Author's note: Disclaimer: FoZ/ZnT belong to the departed Noboru Yamaguchi and whoever inherited the I.P.. Any real life organisation/person is merely being used in a fictional non-profit way.
Special thanks to Trainalf and F-14 Tomcat Lover for their help with this chapter.
This fic is indeed inspired by GATE: Thus the JSDF Fought There! The idea of a portal is gonna be there… but GATE's plot won't be used at all...This gate is very, very different.
First Steps on Earth
A limousine accompanied by several SUV's had arrived on the tarmac of an airport. Despite the heavy snows, it was very well cleared, with planes everywhere preparing to take off.
"Welcome to the Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport!" Ambroise declared while the limousine was making its way to one of the planes, "As per arranged in our schedule, this is where we'll take the transport to Ottawa. We should arrive around 8 o'clock."
Henrietta looked around and saw the planes taking off.
"M. Ambroise, are those your airships?" she asked in amazement, having never seen such constructs.
The diplomat shook his head.
"We refer to them as airplanes or aircraft, Your Highness. Airships are no longer in use," he explained, "Does your world have airships?"
"Yes, we power them through windstones," she replied, "What type of Wind Magic do you use?"
The diplomat shook his head.
"Ah, I'm not sure if Count Mott warned you but our world doesn't possess magic," he answered kindly, "Our aircraft instead use kerosene, a type of refined oil to power them. Many of our world's transportation uses refined oil to power them."
M. Ambroise's words surprised the Tristainians. This wonderous world didn't have magic if the man wasn't lying. Henrietta bowed her head.
"I must apologize for sending Count Mott," she said, "He is the Royal Messenger that has been chosen by my regency council. He isn't my personal choice."
"I understand your Highness. I am quite happy that you are wise enough to inform me of a such fact," Ambroise answered pleasantly, "Such honesty is very valued during diplomacy."
Behind him, one of the guards subtly leaned in closer to listen.
"Yes, I understand. Only through honesty can we hope to have fair dealings."
The Canadian nodded in agreement. The car came to a halt next to a aircraft and everyone was told to disembark by the drivers. As they got off, the Tristanians could see that it was mainly white with blue and red bands of colour painted on its underside. On its tail was a flag of two red bands and a single leaf in the middle. Written along its side was Gouvernement du Canada/Government of Canada. Numerous guards were waiting as well nearby while a staircase was installed alongside of it.
"What languages are they written in?" Henrietta asked as she pointed to the world, "They are familiar to me."
"That would be the two official languages of Canada, English and French. You can read both your Highness?"
"Yes, we call them Tristanian and Albionian however. This airplane belongs to the Government of Canada?"
"Exactly your highness," he replied as he led them to a stair alongside the plane, "Right this way."
As they entered the plane, the Tristanians were impressed by the luxurious interior as they were guided to their seats by the crew. Servants dressed with crimson vests, white shirts black ties and pants were helping them into their seats.
One of them bowed before Henrietta as she was installed in one of the more luxurious seats with Agnes seated to next to her.
"Welcome aboard CAN Force One, your Highness," he greeted, "I am Captain Mark Johnson, the head of the catering staff aboard this plane. I hope on behalf on the Canadian Forces that you will enjoy your flight."
"Thank you Captain," the princess replied as the plane began whining and started move, "This is a rather new experience for me. How long will it take for us to reach your capital of Ottawa?"
"We should arrive in about an hour your Highness."
Agnes was scanning with her eyes for any risk to the Princess's safety aboard the plane. She noticed that the crew didn't appear to have any weapons with them.
"What about the security measures? I do not see any weapons aboard this airplane."
"We will be escorted by warplanes from our Air Force. Us and our allies cooperate to keep the air space over this entire continent very secure. You have nothing to worry about." Johnson answered confidently.
"Splendid," Henrietta said, clasping her hands.
"Warplanes?" Agnes repeated.
"You will see. I must excuse myself your Highness. I must sit down since we are beginning take off procedures."
The man then left for the back of the plane as the sound of the engines grew louder. It unnerved the two nobles and several of the musketeers; no airship had such a racket when it flew. Saito, by comparison, was unphased. He was enjoying the view given to him by one of the windows.
"Is it normal for this airplane to make so much noise?" Agnes asked, sweat forming on her brow.
"Yes it is," M. Ambroise replied, "You have nothing to fear, airplanes are a very safe means of transportation. Hundred of thousands of these fly each day carrying people and goods all over our world. In addition, this specific plane is what my people use to transport our most important guests, including the Royal Family of Britain. I have been instructed to answer any questions related to my world's politics."
"There are thousands of these? And they function without magic?" That wasn't a political question, but he answered it anyway.
"Correct. Many of our citizens buy passage on these planes in order to travel to other nations for work or leisure. Some even own their own ones."
"Leisure?" Agnes asked, an eyebrow raised. How could such a powerful means of transportation be used for simple leisure?
"Yes, as you may have noticed, Canada's weather is quite cold. Many of our citizens travels to warmer countries to enjoy a reprieve from the harsh climate."
This shocked Agnes the most. Mundane commoners had such rights and wealth?
"What do you mean by 'Royal Family of Britain'?" Henrietta wondered. The man smiled.
"Canada is part of the Commonwealth, an organisation of nations that used to be part of the British Empire. All these nations were once territories of the United Kingdom that was the core of the Empire but were granted independence over time. Most have kept the Royal Family of Britain as symbolic leaders however."
"So who is the current monarch of the United Kingdom then M. Ambroise?" Henrietta figured it would still be important to meet another Royal in this world, even if their power was limited.
"That would be Her Royal Highness, Queen Elizabeth II. She is the symbolic ruler of Canada and has been in power for the last 66 years."
This baffled Henrietta and the rest of her retinue.
"How old is her Majesty?"
"I believe that she has celebrated her 92nd birthday a few months ago," he replied candidly. Henrietta had a thousand questions in her head.
"Has her rule ever been challenged?"
A woman that long on a throne was either very good at assassinating her rivals, very charismatic, a fearsome warrior or a very docile figurehead.
"Not at all. Queen Elizabeth inherited when her father, King George VI, died. She's outlasted many other leaders of our world in terms of age though her health is now constantly monitored by her doctors."
"Are we meeting her Highness?" Henrietta asked next. She truly wanted to meet a woman that reigned for so long.
The diplomat shook his head.
"Since the meeting was planned so quickly, it was impossible for her to arrive."
The Queen had not been invited since Trudeau and his cabinet were still wary and doubted the veracity of the Tristainian claims, mainly with magic. The appearance of a carriage drawn by unicorns and the princess's purple hair and Lady Vallière's pink hair were dispelling those doubts.
"Perhaps it would be possible for us to arrange a meeting between you and Queen Elizabeth in the future," Ambroise proposed.
"I would very much appreciate such a meeting," the princess replied before asking another question, "Was this airport named after someone related to Prime Minister Trudeau?"
"The airport was named after M. Trudeau's father who had served as one of our nation's longest and most remarkable prime ministers."
"Did M. Trudeau inherit the mantle from his father?"
"No, he was elected as prime minister a few years ago by the people of Canada. His father was prime minister in the same way."
"Do all countries in this world choose their leaders?"
"Many do but certain nations are ruled by dictators who use brute force to keep themselves in power. Canada and our allies have waged many wars against these nations in the past," he explained.
A message suddenly interrupted their conversation.
"Please make sure your seat belts are properly fastened as we are about to take off."
The Tristanians suddenly felt themselves lurching back as the plane gathered speed. Then they all leaned back in their seats as the plane started to rise.
"I must warn you that it is quite normal that you experience a pressure in your ears!" Ambroise shouted over the sound of the plane's engines.
"Why?"
"As this plane goes higher, the air pressure is different. It'll cause an uncomfortable sensation in your ears but it's not dangerous! Just wait it out!"
After a few moments, the plane leveled out.
"Y-your Highness!" Louise exclaimed as she glanced out a window, "Look outside!
A series of gasp was let out by the Tristainians. They saw the land beneath them… and the buildings of Montreal. The buildings appeared tiny.
"Even Albion isn't this high up!" Agnes said in shock.
"Is Albion a mountain nation?" Ambroise asked while his guard seemed to grow more interested.
"No, M. Ambroise," Henrietta replied, a hint of sadness in her voice, "It is a series of floating islands. We refer to it as the White Country."
"Floating islands?"
"Yes, a vast deposit of Windstones causes the islands to rise into the skies."
"Windstones?" Ambroise asked.
"They are a type of magically infused stones that allow our airships to fly. The deposits in Albion is so dense the earth itself rises."
"Fascinating," the man replied, "And these can these Windstones be used by anyone?" The Princess nodded. "I am certain that our researchers would love to visit such a fantastic land and get their hands on these 'windstones'." Henrietta shook her head.
"Unfortunately, that would not be possible in the foreseeable future," she explained sadly, "Albion has fallen to Reconquista."
"Reconquista?" Ambroise asked with a raised eyebrow. The name had been used in the past on Earth for the Catholic reconquest of Spain.
"Yes, the White Country has been embroiled in civil war between the Royalists, loyal to the house of Tudor and Reconquista, led by Oliver Cromwell, a renegade priest. Reconquista overthrew the house of Tudor and conquered all of Albion before proclaiming the Holy Republic of Albion."
No one noticed the guard taking notes behind them.
"What was the purpose of their revolution?"
"The Reconquista intends to conquer the continent, overthrow Pope Vittorio and replace him with Oliver Cromwell before starting a religious crusade to reclaim the Holy Lands from the Elves."
"I see." Ambroise said without missing a beat, "Have any members of the House of Tudor survived?"
"Unfortunately not," Louise answered, "King James was slain during the fall of Newcastle while Prince Wales the Valiant was murdered by a traitor's blade before my eyes."
She spat the last words with disgust in her voice.
"I see. Has this assassin been brought to justice?" The Canadian was surprisingly calm despite the grim subject of regicide. It was a little off putting.
"No, he has escaped," she said venomously, "Her Highness has placed a bounty on his head."
"Is this assassin's identity confirmed?"
Louise scowled a bit before answering.
"Yes… he was my fiancé! His treachery and foulness have led to the breaking of our engagement!"
"I can understand. Treason is one of the worst crimes one can commit in our laws as well."
Henrietta, Agnes and Louise nodded in approval. Some values were universal no matter the world.
"What of the other kingdoms? The scout you've sent us mentioned a kingdom named Germania."
Henrietta blanched. Just how much did they know about their world? She trusted her scout hadn't shared too many of their secrets… surely?
"I was informed that there was a political marriage between you and their crown prince but it was cancelled." He explained when she inquired.
The princess bowed her head in shame.
"Yes," she replied weakly, "What did the scout tell you?"
"Something about a scandal but nothing more. In any case, personal scandals won't affect our talks."
This gave hope to Henrietta.
"But about Germania?" he pressed on.
"It's a country to our east. They are known to be militarily powerful, perhaps the strongest on the continent. Only Gallia can come close to them," she explained, "They are currently ruled by Emperor Heinrich II but he is on his deathbed. Albert III is to be the next Emperor."
"What are they like?"
"Germania is a rather… rustic land. The people are quite passionate, brutish and down to earth."
Henrietta wasn't particularly impressed with Albert III's arrogant demeanour, boorish manners and complete lack of tact.
"What of Gallia?"
"Gallia is in direct competition with Germania in terms of power. It is also the most populated kingdom of Halkegenia, with 15 million people living on its territory. However, King Joseph de Martel of Gallia is known as the 'Mad King'. He is absolutely insane and it is what currently keeps his kingdom in check. It's well known throughout our continent that he murdered his brother, Charles d'Orléans, to get to the throne," she explained, "I have only met him once in my court. There is something unhinged with that man."
This disturbed Ambroise, who placed his hand on his chin.
"Is regicide common in Halkeginia?" he finally asked gravely. That would make diplomacy with this new world complex to say the least…
"Mainly in Gallia. Their monarchy has been unstable for a long time with siblings murdering each other for the throne. It is reflected in their coat of arms which has two staves but one crown. There's also rumours in many courts that any twins born to the royal lineage has one killed to avoid succession crises "
"Has your country had incidents like that?" He asked. Diplomacy with shaky governments were difficult, costly and dangerous. Just the fact Tristain could be conquered at any time might sway his government from long term or intensive agreements, Ambroise knew.
"It is perhaps by the grace of Founder Brimir that Tristain has never endured such torments," she answered, "My late father, King Henry, died of sudden illness while my grandfather, Philippe III passed away in his sleep. My mother, Archduchess Marianne sits on my Regency council. It is the first time in many generations that my kingdom has such a council."
"And your country is in between all three of these countries?"
"Yes." Henrietta confirmed. "Albion is a distance off our coast, but both sides consider it a border."
"I see." Ambroise nodded, "Who is this Founder Brimir?"
"Brimir is the founder of our Church as well as the ancestor of every Royal Family. His three sons founded our kingdoms after his death, 6000 years ago while his apprentice, Saint-Forscythe founded the Holy City of Romalia and established the Papacy. He gave us magic as a tool to guide our people into the future."
"Interesting. Do you know how he perished?"
"Betrayal," Louise said quietly, "The most complete legends say that he was betrayed by his elven familiar. She stabbed him while he was travelling with her in the Holy Lands. Ever since then, humans and elves are hostile to each other and the Holy Lands are barred to Brimir's faithful devotees."
"I see." For Ambroise, it seemed that this world was stuck in time. 6000 years and they still hadn't caught up to Earth's technology. It also appeared that their faith in their religion was extremely strong.
A voice over the intercom interrupted them again.
"This is the Captain speaking. We have met up with our escorts. For anyone interested, you can look outside to your left and right."
Looking out the viewports, they saw grey metal birds flying proudly on their side each with a man dressed in strange green armours sitting inside.
"That would be our Air Force," Ambroise commented, "They'll be guarding us until we reach Ottawa."
"Amazing," Henrietta gasped, "Are they knights?"
"Our pilots are very well trained but don't have any title of nobility," he replied proudly, "However, many do like to think they embody knightly virtues."
"Excuse me M. Ambroise," Louise asked in wonder as she looked around the plane, "But how can this world have no magic?"
Ambroise raised an eyebrow at her question.
"I'm afraid I'm not quite sure what you mean by that Lady Vaillière," he answered, "Do you mean how is our world the way it is without magic?"
"How can you have such great buildings and constructs without magic?" she replied, "I read alot of magical theory during my studies and nothing I read could allow anyone in Halkeginia to produce such things using magic."
The Canadian paused, trying to figure out what to say that wouldn't offend the Tristainians. He had been warned that the nobility was supposedly defined by their magical inheritance. Like humanity on Earth, the commoners didn't possess magic.
"Do not take offense to this," he finally said, "But our lack of magic forced us to rely on different means to advance our society. This is what allowed us to have the means to build the buildings you see. I'm afraid that I can't really explain how everything works in our world however."
Louise then looked inquisitevely at Saito.
"Say Saito? Do you understand much about your world?"
Saito scratched the back of his head as he wanted to explain how much he knew but was interrupted by M. Ambroise.
"Where are you from exactly young man?" This was a chance to probe this kid's obvious foreignness compared to the girls.
Saito felt his blood freeze as he noticed one of Ambroise's guard stare at him. Even if he couldn't see the man's eyes as the guard wore dark sunglasses, Saito realized that he and Louise had just done something bad.
"Saito?" Louise asked worriedly. She too had felt that something went wrong.
"I-I'm from Tokyo," he stammered out.
"Tokyo, M. Hiraga?"
Ambroise had an incredulous look on his face. Meanwhile, one of the other guards left for another room in the plane.
"How did you end up in Tristain then?" the diplomat interrogated, an air of skepticism on his face. Louise decided to explain
"I performed a ritual that caused him to be summoned. He's from this world."she explained, not liking how the man's tone changed to a very serious one, "Saito is bound to me as my familiar,"
"And how did this happen to you M. Hiraga?"
Saito sweated nervously.
"W-well I was walking in Tokyo and saw a green portal. I also heard a voice calling to me."
He rubbed the back of his head in nervosity while Louise didn't dare to look at Ambroise.
"Isteppedintoit," he mumbled out. Ambroise ran his hand through his hair before slumping in his chair. Things had just gotten more complex. If he was telling the truth, there was more than one way into this new world, and they weren't the first people from Earth to interact with it. And summoned? There was some unpleasant connotations behind that, to say the least.
"Did you tell them anything about our world?"
Saito gulped and nodded. He hoped that he wasn't wrong about what he said but Henrietta spoke up in a firm voice.
"It was through M. Saito's advice and knowledge that I stand before you M. Ambroise." the princess declared, "He told me about Canada and its allies."
"What did he tell you about our nation then?"
Ambroise was skeptical that some teenager from Japan would be able to properly describe Canada but he knew that he needed to break any misconception that the princess and her retinue would have before talks could happen. Louise and Henrietta looked at Saito was sweating nervously under the diplomat's gaze.
"M. Ambroise, he explained that Canada's people was known for its people's kindness and hardiness. That you have to endure dangerous predators like polar bears attacking you and survive with the help of moose."
Ambroise was baffled at the boy's explanations. That Tokyo teenager seemed to have seen too many jokes on the Internet and took them for cash.
"You're also allied to the United States of America, a nation of fierce barbarian warriors."
"Fierce barbarian warriors?"
Henrietta proceeded to tell the Canadian diplomat what Saito had told her about the US. Ambroise was speechless by the end of her explanation. He massaged his temples as he tried to figure out how to go about this without insulting anyone. He fought back the urge to laugh and suspected that his guards had to do the same.
"M. Hiraga is mistaken on many counts," he finally sighed, "Canada is indeed a harsh land though we've managed to cull the worst predators and made our territory relatively safe. We don't ride moose. It's a common joke used in comedy about our country. He is right however about my people's generosity and our fair dealings."
Saito wanted to crawl into a hole and hide his embarrassment.
"As for the United States of America, it is true that they are extremely wealthy and are the world's premier military power," Ambroise explained calmly, "The Americans aren't bloodthirsty berserkers even if many greatly appreciate their weapons. They also aren't all warlike and the American people are known to have many different point of views on entertainment and policy."
"The US Government does have its share of warhawks and the US Marine Corps is a force you don't want to meet in a dark alley if you mean my country harm," a new voice interjected from another seat, "But overall, it depends really on what part of America you are in. As we are almost an alliance of nations within a nation," a dark blonde haired man turned in his seat, "George Devers, US Central Intelligence Agency, a pleasure and honor to make your acquaintance Your Highness," the man nods his head with an arm partially extended.
"Oh! Greetings M. Devers," Henrietta is surprised to see the man; she didn't expect to be meeting someone from their country so soon. She noticed that he wore clothing identical to the rest of M. Ambroise's guards. His eyes were hidden by dark glasses but his presence was unnerving to say the least.
"Speaking of the devil, here's an American, M. Hiraga," Ambroise joked sarcastically, "As you may have noticed, he is not frothing at the mouth for blood."
"Oh, you should see my brother and sister though, one's a Marine and the other is a Marine Raider who specializes in finding villains and making their lives excitingly short," Devers responds easily enough. The Canadian diplomat rolled his eyes at the American's dark humour and glared at him to remain serious.
The group blinks, except for Saito who knew what the American means by his words.
"You shouldn't scare our guests too much eh?"
"What did he mean Saito?" Louise asked nervously. Something about that man speaking that casually about shortening the lives of villains made her uneasy.
"Well, um, the Americans are very persistent when it comes to getting payback," he explained quickly, "This was this man named Osama Bin Laden that ordered attacks that killed thousands of people in the United States on one day a few months before I was born."
"Thousands?!" Henrietta exclaimed, horrified at such a prospect.
"One of the worst tragedies of our two nations in fact," Ambroise stated, "Over 3000 innocent people died in one day."
"But what happened to Osama Bin Laden?" Louise asked hurriedly, "Was retribution exacted on him?"
"We got him." Devers stated simply, "It took us 10 years, hundreds more lives, a few of my fellow CIA their lives, and a whole lot of luck and determination to find that dirty coward, but justice was served. We killed him and disposed of his corpse in the sea so no shrine could ever be built to such a madman."
That sounded barbaric and cruel, but Henrietta couldn't help but wish a little that she had power like that to find Wardes and Cromwell.
"Yeah... you don't mess with the Americans," Saito mumbled nervously, hoping that Henrietta had remembered what he told her about World War 2.
"Listen to the Japanese boy," Devers suddenly said, "Japan tried to wage a war against us as brutally as it could, almost. We soundly won that war but our countries are now firm allies and important trade partners."
"I believe you Americans have a saying about that," Ambroise added, "No greater friend, no greater foe."
"Exactly."
"M. Saito explained to me and my Regency council the alliance between his country of Japan and the United States.
"Did he tell them the same thing he told you about our countries?" Ambroise asked sternly.
"Yes, M. Ambroise."
"And how did they take it?" Devers wondered, though he had a feeling he might know how they might have perceived it.
"Well, they were terrified of the United States and its might." Henrietta answered mischievously, "I believe that Justice Minister Richemont was on the verge of vomiting his breakfast and Cardinal Mazarin was on the verge of fainting I believe."
A chime suddenly interrupted their conversation. It was the captain announcing their arrival in Ottawa and to prepare for landing.
"I see," Devers grinned before turning to Saito, a more serious look on his face, "As for you, young man, I'm afraid you and Lady Vallière will have to accompany me rather than her Highness."
His tone meant business.
"I believe that your colleagues and CSIS have already arranged everything for them." He addressed one of the other guards.
Saito and Louise couldn't help but sweat nervously.
The cold wind bit at Henrietta's face as she disembarked from CAN Force One. In front of her, the scene was similar to the first airport she had seen. However, there was one major difference. A red carpet had been rolled out on the ground while red-uniformed guards stood at attention on both sides. The guards were dressed in bright red coats, black breeches that flared at the hips, cavalry boots and brown round hats. Agnes and the Musketeers followed her while Ambroise was following behind, accompanied by his guards.
As she descended, Henrietta saw two men at the end of the carpet, dressed in long black coats. Both stood proudly.
"Welcome to Ottawa," one of them greeted as she walked on the carpet, "I am Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada."
"I am President Donald Trump of the United States of America."
The American president had a more nasally voice compared to the Canadian Prime Minister, she noted. However, the way he talked gave her a feeling that he was a man that brook no dissent.
Henrietta took a closer at these two men. Prime Minister Trudeau was far younger than President Trump. The American had an aura of opulence around him, befitting what she had heard about his wealth. He was well tanned, like the Germanians and had greying hair. He was broad shouldered compared to Trudeau. Henrietta was however surprised that Trump didn't appear to flaunt his wealth, his coat being quite simple. From Saito's description, she had expected him to covered in jewels and opulent clothing, not dressed in a simple black coat. She could sense that he was a proud man that knew his power.
Trudeau, on the other hand, appeared to rather friendly. His youthful, pale face was framed by wavy dark brown hair while his blue eyes gave him an aura of kindness. She could understand why his countrymen respected him.
"I am pleased to meet you milords," she curtsied respectfully.
"I am not a lord your Highness," Trump answered bluntly, "Neither is M. Trudeau here."
Trudeau nodded in agreement before bowing his head respectfully. Trump, on the hand, held his head high.
"Yes, I do not hold any titles besides the one of Prime Minister of Canada, your Highness. I am quite happy that you appreciate our gift to you."
The princess smiled and bowed her head.
"The artisan Kanuk's skill is impressive," she praised, "Such a fine coat would be unfindable in Halkeginia."
"It wasn't made by an artisan your Highness," Trump explained, "Kanuk is a company rather than one person."
This remark caught Henrietta off-guard. She hadn't expected such straightforwardness. Even Albrecht III had slightly more tact.
"Now Donald, Tristain probably doesn't have companies mass producing high quality clothes like us," Trudeau explained politely, "Her Highness probably made an honest mistake."
"Thank you M. Trudeau for the explanation. But if such clothing can be made so easily, why is there different levels of quality."
"Very simple your highness. Some people can buy expensive clothes that are better made, others can't. That's why we have cheap clothes and expensive high quality clothes."
"I see." she said, nodding. It made sense.
"Our transport should be here soon," Trudeau said as he led the group away from the plane. Suddenly, bright flashes and loud sounds caught Henrietta's attention. A large crowd of people had amassed behind some barriers that were held back by guards.
"Is this what Count Mott described as your commoners taking magic paintings of important people?" she asked.
"There not exactly magic paintings," Trudeau quickly, making sure that Trump couldn't get a word in, "They are our reporters and are sending a live image of what is happening today."
He then waved at the crowd of reporters and flashed a smile. Trump merely ignored them and kept walking.
"They are also immortalizing this moment so feel free to smile and wave," Trudeau suggested as he walked. Henrietta was rather reticent. To do such a thing in such a strange land was unnerving. She took a deep breath and turned towards the crowd.
Social media was having a field day with they saw. From the appearance of a unicorn drawn carriage to seeing a fantasy princess walking on a red carpet next to Justin Trudeau and Donald Trump and waving at a crowd, today was going to be a memorable day for Mankind.
Or Peoplekind as Trudeau would have said it.
Louise and Saito weren't enjoying their current situation. After they had landed, they were told to wait inside the plane while Henrietta and the Musketeers left with Ambroise. They had left the plane well afterwards with Devers and one of Ambroise's guards in the back of a black SUV. It had been a tense ride through the busy streets of Ottawa.
"Saito, you should have brought Derflinger," the mage complained just loud enough so he could hear. Saito shook his head.
"Not a good idea, there's no way we can fight our way of this," he whispered, hoping the other two wouldn't hear them and jump to conclusions.
"I'm sure my magic wou-"
"Indeed, trying to escape wouldn't be good for your health Lady Vallière," Devers interrupted, shutting up the pinkette, "What is this Derflinger?"
"My talking sword," he answered quickly.
"Talking sword?" Devers asked, disbelief evident. The intelligence services were amongst the most skeptical of any magical claims from the other world.
"Euh yes, Louise bought him as a present for me."
"I see. We've arrived at our destination."
Looking outside, Saito and Louise saw a massive white building with large windows. The parking was filled to the brim with cars but the SUV made its way to the back before stopping. Devers and the other man got out first. Saito's door was opened but as he and Louise exited, they saw a group of guards waiting for them. The man accompanying Devers began to order the guards to accompany them into the building.
Entering the building, the group saw a very plain hallway. Saito, however recognized the X-ray machine at the middle of it with guards standing near them. He also guessed that the unnamed man was some kind of secret agent.
"Make sure that they don't have any weapons on them," the unnamed man ordered.
"Yes sir!"
"Right this way please, Lady Vallière, M. Hiraga."
Saito walked first towards the device when he heard Louise's voice.
"What is that gate?" she asked nervously, pointing at the X-ray machine. Before he could answer, the secret agent spoke up.
"It is a device that will allow us to see if hid any weapons on you," he explained, "Please cross it."
"I-I see," she timidly answered as she walked through it. One of the man looked up from behind the device and nodded.
"Right this way," the secret agent ordered again, with Devers following him. The group continued though non-descript, almost empty hallways, Saito and Louise being increasingly nervous with each step. Finally, they reached a door that the secret agent opened. Inside was a simple white table with four chairs face to face. After Louise, Saito and Devers were seated, the last man locked the door.
"Greetings to you both," he said rather pleasantly, "Now you may be wondering why both of you are here."
"Yes sir," Saito said.
"We have a lot of questions for you two," Devers explained, "M. Hiraga, I had my colleagues pull up some information while we were waiting earlier today. You've been listed as missing since August 29th in Japan. The police investigation was inconclusive since the only evidence they found was a series of videos that show you walking forward and disappearing into thin air."
Saito nodded while Louise looked confused. This was how this world saw her spell?
"I saw a green portal and heard a voice out to me," he explained, "I think it was your voice Louise."
"What did that voice say?"
The Tokyo teacher tried to remember.
"I think it went like this," he cleared his throat, "My Servant that exists somewhere in this vast universe-
"My divine, wise, beautiful, and powerful Familiar, heed my call! I wish and assert from the very bottom of my heart. Answer my guidance and appear!" Louise finished, realization etched on her face. The two agents looked at the pair oddly. A Tokyo teenager was supposed to fit those criteria?
"What happened next?"
Saito explained that he woke up with a headache and with his ears ringing before telling the two men about how he ended up being bound to Louise with the pinkette filling in the gaps.
"So I then wake up in Louise's bedroom and she tries to order me around but I can't understand what she's telling me. At the same time, she's undressing herself in front of me-"
He looked a bit dreamy all of a suddenly.
"S-s-saito!" she yelled, flushing red and interrupting his little daydream, "T-t-that's not something you need to tell them!"
"Sorry! I forgot."
"Ahem."
"Uh yes, so she snaps and tries to do a magic spell but there's a big explosion and I'm on my back. But I finally understand what she's saying."
"Are these explosions normal when casting magic?" the agent asked, scribbling away. The last thing anyone needed was Princess Henrietta using a spell for any reason and blowing up both the POTUS and the Prime Minister of Canada in one fell swoop.
There was personnel ready to run that information up immediately, even if it caused an incident; safety over diplomacy.
Saito glanced at Louise, who looked downcast.
"Do you want me to explain or?"
"No, I'm unable to do any elemental magic that doesn't explode," she said quietly, "That's why I'm called the Zero."
"I see. What have you two been doing since then?"
Both straightened out as they began telling of some of their many adventures in Tristain and Halkeginia. How they became friends and then fell in love with each other over time. How Louise would do her best to cheer up Saito when she caught him crying at night, missing his home of Tokyo and how Saito tried to make her smile after a failed spell.
What got the attention of the agents was when Louise mentioned a Staff of Destruction.
"I told you Louise but the Staff of Destruction is a weapon from my world," Saito explained. Devers and the other agent leaned forward.
"M. Saito, what was this 'Staff of Destruction'?" the American asked intently.
"It was an M-72 Rocket Launcher. The Headmaster said a man showed up with two of them years ago and saved his life by killing a monster that had cornered Old Osmond before collapsing there. He sounded like an American soldier. He's buried at the Academy for his heroism."
Inside another room monitoring the interrogation, the intelligence personnel gasped in surprise.
"Besides you M. Saito," Devers asked, "Did any of you find any trace of other people from our world in Halkeginia?"
"No sir," Saito replied as he shook his head, "But I did find another thing from our world, though," shifting nervously before coughing into one of his hands, his face a bright red, "It was an old Japanese porno magazine that another Noble family had summoned, don't know how as I never asked, but it became known as the Summoned Book and they used what they found in it to, uh…"
"Okay, moving on. What happened to this Staff of Destruction?" the unnamed agent asked, helpfully moving things along.
"Saito saved our lives with it," Louise praised, "He defeated an Earth Golem by blowing it away with the Staff- I mean M-72 LAW."
"Earth Golem?"
The intel guys were getting less and less skeptical about this whole magical world.
"This has been a most enlightening discussion your Highness," Trudeau praised Henrietta. The leaders were sitting inside a luxurious parlour with various paintings and other fine decorations in the room while Louise and Saito were discussing at CSIS's headquarters. They had talked quickly about their lands without going into detail. Fine wooden furniture contributed to the regalness of the room while men in dark suits stood guard. Agnes and her Musketeers were at table, listening intently to the various conversations. Unease filled them as they had separated from their weapons.
"Yes, it has been interesting," Trump added monotonically.
After arriving at Rideau Hall where the princess had been welcomed by Her Excellency, Julie Payette, the Governor-General of Canada and representative of Queen Elizabeth II in Canada. Henrietta had finally seen a portrait of the British monarch. It had astounded that a monarch reigned for so long and despite being a symbolic leader, there was a certain majesty to the Sovereign.
The princess realized just how wealthy the Queen was with a diamond crown and vast amount of jewelry. It was a distant cry from the simple suits that M. Trudeau and M. Trump wore. The elegance was there but it looked far more functional than many of the clothes that was worn in the courts of Tristain and Halkeginia. From what she understood, both men were extremely active in the daily affairs of their countries.
"Thank you M. Trudeau and M. Trump," she answered, "I have found the discussion very interesting. I wish to learn more about Earth."
"The feeling is mutual I believe," Trudeau replied, "I believe it is soon time for lunch however."
"Yes it is," Trump nodded as he glanced at his watch, "I was starting to get hungry."
"M. Trump?" His lack of tact had reminded Henrietta that he was a merchant, not a politician. She was curious to ask regardless.
"Yes?"
"Is it true that you are a wealthy merchant?"
The man seemed to show some enthusiasm.
"Your Highness," he grinned smugly, "I am one of the best ones on Earth. Maybe even the best one. No one can I sell like I can!"
Henrietta noticed his boastful tone, though she thought she heard someone in the background muttering, 'I can name a few.'
"Your Highness, before I became President of the United States, I have made incredible deals that you can't begin even begin to imagine! I have built a massive business empire that no one has never been seen before," he bragged, waving his hands around, "I am quite happy to see that my reputation precedes me!"
Both Trudeau and the security details found it odd she'd know such a fact. This was the Princess' first time on Earth, so how could she possibly know that? The possibility that this was an extremely elaborate sham had not been dismissed, and this didn't help matters.
The leaders were then led to the State Dining Room of Rideau Hall where the various servants working at Rideau Hall were waiting for them. Henrietta admired the fine craftsmanship of the wooden furniture and the room's white and gold walls. She could also smell the scent of exquisite food, some of it completely unfamiliar to her. One of the doors opened and a group of maids and butlers were bringing trolleys with food. They made their way to where the leaders were sitting and began putting fine silverware on the tables.
"Please, let me help you," Henrietta demanded as they finished putting a plate in front of her and brought a trolley of small bread buns, "It is least I can do."
"It is not necessary your Highness," a butler answered, "Please remain seated." But the princess shook her head and produced her Royal Scepter.
"I won't need to get up."
Waving her scepter, the buns began to levitate before landing on the other men's plate. There was a sudden silence before the security detail began to whisper furiously into their microphones and one or two had started to reach into their suits. Some even made their way to the table and took away the food that she had levitated. Both leaders looked surprised at the feat, to say the least.
"What is happening?" Henrietta asked in shock. Why had the guards reacted so badly?
Trudeau cleared his throat.
"Your Highness, was that magic?" he asked incredulously, looking at the Royal Scepter in her hands with amazement.
"Yes but I don't understand. It is elementary magic that any mage can use in Halkeginia." She looked apprehensive. "I'm sorry...is using magic at a political function frowned upon in your world? Is it a sign of hostility?"
"You're not in Halkeginia, your Highness," Trump replied, "There's no such thing as magic on Earth."
"I'm afraid that you may have scared our guards," Trudeau explained politely, "They did not expect such a thing to happen."
"Why are they afraid?" Agnes asked haughtily, "Her Highness is an honorable and honest woman! She would not have come here to attack you!"
"Please calm down Agnes," Henrietta ordered shakily, "I do not wish any harm upon you or M. Trump. Did Count Mott not warn you of our magic? Did he not demonstrate any of his magic?"
Trudeau shook his head.
"I'm afraid that the Count did boast of his… magical talents but never demonstrated any of it."
"Did he not serve himself with magic?"
"No, he claimed that no noble should exert himself when a commoner was around."
Henrietta mentally cursed Mott for his arrogance.
"I see," she replied weakly. Things were not going her way. She just spooked the two leaders she needed to talk with. Trudeau massaged his temples.
"Your Highness, do not let such a small... miscommunication discourage you," he declared kindly, "It is a bridge that our worlds needed to cross so that we may understand each other."
She nodded, hope returning to her.
"Very well M. Trudeau."
The doors then opened at that moment, a head stuck in, looked around, and saw Trudeau smiling and nodding. The head bobbed, before withdrawing, the doors closing with just a gentle click.
Unlike the guards, that one had a helmet on with a protruding neck guard rising up from the armor. But despite that, the person's face had been clear. It had been a woman.
"Was that a woman in that helmet just now?" Henrietta hoped so, as she wanted to steer the conversation away from her little faux-pas just now as well as taking her mind off Mott's lack of foresight.
Trudeau blinked and Trump raised an eyebrow.
"Yes Your Highness," the Prime Minister began, remembering that women serving in armed forces were quite recent, "We also have women in our military forces."
"And our Special Forces now too," Trump stated with his usual bluntness.
"You do?" Henrietta looked as surprised as she felt and no doubt felt her Musketeers felt the same, "Women in any position of combat is extremely rare in Halkeginia. The only order with a large number of women in it right now, is Tristain's own Corps of Musketeers lead by Captain Agnes here."
The woman in question sat up straighter before speaking, "Only women serve in the Musketeers currently as it is the only place we may serve at all. Not all of us are born as nobles as gifted as Karin the Heavy Wind."
"Karin the Heavy Wind?" Trump parroted with a raised eyebrow, but even he knew better than to make a remark about the odd title.
"Yes," the Princess smiled in memory, "Duchess Karin Désirée de La Vallière was once the Captain of the Order of the Manticore Knights and has long been an old friend of my own mother. She has also long since been our strongest Square Class Wind Mage and staunch ally of the throne. Her martial prowess is unmatched by anyone else in the Four Blessed Realms" Henrietta explains, "Her and Duke Centurion de La Vallière also command one of our kingdom's strongest armies as well."
"I see," Trudeau remarked, sharing a look with Trump who agreed with a nod not to test that theory until they have more information.
Continuing on, as she saw something here, "She's also the mother of one of my companions that was separated from us by a M. George Devers of the US Central Intelligence Agency along with her familiar, M. Saito," Henrietta could only hope both were doing well.
"I can have my aides check into that," Trump stated at once, knowing how these kind of things went in making deals, "Though that second name, Saito? Sounds like it comes from Asia?"
"He did say this is his world and he comes from a place called Tokyo, Japan," Henrietta informed the two men, "Lady Vallière summoned him during a ritual."
"Ritual?" Trump raised an eyebrow skeptically while Trudeau paid more attention to her words.
"Yes, all nobles except our Royalty undergo a ritual that would summon a Familiar to assist in their magic," the princess explained, "Lady Vallière is exceptional as she has been the only mage to have ever summoned another human being."
Both Trump and Trudeau were disturbed at the implications.
"How does she treat M. Saito?" Trudeau carefully asked, not wanting to show his disapproval to what he felt was slavery..
Henrietta giggled a bit.
"She and M. Saito get along quite well despite their occasionnal quarrels. He has become her lover."
This helped reassure the two leaders and both didn't feel the need to press on into two teenagers' private lives.
"They've been loyal allies to me in these trying times. Do you know why M. Devers took them with him?"
"Oh him? Probably doing his job," Trump brushed off her concerns, "Things are getting testy between a couple of countries and Japan. They're likely just making sure he isn't some terrorist in disguise or a spy. That would be trouble for everyone."
"Huh?" Henrietta tilted her head and both leaders somehow realized, if that image hit Social Media, there would be no end to the commentary.
Trudeau, though, managed to keep his composure, especially in the wake of Trump's rather simplistic explanation, "I presume that like your world and any nation on Earth, I'm afraid that Japan had been rocked by some terrible scandals in the past," the Prime Minister is thankful when the food is left alone to be served, "Regretfully, there have been terrorists even from Japan, a nation that has become even more pacifistic than we here in Canada since they lost the Second World War, plus they are currently in a number of disputes about islands in their region that has the potential to explode into war with one misstep."
Trump gently picked at his food, "We can discuss that later," he bluntly stated as he made a motion to one the guards and the man steps forward and leans in to hear what the President wants before nodding and moving on, "I've asked that my staff look into your companions, but I imagine it is just the CIA being the CIA and that amounts to them doing their jobs, which is Intelligence gathering."
Trump indicated the fine meal being spread out before them. Various side dishes such as bread, salads and soup surrounded a fine roast beef.
"As I have long since learned in business and politics, it is best not to mix either with a good meal as it can ruin the taste."
Even Trudeau is surprised at how Trump's sudden keenness. Then again, the man is a businessman. No matter how blunt or lacking in tact he could be, there was always a time for a more gentle touch in business. The Canadian Prime Minister hoped that Trump would show more diplomatic talent in future dealings.
"This is amazing," Louise whispered as she looked out the window.
The ride in the limo was a far cry from the SUV they had been in before. The vehicle being driven directly to Rideau Hall where the meeting between the Princess Henrietta and the two North American leaders had been taking place. This time, both she and Saito are being given quite the respectful show and even a brief tour of the Canadian capital.
For Saito, the whole thing felt as painful as his nerves were feeling. Though he could understand their skepticism and their need for security. He didn't miss the Internet explosion when someone killed a Canadian ceremonial guard a few years ago. Even Canada had its fair share of danger and that was before the Polar Bears, which he and Louise learned, had been a somewhat threat once and only really endangered a few very remote places today. The great Canadian cities and the many towns were fairly safe places.
It was the cold that was more lethal than any bear at this point. Even the bears were taking shelter according to M. Devers and the unnamed agent. Someone important had arranged for them to receive the nicest and most expensive winter coats that could be bought on such short notice. Something they both believed, but thankfully, they now had more proper attire for the cold and Louise was not going to look a gift horse in the mouth, especially not with such an expensive gift too!
"Copy that, we'll be there in ten," Devers spoke into his mic after getting a communications before turning to the pair, "There's been a slight accident on one of our routes. A car slipped on the ice and hit another. No injuries, but it is blocking our direct path to Rideau Hall."
"Does that happen often?" Louise asked, curious as this weather looked fair. The sun was shining brightly in a cloudless sky despite the cold.
''Yes it does,'' the unnamed agent replied as he drove, "The ice can be treacherous for anyone inexperienced or careless. The accidents can get nasty with lots of injured people."
"And the weather can turn violent in a moment," Devers explained as well, "So don't think for a moment, that just because it looks nice, it will stay nice. I should know, grew up near the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. Stories always abound about freak snow storms and blizzards in the summer that has killed or injured dozens in the past and will continue to do so until those mountains disappear, if they ever do."
"Wouldn't it be a strain for your healers?" the noble asked, "To live in such treacherous lands and having to heal so many injured people?"
Saito shook his head.
"Not really Louise, I heard that Canada and the United States have great doctors."
"Oh." A small idea formed in her mind.
"It also helps that we have been here for some time and have learned very important lessons," the driver stated as turned the wheel and gently applied brakes at the light, "A person can live anywhere once they learn the lessons of the land."
"Excuse me M. Devers but do you think that my sister can get healed by your 'doctors'?" she asked shyly.
"What do you mean?" he asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Well, despite the best efforts of our best Water Mages and strongest healing magic, my sister Cattelya is unable to get well," she explained sadly, "Because of that, she has spent her entire life on our lands and at our main residence."
This tidbit caught both men's attention. The Tristainian magic had limits to what it could do in terms of healthcare. Perhaps Earth's science could help bridge that gap and with the aid of the Water Mages, propel forward the medical sciences in ways that science couldn't.
"I understand your wishes Lady Vallière. Such an arrangement would be possible once diplomatic relations between our nations are formally established." the unnamed man said. Devers, on the other hand, was texting on his phone before speaking again.
"That would be Rideau Hall where her Highness is meeting with M. Trump and M. Trudeau." He pointed a building of white stone with the flag of Canada flying before it. Around it were snow covered trees and there was a fountain that had frozen over in front. Louise was reminded of her family's ducal estate.
"Welcome to Rideau Hall."
Standing in one of the offices of Rideau Hall, Trudeau looked outside. He could see another limousine arriving at the gates. After lunch, Princess Henrietta and her guards had been led to another room to rest before the afternoon's talks.
Trump was sitting on one of the chairs, resting his eyes. A knock on the door woke the American president.
"Come in," Trudeau ordered. The door opened to reveal a man from CSIS. He greeted both leaders before clearing his throat.
"The princess's companions have just arrived outside," he reported, "Our agents have also picked up something interesting from Lady Vallière. Apparently, their magic has limitations."
"Oh?" Trump asked, turning his head to face the man.
"Yes M. President, she stated that she had an ill sibling that their magic couldn't cure no matter what they did. She asked us if our doctors could take a look at her eventually."
The president nodded.
"Interesting. This adds more to what their interrogation and what her Highness has said about Harkegena."
"I believe it's pronounced Halkeginia, Donald," Trudeau said politely, "But what do you think Princess Henrietta will want?"
Trump scoffed disdainfully.
"Probably money. These medieval people probably have cash issues. From what we've also heard earlier on, military assistance."
"That is quite evident given that her small kingdom is surrounded by two hostile powers," the prime minister stated, "That already puts my country at risk. If Tristain is conquered, Canada is at risk from invasion."
"Then blow that gate up," Trump said simply, "Send her back and get rid of that problem."
Trudeau shook his head.
"And risk a bad after effect in one of my main economical centers? It did appear with an earthquake."
"Point taken," Trump admitted after a moment, "Anything on how that thing got here in the first place?"
"We are still working on that," the agent stated in response.
"The various departments from all four Montreal universities are doing their best to understand what happened. Some think that if we destroy it, it might appear elsewhere."
"That is something we don't want," Trump stated. The last thing he needed was that Gate appearing somewhere in the United States. Or worse, someplace less friendly and extremely hostile.
"Indeed, we don't want anyone unpleasant getting their hands on that." Trudeau remarked. The list was quite long. ISIS, North Korea and Russia were a few examples that came to his mind, "There's also the prospect of untapped resources and a new market for both us. Possibly even ressources that don't exist on Earth."
Trump suddenly grinned at this.
"I like how you think Justin!" Trump declared, just as another knock came at the door and another man entered.
"We've gotten more info on that boy that was with Lady Vallière," the agent reported, his Texan accent showing, "He claims to be a Japanese citizen named Hiraga Saito that ended up in Halkeginia. We're trying to see if he's telling the truth about who he really is. According to intel, kid went missing a few months ago."
It confirmed what Henrietta had told them earlier or made it more believable for the time being.
"Thank you. How did this happen? How did he wind up there?" Trudeau asked. Henrietta's explanation of a ritual didn't feel quite believable by his logic.
"Well, it's quite surreal and ridiculous at the same time," the agent explained, "If things were entirely logical, I'd say some kind of Stockholm Syndrome. But I think we've established several grounds that are not completely logical in our sense of logic. The kid got there because he stepped into a green portal in the middle of the streets of Tokyo."
Trump face palmed in annoyance while Trudeau kept his own composure as best he could. The CSIS agent only shook his head.
"This sounds like something out of those weird Japanese cartoons," Trump remarked dryly trying to massage the headache he suddenly felt, "Why didn't that idiot realize that a strange portal was dangerous?
"It's more Japan's issue than ours, isn't it?" Trudeau managed to placate the President, feeling his own oncoming headache.
"Actually, M. Saito claims that he isn't the first to crossover," the agent stated to the surprise of those in the room. "We haven't verified this yet, but M. Saito claims to have encountered an American-manufactured rocket launcher in their world." Trump was now more attentive. "Supposedly an American soldier crossed into their world roughly 30-40 years ago. The man apparently saved a ViP of theirs before dying."
"How did he come across this rocket launcher?" Trump asked intently.
"The locals had it under lock and key- apparently they were under the impression it was some extremely dangerous magical artifact."
"To them, yeah," Trump replied, "Still is to us, so smart of them."
"Some agent of a religious organisation named Reconquista managed to steal the weapon, however, prompting Lady Vaillière and others including M. Saito to accompany a retrieval party. In the ensuing pursuit, their party was ambushed by the agent. In the ensuing fight, M. Saito was forced to use the M-72 against the agent's Earth Golem..."
"Earth Golem?" Trudeau's head was spinning. Were the Tristainians so bad in shape that mere teenagers were being sent on important assignments? The former teacher, now Prime Minister, hoped it wasn't a regular occurence in that world.
"Please send us some tea," he asked, sighing.
"How much more American property do they have?"
"That's the only item they've mentioned, but even then, US soldiers were issued two and we were informed the other was buried with our man on the Magic Academy's grounds. We suspect that there might have other items or even a full kit. Assuming this is all true, people and items from anywhere in our world can randomly appear in theirs."
Trump mentally noted that information for when he would see the Princess again.
"This is something we have to discuss with Princess Henrietta," Trudeau declared, "There could be other weapons from our world over there."
Trump nodded in agreement. A single use rocket launcher and a rifle weren't that big of an issue… but the prospect of more powerful weapons lost from Earth and lying in that world was an unpleasant one to think about.
"That could be an extreme security risk. I want that American citizen back though! He's probably listed in our records as MIA. Who knows what his family has gone through since he disappeared?!"
Trudeau looked outside the window again and saw the National Military Cemetery of the Canadian Forces before him.
"He also deserves a proper burial as well," he added, "Perhaps we can use this a way of showing off Princess Henrietta and Tristain's goodwill towards us. Show the world that they're people we can deal with."
"Good idea. If she agrees"
The CIA man cleared his throat. In his hand was his encrypted cell phone. Apparently, as the two world leaders had been talking, he had received a message.
"There was one other item, I've just been informed," the CIA agent shifted uncomfortably, "An old Japanese adult magazine had been, I quote, 'Summoned by a family of mages and rivals to the Vallière Family named Zerbst,' and has gained great importance apparently amongst certain circles including Count Mott as a sort of...magical artifact." That was actually one of the least insane things they'd heard today.
"So it can be just any random item?" Trudeau asked.
"Apparently," the agent states.
"Just what we needed," the CSIS agent grumbled, wondering what kind of twist of fate would cause a porn mag to be summoned by a mage.
"Well we know what to discuss with Princess Henrietta next," Trump remarked.
At the same time that the agent arrived to brief Trudeau and Trump, Henrietta had been led to another parlour with her Musketeers. The meal had been tense, with many of the guards watching her with great caution. She wondered if they would agree to help her. Both men had been hard to read in their own way. Trump was boastful while Trudeau maintained a diplomatic distance.
"Your Highness," Agnes asked, "Do you honestly think they would help us?"
"I don't know Agnes," she replied, "M. Trudeau was pleasant but guarded and M. Trump was..."
She tried to find her words to describe him politely.
"That man is nothing but a merchant. Dealing with merchants is more trouble than it's worth." Agnes dismissed. "We would certainly be swindled, especially if the man possesses great wealth."
"They are also distrustful of us, fearing the simplest magic," Henrietta added sadly, "That faux-pas almost put an end to our talks. Politics has always been between those blessed by Brimir, never people who lack his gift."
"Indeed, can we get anything from such a different world?" Agnes asked as she looked outside. She could see horseless carts moving through the streets and buildings taller than anything in Halkeginia in the distance. Magic was impressive, as much as she hated saying it, but this world seemed to have no need for it.
A knock on the door caught their attention.
"Your Highness, may we enter?" a familiar man's voice asked.
"Yes you may."
The door swung open, revealing M. Devers, his partner, as well as Louise and Saito. Both were dressed in what appeared to be expensive winter coats. Saito had a blue one that reached his waist while Louise had a red one that was slightly longer. Both men departed as the pinkette and her boyfriend got inside the room.
"Your Highness!" the noble exclaimed as she and Saito got on one knee, "Have your talks with M. Trudeau and M. Trump been fruitful?"
"Well, it is difficult to say," she replied mournfully, "We've yet to discuss any meaningful arrangements."
"Oh."
"What about you and M. Saito?"
"Well…" It'd been clear to the two teens that they were in some sort of trouble, but they weren't sure how to break that news when their Princess was already concerned with other matters.
"They asked a lot of questions about our adventures and my time in Halkeginia," Saito answered nervously. "We told them about some of the things that happened to us."
Henrietta frowned.
"Were they pleased?" she asked, suspecting that they would be displeased.
"It was... strange your Highness," Louise finally answered after a few moments of silence, "They simply kept pressing for more information until they told us it was time to leave."
Agnes raised an eyebrow.
"Why would they do such a thing?"
Saito gulped.
"They were trying to figure out how I got there." he answered, "They wanted to know more about how stuff from Earth ended up in Halkeginia."
"Like what?"
"They wanted to know about the Staff of Destruction," Louise explained, "and the man that brought it with him."
"Staff of Destruction? You mean the one that was crafted by Old Osmond and that's at the Academy?" Henrietta remembered, "What of it?"
Louise sighed. Of course, Osmond covered it up.
"It wasn't crafted by the Headmaster," the pinkette explained, "Saito said it was made in this world by the Americans. From what Old Osmond said about the staff, Saito thinks that it was one of their soldiers that had brought it with him."
"There was also that Zerbst family heirloom," Saito started before realizing where he was taking this.
"Saito no," Louise snapped, glaring at him not to continue. The princess's chaste ears didn't need to hear about such a depraved relic.
"What of it?"
"Nothing you need to know your Highness!"
"So things from this world have a way of getting into ours...Does this have anything to go with the portal?" She asked out loud.
Both Louise and Saito shook their heads.
"No one told us anything about the portal," the pinkette answered, "They simply pressed us for questions."
Agnes frowned at this.
"Either they don't know anything about the portal either or they distrust us your Highness," she reasoned. Henrietta nodded in understanding.
"If M. Trump is indeed a merchant, then he would have kept that information in order to better bargain with us and persuaded M. Trudeau to do so," the princess realized with shock.
Louise and Saito gasped at this information.
"Then what can we do?" Louise asked worriedly, "If they did that?"
Henrietta sighed.
"I don't know."
There was a knock on the door.
"Excuse me. your Highness, but the meeting is about to start."
Author's endnote: Looks like things are gonna be a bit more complex than planned eh?
That's how reality works. Diplomacy and politics aren't easy things kids and anime tropes don't apply to today's diplomatic talks.
