Chapter 5: Homecoming

Ruin of Blackreach, Province of Skyrim, Tamriel

14th Peacekeeper Company, 3rd Platoon

[ERROR] 1000 Hours

With the schematics now in hand, Lieutenant Clarke had made sure it was now Aicantar's main priority to study the schematics. For over two days, Aicantar had not left the stone building provided for him and his studies and quarters. However at some point he had deciphered enough information to finally make sense of the machine.

"So how does this thing work, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke steps inside the stone building.

"As to my understanding, the Construct runs on souls trapped in soul gems. You would need a total of six grand souls and it would remain active for about a month's time." Aicantar walks out to the construct with Lieutenant Clarke in tow.

"Can it run on something else?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"No, neither the Dwemer's steam nor magic in general are powerful enough." Aicantar reveals.

With a heavy sigh, Lieutenant Clarke pinches the bridge of his nose. "How does a soul gem work then, friend?"

"There are two ways to trap a soul. One, you enchant a weapon with the enchantment of Soul Trap and proceed to kill a creature with it. The other way is to cast the spell Soul Trap on a creature and kill it in general. But you must have a soul gem large enough to accommodate the soul you are trapping." Aicantar now examines the construct in more detail, shifting his gaze from book to construct.

"Luckily, the schematics came with a stash of thirty black soul gems, which can hold any size of soul, and two of which are already filled with Grand Souls, the ones needed to run the construct." Aicantar pops open a receptacle with a spent Black Soul Gem.

"Can we do it with normal none… enchanted weapons?" Lieutenant Clarke grabs the spent soul gem, grimacing at the idea of trapping a soul.

"Unfortunately not. The souls really do need to be trapped in order to use their latent power." Aicantar moves to another panel, which looked like a control panel.

"So what constitutes a grand soul? A king? Emperor?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Draugr Overlords, Daedra, Falmer Warmongers, and Mammoths."

"Could you enchant a weapon?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"I only know it in theory, but I have yet to apply it in real life. Maybe my Uncle Calcelmo can help, or any other enchanter in any major city." Aicantar examines some dials.

"So we have to go back to Markarth?" Lieutenant Clarke says in a slightly annoyed manner.

"The city of Morthal is closer. They'd have one there. I can either go with you to learn the enchantment and do it myself, or you could have the clerk enchant it for you." Aicantar offers.

"Sure, friend. I just have to talk to the rest of my sergeants. Just remember to bring the vest and helmet we gave you." Lieutenant Clarke heads off to find his sergeants.

"Of course, I'll be here if you need me." Aicanar says.

Lieutenant Clarke walks off into the mess hall Where he finds Sergeant Sheikh drinking a cup of tea based off of some snowberries while reading a pamphlet. Sergeant Sheikh smiles as he turns the pamphlet over to reveal pictures of Buddhist temples and Sakura trees.

Lieutenant Clarke sits down on the table. "Planning a vacation already, friend?"

"When we clarify our status and get leave, yes." Sergeant Sheikh puts the pamphlet down.

"So, we have found out how to get the construct running, but we need souls." Lieutenant Clarke sighs heavily.

Sergeant Sheikh's excitement shuts itself off immediately. "We need to kill people?"

"Well Aicantar had said that it needs a grand soul, the most feasible would be mammoths." Lieutenant Clarke clarifies.

"At least it is not people. Are you going to tell the rest of the sergeants." Sergeant Sheikh sips his snowberry tea.

"Yes, where are they?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Drakenberg and Linehan are up top, no clue where 'goggles' is. Axelsson! You know where Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy is?" Sergeant Sheikh yells into the kitchen area.

Private Axelsson excuses himself from the two others in the 'kitchen' and comes out as he puts the top half of his fatigues back on. "Loose rock hit the showers, he's fixing it now."

"And why are you not in proper uniform, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke notices Private Axelsson sporting only an olive green shirt a while ago.

"It is really hot back there, sir. Window's only good enough to get the smoke out." Private Axelsson explains.

"Fair enough." Lieutenant Clarke reaches for his radio. "Sergeants report to our quarters, we are having a meeting."

After a few minutes all the sergeants are in their chosen quarters gathered around a stone table. Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy was still soaking in water in his attempt to repair the tree bark pipe system after one of its supports had fallen down. In the elapsed time Lieutenant Clarke had told them about the soul gems, their need for more in order to get home, how they needed to hunt for more, and the need to enchant a weapon to do so.

"So we're going to hunt mammoths, with the IFV, with its cannon enchanted? Did I get that right?" Sergeant Drakenberg confirms as he scratches the back of his head.

"More or less." Lieutenant Clarke confirms.

"So where do we go?" Sergeant Linehan asks.

Lieutenant Clarke rolls out his map and points at one of the hold symbols. "This place called Morthal. Aicantar will be going with you as well. Now we just need a few volunteers."

"I'll go ask my unit for volunteers." Sergeant Linehan speaks up.

"Globe Lead, this is Globe 1-5. Come in." The cackle of the radio breaks the silence.

"Go for Globe Lead, over." Lieutenant Clarke responds.

"Tin man is back, sir. He says he needs to speak with you."

"Send him through Globe 1-5, Globe Lead out." Lieutenant Clarke responds.

"Why are they here?" Sergeant Şÿrÿfaddinsoy stands up.

"We will find out soon, friend. This meeting is adjourned, return to your duties." Lieutenant Clarke concludes as he heads out to meet them.

Lieutenant Clarke stands near the end of the camp as he awaits for the arrival of Stroeus. Eventually he hears the sound of hooves clattering against stone, getting stronger and stronger every second until eventually he sees Stroeus and Aela, both on horses. The steeds stop a few meters from the camp entrance.

"Your horses look like they are bred for war, or is it because of the colder weather here?" Lieutenant Clarke comments as he walks to them.

"Both, actually. I have something to ask of you, is that's alright." Stroeus ties the reins of his horse to a nearby stone pillar.

"Is it another scroll, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"No, no. I plan on acting as an intermediary for a temporary peace between the Imperials and the Stormcloaks. Skyrim cannot be at war while I face Alduin." Stroeus says.

"Ah. So you are just here to tell us? Congratulations, friend!" Lieutenant Clarke pats the back of Stroeus.

"Yes, thank you. However, I also came to ask if you could accompany me to the meeting place?" Stroeus asks plainly.

"For what reason, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke looks confused at the request.

"You and your men have experienced how difficult it is to kill a dragon. I would like it if you could testify as 'Dragon Killers'." Stroeus asks.

"Uh, very well. But what can we get out of it?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Whatever it is I can help you with." Stroeus assures.

"Can you help us get four filled Black Soul Gems, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke jumps to the point.

"Black Soul Gems? I think I have a few on me now. What size of souls do you need?" Stroeus rummages through the saddle bags of his horse.

"Grand." Lieutenant Clarke states.

"I have three Grand filled Black Soul Gems with me. I'm sorry I can't give all four." Stroeus says as he hands them over.

"That is fine, friend. Where is this place we are going?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"High Hrothgar, home of the Greybeards. It's the mountain at the very center of Skyrim." Stroeus says.

Lieutenant Clarke sighs at the mention of the word 'mountain'. "Where can we buy coats, friend?"

"The town of Ivarstead that lies at the foot of the mountain path should have some. We'll be passing by the city of Falkreath which should have some as well." Stroeus points out on a map he brought out.

"Fair enough, friend, When do we leave?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"The sooner the better. I've already made sure General Tullius, and Ulfric Stormcloak will be there." Stroeus informs.

"Well then I will have to look much more presentable, friend. It is almost lunch time as well, would you like to join us?" Lieutenant Clarke invites.

"If you would have me, and Aela." Stroeus says.

"It would be fine. Please wait inside the mess hall, friends." Lieutenant Clarke says as he heads off to the showering area.

After a shower and lunch, Lieutenant Clarke calls for his unit. It was time to go. The sooner they have gotten this talk over with, the faster they can get home and bring more help.

Ivarstead, Province of Skyrim, Tamriel

14th Peacekeeper Company, 3rd Platoon

[ERROR] 1800 Hours

Everyone disembarks the truck and forms a perimeter. They could see the other guard members of both the Imperials and the Stormcloaks. However it seemed that the elite units of both parties were present, from the shining chest plates and closed Corinthian-esque helmets to the bear heads resting atop the helmets of the Stormcloak elite.

"I see they expect to fight it out here then, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke puts on a heavy coat bought from a store in Falkreath.

"A war of words if you will. If things go south here then who knows what'll happen for the rest of the Civil War." Stroeus puts the reins of his horse on a wooden pole.

"Very well. Right. Grey, van der Wel, Axelsson, Hoon. you are going with me, suit up. Sergeant Sheikh, hold this area down and report to me on significant happenings, understood?" Lieutenant Clarke ties down his coat.

"Yes, sir." Sergeant Sheikh hands over the rest of the coats to the people called.

After a few minutes of dressing up, the five of them deposit their rifles in the truck as they get ready to climb the steps. Lieutenant Clarke sees that there is no snow yet which concerns him as it can only mean that it would be one hell of a climb.

"Stroeus, friend. What is this place called again?" Lieutenant Clarke asks as they begin their climb.

"We are in High Hrothgar, home of the Greybeards. It is on the mountain called the Throat of the World." Stroeus says.

"So are you telling me that we will be climbing the whole mountain?" Lieutenant Clarke looks to the left, seeing the lands of Skyrim almost unhindered.

"No, only about halfway. But we will be climbing The Seven Thousand Steps. I hope you're ready." Stroeus tries to encourage the group.

"Great. Fantastic." Lieutenant Clarke's mood drops as silent complaints go about the rest of the group.

After a long climb they eventually reach the part where snow finally accumulates. Since the coats they had bought were not as well made as those back on Earth so as a result it had begun to become cold again, however it did the job of keeping the user relatively warm to still think and operate properly. If only they had gotten proper gloves as well since the kevlar gloves they had were lackluster in keeping warmth.

"Dragonborn. You have arrived. The General, and Ulfric are waiting inside." A voice greets, however neither of them see a building yet.

"Who said that?" Corporal Hoon says, muffled from his arm attempting to block out the snow.

"I am Arngeir, one of the four remaining Greybeards in High Hrothgar. You are all very close to High Hrothgar, please endure." Arngeir encourages.

Finally seeing High Hrothgar, the first impressions of the peacekeepers was that it looked very old, its architecture surely different. And that it looked rather unsettling with how dark the building and its surroundings were.

"Arngeir, it is a pleasure to see you again. How are the… guests?"

"They are fine. Although the atmosphere has been a bit volatile. It would be best if you enter soon." Arngeir leads the rest inside.

When inside it is equally dark, however also warm, thankfully. Arngeir leads all of them to a meeting room with stone chairs surrounding a long oval table. However, Arngeir stops both Aela and the other peacekeepers.

"It would be best for the rest of you to wait here." Arngeir says as he enters the room as the peacekeepers sit down or lean on the floor.

Lieutenant Clarke takes off his coat and hands it over to Private van der Wel. "Hold this for a moment, friend. Things may get heated."

"Good luck, sir." Private van der Wel takes the coat and sits down close to the rest of the peacekeepers.

Entering the room, Lieutenant Clarke takes a seat beside Arngeir and a noble looking man who he has never seen before. Lieutenant Clarke sits there for a while as Stroeus seems to be talking to the noble who had stood up to talk to him in a hushed manner.

"I thank everyone for coming to today's important gathering. General Tullius, and Jarl Ulfirc Stormcloak, once again, thank you for accepting my request." Arngeir catches everyone's attention.

"Globe Lead, this is Globe 2-1, Elves coming up."

"If it means that the dragons will be less of a threat to the people of Skyrim, then I will gladly join this gathering." General Tullius proclaims

"For once I am of a mind with this Imperial. We don't want any beasts messing around with our war now do we?" Ulfric says in a sarcastic moment.

"It seems you started without me." an Elven woman says as she steps through the doorway.

"What is she doing here? I thought this was a peace talk? The Thalmor have nothing to do with Skyrim's affairs." Ulfric stands from his seat.

"I assure you barbarian that I do. One of my men has gone missing for months now, and I would like some information on where he is. Also, I need to ensure that the White-Gold Concordat is followed." the Elf proclaims as Lieutenant Clarke shifts internally.

"I refuse to partake in these talks while she is here." Ulfric calls.

"I am sorry, but who are you exactly?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"I am Madame Elenwen. Ambassador of the Third Aldmeri Dominion to Skyrim, and who are you?" Ambassador Elenwen asks.

"Lieutenant Travon Clarke, that is all you need to know, friend." Lieutenant Clarke tries to put up a friendly act.

"Hmph, I would never need to know much more anyway. However, you seem to be sitting in the seat assigned to me." Elenwen bluntly says.

"Perhaps I am. But seeing as to how we have started the meeting without Her Excellency. It seems that it is my seat." Lieutenant Clarke argues.

"Very well, you can keep your human stained filthy seat. You there, pull another chair. A wooden one if you have to." Elenwen orders one of her guards.

"Are Elves normally this rude? Or perhaps it is because of the two meter long silver spoon shoved up her ass?" Lieutenant Clarke insults, causing some of the members of the table to either look with surprise or stifle laughs.

"I like this one, Dragonborn. Where did you pick him up?" Ulfric smiles candidly.

"A long term benefit, may I add." Lieutenant Clarke interjects.

"He will play an important role in today's discussion. Seeing how we're all finally here. Shall we begin?" Stroeus asks.

"Yes, and I will start. We want control of Markarth and the Reach. That's our price for agreeing to this truce." Ulfric demands.

"So this is your reason for agreeing, Ulfric. You dare insult the Greybeards by forwarding your ambitions?" a noblewoman speaks up.

"Jarl Elisif, please let me handle this." General Tullius cautions her.

"General, this is an outrage! Ulfric insults both the Greybeards, and Imperials by demanding a major hold he could not take in battle!" Jarl Elisif exclaims.

"I'm sure Jarl Ulfric does not expect something in exchange for nothing." General Tullius hints at the need of an exchange.

"Yes, that would be extremely out of character." someone says from under their breath.

"Then how about The Reach for The Rift? A major hold for a major hold? Surely this is a fair enough trade Jarl Ulfric?" Stroeus intercedes.

"Very well. If it means that these talks would end quicker then so be it." Ulfric agrees, reluctantly however.

"Then I presume that the White-Gold Concordat will be followed in Riften and The Rift?" Elenwen speaks up from the corner.

"Of course, Madame Elenwen. It will be Imperial territory after all." Stroeus assures her.

"When this truce is over, expect us true sons and daughters of Skyrim to liberate our homeland from you Imperial dogs." Ulfric taunts the Imperial delegation.

"I'd like to see you try Ulfric." General Tullius taunts back.

"Stop! Are you so blind to our danger that you can't see past your petty disagreements? You argue over… nothing! While the fate of the world hangs in the balance!" A bearded man yells to catch the attention of the room.

"Is he with, Delphine? If he is, I advise you to tell him to watch that tongue of his." Ulfric warns the others.

"He is with me. And I advise all of you to listen to him before doing anything rash." Delphine pleads.

"Don't you understand the danger? Don't you understand what the return of the dragons means? Alduin has returned! The World-Eater! Even now he devours the souls of your fallen comrades in Sovngarde. The more this petty war goes on, the more you strengthen him! Can you not put aside your petty squabbles and hatred for one another for one moment in the face of this mortal danger?" Esbern reiterates the importance of unity.

"What a pretty speech and all, but what does this-" Elenwen asks, however is cut off.

"Shut up. If what he says about Alduin is true, then we have everything to lose if this issue isn't dealt with." Ulfric reminds the High Elf.

"I agree with Ulfric for once. However, don't hand me a mug of sheep's piss and call is Colovian Brandy. These terms are still not acceptable." General Tullius complains, pounding at the table.

"You slaughtered the very people you claim to be fighting for! True sons and daughters would never do such things."the voice from the back pipes up.

"Damned Imperial lies! My men would never stoop to such methods, even in retaliation for the butchery at-" a large man wearing the same bear head the Stormcloak soldiers at the foot of the mountain defends his movement.

"This is our homeland, Tullius. All the blood spilled in this war is on your head." Ulfric passes his part of the blame to him.

"You claim that the blood is on my head while it stains your hands red, Ulfric. We demand concessions for the atrocity you and your men have committed." General Tullius begins to raise his voice.

"You expect me to give concessions? Laughable, how laughable of you, Tullius." Ulfric laughs.

"But what if the Karthwasten Massacre wasn't done by Stormcloaks, but done by Forsworn? It is unfair to judge another party without solid evidence. Especially since civil unrest in The Reach has always been a problem." Stroeus adds to calm the tensions down.

"Thank you, Dragonborn, for talking sense into this Imperial." Ulfric responds in thanks.

"Hmph, fine. Very well, we won't demand concessions, but expect fire and fury once this truce is over, Ulfric." General Tullius crosses his hands.

"Are those all the terms you wish to be discussed? Then before adjourning this meeting, I will go over what has been discussed." Arngeir asks.

"I would like to ask the, Dragonborn? Is that correct?" Lieutenant Clarke asks and is met with nods and grunts. "What purpose do I have here if not to just sit and listen?"

"My apologies for not introducing you earlier. This is Lieutenant Clarke, he and his men have been extremely helpful to me." Stroeus introduces Lieutenant Clarke to the rest of the party.

"On the way to Blackreach to acquire the Elder Scroll, we encountered a dragon. Clarke and his men aided me and Aela in taking down the dragon, and we witnessed how they were almost able to take down a dragon almost instantly." Stroeus tells them the story of his encounter.

"However, in the middle of the fight one of their men was injured. If we had not been there, the dragon would have most likely attacked Morthal or Dawnstar, and as of that day, Clarke and his men have become Dragon Killers. If there is anything you wish to say, please feel free to speak." Stroeus gives the floor to the others.

"To clarify, friends. I can ask my superiors for help with your matter of dragons. However we need to get home first. In saying that what we need is one more filled Black Soul Gem, and the smartest minds available." Lieutenant Clarke sits up straight in his seat, heart pounding hard.

"Home? What do you mean by get home?" Ulfric leans forward in anticipation.

"We… are not from this world. We come from a place called Earth. Brought here by a Dwemer construct on accident. We are now close to getting home and all we need is your help, friends." Lieutenant Clarke reveals, causing shock to roll through the room.

"Not from this world? That doesn't seem possible at all. But seeing how you have equipment we have never seen before, I suppose it was never impossible." Esbern strokes his chin in thought.

"I don't get it. Why did the Dwemer bring you here? It doesn't make sense." Galmar exclaims.

"Either it was a last ditch attempt at a prototype, or the Falmer might've accidentally toyed with the construct and activated it." General Tullius tries to piece together.

"We do not know, however what we do know is that if I can bring help from my home, the dragon situation can be fixed without having to sacrifice a hundred archers. We can fight them in the sky." Lieutenant Clarke tries to gain favor.

"Fight them in the sky? What kind of sorcery would that be?" the same voice from before speaks up, causing Lieutenant Clarke to look to her direction.

"And how quick would your… 'superiors' agree to this?" Ulfric asks.

"Well… weeks or a month. Not to mention a few more weeks for initial forces to come in rapid deployment. This is all theoretical however." Lieutenant Clarke swallows hard, readying himself for backlash.

"What about the Civil War? Will you and your superiors intervene?" Ulfric's mood changes to anger again.

"No, they care simply for peace and development. They would only intervene should a member of our organization, or its member nations be harmed and or killed." Lieutenant Clarke says truthfully however Ulfric seems solved but rather on edge.

"The Dragonborn claim that you and your men have the capability to kill dragons quickly. Could you demonstrate this to us?" General Tullius asks the important question.

"Can you spare half an hour for the demonstration?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"Of course. Let's go Legate. Jarl Elisif, and Jarl Balgruuf, will you follow?" General Tullius turns to them.

"I would like to see this for myself." Jarl Balgruuf agrees.

"I would as well." Jarl Elisif simply answers.

"Galmar, with me. Let's see if this man can entertain us with his demonstration." Ulfric says as Galmar simply nods.

"Very well then, give us half an hour. Do we have an area to do the demonstration, friends?" Lieutenant Clarke asks as he stands up.

"We can use the area outside. Please follow me." Arngeir leads them to the area.

"Perhaps everyone should stay here first. Corporal Hoon, Private van der Wel. Please retrieve our firearms. Axelsson, Grey. Please set up some targets." Lieutenant Clarke orders them.

"If you need targets, I have some spare armor you can use." Stroeus adds which causes both Corporal Hoon and Private van der Wel to throw a thumbs up in their direction.

After the presumed half an hour the two return holding rifles and an LMG in both hands, not very happy at the prospect of having to climb a mountain again. Soon enough, after a good twenty more minutes, targets are set up, consisting of steel plate, iron, and Elven chest pieces, along with a few sacks filled with dirt, and empty bottles set up on a rock.

"Ladies and gentlemen! Asides from freezing, we will first start off with the demonstration of an Assault Rifle. A standard issue rifle given to every soldier. Corporal Hoon. Please use the steel plate as your target." Lieutenant Clarke says as Private van der Wel pulls the bolt of her C7 NLD assault rifle.

"Cover your ears, friends." Lieutenant Clarke says as they do so, however some do not listen.

Corporal Hoon lets off a burst of three rounds into the armor, sparks emanate from the plates, however it is obvious that the rounds had gone through as the snow behind it had created dust marks on impact. Private Axelsson goes to remove the steel plate armor and bring it to the crowd.

"What in Oblivion is that?!" Jarl Balguuf removes his hands from his ears.

"It's louder than a bloody mating Horker!" Galmar yells a bit louder than he should.

"It is a firearm, friends. It uses chemicals to fire a projectile at very fast speeds. And it can do this to even the toughest armor." Lieutenant Clarke points at the holes in the steel plate armor.

"I don't quite understand, however, this alone feels like it's enough to kill a dragon." General Tullius comments.

"Now we will move on to sidearms." Lieutenant Clarke unholsters the Glock 17 from his holster, albeit in a slow fashion due to his coat.

Everyone covers their ears as Lieutenant Clarke unloads a few rounds into the iron chestpiece, causing sparks to come off in every hit as well. Private Axelsson brings the iron chest piece back as well.

"So we can see here that this pistol can cause the same damage, but causing smaller holes and damage, however it can be concealed and is not as hard as using a sword in a confined space." Lieutenant Clarke removes the magazine and clears the chamber and picks up the discarded round.

"To be able to conceal such a weapon… the thought of it alone is terrifying." Delphine looks in awe.

"Everyone, please step back for this demonstration." Lieutenant Clarke urges the crowd as Corporal Hoon walks up and pulls out a fragmentation grenade.

"Fire in the hole!" Corporal Hoon pulls the pin and throws it at the general direction of the Elven armor.

The blast shocks everyone who has never seen such a device go off. The concussive force almost knocking down Jarl Elisif and Esbern. After the blast, Private Grey brings over the Elven armor, which was not only being held together by the leather straps used to fasten it around the user.

"That was a fragmentation grenade, used to force the enemy out of a position, or kill a group of them." Lieutenant Clarke hated the thought of it but knew of its necessity.

"It's… it's stronger than most magic. The lethality of it is terrifying." Esbern comments from the back.

"Those things can probably kill tens of people in the blink of an eye." Legate Rikke imagines its potential destruction.

"Now please take a look towards the sacks over there." Lieutenant Clarke gestures to the sight of Privates Axelsson and van der Wel setting up the Ksp 90.

"You know how to use this thing right?" Private van der Wel checks the unboxed belt of ammunition.

"It's not like it would explode, van der Wel. Calm down." Private Axelsson goes prone.

"It could if it jams, so I am going to stand over there." Private van der Wel attempts at a joke.

Private Axelsson clears the chamber of snow first before closing the top to ensure no catastrophic jams could happen. After he pulls the charging handle back he unleashes hell on the sacks, however not in a fully automatic mode but in long sustained bursts to highlight how many rounds it can spew out in a second as Private van der Wel held the ammunition belt.

Dust and snow spews out as the bullets impact the sacks. At some point some of the sacks had disintegrated from the sustained fire. When the firing had stopped the barrel of the Ksp 90 was glowing red and smoking. This was not a good thing.

"Congratulations dipshit, don't drop it." Private van der Wel stands up.

"Yeah yeah, I won't" Private Axelsson picks up the glowing LMG and leaves the area.

Lieutenant Clarke brings the group to the scene for them to see the results, not speaking as the results show the proof further.

"This… this could kill thousands in a single battle. Sieges would be bloodier. This must not fall into anyone's hands." Esbern states a fact.

"I think this is proof enough for all of us?" Arngeir puts his hands inside the sleeves of his robes in a priestly manner.

"Yes." Ulfric simply answers, digesting what he has seen.

"Shall we go back inside now to avoid this damned cold?" General Tullius comments.

The rest of the party returns back to the meeting room and takes their respective seats. Everyone takes a moment to warm up and speak amongst themselves and their parties while they wait for the meeting to be resumed.

"You said you need the smartest minds in Skyrim to operate this Dwemer construct you speak of? As well as a soul gem?" General Tullius restarts the meeting.

"What is the soul gem for?" Delphine asks.

"We need it because we have the schematics, but not enough experience to operate it. The soul gem needed is a black one containing a grand soul, it is used to power the construct." Lieutenant Clarke reads from his notepad.

"I understand. I will do my best to send word to the holds under Imperial influence." General Tullius assures.

"I will do the same, but I won't make any promises." Ulfric assures but with more truth.

"Farengar will be there." Jarl Balgruuf promises.

"I'm not so sure Court Wizard Stentor would be too keen to go considering her… personality." Jarl Elisif adds.

"May I request that the Court Wizard Calcelmo be there given his expertise in the Dwemer." Lieutenant Clarke requests, recalling his encounter with him.

"I'm sure Jarl Igmund would try to refuse but seeing how we're dealing with a construct of Dwemer origin, Calcelmo will do everything in his power to go." General Tullius indulges Lieutenant Clarke's request.

"And what of the one Black Soul Gem, friends?" Lieutenant Clarke followed up.

"I'm sure most of the Court Wizards have some in stockpile, if not they can help with the procuring of whatever left is needed." General Tullius said.

"Very well, friends. I believe that is all I have to say." Lieutenant Clarke returns the floor to whoever speaks next.

"Where should we send the Court Wizards?" Jarl Balgruuf asks.

"Send them to the Tower of Mzark, friends. My men will be there on the surface by 8AM to escort them to Blackreach proper." Lieutenant Clark says.

"Very well." Jarl Balgruuf agrees.

Arngeir then hoists up an unscrolled paper as he puts a piece of charcoal down. "Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak has demanded the major hold of The Reach, and Markarth, and in exchange will give The Rift, and Riften. Both parties have acknowledged the threat of Alduin, and the dragons. And no concessions from the Stormcloaks will be given to the Imperials for the Karthwasten Massacre. Next, the Jarls across Skyrim will aid in the studying and activating of the Dwemer Construct in Blackreach. Finally, Whiterun and Dragonsreach will be used to capture a dragon to aid in the journey of the Dragonborn. This begins the truce between the Imperials, and Stormcloaks. If that is all then this meeting is adjourned."

Everyone stands up and says their goodbyes as they begin to exit the meeting room. Lieutenant Clarke is assisted by Private Grey in dawning his coat again. However as they were about to leave into the main hall they are stopped by a Thalmor soldier who steps in their way.

Private Axelsson steps up and taunts him. "Are we going to have problems, point ears?"

Lieutenant Clarke pulls his subordinate away and gives him a nod of reassurance and defuses the situation. "If you could please step out of the way, friend. I would like to go home."

"I can't let you do that just yet. I need you to answer a few questions for me." Ambassador Elenwen turns the corner and reveals herself.

"Very well, what questions do you have in mind?" Lieutenant Clarke drops the friendly facade.

"Seeing how you are staying in Blackreach, would you perchance know what happened to an agent I sent to investigate it?" Ambassador Elenwen asks.

"He died attempting to escape us when we asked for his help. It was done by one of the larger Dwemer automatons. If you would like to retrieve what remains of his body, you may send a delegation to the predetermined area. Good day, Ambassador." Lieutenant Clarke pushes the Thalmor soldier aside with some difficulty even if it was not evident.

"I see." Ambassador Elenwen says as the peacekeepers leave the building.

Once they had gotten outside into the frigid cold, Lieutenant Clarke sees Stroeus standing outside seeing everyone off. "Stroeus, I would like to thank you for giving me this opportunity."

"It is my way of returning a favor. You did well against that dragon, and Elenwen. I'm sorry about your comrade though." Stroeus sympathizes.

"Thank you, good luck with catching that dragon of yours." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"Good luck on your adventures as well, and I hope you get home soon." Stroeus says.

"I will try to bring help." Lieutenant Clarke says as Stroeus begins to walk back.

"Thank you, friend." Stroeus says as he opens one of the doors to High Hrothgar.

Ruin of Blackreach, Tower of Mzark Entrance, Province of Skyrim, Tamriel

14th Peacekeeper Company, 3rd Platoon

[ERROR] 0800 Hours

"Pull the lever, lad." Sergeant Linehan orders.

A peacekeeper pulls the lever of the lift and it begins to climb. Sergeant Linehand and four others were now clad in the same coats given to them. The air had begun to become cooler and cooler until eventually snow had begun to assault them from all sides.

"Alright, lads. If the damn magicians don't show up in thirty minutes, e're going to leave 'em and come back down." Sergeant Linehan covers his face from the snow.

After a few minutes a few figures can be seen from a distance, their silhouettes emphasized against the white snow. Eventually it becomes clear that it is one of the Court Wizards they were expecting, along with a few guards accompanying them.

"Does this tower lead into Blackreach? Quickly, let us descend! I must see my nephew's notes and diagrams!" Calcelmo pleads to Sergeant Linehan.

"I'm sorry sir, but e've to wait for the others." Sergeant Linehan explains.

"No! Time is of the essence! The quicker I analyze and study the construct, the sooner you get more answers!" Calcelmo tries to go for the lever, however one of the peacekeepers beats him to it.

"Fine, e'll go down in five minutes." Sergeant Linehan bargains.

"Good! Thank you!" Calcelmo sees the deal as a fine one.

After a few minutes another group of silhouettes getting closer to them, the job would be a lot easier if the seemingly perpetual snow storm plaguing the eastern part of Skyrim could cease for a moment. Sergeant Linehan is forced to squint his eyes to see properly because of this.

"Is this the meeting place for us court wizards?" a voice comes.

"Identify yourself, lad." Sergeant Linehan yells.

"Farengar Secret-Fire, Court Wizard of Jarl Balgruuf of Whiterun." Farengar announces.

"Come aboard, e're going down in two minutes." Sergeant Linehan helps him on board.

"I apologize it took me this long to arrive. The travel from Riften to this far north isn't as smooth as it should be." Wylandriah appears a few seconds after.

"I bring news from Court Wizard Stentor from Solitude. She will be arriving tonight. Her obligations to keep the city safe are keeping her." an Imperial Soldier dressed in the same armor as the escorts in High Hrothgar approaches while leading a horse.

"Aye, a damn shame. What time will she be arrivin' then?" Sergeant Linehan asks.

"She said an hour or two after sundown." the Imperial elite replies.

"Bloody fantastic, what's sundown around here? 7pm?" Sergeant Linehan pulls out his watch from underneath his sleeve.

"Most likely around 5pm or 6pm. Days are starting to get shorter." the soldier replies.

"Aye, tell her that by 8pm she'll a've five minutes to get 'ere or else she's gonna have to wait another five minutes." Sergeant Linehan relays his instructions.

"I'll pass it along." the soldier mounts his horse once again and leaves.

"Sarge, how will we know if there are others coming?" a subordinate asks.

"E'll be going up and down for the whole hour, speaking of which, bring us down, private." Sergeant Linehan orders as his subordinate pulls the lever, lowering them into the depths of Blackreach.

Once in the Tower of Mzark they are greeted by the rest of Globe 1 who escort them onto the next elevator which only takes a few moments to do. Once the group reaches Blackreach proper, they are told to cross the bridge. Lieutenant Clarke and a few other peacekeepers are present to receive them.

"Friends, please follow me." Lieutenant Clarke leads the group.

"So this is Blackreach… absolutely stunning! How was this never discovered before? Quickly! I must get to my nephew!" Calcelmo attempts to rush through the group.

Lieutenant Clarke stops Calcelmo before going any further. "Please stay with the group, friend. We do not want anyone getting lost. We have yet to clear the Falmer from the surrounding ruins connected to Blackreach."

"Bah! I've nothing to fear from Falmer. However, I understand. Please, let us move quickly!" Calcelmo asks.

In a few minutes they are met with the sight of the construct, and Calcelmo's nephew, Aicantar, who is readying notes for the arriving Court Wizards.

"Friends, at noon we will be serving lunch. Take the time you need to study how to operate this construct. If you need help do ask us." Lieutenant Clarke says as he watches the Court Wizards mill about.

"Where is my nephew, Aicantar?" Calcelmo asks as he frantically looks around.

"I'm here Uncle, it's been a while!" Aicantar walks up to his uncle.

"It has, it has. You did a splendid job sending me your reports! Now leave this to me." Calcelmo steps forward to the schematics on the table.

"Let me help you, Uncle." Aicantar moves to assist.

"Of course, come let us begin." Calcelmo and the others sit down on the table.

For the better part of the day, no one else comes, to the dismay of the peacekeepers. However they already have equally bright minds already present, so it was fine. At some point Calcelmo puts the Black Soul Gem containing a grand soul in the final receptacle, however nothing happens asides from what seems to be a powering up of the construct.

"This is a good thing, right?" a peacekeeper asks.

"How impatient! Just give it some time to warm up before it works its magic!" Calcelmo replies as the peacekeeper waves it off.

As the construct continues to power up, a few peacekeepers come back with their supposed last guest for the day. She seems to be in a rather annoyed state as she walks towards the construct, ranting about something, or maybe complaining about having to be here.

"It's worse than I imagined being down here." The voice complains from afar.

"Ah, Court Wizard Stentor has arrived, peachy as ever." Corporal Hoon comments.

"Some things we cannot change, friend." Lieutenant Clarke walks down to receive her.

"Ah, it's a pleasure to see you again! That pensil of yours was a truly ingenious invention. I hope I can get more things to study from you, hmm?" Court Wizard Stentor attempts to put up a friendly facade.

"Perhaps when I get help from my home I can get you a box of 32 pencils for you to study. Good to have you here, Court Wizard." Lieutenant Clarke returns her attempt at pleasantries.

"Always a pleasure to get something in return for my services. I'll see to the construct now." Court Wizard Stentor walks off to the construct.

"You know, Lieutenant. Some guys would give girls a box of chocolates, but you give them a box of 32 pencils. Is this a Jamaican innuendo or something?" Corporal Hoon jokes.

"I will write you off as the only deserter, Hoon." Lieutenant Clarke replies back.

Dinner was served an hour after the last Court Wizard's arrival. It was akin to a feast for the peacekeepers with a jolly mood in mind. However the atmosphere was quiet and heavy. No one knew what would happen when they returned. Definitely everyone has come to terms about being temporarily arrested. However would they really be able to bring back the help they promised?

Stroeus will have defeated Alduin in battle, however would the rest of the world send help if the crisis has been solved? What of the rest of the dragons? Would that be enough to give initiative to the rest of the world to send help?

"It will have to be." Lieutenant Clarke mutters under his breath.

"What was that, sir?" Private Madsen slices a large piece of beef.

"Nothing, friend. Enjoy your meal." Lieutenant Clarke says as he stands up. "Remember to pack up."

"Already packed, sir." Private Madsen replies back.

After another hour the Court Wizards exchange ideas and bicker slightly on how to activate the rest of the construct. They were all huddled over the main console, each pointing where and what they should be pressing.

"Are you sure we should have just put the soul gems in and press a series of buttons? That doesn't seem right to me." Wylandriah questions the group's previous actions.

"Of course! What other method could there be?" Stentor says with her signature annoyance.

"There is always more than one method Stentor! Especially when it comes to the Dwemer." Calcelmo enlightens her.

"I'm of a mind with Calcelmo. For one we don't even know what series buttons to press. Let alone if we press the buttons wrong, it could send our friends to another world." Farengar examines one of the gauges closer.

"Fine, do whatever you want with it." Stentor surrenders to the rest of the group's opinion.

"Come Wylandriah, Farengar, we have much to figure out." Calcelmo drags the rest of them off to discuss further.

Lieutenant Clarke sees the group move and goes toward them to see what is happening. Walking down he can see that the construct was now in a state of being fully powered up with a blue hue emitting from it, much like the color of the fire pits in the College of Winterhold.

"Is there a problem here, friends?" Lieutenant Clarke asks.

"No, not just some discussions on how to work this. Are you sure you and your men haven't touched this? Toyed around with it?" Calcelmo snatches the schematics from Farengar.

"No one wanted to touch it in hopes that it would reopen back to our world. So no." Lieutenant Clarke explains.

"Good. No one fiddled around with it so whatever's on the schematics should be followed." Calcelmo reads about.

After a few minutes, Calcelmo and the others are at the console. It was large enough to fit a majority of the Court Wizards as they went about checking dials and gauges. At some point Calcelmo prepares to push a large lever up. But after a few moments of contemplation, he decides to inform everyone first.

"First of all, all of you stand back. We don't know what might happen in the warming up of this construct, or thereafter. Second, while I trust in the Dwemer to make their machines and constructs work, I am unsure of whether or not this will return you to your original world, somewhere here in this world, or another world altogether. With that being said, would you still like to go through?" Calcelmo asks.

"Let us go home, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says pleadingly.

"I hope this brings you home." Calcelmo pulls the final lever of the console.

The construct began to spin, increasing in speed as it began to illuminate the area in a dim light as it kicked up dust everywhere. The spinning had also begun to create winds, threatening to knock over the people surrounding it, the Court Wizards clung onto the consoles, rocks, and anything heavy enough. Lieutenant Clarke almost fell down as well, but he needed to know what would happen, how it happened.

Soon enough the construct had stopped spinning, coming to a smooth halt. What had appeared was what could be described as a tear in reality. Beyond it was the sandy terrain of the Cox Bazaar, the warm wind blew into their direction. Lieutenant Clarke smiled as he stepped into the portal.

Lieutenant Clarke took a deep breath as the sudden change from cold to warm took place around him. Looking back he tells the rest of those on the other side. "Third Platoon. Let us go home."

3rd Platoon immediately mounted up onto the vehicles and packed up the rest of their belongings. In a few moments the rest of the injured had been moved as well into the trucks.

"Hey, Corporal. Are we actually going home?" Private Watts walks while assisted by Corporal Bæk.

"Yes, yes we are." Corporal Bæk helps Private Watts board the truck, he goes back to help another injured peacekeeper up.

Soon enough the convoy rolls forward, saying their goodbyes as they roll through the tear in reality. They knew that these Court Wizards would have the guards they came with come for them soon. However they only moved outside the direct vicinity so as to not leave the Court Wizards unprotected.

Lieutenant Clarke sits in the cabin of the Ural and flicks the on board radio to life and the chatter of voices and commands being issued for patrols comes back. They were truly home now.

Cox Bazar, Command Post Sbādhīnatā, Bangladesh

14th Peacekeeper Company, 1st Platoon

[Duty: Quick Reaction Force] 2200 Hours

Lieutenant Henrik Duquesne, a man with a long face and a well rounded chin, a clean shaven face, wrinkles creasing on his forehead, and an athletic body, was sipping his cup of coffee while reading the news on his phone. Waiting around as a Quick Reaction Force had required him and the rest of 1st Platoon to be awake until 0600 hours in the event they had needed to attend to lost refugees, or violent Burmese nationals.

"Lieutenant Duquesne, wheels up in five. You got a new assignment." Captain Kitchi Baker, a dark skinned, tall Navajo man, with well defined features, says as he enters the quarters of 1st Platoon.

"What's the mission?" Lieutenant Duquesne asks as he disposes of the paper cup in a nearby trash can.

"3rd Platoon's signal just came back where they left. Either their desertion plan didn't go as planned, or something weird happened." Captain Baker announces, getting the rest of 1st squad's attention.

"You want us to bring them in?" Lieutenant Duquesne asks.

"Just don't kill them." Captain Baker walks away from the quarters.

"You heard him, suit up!" Lieutenant Duquesne puts his top back on and fastens his plate carrier on.

Lieutenant Duquesne soon runs about the rest of the quarters of the platoon, knocking and yelling that they had to get up and get ready. Soon enough he went to the armory as well. Rifles were being pulled from racks and magazines stuffed into pouches in their plate carriers. Lieutenant Duquesne pulled out his own FN SCAR-L. It certainly was better than most of the rifles in the armory, but that was the benefit of having a gun company as large as FN Herstal.

"First squad, we are mounting up on the Mi-24! The rest of you mount up on trucks or transport Humvees, if not just take what you can!" Lieutenant Duquesne yells as loud as he can as the rotors of the Hind attempt to overpower his voice.

Sliding the door open the rest of Squad 1 piled into the small passenger compartment. Lieutenant Duquesne presses on the right side of his headphones to communicate with the pilot. "Follow the signal of 3rd Platoon, that's frequency 0735. Get to it, Slav."

Upon hearing the instructions and the banter, the Serbian pilot retorts something back in his own language before taking off. For a few minutes of the flight it goes on though with silence, until the pilot breaks it.

"Lieutenant, we are intercepting a message from the frequency you gave me, I'm switching you to that frequency now." the pilot turns a knob in the cockpit.

"This is Globe 1 Lead to Central. We understand the current situation we are in and are standing down and staying put, we have many things to explain."

"Clarke, this is Duquesne. Stay put, I don't want to shoot you." Lieutenant Duquesne replies.

"Duquesne? We will pop a flare when we hear you."

After a few moments of flying in the dark, a red flare shoots up, causing the pilot and gunner to curse in Serbian as they temporarily flip the night vision goggles up. Eventually crossing a defilade the two up front see both 3rd Platoon and the construct.

"Lieutenant, we have arrived. There is a situation however." The pilot's voice was full of concern.

"What? Do they have a ZPU up?" Lieutenant Duquesne asks, however the reply came when the pilot shifted the craft to the right where Lieutenant Duquesne and the rest of the others facing the right side could see.

"Bring us down right in front of their formation. Guns ready." Lieutenant Duquesne requests as the craft starts descending.

As the craft got lower to the ground it began to kick up dust and dirt in a circular manner. Eventually the Mi-24 hit the ground and the doors on both sides slid open as the members of Lieutenant Duquesne's 1st squad piled out.

"Is that gun unloaded, Clarke?" Lieutenant Duquesne points.

"Of course not, friend." Lieutenant Clarke replies back.

"So… you drop off the radar for almost a month and you come back with this? Is this a prop?" Lieutenant Duquesne asks.

"We disappeared and woke up in their world. It is a long story. Does Central know about us being back, friend?"

"Captain Baker does, The Chasovoy probably doesn't know yet."

"Do you think they'd forgive us, friend?"

"Captain Baker would probably want you imprisoned, The Chasovoy would maybe want to see you all hang."

"Ah, of course. Would you like to see what is on the other side?"

Lieutenant Duquesne and the others walk around the construct. Examining and prodding it. Confirming that it was indeed made of metal and not cardboard, Lieutenant Duquesne walks to the other sides, focusing on the portal. On the front sides he could see the tear in reality, however at the rear sides he could not.

"Are you playing a trick on us?" Lieutenant Duquesne asks.

"Nope, I can prove it to you, friend." Lieutenant Clarke says.

"How?"

"Would you like to walk in or do you want to talk to one of the locals, friend?"

"Private Skanderbeg, go walk in with Lieutenant Clarke when he gets this… local." Lieutenant Duquesne stiffens a bit as Lieutenant Clarke and Private Skanderberg walk towards the portal, their silhouettes becoming less and less clear.

Eventually both soldiers come back out with a bewildered Private Skanderbeg and an individual in a robe, putting Lieutenant Duquesne on immediate edge as he reaches for his rifle. "Put your hands in the air, now!"

"No, no. He is harmless, friend." Lieutenant Clarke defends.

"Ah! Please, don't shoot!" Calcelmo puts his hands up in defense.

"Keep your hands up, sir. Private Skanderbeg, search him." Lieutenant Duquesne orders.

The search goes fine as he finds one dagger, a few bottles of unknown origins and content, books, and a lot of parchment, and a stick of charcoal. After confiscating the bottles and the dagger, Lieutenant Duquesne tells Calcelmo to put his hands back down.

"Private, is this a ruse?" Lieutenant Duquesne asks.

"It is fucking real, sir. This is not a ruse." Private Skanderbeg confirms.

"And how did you test it?" Lieutenant Duquesne lifts an eyebrow.

"I threw rocks and whatnot everywhere, it was a real place and not a room. There were even a few more people there as well." Private Skanderbeg explains.

Trying to digest the information, Lieutenant Duquesne shoots a glare at Calcelmo and walks closer to him. "Can you explain all this?"

"I can, yes! So as you can see, this here is Dwemer Construct that teleports anything that passes through from Skyrim to here, and from here to Skyrim. It runs on a unique form of magic called souls gems, where souls of mammoths were used to power the entire Construct. I'd say this portal will remain open for around a month." Calcelmo explains as he brings out papers and books.

Lieutenant Duquesne could not for the life of him understand any of this. Stepping back towards the Mi-24, he grabs his radio and contacts base. "Central, this is Unity 1."

"This is Central."

"Get me Captain Kitchi Baker."

A short pause.

"Go for Baker."

"Sir, you NEED to get down here, I can't make heads or tails over Clarke's case."

"I sent YOU to figure this out and then you just send it back to me? You are about as useless as a whale on land Duquesne. Contact me when you have more evidence. Out."

"Wait, sir. I'm linking the feed of Protector 4-2." Lieutenant Duquesne tells the gunner of the Mi-24 to link a live feed back to base as he turns the turret with its camera towards the structure.

Lieutenant Duquesne allows a few moments of silence, however at some point he comes back to contact back the base and Captain Baker. "Captain, you still there?"

"Is this a joke, Duquesne?"

"It's not, no."

"Send Protector 4-2 back, all other air assets are busy at the moment. This better be no joke."

In a few moments the Mi-24 dusts off as it starts its engines. The sound drowns out most other noises in the background and finally leaves to retrieve the unit captain. At some point in time a convoy of UN appropriated UAZs and transport Humvees came about on the hills.

"A dragon?! What is that thing? Things just crested the hill! We're in danger, quick we must leave!" Calcelmo pulls Lieutenant Clarke and another peacekeeper towards the construct.

"Calm down, friend. That is the help I was referring to, there are other machines that can fly faster." Lieutenant Clarke calms Calcelmo down as he explains to him everything he witnessed by far.

"There are more lethal things than those?! I… I need to study them… I need to record and reinvent all of them… The dragons, the Civil War, peace may be close at hand." Calcelmo gazes in awe.

"Sadly, I think you know what has to happen now, Clarke. I'm sorry, we are just following orders." Lieutenant Duquesne pulls out zipties as the convoy of vehicles come to a halt nearby.

Lieutenant Clarke knew it had wounded Lieutenant Duquesne to do this, but he had no choice. Putting his M4 on the ground he presents his wands and is bound, along with the rest of the other members of 3rd Platoon as they are led towards the transport Humvees.

"If I may be so bold as to ask, why are you binding his hands? What offense has this man done?" Calcelmo asks in a slightly angered manner.

"He has been charged with desertion. Even though it is not true. I don't want to do it, but it is my orders." Lieutenant Duquesne answers back.

"Charged with desertion? Even though he and his group were teleported without their knowledge or consent? Even though he and his group played their roles as peacekeepers even in foreign land? Even though he and his group helped in bringing a temporary peace to Skyrim, a land torn by the Civil War? This man and his group do not, in any way, shape, or form deserve to be branded as deserters." Calcelmo steps closer.

Lieutenant Duquesne pushes Calcelmo back lightly. "I understand that, but I have orders. Do you think I want to send my friend to a chain gang? No. Now sit down and wait for Captain Baker to arrive."

Calcelmo walks back to a nearby stone and sits on it, evidently not happy to hear such an excuse, but neither was Lieutenant Duquesne. Sitting down in one of the UAZs, Lieutenant Duquesne takes off his helmet and stares at the construct. To think that Lieutenant Clarke's tour of duty would have been over by the end of this week, and was all ruined because of this construct.

After a few minutes, the Mi-24 came back, this time with Captain Baker and a few other peacekeepers. Stepping out, Captain Baker first walks up to the structure and touches it, seeing that it was real as he pushed it even harder.

"Lieutenant Duquesne, unbind Lieutenant Clarke for now and tell him to get over here." Captain Baker yells from across.

After a few minutes the men gather on a few rocks and discuss. Calcelmo and Lieutenant Clarke go over the finer details of what happened, along with going through the footage of the Strf 9040A and whatever body cameras they had in their possession.

"So it was at that point I asked them for help getting home." Lieutenant Clarke clarifies.

"So you told them you'd come back for help just to get you home?" Captain Baker repeats, anger stitched on his face.

"Yes, sir." Lieutenant Clarke swallows hard.

Captain Baker motions for Lieutenant Clarke to walk with him as they discussed finer details. "That was smart, Clarke. But still a dumb move."

"Sir?"

"What guarantee do you have that we would help them? Do you understand how complicated that is, Clarke?"

"How else would we get home, sir? We do not know how to work that thing."

"You had the soul stone things, the schematics, the capacity to kill mammoths, but you decide to include an entire province just to get yourselves home? Why not just work for it?"

"Well I was thinking, sir, that given this is a first contact scenario, maybe the world would be very interested? It is a secluded part of humanity in an essence, sir. People would rush to help them."

"For your sake, Clarke, you better be right. We'll take this to The Chasovoy in the morning. And take a shower. You look like shit."

"No soap there sir, probably a good business to be honest."

"Put Clarke and the rest of his unit in the western part of the base, it's less populated there. If anyone asks, you were sent out to retrieve and escort refugees." Captain Baker says. "And unbind them too. Your new unit for now is 1st Platoon from 8th Company, just so no one asks too many questions." Captain Baker hands Lieutenant Clarke a document, evidently written in haste as the handwriting was not as refined.

The sound of knives cutting through the zip ties was a dominant sound for a while, right before the Mi-24 took off again. Soon enough the rest of 3rd Platoon remounted their vehicles. Calcelmo had his things returned to him and was sent back, with instructions from Captain Baker to keep it open until Lieutenant Duquesne or someone else comes back to secure the portal and construct.

"See you soon, Lieutenant. Hopefully with that good head of yours still on your shoulders." Calcelmo tells him.

"They would probably send me to jail forever, but do not worry. This construct itself is enough proof of my innocence and the need for the help you all need, friend." Lieutenant Clarke climbs into the cabin of the Ural as they take off right behind Lieutenant Duquesne's convoy.

Intentionally and accidentally, Lieutenant Clarke's unit had fallen behind due to the MAN SV's broken radiator, causing them to stop every few kilometers. However eventually they are met with the lights of the camp.

Stopping at a toll gate operated by a Japanese peacekeeper, Private Yeo-Jin rolls down the window, as Lieutenant Clarke does the same. "Unit?"

"1st Platoon, 8th Company, friend."

"Papers?" the Japanese peacekeepers extend a hand as Lieutenant Clarke hands over the papers.

"Lieutenant Pietro?" the Japanese peacekeeper's look is confused. "You are Italian?"

"My father is." Lieutenant Clarke tries to salvage the situation.

"Okay then, Lieutenant. 8th Company is a pure Italian unit. Why do you have a Swedish IFV in your convoy?" the Japanese peacekeeper was as sharp as ever.

"Recently changed for… adapting to new circumstances." Lieutenant Clarke guesses.

"Let me see your ID." the Japanese peacekeeper demands, however laughs at the end. "I am just joking. 1st Platoon 8th Company, going in!"

The gate opens and the rest of them barrel through. Lieutenant Duquesne leads them from a UAZ towards the wstern area Captain Baker was talking about. Eventually they reach it and dismount, most of them just falling onto unoccupied cots and going to sleep.

"You better get rested up to, Clarke. And that shower all of you need, you will be meeting the big dogs tomorrow, and you've dragged me into it." Lieutenant Duquesne says.

"But you have my back, right, friend?" Lieutenant Clarke jokes.

"Yeah, yeah." Lieutenant Duquesne walks back towards the UAZ and drives off.

Lieutenant Clarke goes inside the barracks as well and goes to sleep as well. Tomorrow would be the day where the 3rd Platoon would be known as innocent, or guilty by the only person in their deployment zone who could say so.