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.
Author's notes: Now back to the grind. This chapter starts shortly before the funeral for PFC Jackson.
As for the other Halkeginian nations… you'll start seeing them soon.
Kudos to Trainalf for co-authoring this fic!
Meet Your New Friends!
Henrietta and her carriage emerged from the void of the portal between Earth and Halkeginia. The warm and sunny weather was a welcome change from the blistering cold and harsh winds of Canada.
"Feels good to be out of that cold," Saito said as he stretched himself with a yawn.
"I still can't believe people can live in a country like that," Louise said as she undid her winter coat, "It's too cold for its own good."
Saito nodded in agreement as the carriage came to a halt. Awaiting them were Louise's parents and their guards. All were dressed in their finest armour that had been shined to a brilliant sheen and on which the warm sunlight bounced off.
The Tokyo teenager gulped as he saw Louise's parents. He quickly remembered what Hayate and him had discussed quickly when the girls weren't around.
Mainly about making a good first impression on your girlfriend's family. Something Saito had probably flunked when he almost got in a duel with Eleonore. It certainly didn't help that her parents were intimidating. Lord Vallière and, surprisingly, Lady Vallière were both quite tall compared to him. He had expected Louise's mother to be short like her daughter but she towered over him.
Her pink eyes were as piercing as Louise's though Saito quickly noticed that the duke's gaze was as intense.
"Your Highness," Lord Vallière said sternly as he bowed before Henrietta, "I am quite pleased to see you returning from the other world in good health."
Henrietta nodded.
"Uncl- Lord Vallière, I thank you for your worry. I am quite happy to see that your family stands faithfully in service to the Blessed Throne of Water." she replied formally.
"Has this… endeavour of yours brought any good tidings for Tristain, your Highness?" Lady Vallière asked in a business-like tone, "What has come forth of it?"
"Yes, I have had the chance of discussing with two of the most powerful leaders of that world," she answered, "Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada and President Donald Trump of the United States of America. We have come to an agreement that we will pursue talks between Tristain with the desire of improving relations."
"That is all? No alliances?"
Lord Vallière was skeptical about the claims he had heard about the other world. Especially since it came from his youngest daughter's commoner familiar.
"No, but they will be sending ambassadors and military observers to see how our nations can improve our relations. They are most interested in magic and there's a matter that concerns the Academy that we must speak of… in private Lord Vallière, Lady Vallière."
"I believe that the Academy's Royal Quarters should allow us sufficient privacy, your Highness," Lord Vallière suggested.
"Yes, I will require Old Osmond's presence as well."
Old Osmond entered the Academy's Royal Quarters alongside Agnes. She had been sent to fetch him in his office. As he entered, he saw the three Vallières, Saito and Princess Henrietta sitting around a table, waiting for him.
"Welcome Old Osmond," her Highness greeted as the headmaster was led to a seat.
"Thank you your Highness. To what do I owe this honour?"
"It's concerning that man you've found and from whom you recovered the staves of destruction," Henrietta explained, "While I was meeting with Earth's leaders, M. Saito mentioned him and they believe that he might be a soldier from one of the nations I've discussed with."
This surprised Osmond greatly.
"What do you mean?"
"Are you sure about this, your Highness?" Lord Vallière asked, "It is not a ruse of some kind?"
Louise cleared her throat.
"Pardon me Father, Mother, but I believe that Saito would be best able to explain this."
Saito looked at Louise in shock. He certainly didn't want to start talking with his girlfriend's parents like that.
"We-well, the Staff of Destruction was a weapon from Earth," he spluttered, "It's what we call an M-72 Rocket Launcher. We use it to destroy tanks."
"Tanks?" Lady Vallière asked skeptically.
"Yes, a very large… war wagon that has a canon and thick armour that can destroy-."
"But how does this relate to the man buried here, boy?" Lord Valliere interrupted.
"Well the way Old Osmond described the man, he sounded like a soldier from the United States, and that weapon is from the United States. Plus, it's kind of their property and they want it back," Saito explained quickly.
"Property?" Lady Vallière asked skeptically, "Why would they want a single weapon back?"
"Mother, they do not just want the weapon back," Louise added, "They also wish to return his body to his family."
"Is this man a noble or a hero of some kind?" Osmond asked.
"We don't know yet," Henrietta answered, "But the Americans are a proud and martial people. For them, dying in battle is a great honour that is to be commemorated."
"They sound like Germanians." There was disdain in the Duke's voice. He could respect their skill in battle but their boorish ways was appalling to him whenever he met one.
"Yes, I believe that they would get along with them." Henrietta continued, "Though I believe that such an act on our part would be beneficial in showing goodwill towards them."
"What do you mean by that? You said we haven't entered any formal treaty with them?" The duchess was wary of anything involving only goodwill.
"Their customs are quite different from ours. Alliances aren't formed overnight but through constant efforts."
"Your Highness, I believe that they are merely stalling to say no," Duke Valliere said politely, "What could they possibly gain from us after retrieving their fallen soldier?"
"They seemed interested in Tristain's wine and beer." Saito piped up, much to the noble's displeasure.
"Boy, do not speak unless asked of!" the duke scolded, "How preposterous! Building an alliance simply over wine." The Valliere's were like a lot of the nobles in thinking the princess was being overly optimistic about this new world.
"No father, my familiar is right," Louise defended, "They wanted to started trading with us for wine. The portal leads into one of Canada's greatest cities, Montreal that's known for its love of fine wines."
"Even President Trump wanted to sample some of your wine," Saito added, "He's known in our world to be a wealthy merchant before becoming the leader of the United States and saw that Tristain would be able sell its wine."
Henrietta cleared her throat, getting everyone's attention.
"They are also sending ambassadors to meet us and work out agreements. They'll be arriving in two days."
"I see," the duke harrumphed, "Still doesn't mean much but do you realize what this means?"
Henrietta didn't answer.
"Do you understand that they will need security? Something that will be difficult for us to arrange?" he remarked pointedly.
"But they'll send-" Saito was interrupted by the duke's piercing glare. Definitely where Louise got it from.
"Father please."
"They'll send their best soldiers." the Tokyo boy resumed.
"How good are these men?"
"Very good," Saito replied excitedly, "They can do things that soldiers here can't do! Like they do dangerous missions like assassinating enemy leaders in their sleep, or destroying whole camps in the middle of the night."
"Lowly assassins and cowardly saboteurs, you mean?" Not that Tristain didn't use them, but obviously such acts and associations were to avoid being admitted to.
"Euh…"
"I have faith that the ambassadors' guards will be enough and that Agnes and her Musketeers will be able to cooperate," Henrietta cut in.
"Do you realize that we will also have to organize a banquet for their arrival?" the duchess added in a chastising tone, "On such short notice."
"That won't be necessary." Henrietta said, and for that she was grateful; such events were costly.
"What? But that would an absolute lack of etiquette!" The duke was scandalized at how callous her Highness was treating this, "That would offend them gravely. To receive him like vulgar commoners!"
"The Canadians and Americans are very practical people; they don't like to bother with what they consider useless ceremony."
"Useless?" Spluttered the duchess. Or course, such events had a reason to the nobles- it was to show off their wealth, curry favours and arrange strategic weddings, among other things.
"Tell me that they received you properly at least!" the duke barked. To receive a Princess of Tristain without proper ceremony, such as a great banquet, was insulting.
"Yes, I was very well received. I stayed in the finest quarters they had for foreign dignitaries that also serves as one of the homes to one of their oldest and most revered monarchs, Queen Elizabeth II. I had the honour of having private meals with their leaders as well. Banquets are very uncommon in their world."
Both sighed in relief. The other world's customs had some degree of decency. Even if they'd been a military power, an alliance with upstart Germania had been less than desirable just because of their nobles' lack of decorum.
"Since their ambassadors will be arriving shortly, what else we will have to expect?" There was slight annoyance and resignation in Duke Vallière's voice.
"They will also send military observers to Tristain. They wish to understand how our armies fight."
Before the duke could interrupt her, Henrietta continued quickly.
"They have stated they are not interested in conquest. I haven't seen any soldiers or armies massed near the gate. They are curious in how magic works as their world possesses none of it and wish to learn more of it."
"Mother, Father," Louise chimed, "M. Trudeau suggested that their healers could meet with Cattleya to try and help her since he believes that their world might know what ails her."
"Yeah, my brother is studying to become a doctor right now. Maybe he can help?" Saito proposed, "He and his friends are working on curing a disease."
The duke snorted.
"Hmmph! A world without magic can't possibly heal what the finest Water Mages couldn't!" he said skeptically, carefully hiding his regrets.
"It is worth a try, Duke Valliere," Henrietta suggested politely, "They also wished to see if their medical sciences could work with our magic."
He nodded.
"Very well. It is worth meeting these ambassadors." the duchess said begrudgingly, "We wish to be present when they'll retrieve the soldier's body. Osmond, you do not see any issue with this?"
Osmond smiled warmly as he took a puff from his pipe.
"I don't see any issue with that." he answered, "If anything, it warms me to know that he will be buried in his homeland and that I will find out more about him."
"I shall return to the capital then to discuss with my regency council," Henrietta announced.
"Excellent, now I must attend to another pressing matter," the duke said, turning his attention to his daughter and Saito, "Your mother and I wish to speak to you Louise... and your familiar."
"Y-yes," Louise stammered as they all got up. Saito paled considerably.
The walk from Henrietta's quarters to Louise's was unnervingly quiet for the two teenagers. Louise's parents were intimidating, domineering people that caused anyone they met to get out of their way… without a word being spoken.
"We are at your quarters?" Karin asked, noticing the scorch marks on the doorway.
"Y-yes mother," Louise said as she opened the door and showed everyone to a chair or a bed corner. Once everyone had sat down, Pierre looked at Saito and Louise, his monocle shining ominously.
"We have heard…," the duke paused, "interesting things from Eleonore. That she found you kissing your commoner familiar."
Both teenagers blushed bright red.
"Is it true that he drew his sword on Eleonore?"
Before anyone could speak, another voice broke the silence.
"That blonde bitch deserved it! Partner was only defending his honour from her!"
"What in Brimir's name?!" Karin exclaimed as she scanned the room.
"Over here Milady!"
"A talking sword?!" the duke exclaimed as he saw the source of the voice.
"Derflinger the Magnificent! At your service Milord!"
"Where exactly did you procure this sword Louise?" her father asked as he began to inspect the sword, "It is quite well made and I haven't heard of any enchanted swords of its kind since the days of the Founder."
"Oh euh, Louise bought it for me as a present after I dueled Guiche."
The duke scowled.
"Louise, you must better discipline your familiar! Allowing him to duel the Gramont's youngest son?! Do you know how much trouble that could have brought us had this simpleton slain him?!"
"Yes Father! But I had just gotten him! I hadn't had the time of disciplining him yet." Louise protested.
"Your attempts at discipline seemed to have been quite lax," her mother remarked before she started scolding, "Kissing and getting into a romance him is something that is inappropriate for a daughter of the Vallière family!"
"T-that's not what it was!" Louise stammered out, "I-I was-"
"Louise! Do you think we are easily fooled?" her father snapped, "From what Eleonore has told us, it was clearly a romantic kiss that you were sharing with this useless commoner dog!"
"HEY!" Saito shouted, "Just because I'm a commoner doesn't mean I'm useless!"
Both parents stared at him.
"What have we told you about speaking out of turn boy!"
"W-well, he isn't useless! He convinced the Princess to meet with Earth's leaders! He told us about how his world was!" Louise argued, surprised that she stood up to her parents, "If it wasn't for him, we might never have met with Prime Minister Trudeau and President Trump."
"Oh? Was he the one that terrified her entire Regency council?"
The duke and duchess looked rather intrigued by this. They had heard from the Archduchess about the Americans' barbaric and warlike nature during one of their meals together at the capital.
"He also saved me from Wardes' clutches in Albion and helped me during my tasks for the princess!" she answered proudly.
"What tasks for the princess?" her mother asked, knowing all too well how the Archduchess was in her youth… and guessing that the apple hadn't fallen far from the tree. She had been in the same situation a few times.
"Euh well, she asked us to find a corrupt tax collector and had us deliver a letter to Prince Wales of Tudor."
"The same one that caused her marriage to be cancelled?"
The duchess wasn't impressed.
"If it wasn't for that dirty traitor!" Derflinger exclaimed, "Do you really think that Pinkie and partner here would have found out that he was the traitor?"
The duke had to concede it to the talking sword.
"Besides, partner here gave him his money's worth for a fight! Drove that scum off!"
"Perhaps you aren't as useless as I thought," the duke remarked begrudgingly as he scanned the room, "Where does he sleep?"
"On the floor!" Louise answered quickly, hoping her lie wouldn't show through, "I have supplied him with straw!"
The duke threw a glance at his wife whose eyes had narrowed in annoyance. She had used the exact same excuse when he first to came stay at her family home when they were younger and were courting.
"I see… where's his straw then?"
"T-the maid threw it out before we left and hasn't brought some new one."
"I see!" the duke answered imperiously, "Since our army is gathered before the academy, we would like to make use of your quarters during our stay for the next few days."
Saito groaned internally while Louise threw him an apologetic look. The next few days would be… long.
Henrietta's return to the Palace meant getting swarmed and fussed at by her regency council over her recklessness, but at least they seemed glad she'd returned safely. It wasn't long before a meeting was arranged for her to tell them what happened. Or, more accurately she felt, for her to defend her actions.
"We thank Brimir for your safe return, Princess." Cardinal Mazarin started the discussion. "After that boy's tales, he were truly fearful."
"M. Saito's tales were… unrepresentative of those country's diplomatic nature. I assure you they were quite polite." She left out M. Trump's slightly boorish behavior, at least for now. "I never felt threatened at any point of my visit." To her right, Agnes nodded.
"So the Americans weren't as barbaric as he said?" Delage asked, reassurance obvious in his voice.
"They are certainly proud of their martial prowess." Henrietta admitted. "But nothing like the violent warriors M. Saito said they were."
"What about that weapon that they shattered cities with?"
"That was quite true," she answered, "President Trump confirmed it."
"Have we an alliance with them?" her mother asked. It was the most pressing matter in her opinion, something that the others shared.
"...No." Henrietta admitted reluctantly. "Alliances are not so easily forged in their world. But we accomplished many other things during the trip." She saw her council mixed between disappointment and relief.
"Unfortunate." Justice Minister Richemont nodded. "Very well, your Highness, can you tell us all that these talks did accomplish, please?"
Condescension dripped from the man's voice with every word.
"A declaration of goodwill, most importantly." Henrietta explained. "A sign from their leaders-" She put emphasis on that word- "that we are all interested in working towards strengthening ties between us."
"A mere declaration of goodwill? It means very little your Highness."
"We discussed other things. Things that might impair interactions between our countries, matters of importance to both sides, and in depth discussions on what we could do in the future, including trade deals and a military alliance."
"Discussions are one thing but what else?"
Archduchess Marianne merely nodded and refrained herself from smiling.
"I am quite impressed with your efforts," she said neutrally.
"And I'll have you know, I've already made arrangements with these people to come to our land for important business." Henrietta revealed. Going off to their world was one thing. But this- this was quite another.
"What?" Cardinal Mazarin was shocked, "By the Grace of the Almighty Founder, why have you done such a thing?!"
"Why have you not consulted with us beforehand?" her mother asked sternly, "Henrietta, this is extremely reckless. This is a time to watch our borders carefully!"
"This is a grave matter to the United States and Canada." Now Henrietta realized she had to explain the whole affair with Osmond, the Staff of Destruction, and the American who'd somehow come to their world before Saito.
"Why is this a grave matter for them?" Richemont asked, picking up his quill.
"For Canada, the portal opened in their second greatest city, Montréal. They are just as concerned about their safety as we are our own.. For the United States…" Henrietta paused for just a moment. "M. Saito is not the first person from their world to come here- someone from that nation did too, a long time ago."
"How is this possible?" Demanded Cardinal Mazarin.
"We do not know." Henrietta shook her head. "Neither of them know either. Somehow though, this portal isn't the first link between our words, only the first permanent one. Many years ago, one of their soldiers was somehow brought to Tristain. He single handedly save Old Osmond by killing a dragon that was attacking him before he passed. This is the man who wielded the Staff of Destruction. He's buried at the academy now, and the United States wants the body and the weapons back." She finished her explanation. Deathly silence followed her.
"But the Staff of Destruction was forged by Old Osmond no?" Richemont asked incredulously.
"No, Old Osmond merely kept it secret to hide its power," Henrietta continued.
"I hope they don't believe we stole anything from them?" Delage pointed out, "That would be cause for concern."
"No, they merely want his body and weapons back. President Trump has insisted that we return them since his nation's customs for the dead is to be buried at home. He explained that it was to thank the fallen for their service to the United States. He also insists the Staff of Destruction is property of his government."
These Americans were slowly resembling the Germanians, much to the disdain of some the council member.
"Then why not just have someone take them to them instead of letting them come here?!"
"It is an act of goodwill." Henrietta stated firmly. "That will prove to them we are a just and trustworthy Kingdom to have dealings with."
"Or that we're weak and foolish!" Richemont barked, "Do you realize what such an agreement implies?! All of that for a mere common soldier and his weapons!"
"Minister Richemont, they are not just coming for this man. They are also sending ambassadors to negotiate agreements with us," the princess stated, "And members of their armies." If their responses before had been shocked, this topped it all. There was yelling before she could even explain fully.
"What madness has seized you?!" Delage shouted, "They will know our armies are weak!"
"No, First Minister, they have no intentions of invading us," Henrietta continued, "I have not seen any troops massed near their exit of the portal. These soldiers are coming so that they can see the situation with Albion."
"Why have you told them about Reconquista?!" Richemont was livid, "We do not need them to know about our enemies!"
Her council's stubbornness was starting to get on Henrietta's nerves.
"That they seek to invade Tristain, and that worries them greatly. They worry about losing one of their key cities should something happen to us and they would have Albion as a neighbor. If these soldiers see Albion is a serious threat, they can convince their government to send us supplies or maybe even troops! They want to work with us!"
"Henrietta, while your intentions are good, I cannot help but think you are being naive towards these nations," her mother carefully said, "We do not need another fiasco like the one with Germania."
"No, I am convinced that this is the right course of action!" Henrietta declared, her frustration clear in her voice, "I believe that I've said all I've had to say about my meeting with them!"
She huffed out of the room with Agnes in tow, much to the shock of the Regency Council.
Between Count Mott's recollection and her own experience, Henrietta knew that subtlety, not extravagance, was how people on the other side preferred to do their business. She'd said as much, but her words had apparently gone unheeded. When the day came for M. Ambroise to arrive, countless nobles had insisted to come with Henrietta to Academy to see this man themselves. All in their best clothes, their best armor, with their best horses, carriages, and guards. Henrietta could hear the various discussions between them, many wondering how they could curry favor with the Canadians.
Evidently, their disagreement with her about allowing foreigners into the country stopped when it came to personal opportunities.
Their discussions were interrupted by a rumbling sound that grew louder.
"It's coming from the Portal," one of the nobles shouted, "They must be arriving." Everyone grew quiet, and all eyes were locked on the gate. And then emerged three green horseless carriages, the large boxy kind. There was an immediate outbreak of whispering. Henrietta heard her mother softly gasp beside her.
"What are these… ungainly carriages?"
The three carriages stopped as they crossed over and stayed stationary for a moment before they startled crawling towards the gathered nobles direction. The rumbling sound made their hair stand on end. There was also some envy amongst them. Such a wondrous carriage would impress any rival. Especially the loathed Germanians. They came to a stop and their passengers began to disembark.
Richard Ambroise's appearance surprised the Tristainians with his dark skin and rather simple suit. This man was the representative of a powerful nation? He looked like a well-off commoner at best!
His guards were another story. Tall and massive, they towered over many of the Tristainian guards. Their appearance was unsettling, with their faces hidden behind masks and dark glasses. Their movements were precise and fluid despite their seemingly heavy equipment. The complete silence in which they moved also unnerved them. They uttered not a single word as they flanked their precious charge, strange muskets in hand.
Many of the gathered nobles wondered what kind of alchemy was used to forge such warriors.
Ambroise made his way to Princess Henrietta and bowed in respect, the giants moving seamlessly beside him. Some even wondered if they were not soldiers, but summoned golems.
"Welcome to Tristain Ambassador Ambroise," she greeted, "I would like to introduce you to some of the members of my court."
"Thank you your Highness. It is an honor for me to be the first Canadian official to visit your kingdom. It will be my pleasure to meet your nobility," he answered back before Henrietta began to introduce him to the gathered nobles and her mother.
Ambassador Ambroise bowed before Archduchess Marianne.
"Your Majesty, it is an honour to meet you on behalf of my country and my government. We also wish to over you our condolences for the loss of your husband and nephew."
"Thank you ambassador for your kind words."
His guards, veteran JTF2 operators, were scrutinizing the crowd. Not a single firearm amongst the Tristainian guards. Swords, spears and halberds… nothing they couldn't handle as long as they put some distance between them and the locals.
Ambroise was rapidly embroiled in invitations to the various courts and domains of the nobles. His tight knit guard detail made sure it was only one at a time though, and just that there was a clear space around the man at all times. Several of the nobles attempted to question the operators, but were only met with silence.
Henrietta watched it all from a distance, a polite public smile hiding her worry beneath. She feared the impression this was making on the Canadian ambassador, to say nothing of the often trumped up information he was being told. The man remained polite, nodding and smiling as he listened to the gathered nobles. She was also worried about them, both the ones who'd yet to come up to greet the man or showed clear distaste at being blocked by his guards. They looked quite similar to the town guards from their world, but subtly different yet vastly more intimidating. Mainly, their armour and clothes were green and their hidden faces only served to make them more imposing.
"Princess Henrietta, I wish to suggest an arrangement that could be interesting for your court," Ambroise had made his way over to her, flanked by his men.
"Yes, what do you suggest Ambassador?"
"My American counterpart will arrive in a few days and I will discuss with him if it's possible for us to organize a banquet to allow us to better talk with the lords and ladies. Would you be interested in such a proposition?"
Some of the gathered nobles suddenly looked more interested while Ambroise pressed on. "It'd also serve as a culture exchange of sorts; you could try some of our food and us yours."
"Please your Highness," a noble proposed, "This would be a great opportunity for us." Henrietta relented, silently thanking the Canadians for giving her an opportunity to appease her own people.
"I believe that such a banquet would be a wonderful occasion."
It was difficult for anyone on the continent to know what was going on in Albion even during peacetime; it's location made it difficult for any spy to arrive in the country without first facing border guards, and merchants weren't exactly privy to important information. With most traffic between the floating island and the continent halted in the aftermath of the Civil War, it was more or less impossible now.
But for anyone who cared to know, the answer was poorly. The war had not left any area untouched, and no man noble or commoner had been able to keep out of it. It'd been neighbor against neighbor, all over loyalty to the House of Tudor or Cromwell's teachings. Towns had been looted, farms and noble manors burned down. Thousands killed by sword, magic, hunger and disease.
But despite all that, the country was still functioning. Mostly. While sympathizers to the crown were still being hunted, Albion rebuilt. Trials were being held against those who had collaborated with the deposed Tudors, whether they were civilian or military.
Roads were repaired, crops were planted, and those who'd been on the winning side were compensated for their efforts. A lot of this help was coming from the Reconquista armies, which had not been allowed to disband even after victory. They were being kept together, and with good reason.
Londinium, The Capital of the newly proclaimed "Holy Republic of Albion" was under heavy guard, with troops and battle mages patrolling the streets. Its new leader was standing atop of one of the balconies of the rechristened Republican Palace. He breathed in a deep breath and felt the air had a pleasantness to it. He could sense that he was coming closer to his goals
"Lord-Protector."
A voice interrupted Cromwell's musings.
"Yes Sheffield?" he answered, seeing his purple haired secretary appear in his office, "You may speak."
She bowed her head respectfully and took a knee.
"We have received ill news from Airlann," she reported, "The locals are proving to be quite… rebellious against your holy authority and are foolishly clinging to the old teachings."
"Have they done anything yet?" he asked urgently. He did not want an uprising so quickly after taking power.
The woman sighed in exasperation.
"They have murdered some of our loyal servants," she continued, "Our forces there report great unrest amongst the Airlannese. They have already taken measures to secure the ports and roads for reinforcements to quell any uprising but await further instructions."
"Very well, we must break their resistance," Cromwell ordered as he left the balcony and returned inside, "Summon the generals and marshals for a meeting as soon as possible. We must avenge our murdered kin."
"Understood Lord-Protector," Sheffield replied, "I also have news from Tristain."
"What is happening there? Have any of our allies gotten closer to controlling Henrietta?" Sheffield looked troubled.
"No. In fact, Lord-Protector, I've heard nothing but absurd things from that kingdom. Were they not corroborated by multiple sources, I'd think them fabrications of a delusional fool."
"Go on." Cromwell urged. Even though Albion had yet to be fully brought under his wisdom, he was thinking ahead to Tristain. Conquering those lands would be his foothold on the mainland, a major milestone in his plans. In fact, despite the setbacks caused by that cursed girl and her allies, he was certain they could take control of Tristain even now.
"There are reports of a...portal that has cropped up within their borders. A portal to another world filled with powerful kingdoms. Allegedly, these powerful kingdoms are seeking diplomacy with Princess Henrietta." Sheffield finished, and watched the man who'd slaughtered most of the Albion line of succession for his reaction.
"What do our allies know of them?" he asked calmly.
"They are supremely wealthy. One of our allies has even managed to visit their land of Canada." She revealed. "It is very vast, but extremely cold. They are able to travel the great distances with magical, horseless carts. He claims that despite the harshness of the weather, these Canadians have built a massive city with great glass towers that stretched high in the sky that dwarfs even the greatest cathedrals of Romalia. It sounds almost preposterous but he was adamant about what he witnessed. He's been telling it to anyone who'll listen and gallivanting around with a life-like portrait of him that he claims was painted instantly."
Cromwell sat down and began to write notes.
"Their society is also a strange one. There are men and women with skin of odd colors. Our spy has met with one whose skin was as dark as the night. There seems to be no line between commoners and nobles, men or women. Their leaders are plain and low on etiquette."
"Low on etiquette?"
"They are very lax on ceremony, preferring expediency."
"I see. What are they planning? The Canadians?" Cromwell asked, "Have they agreed to any alliances?"
Sheffield shook her head.
"They and their American allies have sent ambassadors to Tristain. The American one has yet to arrive. They are there to negotiate but it seems they haven't signed any treaties. Only something called the 'Ottawa Declaration of Goodwill.' If anything, it resembles a stalling tactic with vague promises. Henrietta is also unable convince her Regency council to assist her with talks with these nations."
"That is good news." Cromwell nodded approvingly. Sheffield still looked uneasy.
"There is...troubling news though, Lord-Protector." He motioned for her to go on. "On her own volition, Princess Henrietta has invited members of these two nations' militaries into her lands." Now he was paying rapt attention. "Apparently, she has convinced these two nations that we are evil, and that they do not want us to have access to the portal. Supposedly, these observers will report back to their governments on if we're a threat. If we are, then allegedly they'll send Tristain supplies or possibly even soldiers to assist them in a fight against us."
Cromwell was silent for a moment. This was indeed quite an unexpected development.
"I see." He said at last. "These nations are powerful, you said?"
"Their armies are not structured like any our agent has ever seen. They apparently rely overwhelmingly on muskets." A whole army based on an ineffectual, commoner weapon? Hardly challenging for the experienced Reconquista armies and their mages.
"And her council- do they back this decision?"
"No, Lord-Protector. They are quite furious about it."
"Then it is not a serious problem." Cromwell dismissed. "She doesn't have full power. They will likely be chased out given time. And if not." He turned to look out at a wrecked part of the city. "We can always deceive the observers. And if they are worried about this portal, we can merely destroy it and sate them once we control Tristain. I care not for other worlds, Sheffield." He looked over the untouched parts of the city, only a measly portion of what would soon be his. "Only ours."
"What do you think of these Americans and Canadians, Marshal Gramont?" Lord Vallière asked as he and his old comrade in arms walked in the hallways of the Royal Palace of Tristain. The dying light filtered through the windows of the palace showed that the end of day was coming.
It'd been a week since these foreign soldiers arrived and nearly two since M. Ambroise had arrived. All that time entertaining both had left many of Tristain's nobles with various thoughts. Thoughts that they were about to carry into this banquet now the Princess Henrietta had returned from the otherworldly funeral.
"I do not like what I have seen about these outlanders." the Marshal replied simply, "They have no idea how to discuss properly with nobles!"
"Many members of the court share your opinion, Robert. They have tried to discuss with the ambassadors, M. Ambroise and M. Fitzgerald but so far, they have proven to be polite but distant. Neither seemed to engage in any deals."
Other nobles were walking in the hallway around towards the reception hall.
"I see, Centurion. It is strange that they were willing to host a banquet," Gramont explained, "I have heard that they are quite simple people. Apparently, the ambassadors wear very simple black clothes."
The duke nodded in agreement.
"Lady Vallière and I have met with their soldiers and their officers when they arrived to retrieve their fallen soldier. Their officers dress identically with their soldiers."
"How did that go old friend? I was unable to pull my army from the Gallian border. King Joseph has been moving his men around again according to my scouts," Gramont said.
"They are a strange and silent sort. The reverence with which they worked was very unusual."
"All of that for a single man?"
His friend nodded.
"He was a low ranking footman." That wasn't the oddest thing yet, but it was up there.
"What else of these foreigners?" Gramont pressed on.
"While you were watching the border, we had to entertain them in the Capital. They wanted an example of our Army, so the princess called forth the nobles to show off their forces. Obviously, ours was the first."
"And were they impressed?" the marshall asked.
"Hmph! It was almost insulting for us!" Vallière grunted, "Our finest footmen, cavalrymen and cannon showed off their full might yet nothing impressed them!"
"I see...did we learn anything of their armies?" As a border guard, he'd been late in learning many of the happenings. Also as a border guard, the fact foreigners were being allowed into the country so willingly struck a chord with him. He at least hoped there was an equal trade, and the Princess wasn't just handing them everything.
"Very little. They rely entirely on strange muskets with telescopes on them. They also have those wagons to move their forces around, rather than by foot or horse. They move very swiftly without any external force. Her Highness claims that it is not magic that propels them forward."
"How is her Highness doing in all of this?" Gramont asked, curiosity in his voice.
"Very well, she has returned from her second trip to Earth a few days ago and has been conversing with the ambassadors on a regular basis," Duke Vallière answered as he sat down on a bench where his wife was waiting, dress in a fine purple dress that complemented her pink hair. The rest of the nobles were gathered at the great doors leading to the hallways.
"Greeting Marshal Gramont," Lady Vallière said bowing her head in respect, "Is Lady Gramont accompanying you today?"
"Greetings milady," the man replied, "My dear wife is currently indisposed at the moment. She has gotten ill but it is nothing serious."
"Please send her my wishes of prompt recovery," she replied, "It is quite unfortunate that she is unable to be present."
"Thank you Lady Vallière," the marshal answered, "Put on the matter at hand: Have these discussion led to anything? I have overheard that they've wanted to offer either aid or deals with us."
"So they insist!" scoffed the Duke disdainfully, "The Princess claims it. They claim it. But nobody has seen anything. I've talked with Count De Grandpré and he heard that not even the Regency Council has seen anything."
"Then what is the blasted point of all of this then?!" Marshal Gramont ranted, "Are they merely wasting our time?"
"The princess insists that these people build trust and alliances over time," the duchess explained, "That is normal in their world for such things to take time. I find it difficult to believe given their… disdain of ceremony."
The sound of opening doors suddenly caught all the nobles' attention. A chamberlain emerged and announced that the banquet was started. The aristocrats were then led into the hall where the smell of luxurious food filled their noses. Upon their entrance, they noticed that the usual palace staff was working alongside men and women dressed in black and white clothing.
"Is it true then that the Americans and Canadians have brought their servants with them?" a noble remarked as he scanned the tables before them. The nobles noticed the two ambassadors sitting with the Regency council and Henrietta. Louise was also there, dressed in her finest dress with her familiar garbed with fairly good clothing. The ambassadors were talking with them.
"Why is your youngest daughter present Centurion?" Gramont whispered after he saw Louise.
"Her Highness has insisted that Louise be present given her familiar's assistance in this whole situation," the duke explained much to Grammond's astonishment, "Her familiar is reportedly from that world and advised her Highness to respond to their invitation."
"I see."
The three nobles were led to their seats that were close to the front, as befitting of their important status in Tristain. The two stood out with their simple clothes. Dark blue vests and pants, a piece of cloth tied around their necks. Once everyone had entered, a herald introduced the two men.
"Most esteemed and noble members of the court of Tristania, it is with great honour that I introduce you to Ambassadors Richard Ambroise of Canada and Thomas Fitzgerald of the United States of America! We welcome them to our capital and Royal Palace."
There was a round of polite applause.
Ambassador Fitzgerald was a man with greying, light blond hair. His overall appearance indicated that he was a well traveled man with brown eyes that shone with intelligence. Behind him stood two men in black clothes that were similar to his. Their eyes were hidden by black glasses while Ambroise had his… humanlike golems not too far from him.
"Thank you for your greeting," Fitzgerald said as he stood up, "It is my pleasure to be present amongst you. I look forward to discussing with you during the course of this evening. M. Ambroise, I believe that you have a few words for our gracious hosts."
"Thank you Ambassador Fitzgerald, I hope that you will enjoy the food we have brought from our nations. Our staff will be serving various delicacies from our lands as well as some of our finest spirits."
This piqued the nobles' curiosity.
"I almost forgot but accompanying us are Colonels Hamilton and Roberts. They are to represent our armies." Fitzgerald added as he pointed to the two men.
"So that is how they dress outside their armour?" Gramont whispered to Duke Vallière, "It is quite...simplistic."
"Believe me, it is an improvement over their battle dress," the duchess commented dryly, "They dress identically to their common soldiers."
"How preposterous! How can they expect to maintain order and discipline?" Gramont said, scandalized, "Have they no shame?"
"Somehow, their men follow every command they give," the duke answered, "With no hesitation."
His friend was intrigued as he scrutinized the two men. They were dressed similarly to what the ambassadors wore except for the many ribbons, medals and other insignias as well as the hats the colonels wore.
"I am quite curious about their decorations," the duke said, noting the more decorated American uniform, "Especially Colonel Hamilton's. He looks to be a seasoned warrior if the amount of decorations are any sign."
"Have you managed to get anything out of him?" the marshal asked as he saw the food being brought out by their servants.
"Very little. I know that both serve in their kingdom's armies despite not leading any men. Colonel Roberts teaches their future officers while Colonel Hamilton has been rather… vague about his duties to the United States." Duchess Vallière said, "Let us hope that we might be able to discuss with them later this evening."
The feast was impressive, to say the least. The Americans and Canadians had spared no expense when it came to food, wine and fine spirits. Their chefs had brought familiar courses such as beef and pork but also a massive bird called a turkey as well as fish that the Tristainians were unfamiliar with. The alcohol that they had brought helped the evening more pleasant. Even the ambassadors had begun to 'loosen up' and began discussing openly about possible trade ideas with the nobles. Dessert was a luxurious affair with fine pastries and cakes sweetened with flavors unknown to the Tristainians. The more military-minded nobles gathered around the colonels to swap tales of past battles.
As the night went on, many discussions were had about their respective worlds with subjects varying wildly though it seemed that both sides were on better terms. the ambassadors were especially pleased with the various proposals that had come from the nobles . Although it seemed clear they were more interested in getting coin for the resources on their lands than helping the throne.
The discussions between men of military responsibility were more serious, although as the night got longer the alcohol made them a little less coherent.
"Those are quite a lot of medals, I must say, Colonel Hamilton. What are they for?" Duke Vallière asked as he eyed the various decorations. "Are they for past battles?"
"Many things in fact." The colonel was vague. "Some are for combat services. Some are an award for personal conduct. There are some for mastering certain aspects of warfare. And a few are even from other nations as a thank you for aiding them."
"Interesting." The Duke acknowledged. "You men are both 'Colonels', correct?" The two nodded. "I have not heard of such a rank. How is it gained?"
"Through decades of services to our nations' armies, Duke Vallière," Colonel Roberts answered, sipping on a glass of ice cider.
"We don't have such a rank here. Neither of you are field commanders, is that true?" That question came from Gramont.
"It can be. In our armies, colonels can command around 5,000 soldiers." He missed the noble's surprised faces and continued. "Or they can serve in high staff positions."
"'Staff positions'?" another asked curiously.
There was a brief pause where both colonels took a moment to gather their thoughts. "Our armies are very large and very complex. They can only fight because a lot of men don't fight and organize many vital aspects. That's what we do."
"Is it perhaps you men are too poor to raise your own forces?" Another Tristanian noble to the side sneered snobbishly. The man had clearly enjoyed the most alcohol of all of them there.
"On the contrary, our nation's treasury is vast that we don't need to raise our forces and nor do we need to buy our ranks," Colonel Hamilton replied dryly, "My nation is so wealthy that not only are my men well fed, clothed and armed with the finest weapons available but their mothers can send them homemade cakes and my men can enjoy while there are still fresh! Even if they are in campaigns on the other side of the world!"
The noble spluttered. That was not the answer he'd expected.
"There are more important things to an army then just having combat forces." His Canadian counterpart went on. "Training a cadre of loyal and competent officers is key in maintaining supremacy on the battlefield."
"Does that task not fall upon the heads of families?" Duke Vallière asked with Marshal Gramont nodding in agreement, "Any noble worth his title in Tristain trains his sons with the skills necessary to battle."
"No," Colonel Roberts shook his head, "Such practices have been obsolete in our armies for centuries. Any man with the mental and physical aptitude can be trained to be an officer."
"But why?"
"It ensures coherent forces, competency and, most importantly in my opinion, loyalty to our army," Roberts explained, "I teach the history of Canada's wartime exploits so that my cadets learn to be proud of our nation's feats of arms and from the mistakes of past commanders so that our soldiers don't suffer needlessly on the battlefield."
"Wouldn't that dilute the lessons taught generation after generation?" Lady Vallière asked, "For example, a father can teach his sons strategy and tactics so that they may do the same."
"I understand your explanation, Duchess Vallière," Roberts replied, "But teaching in such a way limits who can learn whereas my country's military academies allow their teachers to share all their experiences with their students, allowing more to learn from past successes and failures. Experience is shared between all, resulting in a pool of knowledge common to all officers."
"Interesting system, I must say," she commented.
"The way you are talking, does that a man can be a revered member of the military without even stepping on a battlefield?" One noble inquired curiously while the rest were shook over that revelation.
Hamilton nodded.
"Yes, one of our greatest generals, Dwight D. Eisenhower, was very revered for a long time even though he never personally led men on a battlefield. Despite that, he was the key architect of victory during one of the greatest campaigns our army had ever faced. After retiring from the Army, Eisenhower became the leader of our country for a few years during which he brought our nation great wealth and progress. However, to enter our military, one still has to fit certain physical and mental criteria which we uphold dearly."
The gathered nobles were stupefied by these words. It was beyond most of their comprehension. The colonels were aware of this, and the fact that is they talked even more, they'd probably lose their hosts completely. So they changed the subject.
"Enough about our armies though. Magic is important in your society, correct? Does it have any military applications?"
"Important does not begin to cover the Blessing of Brimir!" Duke Vallière declared fiercely, "All nobles are mages. It is what separates us from the commoners. As for battles, we nobles proudly lead Tristain's armies where our magic helps us prevail over our foes."
"How does magic become a weapon?" Colonel Roberts asked, "Earth doesn't use magic but there are legends and stories of mages turning the tides of battles with their powers. I was wondering if your magic is similar to the one in our stories."
The North American officers listened as the nobles described the various uses of magic on a Halkegenian battlefield. It ranged from Wind mages propelling ships and summoning tornadoes, to Earth mages erecting barriers to protect their troops and turning the soil beneath their enemy to mud or quicksand, to the relative familiar idea of a Fire mage tossing fire balls to incinerate enemy formations and detonating powder bags to Water mages healing wounded and using water to incapacitate firearms. Mages were relatively rare however, with them making up the majority of military leaders. Tristain was peculiar as it had the highest number of mages compared to commoners in Halkeginia. Both men were here to learn of warfare in this land and so they listened with great interest, having reduced their consumption of alcohol.
So far they'd seen nothing too worrying. Arquebuses and muskets were weapons that once existed on Earth and had gone out of fashion long ago. But these conversations made it clear there were things not so easily dismissed- things they'd have to seriously think about if they wanted to be involved in this world.
During all this time these conversations were happening, be they over business or battle, the American and Canadian catering staff were carefully listening as they worked...
Back on earth, the American and Canadian governments were performing their functions with much less extravagance. Unknown to the Tristainians, word had gotten back from the military observers that it was immediately safe on the other side, confirming Ambroise's dispatches, and that talks could proceed further. Most importantly… it wasn't a hoax. And so each side had already sent the appropriate instructions to its diplomats.
For the Canadians and Americans though, there was another matter to discuss. In their continued analysis of Halkagenia's parallels to earth, they'd discovered something regarding the Cromwell of Albion that kept being brought up. He was suspiciously similar to a 'real' figure from British history: Oliver Cromwell. A very despised figure from British history, as they learned when they consulted their allies across the Atlantic. So despised in fact, that their British contacts were snarling openly as they talked of him… something generally unseen when it came to the usually polite people.
They had described with detail the atrocities that Earth's Cromwell had committed. Notably how his name was thrice-cursed in Ireland for his deeds. His religious extremism was reminding the Americans and Canadians of ISIS and certain nations. Something that was uncomfortable to both governments. The British had pledged that would support any action against Halkeginia's Cromwell, should this one prove to be a danger like they feared.
Amazing what weight a name could carry.
"So gentlemen, while our agents in Halkeginia are having a grand time at a medieval banquet, we have a new matter to attend to." Devers said. He and other members of the CIA and Harper from CSIS were gathered in an meeting room in CSIS's headquarters in Ottawa. Harper turned on a screen at the end of the room. revealing an old painting.
"This is Oliver Cromwell from Earth," the Canadian agent said as the gathered personnel look at the portrait. The man had long brown hair and wore shining metal armour.
"As you may have read in the briefings supplied to you, he is a man that was known for his brutal reign in the United Kingdom during the 1650's. Thankfully, he's dead. On Earth that is," Harper explained, "Our new… friends in Tristain however have claimed that a suspiciously similar man exists there and rules over their version of the United Kingdom."
"One of our first tasks, gentlemen, will be to build a case file on this man. He will be our main priority though the other monarchs of Halkeginia will be investigated as well," Devers continued, "Cromwell is our number one threat for the moment since him and Reconquista have their eyes on Tristain and, by extent, control of our new border."
Harper changed the image on the screen to reveal a picture of a small castle like structure. A single great tower with five smaller ones around.
"You can see here the Tristain Academy of Magic. According to reports, it is an internationally reputed institution where nobles from all the Halkeginian kingdoms go to," Harper explained, "This tells something important about how their societies work. Nobility is determined by their magic. This photo ties in with the core task we have to face: understanding this new world. How it thinks and how it runs. That way we'll make sure that we'll always be two steps ahead of them." He turned to everyone gather, and the tone of his voice hammered in how serious what he said next was.
"We have a lot of work to do."
It had been been nearly 2 months since the portal appeared now. Life progressed surprisely much the same as it had before. Nothing world breaking had really changed yet. There had been a bit more travel from the other world to Tristain. So far, it was no pure civilians, mostly government employees like from the Canadian Crown Corporations, such as the Société des Alcools du Québec (SAQ), and various members from the US Trade Agencies that investigated the possibilities. No big deals had been signed yet, but negotiations were underway despite cultural clashes.
A multinational contingent of verified scientists had also been allowed through. Many were currently at the Tristain Academy of Magic, and another contingent was in the Capital itself. They were fast at work beginning to learn the workings of this world's environment, society, and 'magic'.Their findings were already being published in scientific journals on Earth, further stoking interest in this world. The learning was mostly one way at the moment though- most of the elites of Tristain weren't exactly willing to be told much of what they thought of the world was wrong.
And in the capital, a political outpost was slowly being established.
Officially, it was a joint American/Canadian consulate and both flags flew over the building. In practice, it didn't have the staff or many of the functions of a consulate. It was still the ambassadors and the officer parties, along with their new guard details- members of the Canadian Forces Military Police, and the United States Marine Security Regiment. This was because the building was simply a repurposed manor in the Capital's affluent neighborhoods near the Royal Palace.
There were talks for a full embassy for each nation, but that would take time. Needless to say, building a normal embassy in a world that still used brick and mortar and had no electricity would be difficult. Just buying the land would be difficult. This manor had technically been gifted from the Crown, although both governments had promised eventual repayment. For now, the manor had enough beds and rooms. It was also close enough to the palace to be practical.
Of course, it had undergone some renovations to accommodate certain basic needs. The former servant quarters had been renovated into the appropriate barracks and arms storage for the Military and DSS personnel. The bedrooms had been renovated to serve as offices for the Ambassadors, military officers, and intelligence agents. A wooden garage had been built for diplomatic vehicles. It even had some generators supplying electricity for essentials like lighting, surveillance and communications equipment- an antenna had been installed to communicate with the one erected near the portal and hardwired through the void.
Most of it had gone into security though. The outside stone fence had been topped with barbed wire. A guard booth was built at the entrance. Windows had been barred and the glass had been replaced by bulletproof glass. One cellar had been converted into a safe room. Another was a monitoring center for security cameras that had been hooked up to the interior and exterior. Wiring those through the walls had been the most frustrating undertaking due to the manor's rodent population being unwilling to be evicted at first.
On the outside it still looked like a luxury manor mostly bar the unusual fence. But it was now a small fortress. Henrietta had arranged for some Musketeers to guard the exterior portions of the manor. It was yet another act to improve relations, as well prevent Tristain's nobles or commoners from being too interested in the foreigners.
It was to this building that Saito and Louise were traveling to one afternoon, having been invited by Ambassador Ambroise. Their carriage had just entered the compound after being scrutinized by both Canadian and American security details. Dogs had also sniffed out the carriage for anything usual.
"Welcome M. Hiraga, Lady Vallière," The ambassador greeted as they disembarked from their carriage. Louise curtsied while Saito and Ambroise shook hands.
"Hello sir, how are you doing?" Saito asked as he and Louise were led into the building.
"Quite well, thank you and you?"
"We are doing fine Ambassador," Louise answered politely.
"Excellent, I have some people that wish to speak to you about Albion," Ambroise explained, "Her Highness has recommended you since you've been there recently. I've also vouched for you since you have shown yourselves to be quite skilled."
This lifted their spirits quite a bit.
"T-thank you Ambassador!" Louise exclaimed, not used to such praise.
"It was nothing sir," Saito added.
"Right this way, I was about to have a light snack and I presume that you would like a few refreshments after your trip from the Academy," Ambroise suggested warmly, "The dining room is this way."
"Oh by the way," Saito said, gratefulness in his tone, "Thank you for setting up that mailing system with my family M. Ambroise."
"It's no problem M. Hiraga. It's the least we could do to thank you for your efforts. Did the last package reach you safely?"
The teenager nodded.
"Yes, thank you very much for asking sir."
As they walked down the hallways, Saito could recognize some familiar Earth appliances that had been installed. Lights were the most notable additions.
"Here we are," Ambroise said, entering a small but functional dining room. Inside were two men waiting for them. One was dressed in civilian clothing while the other was wearing a green t-shirt and camo pants, similar to the American guards. Both had their pistols holstered with them. A pitcher of cold lemonade had been set on the table while a bowl of fruits and another bowl of sweets laid next to it.
"Good day to you," the soldier said enthusiastically as he went to shake Saito's hand, "I couldn't wait to meet you both. Please make yourselves at home."
"Euh, thank you sir," Saito said as he and Louise sat.
"I think you forgot to introduce yourself," the other man said with a light chuckle as he placed down a bowl of popcorn, "Name's Ian Stanford."
"Oh sorry about that, I'm Simon Anders."
"Are you spies?" Saito asked excitedly.
The agents laughed warmly.
"You are quite perceptive young man!" Anders said, grinning, "Not a really a spy but an agent."
Louise snorted with a sly grin on her face.
"Sometimes. Most of the time he's quite dense."
"Louise!"
"I hate to break up your little moment Lady Vallière, M. Hiraga," a grinning Stanford interrupted as he produced a file, "But we would like to discuss about what you know of Reconquista's agents. We noticed this woman sulking around the building at odd hours. Think you know her?"
He pulled out a picture of a green haired woman. "We've shown this picture to her Highness and she believes that it could be Fouquet of the Crumbling Earth. She referred you to us to confirm or not, since I believe you have experience with her?"
"That's her!" Louise exclaimed, "She tried to steal the Staff of Destruction from the Academy!"
"M. Hiraga?"
"I-It's her alright," Saito answered nervously, "She's very dangerous. Every time I fought her, she summoned a giant Earth golem to attack us!" The agents suddenly looked grave and serious.
"Tell us more then," They urged, "Especially about the golems."
While they were all talking, the green-haired woman in question was watching the consulate building from the yard of another nearby manor. Fouquet had been ordered back to Tristania by her superiors with a new task: To gather intelligence on the new people in Halkeginia. A trip into a tavern had given her all the information she needed about this odd new building.
She could see guards at the entrance, the Princess' Musketeers walking rounds outside the fence, but no guards patrolling the yard inside the fence. The Musketeers were nothing but upstart commoners, nothing that Fouquet feared. Getting inside wouldn't be difficult at all- she need only to turn to dust the stone fence and then an appropriate sized hole in the wall, a quick and quiet feat for her Earth magic. Once she was inside, she was sure she could find something of interest.
This was very risky, but her efforts so far were fruitless. Initially, she'd gone after the scholars from the other world. But they could show her nothing except how stupid these outsiders truly were. They were little more than excited children on Founder's day, constantly in awe at the most mundane of magic while their Tristainian counterparts were gawking at the other world's trinkets and baubles. They also tended to be surrounded by guards or other nobles too, so she couldn't confront them.
The people at this building seemed to be either here, or at the palace, traveling quickly between the two in a horseless carriage, no place she could see them. Her masters would be impatient, so she needed something fast. She decided this was her best bet- it was definitely more lightly guarded than the Royal Palace. And if it was their home or outpost, she was sure to find something of value- documents, orders, maps, something. It was the middle of the day, but she'd seen someone leave earlier with their retinue, so she was certain there wouldn't be that many people.
Unknown to her, her every moves were being watched by the security cameras. In the cellar, two men dressed in combat uniforms, one Canadian, one American were looking at the screens when they noticed the same green-haired woman that lurked around standing before the northern wall. All the shifts were familiar with her, as was the response- documenting and reporting it.
"All teams, be advised, we're seeing a SP near the Northern wall. Send a quick message to the Musketeers, it's that green-haired woman again- What the FUCK?! She's collapsed the fucking Northern wall!"
"They've breached the wall! Say again, we have a perimeter breach!"
A klaxon rang out in the building, disrupting the conversation.
In the dining room, Saito and Louise were suddenly aware of an uproar that overtook the building. Shouting and pounding feet as the security personnel reacted. "Saito, what's happening?" Louise asked fearfully. By the look on their faces, the intelligence agents didn't know either.
Suddenly some DSS agents pounded through the room with the American staff, guiding them through the dining room, into the kitchen, and down into the cellars.
Four JTF2 operators burst into the room.
"Ambassador! There's an intruder. We need to move you to the safe room!" the leader looked at Louise and Saito, "You two are coming with us!"
"Eh?!"
Ambroise nodded as he got up. The two agents drew their guns.
"We'll help with the security," Anders declared cooly as he and Stanford ran out the room, "You guys get them to safety."
In a blur, the occupants of the dining room were running as fast as they could. Unfortunately, Louise had dressed for an important meeting.
"Waah!"
That meant a cumbersome dress which caused her to trip and fall face first on the stone floor.
One of the JTF2 operators looked back as he heard the sound of falling noblewoman.
"TABARNAK!" he swore and glanced at Saito, "Boy! Pick up your fucking girlfriend now!"
"Euh sure," he grabbed a stunned Louise in a bridal carry and tried to keep up with the running ambassador and soldiers. The Canadian stayed behind them, rifle ready for any threat that might appear.
They finally made it into the safe room. The massive metal door slammed shut behind them as they got. It was a plain room. A small fridge sat in the corner with water containers near it. There were a few people in the room, mostly staff but also the ambassador and his guard. Saito set Louise down on the floor. Meanwhile, one of the guards was on the radio.
"The Canadian Ambassador and all staff have been secured. Someone contact the team at the Royal Palace. Get the American Ambassador secured!"
"Are you injured Lady Vallière?" the same JTF2 operator who'd seen her fall asked, with one of the DSS agents opening a first kit.
"What happened to her?" he asked, making his way to her, "Oh dear, you've got a cut on your cheek Milady. Are you able to stand?"
"Thank you for your worry but I should- ow!" Louise winced, collapsing back on the floor.
"I think you might have injured your ankle Lady Vallière," the agent diagnosed.
Louise pouted in annoyance. It was just her luck.
Fouquet stepped through the hole she'd created into one of the manor's hallways, for a moment satisfied with what she thought was a silent and unnoticed entry. Then she started hearing the occupants' shouting and running feet, some of it ominously close.
'Damn!'
She must've been spotted from a window or something- they knew she was here. Just as that thought crossed her mind, two people appeared at one end of the hallway.
With a wave of her wand and an incantation, the wall she'd previously turned to dust reformed into a barrier and now blocked the hallway and the two men. She intended to escape while the fools clawed their way through it. The two Marines on the other side of the wall had seen her, and they'd been briefed on the nature of magic and how to respond. So they opened fire.
A volley of 5.56 rounds tore through the wall and struck a stunned Fouquet in the left elbow and her left leg before she cried out and collapsed at the same time as her cover. She saw her wand fall out of her hand and roll out of reach. The Marines ceased their firing when they saw the intruder go down.
"Command, team 3. Be advised, we've neutralized the intruder. They're a mage. Say again, they have magic, how copy?"
The two kept their distance from the woman but had their weapons fixed on her. A trio of Canadian MP's ran up from behind the Americans, their C8 Carbines trained on her as they advanced towards her.
"This is Team 2, intruder's weapon has been secured!" one reported as he picked up the wand.
"Intruder secured! She's still breathing!" Another noticed, "Get a medic over here! We need her alive!". The woman's eyes were wide with shock and she was immobile as blood pooled around her, but definitely breathing.
"Teams 2 and 3, hold position. Security teams are securing the building and perimeter."
More Americans and Canadians arrived behind them or at the opposite end of the hall, and a few teams headed outside to secure the breaches in both walls.
It was only about then that the Musketeers realized something was wrong as they saw the other guards running hurriedly. They quickly ran over to the breach where the men when converging. One nearly got her head blown off by poking it through the portion of the outer wall that had turned to dust.
"What the hell woman?!"
"What happened here?" She asked.
"Some fucking green haired bitch collapsed the fucking wall!" One of the otherworldly soldiers snapped at her. The Musketeer paled as she noticed the very serious expressions on the other men.
"We need to send a messenger to the Princess!" She ordered her companion. They'd been entrusted to help guard these people and they failed. Agnes had told them of the importance of this job and the severe repercussions Tristain could face if they failed.
And now it looked as if they were about to face them.
Author's endnote: What a mess!
As always, hoped you guys enjoyed it. Please read and review.
Trivia and info: Earth Cromwell's portrait is the one from Wiki. Feel free to google him and Airlann…
Crown Corporations are companies owned by the Canadian federal and provincial governments. They are in charge of certain services in Canada that range from museums to… the selling of alcohol. In that regards, that is why the Société des Alcools du Québec (Quebec Alcohol Corporation) is interested in negotiating with Tristain. They are in charge of selling alcohol and getting new products to sell. Hence their mention and presence here.
C8's are Canadianized M4's modified for the Canadian Forces' needs and requirement.
