it will only cause his subordinates to die for nothing. But, if he surrenders, his navy will be captured and he will be treated as Prisoner of War while he also can't see the future for Louria Kingdom. Seeing some of Historia warships start deploying their smaller ships to rescue the surviving sailors stranded in the ocean, he looks at them with silence.
Even he also can choose to retreat, but seeing what Historia did to those who surrendered makes him think. Historia forces did order him to turn back before this massacre happened. Finally, he makes a decision by raising the flag of surrender and submit to Historia demand later.
He's aware that if he returns to Louria, he'll be put into Capital Sentence due to his incompetence. He then orders the remaining ships that was still with him to raise the sail of surrender and drop all of their weapons.
"Give the order to surrender, we will turn ourselves to them."
"Y-yes, sir."
1,400 ships has been sunk, 1,000 ships retreated and only 2,000 remains. And Historia did all of this without Qua-Toyne's help. Not only that, they even able to deprive Louria of their air power and capture all their wyverns completely intact.
What Nou and Breweye witnessed from their respective ships (GUF Special Dragon Carrier Avicii for Nou and HSD Kuznetsov Dreadnought for Breweye) makes them unable to speak. 17 warships able to make 4,400 strong fleet surrendered to them, and leaving 2,000 ships intact.
"Unbelievable..."
Thanks to the battlefield control installed in every ships of Historia Alliance, they were able to see clearly what is going on. Nou and Breweye shuddered at the prospect of facing Historia Alliance as an enemy. They suspect that Qua-Toyne won't be able to do anything against them, especially after this show of force.
In fact, both of them have the exact same thought.
'Glad we didn't made the Alliance as our enemy...'
Masha watches Lourian fleet that surrenders and decided to take them to Historia mainland for detainment. Lourian ships will be mothballed until the war is over. Still, there are 1,000 ships that managed to escape the massacre, and one of said ships was boarded by an observer from Parpaldia Empire.
Speaking about detainment, Masha can only shivers about the sudden increase of paperwork that her superiors will have to handle for the foreseeable future.
"Please don't blame me for this, Grand Marshal..."
All in all, the Rodenius Grand Naval Battle ends before Qua-Toyne navy left the port.
Breweye's Diary, 15th Day of 4th Month of Year 1639 Central Calendar
I was ordered to measure how much is Historia's true power. It is the duty of a military observer officer. However, how to put this, I didn't see the battle at all. No, what I see is a complete massacre. When we arrived at the battle location, I saw that Lourian navy have surrendered completely.
There were shattered ship wreckages of Lourian fleet, that had been blown apart by an unbelievably large amount of explosion magic projections of immense power, drifting on the sea. And I can tell from their 'battlefield control' that they fired it from kilometers away!
After the rescue operation finished, they informed me that it's a victory with 350 wyverns captured and 1400 warships destroyed. Even if Historia ships are so big, there are only 17 of them, moreover, it was in a single battle. This battle outcome in this very short time span was unprecedented in the history.
Isn't this impossible even for the Superpower Parpaldia Empire?
The crisis of my motherland had passed away, it's a truly delightful event and I ought to feel happy for it, but Historia military power is far beyond common sense, so I can't help but feel... fear.
I'm also greatly troubled about writing the report for the government. I must give the government a report, which wouldn't be believed by anyone, and this made my stomach hurts. There is no doubt that the same anguish also felt by Captain Midori of warship Pima and the member of the diplomatic delegation months ago.
We must absolutely never make enemies of Historia. I am relieved again and again, that Historia, which holds a power beyond that of the Superpowers, is our ally.
Place: A certain retreating Lourian warship from Eastern Subjugation Fleet
Parpaldia Empire's military observer officer, Valhal, was trembling in his room at the warship.
This warship was luckily not sunk, but he personally witnessed many warships in its surrounding sunk one after another.
His duty was to record in detail how will Lourian fleet of 4,400 ships curb-stomped the Qua-Toyne Principality. Even though primitive tactics such as fire arrows from ballista and ship raiding was fitting for barbarians, he enjoyed this mission due and personally interested in what would happen if they had these numbers.
However, the enemy ship that appeared was far beyond his common sense.
Although there was no evidence of them using 'Wind God's Tear' that speed up sailships, their ship speed was overwhelmingly fast. To begin with, those ships didn't have anything that can be called as a sail.
Regardless of their hull larger than the 100-Cannons Ship-of-the-Line, it had a huge… long and slender, but that this was without any doubt, a cannon. When he saw that the ship was only equipped with a single cannon, it greatly bothered him that he thought if this was a joke.
He was surprised that there were cannons even though the barbarian shouldn't possess one, but a cannon is not accurate. It was hard to hit things with it, hence why the 100-cannon ship-of-the-line had so many cannons. Despite that, that cannon could hit from a distance of 3 kilometers with just one shot. Moreover, it had tremendous power, that easily sunk warships with just a single hit.
What surprises him more is the wyvern battle on the air. If it was Parpaldia, they will use Wyvern Lords to duel Historia Wyverns one by one. Because barbarian wyverns are weaker than them, Parpaldia is surely going to win. But, what he saw is Lourian wyverns immobilized by one of the dragons that Historia owns (which still surprised him to no end) before Historia Gunners taking down the riders. Even during the brief retreat itself, Historia wyverns managed to outfly Lourian wyverns. Then the same process happened until no riders remained and all Lourian wyverns captured by Historia.
Unknown to him, Aegis Cruisers can easily shot down Lourian wyverns, but they didn't saw action because of the wyvern capture operation.
If Parpaldia Empire did things without knowing about their existence, the Empire might even be in a peril.
Using the mana communicator, Valhal reported what he had seen, as true as possible, to his home country.
Full report of Rodenius Grand Naval Battle
- Lourian navy lost 3,400 ships with 1,400 destroyed and 2,000 captured.
- Lourian casualties are estimated to be over 40,000 dead and injured soldiers and sailors.
- Lourian fleet commander, Vice-Admiral Sharkun, is captured.
- Historia suffers no casualties during aerial engagement, due to the deployed units belongs to GUF, known for being aerial warfare specialist.
- Thanks to that, Historia managed to capture all 350 Lourian wyverns. Said wyverns are currently housed at Dragon King-class Wyvern Cruiser Carriers. Total captured wyverns so far is 400, including the one captured at Gim.
- All Patrol Task Force vessels received no damage whatsoever. (One Horizon Destroyer does get hit, but Iron Curtain nulls the damage.)
Introduced units:
Common Dragon: A species of dragon not native to New World. Historia Alliance uses them to further augment their land forces.
Users: Gensokyo Union Fighters, United Nations Military, Historia Shoukan Dominion
Origin: GATE Jieitai
C-130J Super Hercules Command Plane: A plane retrofitted with battlefield control for better coordination with friendly units.
Users: United Nations Military, Historia Shoukan Dominion
Origin: Real-life
Epsilon Empath: A psionic from Epsilon Army that can open empathic link with other creatures. This is the result of UNM-sanctioned researchs.
Users: United Nations Military, Historia Shoukan Dominion
Origin: Original (C&C Red Alert 2 Mental Omega Fan Unit)
Kuznetsov Dreadnought: Missile capital ship of Mental Omega Fleet from Red Alert Dimensions. It has been modernized by UNM.
Users: United Nations Military, Historia Shoukan Dominion
Origin: C&C Red Alert 2 Mental Omega
Dragon Gunner: A common dragon with the rider wielding a firearm. Same principle as Wyvern Gunners of Historia Alliance.
Users: Gensokyo Union Fighters, United Nations Military, Historia Shoukan Dominion
Origin: Original (tracing the idea from Lourie054's Wyvern Gunners)