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. As always, special thanks to Trainalf for co-authoring this chapter.

Author's note: Just to be clear… there is no way that Tristain is getting 21st century weapons given Canadian and American experience in the Middle-East. That and logistics would be simply impossible for the Tristainians to handle. All modern North American weapons are made to work with the fact that the users have the economic, industrial, social and financial means to maintain them. All of our military technology is meant to be used by a highly-literate society that is used to using electronics and electrical systems. Tristain does not currently have any of that. They are a realm that is around the 1600's… well before our highly industrialized societies. The large majority of the population is illiterate and the infrastructure hasn't even reached the steam engine yet. Economy is still largely based off artisans and agriculture is still at the stage of sustenance; meaning that farmers are growing to feed themselves before selling it for profit. Massed, standardized production with high precision is a concept that they are dreaming of… if they can think of the concept.

There is simply no way for Tristain to maintain modern equipment given those factors… not to mention that selling weapons to a highly religious monarchy in a place that seems to be dealing with religious turmoil or has enough racial hatred to start a full blown crusade is a disaster waiting to happen. No one in America or Canada wants that. Period.

However, Canada and the US will help them modernize in civilian areas. Infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, improved services to the population and helping with any technological advances that isn't military (Colbert and magical steam engines for example...) will be on the table.

As for the books that Tabitha picked up, those of you who guessed Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Lord of the Rings and Star Wars: The Phantom Menace guessed right.

Enjoy your read… and don't forget to review afterwards!

False Peace

The sun shone brightly upon Tristainia. Though the capital was still scarred by the cataclysmic battle against Albion, she was slowly healing. While there was a lot of empty space from destroyed buildings that had been demolished, the streets were cleared of all debris as the allied forces relentlessly worked day and night. People were slowly coming back to their old lives, the sound of construction filling the air as key buildings were being rebuilt.

Today however was a great day as crowds gathered in the streets. Fanfares echoed throughout the city along the sound of marching boots. The banners of the Royal Tristainian Army and Henrietta led the victorious Tristainians through the great boulevards while the people cheered and threw wreaths and confetti in celebration. The young queen waved at her beaming subjects, her Musketeers riding proudly alongside her. Following the Royal Army were the Vallières', Grammonts and Grandpré armies, led by their family heads, sons and heirs who had fought in the great battle. Guiche and his brothers rode alongside their father, the youngest son carrying the army's battle standard. Their battle dress were impeccable while their armour shone brightly against the sun.

Yet few could miss how small the parades were. All the armies had been severely depleted by the battle. But they didn't dwell on it. They smiled and cheered, looking at all the brave souls who'd saved their Kingdom, earnestly believing they could do it again tomorrow if need be. After the Tristainians, was a part of the Canadian Army contingent, dressed in their CADPAT uniforms. The 3rd Battalion of the Royal 22e Régiment led the contingent, their maroon berets symbolizing their elite status as airborne troops. Behind them, the green berets of the regular army followed The Canadian flag flew proudly as the troops behind them in formation without a single misstep, everything having been rehearsed and drilled many times. After the Canadians were the Americans.; a contingent from the 10th Mountain, the division that had fired the first real shots in this conflict for Earth.

The Queen had insisted that they join the victory march, this being a victory for them as much as the Tristainian armies. The British had been offered a spot too, but politely declined, given the classified nature of their forces that had partaken. The citizens of Tristania ooed and awed at the Earth warriors, behaving much more like their own armies.

The parade came to a stop in the center of Tristainia. Here, a large area had been cleared out. A stage had been set up earlier. Henrietta walked up to the podium before her waiting subjects. Using a spell, she enhanced her voice.

"People of Tristain, we have been through very trying times but we have overcome them. Through our courage, determination and, most importantly, sacrifices has our kingdom survived the trials of war and battle. It is not simply through strength of arms and magic that we still stand as a Blessed Realm of Brimir but through our devotion to the Founder's ways."

She looked over her people who stood proudly.

"With this great trial, Tristain has no longer anything to fear as we turn to the future. No longer shall we fear tomorrow; instead we shall seize every sunrise as an opportunity to better ourselves and to build this realm to the glory of the Founder."

She raised an arm towards the cleared land behind her.

"By Royal Decree, the grounds upon which I stand shall be hallowed ground. This will be a place of beauty where anyone can find peace and happiness. A place of remembrance where those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to defend our realm shall be forever honored for their heroics deeds. Know that a great monument shall be raised in this place to remember them and the night that our kingdom was saved."

The crowd cheered as the Queen left the stage. The procession headed to the Palace for the next great moment of the day.


The throne rooms was filled. For the first time in many years, it was for celebrations of victory. Many nobles were in attendance as they were being rewarded and being recognized for their deeds during and after the battle. Earth's ambassadors were also present, bearing decorations for those they had judged worthy. Julio stood there, a polite smile on his face as he carefully watched the ceremonies. It was another opportunity for him to observe the new players in Halkeginia. He watched as the youngest scion of the Grammont family walked forward and received his title of Chevalier from Queen Henrietta for his capture of the heretical Cromwell.

"Let it be known through the land that the Grammont Family are true servants of the Blessed Realm of Water. Their House has long served Tristain and defended her borders and people from foes, giving the greatest of sacrifices at time to ensure our Realm's survival. Today, we are here to celebrate the heroics of their youngest son. Kneel, Guiche André-François de Grammont."

The young noble kneeled as Henrietta touched his shoulders with her swords.

"For your triumph and capture of the heretical Oliver Cromwell during the Battle of Tristainia, I pronounce you Chevalier Guiche André-François de Grammont. Do you vow to serve the Founder and Tristainia in peace and in war?"

"I, Guiche André-François de Grammont, vow to serve the Founder and Tristainia in peace and in war."

"Rise than Chevalier de Grammont."

The gathered nobles clapped as the young man rose to his feet. Henrietta then signalled for the ambassadors to come forth. Ambassador Ambroise was the first to come.

"On behalf of the Governor-General of Canada, representative of her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth the Second, I present you the Meritorious Service Cross," he declared, "for your actions during the Battle of Tristainia that have brought honour and benefit to the Canadian Armed Forces. Your successful capture of Oliver Cromwell is the first successful capture of an enemy leader on the battlefield in centuries. It is an exploit of great gallantry that has shortened a bloody conflict and has saved civilian and military lives in all of our nations."

The ambassador pinned the Meritorious Service Cross on the left side of Guiche's chest as one of his staff took pictures. Next, it was Ambassador Fitzgerald that walked up to the young noble, accompanied by Colonel Hamilton who'd flown out here for the occasion. Guiche would be the first Tristainian to ever receive an American gallantry award. It was an honor that put him on the same level as some of the heroes of foreign armies in the greater conflicts of America's past, such as WWII and Vietnam.

"This is the Silver Star Medal. It is the 3rd highest decoration for valor in combat for the United States' Armed Forces." The Colonel explained for everyone before he read of the citation for the award, detailing Guiche's bravery in rescuing two of his fellow combatants from capture and then capturing the enemy head of state himself on the battlefield, a deed that brought an expedient end to the invasion and the war. It was also a feat of arms that had not been done by anyone in the United States military as well. There was great applause as the medal was pinned on his chest.

There were other awards given. Many nobles young and old, leaders and officers, were commended for particular acts of bravery or for perseverance against overwhelming odds. Henrietta handed out land to some of the families. The crown had gained a lot, but there was such a thing as too much to manage. It was as far as she could do for reparations.

Numerous water mages were personally thanked by Henrietta for their diligent care of wounded during the battle while Earth mages who'd done a great deal to repair the city were recognized.

To many nobles' surprise, but the silent approval of the Earth ambassadors and Julio, even a few commoners were awarded and personally thanked by the Queen. The American and Canadian officers, commoners may they have been, were the least surprising.

"Tristain will never forget the courage and compassion you showed for us in our darkest hour."

Commoner soldiers from the Tristain armies stood proudly with medals on their chests.

Even some regular citizens. Merchants who'd given out their wears were promised compensation for their selflessness. Siesta's uncle Scarron, though scandalizing some attendees with his presence and appearance, received the utmost tact from the Queen as she thanked him and his staff for tirelessly providing food for the city's citizens and soldiers for days, expending his entire kitchen's stores. From the way Henrietta spoke, all the commoners she thanked had done as much work as the nobles.

No one expected what happened at the end of the ceremony.

"Louise-Françoise Leblanc de La Vallière and Hiraga Saito, come forward." Henrietta declared. The two did as ordered.

"M. Hiraga Saito, for the many efforts you have done to help the Blessed Realm of Tristain and its people, I grant you the title of Chevalier. Please bow so that I may grant you your title."

Saito bowed as Henrietta touched each one of his shoulders with her sword.

"Rise, Chevalier d'Hiraga."

A pair of servants placed a cloak, symbol of Halkeginian nobility onto Saito.

"For your work in bringing forth the alliance between the Blessed Realm and the nations of Canada and the United States, you shall now be titled Viscount Des Ornières and entrusted with the welfare of Des Ornières."

"Thank you, your Majesty. I accept the title and responsibilities that you have entrusted me with."

There was an outbreak of whispering within the crowd as Henrietta handed him the deed. A commoner, a commoner from the other world even, being made a noble? Such things were only heard of in Germania! Ignoring them, Henrietta moved on to Louise.

"Lady Louise-Françoise Leblanc de La Vallière, for your steadfast friendship to the Crown, I award you with the title of Chevalier. Please bow so that I may grant you your title."

Louise and Henrietta went through the same ritual as the Queen had done with Saito.

"For your heroic deeds during the Battle of Tristainia that has ensured my personal safety, you and the House of Vallière shall be rewarded with the lands of Decambrais. You shall now be titled Viscountess of Decambrais and shall be entrusted with its welfare."

"Thank you your Majesty. I accept the title and responsibilities that you have entrusted me with."

Louise received the deed for the new land, although her mind fluttered on the inside. Not long ago, she was seen as failure, as a Zero… but now times had changed and she was being rewarded with things beyond her wildest dreams.


Saito and Louise marked the end of the award ceremony, and after that the 'fun' celebrations began. People moved to the more spacious parts of the Palace. Food and drinks were served. The Earth Ambassadors stayed, but for the most part it was the remains of Tristain's high society schmoozing.

Before Louise could enjoy any of it, she had to be lectured by her parents while Éléonore fumed off to the side. They made it clear she wasn't ready for that type of management and that they'd look after the new holdings while teaching her the ropes. Louise didn't argue; she really had so much on her plate right now she didn't want anything else.

"Congrats, you love birds." Hayate raised a glass to the two once they could finally enjoy themselves. "So, you're a noble now?" He asked his brother.

"Guess I am." Saito shrugged. The weight of it hadn't fully set in yet.

"Well Hiraga-sama, when will thou visit thy lands?" the older brother asked with a grin, causing Saito to roll his eyes and sigh in annoyance.

"In the next few days? I think I have to sign some paperwork or something first." He looked over at Louise, contemplating something as she stared into her glass. He moved behind her and put his hands on her shoulder. "So now that I'm a noble...does that mean I can marry you?"

"Wah?!" He gulped the glass' contents down while Louise almost dropped hers. "Y-you dog!" She stuttered, blushing furiously.

"Hmm. Since you two are the same rank if I understand correctly, there shouldn't be any difficulties getting married," the older Hiraga said, a hand on his chin, "It's almost as if her Majesty wanted to play matchmaker."

"How dare-" Louise started before she was interrupted.

"Tsk tsk, do not assume such things Hayate," a familiar voice chimed with a hint of mischief, "I was merely rewarding loyalty."

"Your Majesty!" Louise said as she curtsied.

"I hope you are enjoying the celebrations," Henrietta asked kindly.

"I am," Hayate replied, "First time I ever went to a banquet like this too."

"I am happy to hear that."

"How has your evening been your Majesty?" Louise asked curiously.

"Oh the usual," the Queen replied, "Discussing with the nobles about the future of the realm and if we are going to invade Albion with Germania."

"I hope you are not really considering that," Hayate asked, "You have just gone through a horrible war."

Henrietta shook her head grimly.

"There is a lot of pressure for me to do so," she answered honestly, "And there is a part of me that wishes to invade Albion as well." She glanced towards a ring on her finger.

"But why?" Saito asked in surprise.

"I do not wish to let the lands of the Tudors fall into chaos." she said plainly, "Someone will need to rule that land."

"They can figure it out for themselves." Saito suggested hopefully. "Like countries on Earth do." Henrietta smiled sadly.

"As wonderous your world is Saito...I'm afraid we just cannot do that here. Too many people in authority would protest. And if not us, who is to say Gallia won't?" There was a trace of worry in her voice. "The best option isn't always the easiest."

Saito and Hayate seemed to back down as she was right.

"Ah your Majesty," another refined voice cut in, "I was looking for you."

"Emissary Chésaré, I am happy that you have graced us with your presence," Henrietta said politely.

"Thank you. This banquet is splendid and I have had a few pleasant discussions with your court as well as the representatives from Earth." Julio answered before looking at Louise and the Hiraga siblings, "Who are these people?" He asked politely.

"My name is Hiraga Hayate." Saito's brother introduced himself first. "This is my little brother Saito. We're both from Earth."

"The other world?" Julio seemed surprised. "You were awarded a noble title, were you not?" He asked Saito.

"Oh, yeah. But I was here before the portal opened." Saito explained while Henrietta's eyes widened suddenly.

"How does such happen?" Julio raised an eyebrow. Saito jerked a thumb towards Louise.

"She summoned me as a familiar." He told the Romalian.

"But he's not just my familiar anymore!" Louise interjected. "He's my...uhhh…"

"A human familiar…" Julio mused, a hand on his chin and eyes darting between Louise and Saito. "I've never heard of such things."

"It was a surprise to us all." Henrietta said flatly. "But one that has been invaluable to our Kingdom."

"In fact, I've only heard of Void Mages being granted human familiars." Julio said out loud. You could feel the temperature in the immediate area drop. Henrietta kept a strong façade through sheer determination. Louise looked towards the ground in embarrassment. Hayate's confusion was genuine.

"A Void Mage?" Saito repeated as dumbly as he could, "What's that? I just thought she got lucky by herself summoning a boyfriend."

Louise reddened even more.

"Excuse him, Emissary, he's still not fully versed in our culture. While Louise has been a great help to my Kingdom, she is not the Void Mage." Henrietta lied. It was perhaps the riskiest thing she'd ever done in her time as Queen. "She and Saito have been valuable agents in establishing connections between Tristain and Earth."

"Interesting, your Majesty," Julio replied cryptically, "You seem to be very blessed in terms of friendships."

"Ah, excuse me, sorry for intruding. Are you the Emissary from the Pope?" A voice interjected on the group. The group turned and all but one of them recognized who it was.

"I am." Julio extended a hand to the newcomer. "You are?"

"Simon Anders. I represent the diplomatic services of Canada," the sharply dressed man introduced himself. "Some of my colleagues are here and we were hoping to speak to you and reaffirm some final details for that visit in a weeks time. My apologies, your Majesty." He added to Henrietta.

"None taken, M. Anders." She nodded.

"Of course, I cannot decline such important business. Pardon me." As Julio left for the group of men the undercover intel operative had pointed out, the well dressed man stayed behind and leaned in towards Saito and Louise.

"Kids, take my advice. Get the hell out of here. Go wait somewhere quiet till the party's over." Saito nodded and quickly pulled Louise away. Hayate went with them. Henrietta was looking seriously at the other man.

"We have the same interests, your Majesty. Sorry, we can discuss later." He answered the question that was on her mind.

"Of course." Henrietta nodded. "Thank you." As the man left to keep Julio busy, Henrietta resisted the urge to shake her head. Collaborating with her allies to deceive the Church...What was she getting herself and her Kingdom into?


"Man, that was just weird bro," Hayate said as the brothers entered their quarters. Louise had gone to her family's quarters, "Since when did you have spies watching your back and playing wingman for you?"

"I don't know." Saito was honestly confused. His relationship with the American and Canadian spies hadn't been all that pleasant, but they'd just bailed him out of hot water. A gentle knock on the door caught their attention.

"You can come in!" Hayate yelled as the door opened, revealing a young maid with a tray.

"Her Majesty has told me to bring food and wine up to your quarters, Viscount Hiraga," the woman said, "She suggests you to read the label on the wine bottle. It is a fine one from your new lands. She wishes you to be familiar with it." She set the tray down and quickly left. Saito picked up the bottle and noticed the tag as a lot larger then it should've been.

'Viscount, I strongly suggest you visit Lady Vallière before her parents return. Do not fret if they return to early as there is a secret passage between your quarters. Here are the instructions to use it.' Saito read through it quickly.

"I have to go." He looked up at his brother.

"Something wrong, bro?"

"Nothing, just got something to do," He grabbed Derf and hurried out. Meanwhile, Hayate decided to take a look at the wine bottle.

"Damn Henrietta! You really want those two together!" he joked, trying to relax himself before uncorking the bottle and pouring himself a glass, "Good wine too!"

The secret passage seemed more like an escape tunnel to Saito. It reminded him of his video games, how a lot of nobles really had things like that in their houses in case they needed to leave in a hurry. Well, he wasn't going to complain about their paranoia when it gave him a clear way to get to Louise.

He could see a sort of door at the end of the path as he continued walking quickly. Turning the handle and pushing, Saito could see a bright room appearing in front of him.

"AHHHHHHHH!"

And also an undressed Louise. He jumped and hit his head on the roof of the passage.

"THERE'S A PERV-SAITO?!" A very red-faced Louise shrieked before she rushed to him.

"Urgh, that was lower than I thought," Saito said gingerly as he rubbed his head.

"What are you doing here?!" She hissed, covering herself. "How did you get here?"

"The Queen told me about that hidden passage. Said I should check on you." He let his eyes wander over the pleasant sight. Louise remembered the state she was in and tried to angrily shove him back while covering herself with her hands.

"J-just let me dress at least!"

"Ok! Ok! Sheesh, isn't the first time I've seen you naked. Do you need a hand?" He got a kick in the ass for that comment and question.

"Not when my parents can walk in any time!"

Saito froze for a second.

"Good idea!"

He did not want them beheading him. Especially since he was getting on their good side during his last days at the Vallières manor. He stayed in the passage till Louise had changed into something more decent.

"Why are you here?" She asked when she let him back into the room.

"The Queen told me." Saito explained it again. "I think she was worried about the Juliet guy."

"Julio!" Louise scolded. "He-he represents the Church, Saito!" She been so scared when he called her out. "And he knows! I just know it!"

"Well, he can't force you to go anywhere." Saito insisted, "The Queen won't let him and I don't think Canada and the US will either."

"They can't stand against the Church, you idiot!" Louise argued, "You have no idea how powerful Romalia is!"

"You have no idea what happened to the most powerful church on Earth!" Saito countered, putting his hands on her shoulders. "I'm here, Louise! Whatever these people want with you being a Void Mage, it's your choice to go along with it. And if they try and force you, well...I can take you to Earth!" He came up with an outlandish idea. "They'll never find you there. You'll love Japan!"

The little mage blushed a bit before her face hardened again.

"I can't go against the Church… that… that would be going against the Founder himself!" She fretted. "But I'm not ready for something like that. I only just learned how to cast a spell!"

"You don't have to, because it's not happening." He pulled her into a hug. "I'll stay with you till your parents get back, I promise."


Later that evening, the festivities were winding down. Many nobles were excusing themselves home. Others sought residence for the night in the palace's various guest rooms.

Gentle snoring could be heard inside the Vallières' quarters. Saito and Louise had fallen asleep in each other's arms on the couch.

At the same time, a lone person was coming up to the stairs to that section of the palace. It was Julio. A palace servant had pointed him to the lodging and the fact Louise had come up here. The Void Mage was a little girl… Well, he'd expected something of the sort. The Founder's greatest gift always manifested itself young.

The deserted corridors made it easy for him to move around without being seen. He'd made sure that the girls' parents were still downstairs. It would make things a little easier. It was an unpleasant task though necessary for the salvation of Halkeginia. He was even aware this might upset the people from Earth. Well, what was that compared to a Void Mage? Nothing.

He pressed an ear to the door, hearing nothing. Hopefully she was asleep. Next, Julio backtracked to the first balcony he could find. His dragon mount was waiting for him there. Obviously he wouldn't be able to carry her out through the Palace gates. No, he'd fly her back. He climbed onto the beast's back and spurred it to the window of the Vallières' room before lightly stepping off onto the ledge. The mount flew up quietly to the right window before Julio leapt off into the room's open window. As he entered, the emissary took careful steps to avoid making too much noise.

"Hey partner! We got a problem!" A rusty voice suddenly shouted. Julio tensed up and looked around. "Hey pretty boy, wrong room!" He finally traced it to a wall where a sword was resting against it.

"Wha? Derf? What are you- shit!"

Julio turned around towards a doorway just in time to get tackled. His dagger flew from his hand as a fist collided with his face. Someone started screaming as Julio wrestled on the floor with his attacker.

Louise watched her boyfriend struggling with the intruder, rolling over and over into nearby furniture and knocking things over. Someone started hammering on the door to their room hard.

"Hello?! Anyone in there?" Louise ran to answer it. She opened the door, finding one familiar person and one she didn't know but was sure she could trust.

"Captain de Milan!" she exclaimed, "There's an assassin in here!"

Wordlessly, the captain drew her sword and pistol while the other man drew a concealed pistol from his vest and both rushed in past Louise.

"Halt or I'm shooting!" Agnes shouted clearly as the two adults took aim. The boys stopped fighting at the threat, allowing everyone to recognize the intruder. "Emissary?!" Agnes exclaimed. "Let him go!" She shouted at Saito, and that convinced him to drop the chokehold he'd been lucky enough to get.

Both men picked themselves up, Julio having a clear look of embarrassment on his face.

"Viscount Hiraga! Emissary Chésaré! What in the Founder's name is happening?!" Agnes continued. The CSIS agent had a hand on his radio but was waiting for an explanation.

"I don't know! He just showed up in my room without warning!" Saito defended, "So I attacked him in case he was dangerous!"

"Well, this is rather embarrassing." Julio said cooly as he smoothed out his clothes. "My apologies for frightening you. It was not my intention."

"Then why are you here?" Agnes said as she lowered her pistol slightly.

"Ah, well...I met Miss Valliere here at the party and sought to get better...acquainted with her."

The agent and Agnes' eyes narrowed in disgust and annoyance.

"He came through the window! I saw him." Derf spoke up.

"Is that the truth?" the agent asked, his voice cold with venom.

"Yes, I… sought to impress her. Many ladies fawn over a man who can make an mysterious entrance. A handsome man coming to them in the night. It has worked for me before. But it seems that she was already in good company."

"I strongly suggest you get out now Emissary," Agnès replied sharply, "Her Majesty will have harsh words the next time she meets with his Eminence."

"My leaders might not wish to discuss with a man whose behavior with women is reprehensible," the agent said, "I doubt that his Eminence would be pleased if our diplomatic relations were to end because of your lecherousness."

His tone was stern but polite.

"My apologies to all of you," Julio said, "I hope my conduct won't be too destructive to our diplomatic efforts. My behavior was most… unacceptable, Lady Vallière."

He bowed. "I apologize to you especially. Perhaps we can meet again under more normal circumstances."

Louise was still glaring at him.

"I accept your apology but do not expect me to forget this affront."

"I understand."

Julio exited the room by the window he had come in from.

After he had left, Saito plead his case. "He was lying! You should have stopped him!" He insisted.

"Yeah, no shit he was lying." The CSIS agent agreed. "Stanford here." He got on his radio. "That Romalian boy just tried to get to the Void Mage. He's not dead and we brushed it off as a misunderstanding, but we know what he was up to and he knows it." He held the radio to his ear for some time. "Right. Will do."

"What are you doing now?" Agnes asked.

"Talking to my superiors about this." He explained. "Can you go tell the Queen? You two," He pointed at Louise and Saito. "Pack your bags. You're staying in the Canadian Embassy tonight. We'll tell your parents for you." He turned back to Agnes. "For everyone's sake, we're going to pretend this didn't happen." He stated while Louise and Saito went to gather their things.

"That may be for the best, but her Majesty will not be happy."

"It's only temporary," Stanford replied, "None of us are going to be happy either, believe me." If they were lucky, that boy would just think they were afraid of offending the Church like every other Kingdom here.

The agent already knew what the worst case plan was: taking those two kids and hiding them on Earth. But it was a decision to be taken at the very highest level of leadership, given Louise's status and how Henrietta might react. Just helping her disappear might make things worse with the Church, but given what they knew about this world, they knew letting them have a Void Mage was probably worse.

"Conflict with the Church is the last thing we need." Agnes sighed.

"It's the last thing we need too." The agent assured. "But they don't want it and neither do we. We can sweep this under the rug."

"Yet you were the one who insisted we walk these corridors. You suspected something like this would happen here." Agnes accused. "What is your nations' interest in keeping a Void Mage out of Romalia's hands?" To her knowledge, it wasn't a subject they'd discussed with the Queen since apologizing for detaining Saito and Louise.

"Let's just say we like making sure our friends are doing well and safe," the agent replied simply as he holstered his pistol, "Do the reasons really matter if we're working towards the same thing, Captain de Milan?"

Agnes holstered her weapons but she still Queen didn't want Louise taken. All Agnes really wanted was for Henrietta to be safe.

"I don't know what your leaders are doing but I will inform her Majesty of this. But I hope for her sake she knows what she's doing."


It was a weird sensation, being away from Louise. After over a year, Saito wasn't within arm's reach of the small pink haired mage as he and Hayate rode their carriage through the countryside. After the Julio incident, Saito and Louise had spent the following day in the Canadian Embassy until Louise's parents were ready to return home.

He was sure they knew what had happened, because they'd gotten additional guards for the journey home and Louise's mom had kept a tight grip on her daughter's hand the whole way. It was satisfying to him to see so many people trying to keep her out of the Church's hands.

Still, Saito couldn't go back with them; he had other matters to take care of. But at least he was sure Louise's parents would keep her safe.

"Hiraga-sama, are we soon to arrive at thy domain?"

"Shut up big bro," Saito replied in annoyance as he tried to swat his brother, "And we should be here soon."

"Looks like a nice little place you got here though," Hayate said as he glanced through the peaceful countryside around him, "Can't believe you got a title and some land."

"Yeah, apparently Des Ornières belonged to a guy who died without an heir," Saito replied, "So it ended up back in the Queen's property."

The carriage came to a stop before everyone disembarked in front of an old manor house.

"Looks like it could use some work," Hayate said as he looked at the house.

"Yeah, apparently no one's been here in awhile," Saito explained as they opened the door, "Well… mom's gonna throw a fit if she sees this place."

"I wish I could see her face when she finds out that you got free land and a nice manor." Hayate joked, "Think you can get our parents to visit?" Both stopped and looked around. Just from the first floor, they could both tell it'd be a while before anyone should be able to visit: The spacious rooms were mostly empty save for a healthy layer of dust.

"Urgh," Hayate coughed as he looked around, "This place needs lot of work if you ask me. Think you can hire someone with that money you got?"

"Yeah…" Saito said as he looked around the building, "I think her Majesty said that this place is known for wine-making."

"Since when do you drink wine?" Hayate joked but Saito rolled his eyes.

"It could be a good way of making money."

"Yeah. Did you learn anything else about this place?" Hayate asked more seriously. Saito nodded, a serious look on his face.

"Yeah, it's a very poor region since the old lord wasn't a very good one. He wasted a lot of money on random shit and didn't care about the people so alot of them left. Apparently the Crown didn't have the means to restore the land as well."

"You think you can run this place though?" Hayate asked skeptically.

"It shouldn't be too hard right?" Saito said nonchalantly as he wandered around the entrance before spotting an envelope on the only table in the front parlor, one conspicuously absent of dust. He went to pick it up and noticed the American flag drawn on the outside.

"More spy stuff?" His brother guessed. "Are you a secret agent now too?" Saito opened the letter and realized it was in English.

Congratulations for your new title and property.

The Agricultural offices are at the Embassy if you want to make the best of it. There's also other people that might be able to help you make the place flowing with money. And if you're worried about security, come visit us at Clément-sur-Mer. The Embassy can set up transport for you.

George Devers.

"Yeah, it was those spies again." Saito frowned in a mix of annoyance and skepticism. "It sounds like they want to help me."

"After what you told me, think you can trust them?"

"I don't want to, but they already helped me with Louise. And after what Julio tried I really don't feel safe." Now looking around the big manor, he couldn't help but think of all the ways an intruder could get in. "I kind of want to ask why they're helping us too." He admitted.

"Just be careful, little bro. Don't want you disappearing in the night or something."

The two continued walking around inside the manor, making their way to the second floor where they assumed where the bedrooms would be.

"Looks like we're gonna have to get some new furniture," Saito remarked as they entered what he assumed was the master suite. It was empty, there wasn't even a bed inside the room.

"Well, I think you're gonna make some local artisan very happy if you ask me," Hayate said, "You'll have to buy almost their whole stock."

"Yeah, and my wallet unhappy." Saito grumbled.

"Don't be like that partner!" Derflinger exclaimed, "Here's your shot at a fun life. Think of all the good stuff you can get."

The Queen had given him money, but he'd been hoping to save that to spend on Louise; he hadn't been joking about the marriage thing.

"Think we can figure out a way to get electricity in this place? It's already got indoor plumbing so that's a nice start," Hayate called from the bathroom.

"That's gonna be complicated, I think." Saito replied as they finished their tour of the upper floor, "Think we can take a look at the basement next?"

"Sure. You got a flashlight or anything?" Hayate asked, "Oh wait, I got my phone for this."

As they reached the basement, they could feel how humid it was. Dust floated lowly in the air, flying out of their way. The basement was filled with empty wine racks. The last owner had clearly enjoyed the fruits of his land, that was for sure.

"Hey why is there a room here?" Hayate shouted as he pointed his phone at an open door. As they entered, they noticed that it had no racks or anything similar.

"Looks empty to me-GAAAH!"

Saito tripped on a wooden bar. He stumbled a few steps forward before bracing himself on the wall. The brick suddenly lit up and a rumbling sound was heard.

"You ok partner!?"

"It's a trap!" Hayate yelled as he began to turn, "We need to get out of here!"

"Wait a sec! The wall's turning!"

"What?!"

They threw a glance at the wall, noticing that a section had turned.

"This feels like a cheesy video game," Hayate remarked suddenly as he looked into the passageway that just appeared.

"No. Stuff like this is everywhere in this world. All the nobles are paranoid someone's going to kill them in their sleep," Saito pointed out as he drew Derflinger from its scabbard, "Might as well go check where this leads."

Like the rest of the manor, the passageway was decrepit. Spiderwebs hung on the sturdy looking beams as the two siblings and talking sword walked towards the end.

"This is… interesting." Hayate said as he saw the room they wound up inside. It was well furnished with a nice bed, tapestries and a mirror.

"Think this is where the old owner's mistress used to hid?" the older brother joked, "And her herself ready?"

"Maybe? At least I got some furniture now," Saito remarked as he looked at the mirror, "Something looks off about this mirror though."

"Think it's like that mirror from Harry Potter?"

He noticed that his reflexion was shimmering slightly he touched the mirror. Suddenly, the room's reflexion changed… to a darker room. "Whoa…" Saito said as he tried to push his hand in, before his brother immediately pulled him back.

"Oh no you're not! We already lost you once to weird magical portals!"

"It looks kind of familiar though." Saito remarked, causing his brother to tense up, "I mean the room, not the portal. Gimme a sec, I have an idea."

"Oh?"

"Yeah, we could throw something into it and see what happens?"

The older sibling shook his head.

"And risk pissing something or someone off on the other side? I think we should just take a picture of this and ask her Majesty or Louise about it," Hayate suggested, "It'll be safer that way for us."

"Yeah, you're right. We'll show it to her next time we're at the Palace, or when Louise comes to visit." Saito agreed, "Maybe I could write to Professor Colbert about this?"

"Sure."

Hayate snapped a picture of it, and the two boys continued looking around the rest of the manor, finding nothing of any real significance. But the mirror stayed in the back of the minds.

Eh, if it was anything dangerous, they could just chuck it out when they got new furniture into this place.


The scientific journals on Earth had covered a lot of things in twelve months worth of publishings: flora, fauna, the civilization of the Halkagenian people, and a lot of dedication to their history. They'd definitely talked about magic: it's properties, its practical uses, and the applications it could have on Earth assuming they ever found a way to replicate magic there. They'd gone crazy with windstones, but when faced with practicality it was all wishful thinking. Earth had only obtained very few windstones and experimentation on Earth so far had not triggered them in a way to show off their properties. Fire, earth, and water stones had apparently all been used up, at least in Tristain, and weren't covered as much.

But none so far had covered mages directly. There were vague details about how they usually needed an incantation and something like a wand or staff to focus, but nothing on how and why they could do it. The simple fact was, no one had figured it out yet.

They'd gotten DNA samples from mages from the earliest days of contact. They'd gotten more than a few during the banquet hosted when the diplomatic parties first arrived. They were minutely different from regular humans, both from Earth and commoners here in Halkegenia. What those differences were though, they couldn't be sure. They just knew there were differences in DNA, and that led credence to the theory magic was some sort of gene.

Mages were not a separate species or anything of the sort; magical nobles and non-magical commoners had procreated in Halkegenia before, and more often than that the child would inherit magical abilities. They were very much human by biology as it was an accepted science on Earth.

Elves were the same way, curiously. Tiffania was born of a mage and a elf. They had no knowledge of an elf and a non-magical person interloping, but they had no reason to assume it was impossible. The DNA sample that had been extracted from her during a health checkup showed similarities to humans and unique traits from magical and non-magical humans. But again, they weren't sure what those unique genomes were responsible for. They were pretty sure a sample from a full elf would be different. Some researchers had already proposed that the difference between humans and elves were only as substantial as skin color on Earth.

Either way, they'd come about as far as they could using just DNA samples. There was an interest in the brain activity of mages, but that was much harder to research. Unsurprisingly, nobles weren't overjoyed about being asked if they could be test subjects. Right after the war, some scientists had even gone so far to ask if they could have a mage cadaver to look at. But by virtue of the risk they posed, most if not all the magical combatants had been killed by means that tended to destroy the body and make research impossible. What ones weren't were quickly buried in mass graves by the locals or by troops when they died in Earth care.

And while they might have seriously considered the request if they had an intact body on hand and no one was looking, they still wouldn't go so far as to run experiments on a captive mage. Ethics still applied.

The half-elf was a dead end in both biology and magic; they'd been told that elves had a different sort of magic to humans, but Tiffania couldn't offer them anything on that. It might have been her upbringing, but she had no idea on what elven magic could do or how to access it.

What she could offer them was her ring, a gift from her mother. It gave her the ability to cast healing magic, something she'd proven by healing some of the wounded prisoners still taking up space in the base's prison. Apparently creating magically imbued items was a specialty of elves.

They were at another dead end, but at least they could say they make another leap. There was confidence more would be figured out in time.


Tiffania was walking worriedly alongside a pair of armed guards. Even though she'd done his several times before, she never got any less uneasy. But they insisted there be guards any time she went to talk to Mathilda. It was a prison after all.

She still thought that was incredibly unfair of them to keep her sister in a cell. She finally arrived at the usual room where she would meet Mathilda. The guard opened a door, revealing a small window with a grill in it. Tiffania sat down on the chair facing her sister.

"Hello Mathilda," she said.

"Hello Tiffania, I hope you are doing well."

"We all are." She nodded. "The children absolutely love those plays the guard gave us. 'Frozen' is their favorite."

"I'd love to watch it with them some time."

"Have they said when they're going to let you out, yet?" Tiffania asked the same question she always did on these visits. She still just couldn't conceive people capable of separating so many children from their caretaker knowingly. She'd brought some of the children with her on the first visits, and none of the guards had even batted an eye when they got upset they could only see Mathilda and not have a hug or anything of the sort. What kind of monsters let children cry?

"No. Not yet."

"But why are you treated like a prisoner?" Tiffania asked again, "You are not a criminal!"

"We've been over this. I offended these people and this is the price I have to pay. There is nothing else I can say."

As always, Mathilda would try to brush off the questions that Tiffania had insisted on over and over and turn to more pleasant things.

"How are the children doing though?"

Tiffania didn't like how the conversation had changed again but reluctantly followed it.

"They are doing well. They haven't eaten this well in a long time and the Canadians and Americans have set up some sort of school for them." She told her sister about all the strange and amazing things that they were learning.

"Wonderful."

"They have also learnt a lot of songs from the plays that they've been seeing. Though they could use some practice." Tiffania admitted.

"What about you? Are they treating you well?"

Tiffania nodded.

"Yes, they're very friendly with me," she replied happily, "A lot of them wanted to take pictures with me. Apparently, they've never seen anyone like me."

"Is that so?" Did she see her sister's eye twitch just then? "Well, I'm glad they don't judge you for being half-elf."

"Yes, they really liked it and some wanted to talk to me more."

"Be careful Tiffania," Mathilda said icily, remembering how sheltered the half-elf was, "They are still men like any other."

"Oh…"

"Time's up!" a voice suddenly shouted, making Tiffania jump. "Wrap it up."

"Oh." She said in disappointment. They only let her talk to her sister for fifteen minutes, and somehow it always seemed to be over too quickly. "I wanted to talk more." She said regretfully.

"It's fine, Tiffania." Mathilda assured her. "I enjoy these talks however short they are. Please go take care of the children."

"I'll come back and talk as soon as they let me." Tiffania promised. "Maybe by then they'll let you out."

"Maybe." Her sister didn't dash her hopes. The two women parted with a familiar yet agonizing sense of distance.


The two screaming masses collided in one noise and soon very bloody flailing of limbs and weaponry. A long range camera recorded from a nearby treeline. The sight on this one lonely field wasn't uncommon. In fact, it was becoming more common by the day in Albion.

With the Tudors' dead, no one had a blood claim to the Throne of Air. With Cromwell gone, no had a right to it as conqueror either. So it stood empty until the remaining nobles of the land decided it needed to be filled. Anything but a monarchy was unacceptable; these people couldn't live without it. So, the nobles gathered to determine which family would now take up position as a royal bloodline.

Talk had lasted only a single day before they decided to settle the matter through blood.

It wasn't just fighting for the crown now either. With so many heads of families, heirs, and key nobles dead from the invasion and retaliatory airstrikes, their families were considerably weakened or there was no ownership of the land all together as entire lineages had collapsed. A lot of nobles had started to try and take what was either free or easy to conquer, trying to amass power and wealth enough to validate a claim to rulership.

Manors were burned. Holdings razed. Farms were being either ransacked or destroyed to deny them to another power. Even the churches that had been spared by Cromwell had become valid targets. To the horror of many of its citizens, blood flowed once more in the White Country as Albion was embroiled in a another civil war, and this time it looked like there was no charismatic leader to rise up and save them.

The armed conflicts, at least, were relatively small. The angry mass fighting right now only had less than two hundred men in it. Cromwell had taken a lot of local troops and experienced leaders with the promise they'd be returned with riches. Now, surviving nobles had to rebuild from almost nothing. A lot of the men out there clumsily swinging swords, clubs and maces had only gotten their weapon that morning. Crude standards flew in the wind as these hastily levied-men fought over war-torn lands. It was an ugly affair. There was no tactics involved, no strategy or planning whatsoever. Hastily assembled masses of men were just being thrown at each other with their leaders praying to Brimir for victory.

It was something the intelligence agencies had been watching for the last few days with a sense of detachment. To them, an invasion would've been a good idea; nobody here was going to have the power to establish control over the whole of Albion. But it wasn't their call to make.

They were only here to observe as the country sped towards its own self-imposed demise. What would happen was up to their leaders.


"Interesting."

In one of his private studies, Joseph was reading one of the books that Tabitha had sent to him at his request. He had asked her about any books about the Earth leaders whose nations were present in Halkeginia. This Donald Trump that he reading about was frankly an aberration to him. A commoner merchant writing about his own life and business deals? Ridiculous, arrogant and pretentious! In his mind, only those born of noble blood should have the right to have their lives remembered in History.

"Master Joseph?"

"Enter Sheffield. I am finishing up my reading about Donald Trump for the night," he said as he disdainfully put down 'Trump: The Art of the Deal'.

"Oh? Has it been productive?" she asked as she sat down across him. Joseph scoffed.

"Hmmph. As interesting as reading about a commoner who enriched himself through luck! Truly disgusting to see such a man become leader of a nation."

"During my time in Albion, I had a spy reporting on the United States. It is not surprisingly to see such a man rise to power in a nation known to be one of merchants."

Joseph's eyes narrowed in disgust as she continued.

"And yet this nation is the most powerful and wealthy one on the other side of the portal. Have you begun reading about that silly boy; Justin Trudeau?"

"No." Joseph shook his head.

"If anything, he seems to be rather naïve, believing that all people can coexist if they find 'common ground'." Sheffield mocked the last two words, "It seems that his nation is built on that principle."

"Fools," Joseph said with a bored expression before changing the subject, "Has your little project gone well?"

Sheffield smiled sinisterly as she looked out the window. Word of negotiations between Tristainia and Germania had reached them, and suddenly Joseph decided there might still be a little fun to have. So, he'd had Sheffield get in contact with some unconventional friends she'd made in Albion.

"Yes my master. Everything should be done in a week. If Tristain doesn't seek to invade Albion now, they certainly will after our little...encouragement."


The Musketeers had always been a small and elite force, its number rarely rising above 80. After the bloody mess that had been the coronation, it only had 38 members in its ranks. But they were no less capable or dedicated to protecting the Queen. And today, they were getting better tools for the job.

The trading of military technology was still off the table. No matter what happened, that was not a line America and Canada were willing to cross. They were inflicting enough of a cultural shock with non-lethal tech sharing. If they introduced arms into the equation, things would just get ugly. With Julio poking around and all these mentions of heresy, anything that could make killing easier was being held very close to the chest.

But warfare and internal security were very different things. Or you could at least argue the point; A lot of politics was twisting definitions. With that in mind, the Musketeers being granted some Earth technology wasn't exactly modernizing a foreign armed forces. They weren't being given any new weapons.

Henrietta had had some Earth currency saved up from the crown's direct trade with the realm. A lot of it was going to reconstruction now, but she'd requested to her connections to the other world if there were perhaps any negotiations that could be had in helping improve her Musketeers- her personal guards.

Her request had actually ended up at the highest levels on the American and Canadian governments where it got debated for a while. But given Henrietta's importance, the loyalty of the Musketeer force, and all the shortcomings the coronation had revealed in security procedures, both countries had decided that a little aid would be acceptable.

To that end, the Musketeers were becoming the first, and intentionally only, force in Halkegenia that would have the advantage of radio communications. It was a private contract signed with a private security firm based in the US that would come give the Musketeers the necessary training and maintain the small amount of infrastructure that would have to be installed to make it practical. America and Canada had subsidized the cost, and there was a three way agreement to fund the maintenance. It wasn't the only thing the Musketeers were getting however.

They were getting outfitted with tasers. Minister Richemont's demise rather than capture might have had something to do with the decision… though some of the instructors wondered if the old man's heart would have been able to handle the shock. Either way, there was no harm in giving the Musketeers a capability to easily capture suspects or other people. The training in that was much shorter, but entailed a certain process.

"We have a little tradition in our world for police forces who use these tasers." the instructor said as he produced his own while the women looked at him curiously, "Essentially, you each get to experience the wonderful effects of a taser first hand."

"Excuse me?" Agnes asked, slightly stupefied, "Did you really say that?"

"Oh yes. You need to understand its power before you can use it on other people. Now who's willing to start?" There was uncertainty in everyone's expression. Obviously, no one fancied being on the receiving end of a weapon when they'd been lectured on its power.

"I will." Agnes stepped boldly forward. She was interested in this special type of gun. And if that was what it took, so be it. Besides, she felt confident she could handle it.

"I'm going to have to ask you to remove your metal armour though. It might cause some complications and this is just a safe test. To ensure your safety, your colleagues will brace you so that you won't injure yourself if you fall."

"Understood."

The Chevalier removed her heavy chestplate before the instructor told her to move a fair distance away from him. He then instructed two of Agnes' fellow Musketeers to stand on either side of her and hold her up. "Because otherwise, you will fall to the ground." He explained.

The Musketeers held their commander as the instructor raised his weapon.

"You ready?"

"Yes." Agnes braced herself. The instructor took aim and fired, two of the prongs shortly after hitting the woman. Agnes was a soldier. She'd had her fair share of training incidents. She'd fallen off horses or gotten kicked by them. Injured by overenthusiastic sparring partners. And not too long ago had fought off multiple assassins despite grievous injuries. She thought she could handle pain.

But this taser was something else… her entire body locked up, every muscle painfully seizing up and refusing to move as she cried out in pain for a brief instance. She had barely registered the crackling sound it made before she was sinking to her knees. The energy ceased of all suddenly. Agnes tried to catch her breath, her body still wracked by lingering pain.

"I… understand… what… you... meant... earlier," she replied between breaths. The man nodded.

"I assume I've convinced all of you of how useful something like this will be?"

Everyone nodded, realizing the power of a non-lethal weapon, then noticeably flinched when he spoke again.

"Who's next?"


Henrietta stood in the Palace's war room as she and General du Poitier looked over the latest recruitment reports coming in. With them was an American officer and a few other assistants who were going through reports with them. The numbers for the Royal Army were swelling quickly, although many of them were still being trained. A great many people from here in the Capital and the other holdings in the Kingdom were coming to enlist. It also helped that many holdings had fallen under her direct rule, opening up her manpower pool drastically.

Some sought vengeance, having been left with nothing. Some sought to defend their homes from future attack. Others were seeking new work. A few had even discovered they quite liked battle. Whatever the reason, they'd come by the thousands to the mustering fields. They had more men in training than the standing Royal Army had had soldiers pre-war! Training and equipping so many men was simply impossible with the means that Henrietta disposed.

She had a low amount of support from her allies. America and Canada were still providing rations for her people, troops included, and they'd given some tents for the recruits to use. The amount of help they could give though it was getting smaller by the day; they were downsizing, sending many of their soldiers home and leaving only enough to help with the rebuilding and aid distribution.

"Pardon me, your Majesty." the American logistics officer said, "But you will not be able to sustain such a rapid expansion. At this rate, you'll reach the limit of the supplies that we can grant you right now."

Henrietta and Du Poitier looked at him for a moment.

"Are you certain?" she asked quietly.

"Yes. You'll expend the supplies for this month in about two weeks," he replied, "And I'm afraid that our hands are tied."

Henrietta sighed. While her allies had her back in defending Tristain, it was another matter when it came to invading Albion. She suspected they were holding back to prevent it. All the more reason to prove Tristain could do it on its own.

"Thank you for warning me," she said, "General du Poitier, would it possible for us to slow down the current recruitment?"

"Yes your Majesty," he replied as the American logistic officer leaned back his chair in thought.

"Would it possible for these men to be used elsewhere?" Henrietta asked suddenly as an idea came to mind.

"Perhaps," du Poitier replied, "What is your idea your Majesty?"

"There are still regions that are still undergoing reconstruction. We could perhaps use these men to help rebuild until we have the means to train them?" Henrietta proposed, "It would shorten the people's suffering if we can rebuild faster."

"That is a wise idea your Majesty," du Poitier admitted, "But we may have difficulties in convincing them when they have joined to take up arms rather than hammers and saws."

"Maybe not." the logistician said, his face deep in thought, "But you might be able to help them sell the idea. They've seen us in in action enough here in the Capital."

He paused for a second as he ran the idea through his mind.

"Could be also a way to show the countryside that their Queen cares about them too."

"Very then. How can we organize this?" Henrietta said. She'd spend the rest of her afternoon discussing with her own people and her allies, but by the end of the day they were already setting up an information campaign and a training program that would make all those excess recruits useful.

At least until Henrietta could get weapons into their hands like she wanted.


The two moons shone brightly above as many of students of the Tristain Academy were entering the dining hall. Others hung around in various parts of the Academy. Sumptuous food was being laid out on the tables, some of it new additions from Chef Marteau's new Earth recipe books. Malicorne drooled in excitement as he watched the food being served. Tabitha was in the dorms putting away the new novel she was reading while Kirche was flaunting her newest clothes that she had gotten from Earth to some lovestruck male admirers. Meanwhile, Colbert was discussing with Richer and Leroy about their latest successful experiments with steam engines and magic at the professors' table.

No one seemed to have noticed that Montmorency wasn't present. In another part of the Academy, she was sitting in the psychologist's makeshift office discussing with him while two MP's stood guard outside. Meanwhile, Guiche taking a walk on the grounds as he enjoyed the sounds of peace. He'd come all the way from the Capital, intending to take his girlfriend out on a late night date to celebrate his promotion in rank by the Queen. It otherwise seemed to be business as usual tonight as everyone went on with their daily lives.

However, a group of a dozen men stood waiting outside in the nearby treelines. They were a mixed bunch. Some were mercenaries while others were Albionian soldiers who had survived since the invasion, now under the only employment that wouldn't get them executed. Two had only joined up tonight, driven by ideology rather than money like the others.

They were watching as the lights started to go off one by one in the main building as more and more people went to bed. They were also glancing over towards the portal a fair distance away. The lights were still on, but there wasn't any activity that they could see. No carriages going in and out.

They stayed there watching for activity for a while. Finally, a massive, silvered haired man stood up, his brutally scarred face contorting in a smile as he raised his staff and stepped out of the treeline. His party soon followed him. They strode across the ground, quickly but confidently, towards the Academy's unguarded gates.


Guiche and Montmorency were walking inside one of the hallways after she finished her meeting.

"I am very happy for you my dear Guiche," Montmorency said as she looked at her boyfriend. It was apparent that the war had changed him. He looked more serious, more focused now. The way he carried himself in his military uniform made him seem more like a man than ever before.

"Thank you Montmorency. Never would I have thought that I would be honored in such a way," he replied as he looked at the medals on his chest, "Have you been able to find peace at night?"

The girl sighed.

"It is getting easier," she replied, "My dreams are slowly getting peaceful now."

"I am happy to hear that. It seems that your beauty has not been tarnished though," Guiche complimented, "If anything, you appear more radiant than before. Have you changed anything my dear flower?"

Montmorency giggled… it seemed that the Earth makeup was working.

"Ah, but it is the secret of a maiden."

"Secrets?" Guiche stopped and put a hand under her chin. "With me still, my dear?" He leaned in close, making her blush bright red. Suddenly the sound of boots thumping nearby caused both of them to separate, concerned about being caught by a groundskeeper or some other academy staff.

A man appeared at the end of the corridor they were in, and at a distance they couldn't immediately tell what he was wearing. Then when he caught sight of them he suddenly began to charge towards the pair. Montmorency shrieked, but Guiche's face hardened as he shoved his girlfriend behind him and drew his sword in one smooth motion, his reflexes kicking in. "Halt!" He thundered. Instead, the interloper raised his weapon.

And was met with cold steel as Guiche blocked the blow and stood his ground. Their blades clashed but it was apparent who had the advantage as the young noble skillfully parried each sloppy blow from his opponent. A clumsy strike missed its mark clearly before a well placed blow slashed into the unknown assailant's arm and he screamed in agony. Guiche didn't hesitate to finish him off.

More thundering bootsteps, this time behind them. Montmorency stared behind her fearfully, but then appeared the American soldiers. They and the doctors had been packing up for the day to return to the checkpoint when they heard the commotion.

"What's happening here?!" one of the soldiers shouted as he pointed his M4 at the fallen man.

"We don't know. This man appeared and attacked us." Guiche reported calmly. A quick glance at the masked man confirmed that he was definitely hostile, his dirty clothing being far too reminiscent of an Albionian uniform, something the American didn't miss.

"What are these people doing here?" one of the soldiers in surprise, "There's no way that stragglers would attack here of all places."

Meanwhile, the other one was already radioing in to the portal checkpoint about the incident. The MPs and medical personnel took up positions there in a nearby room. Command was sending out more MPs. They'd get in contact with the Academy staff and sweep the structure for intruders before getting them the hell out of there. Guiche and Montmorency were commanded to stay with them for their own safety. The small party waited with tense breath, trying their hardest to ignore the smell from the fresh corpse that was already making the blonde noble light headed.

"Fear not," Guiche held his girlfriend close as both tightened their grip on their wand or sword. "I'm here. We'll get through whatever this is."


At the same time, the rest of the intruders were already ransacking the dorms, having subdued the staff first. The sounds of doors being smashed open resonated throughout the hallways followed by shrieks of terror. One man burst into a luxurious room with Germanian styled decorations… only to find it empty. The wind blew through the curtains, the window having been left open.

On the roof above, Kirche blew a sigh of relief as she and Tabitha caught their breaths. By a turn of chance, both were wide awake when they heard the thumping and screaming. Tabitha had called Sylphid to the window and they'd fled the dorms just in time to reach a part of the roof.

"We must get help!" Kirche exclaimed, "This is terrible!"

"We must wait until they start leaving the dorm," Tabitha said calmly.

Tabitha nodded as she looked into the distance. The lights were still on at the guard post near the trade station. The two girls kept watching as their friends were led out of the dorms. Finally, the last group entered the main building. Both girls got back on Sylphid and took off with all possible haste towards the trading post. As they landed, they saw a group of MP's patrolling the grounds with their dogs. The base had already gotten the distress call from the small team in the Academy and a response force was just about to leave.

"Halt! What are you doing here at this time?" their commander shouted as she saw the girls land.

"Thank the Founder!" Kirche shouted, "Something terrible has happened at the Academy!"

"What?" the woman asked calmly.

"Men came into the Academy and have taken everyone hostage!" Kirche explained. The soldier's expression hardened.

"Come me with right away!"


Terrified students had been forced out of their rooms without a chance of fighting back and dragged to the main banquet hall, some having terrible flashbacks of the recent war. As they arrived, they saw their teachers and headmaster as well as the commoner servants and Earth scientists bound by magical ropes. Fear increased exponentially in the room as the last group of men entered with their hostages.

Old Osmond stared defiantly at the leader despite his iron mask and cold white eye.

"What do you want?" the headmaster asked but was met with laughter, "This is a place of learning and teaching!"

"It is very simple you blasphemer!" one replied mockingly, "We want the Lord-Protector to be returned to us!" Osmond's eyes widened in shock as the man ranted about putting an end to the unholy pact between Tristain and Earth and breaking down Pope Vittorio's power. The students that overheard suddenly looked even more terrified. No doubt that they wanted vengeance for the defeats that had befallen them. Some were already lecherously eying the girls gathered there.

"Do you really think that our leaders would let themselves them be intimidated by some thugs like you!" a scientist shouted back in annoyance.

"Enough." The apparent leader of these brutes silenced the man's rambling, "We seek many things today! Do as we say and you won't be harmed by our flames."

He walked around, each step taken as threateningly as possible.

"Any foolishness… and I will burn you!" he roared, "The temptation is…"

And suddenly he stopped, right in front of where Colbert and two of the scientists from Earth had been dropped on the ground. Colbert's eyes widened as he suddenly recognized the man.

"This temperature… it is… familiar to me! Could it be? Could it be?" The man leaned down right into Colbert's face, and the scholarly mage could see an eye devoid of sight but somehow still full of rage, madness and hatred.

Menvil was almost frothing at the mouth, unnerving the Earth scientists even more.

"Yes… yes! It is the temperature that I have seeked."

"Menvil…" Colbert breathed quietly, lowering his eyes.

"You know him?!" Richer exclaimed as he looked at both men. The other staff were looking at Colbert too.

"He is... an old acquaintance." Colbert stated simply, " But I hadn't figured him for an Reconquista sympathiser." And suddenly Menvil roared with maniacal laughter.

"Old acquaintance?! Just that… Captain!?"

"Captain?" Leroy was trying to understand this turn of events, and why Colbert looked so uneasy and guilty all of a sudden.

"Why didn't Enjya the Flame Snake tell you who he was?!"

Confusion appeared on their faces, but their audience with the madman was suddenly cut short.

The man Menvil had posted watching the front gate suddenly came running in. "There are lights approaching the grounds!" Ah, so there they were. Good; they could make their demands now than wait till the morning. Menvil roughly grabbed a random teenage girl from the crowd and, ignoring her panicked screams and her friends struggling in their bindings to try and stop him, went outside the greet the newcomers.


The distress call had been answered immediately, and only a few minutes later two Humvees and two G-Wagons full of MPs were speeding away from the portal towards the Tristain Academy of Magic. They were just heading through the gates when Kirche and Tabitha's warning got relayed to them. As they sped into the yard and stopped in front of the main doors, the head lights shone over a disturbing sight: a giant disfigured man with an iron mask over the left side of his face, holding a massive staff to a teenage girl being held in front of him.

"Stop right there!" he called out in a deep voice, "Not one step further or she burns!" The doors on the utility vehicles opened and American and Canadian MPs spread out while the fact was radioed back to base.

"Identify yourself!" One of the Earth lieutenants ordered, but the man laughed as he jabbed the girl.

"I am Menvil! My men and me have just taken this whole academy hostage!" He declared. "We have not harmed any of them. Yet." He pressed the staff to his hostage's neck once again. "But we will unless our demands are met!"

The MP's clenched their teeth. It didn't look like this was one crazy fanatic.

"What do you want?" The same lieutenant asked calmly despite sweat building up in his helmet.

"We have three demands!" He held up three fingers. "Listen well because I will only say them once!" He made sure he had their full attention. "Oliver Cromwell will be released from his prison!" And with that demand, the gathered soldiers immediately knew what kind of situation this was. "We demand a sum of of 1000 écus per hostage! Lastly, we demand safe passage from this place with our ransom earnings!" He pointed the staff at them. "Tell your leaders and tell the Queen. That shouldn't be too hard for the likes of you. If our demands aren't met by this time tomorrow..." He glanced down at his hostage. "There will be ashes."

"We'll need time to get all that together." The lieutenant warned.

"So be it. Now leave these grounds." Menvil ordered. "If me or any of my men see your kind inside the walls, the hostages will perish in flames." The MPs started to back up, reconverging around their vehicles. The man's demands were relayed back, and the order to pull back was given.

"We'll move. Tristainian authorities will be here to negotiate with you soon." The lieutenant informed the hostage taker. Menvil watched as they got back in their carriages and left the yard, stopping just outside the gates.


Henrietta was stirred in her bedchambers by someone urgently shaking her shoulder. The young woman had finally gotten a reasonable sleep schedule back, but now it was being disturbed. "Henrietta! Henrietta, you must wake up!" It was her mother. Tristain's Queen raised her head quickly and caught sight of her mother's concerned face over the candle she was holding.

"M-mother?" she said groggily, "W-what is happening?" She sat up.

"There is a crisis in the Kingdom," the archduchess said urgently.

Henrietta immediately threw off her covers and jumped out of bed.

"What is happening?!" the Queen seemed to have lost any lingering sleepiness.

"It's the Academy. We have received terrible news. Unknown men have taken the students and staff as hostages!"

"WHAT!" Henrietta shouted in an unladylike fashion, "Send for Agnes immediately!" She threw off her sleepwear and hurried into something more combat oriented.

"America and Canada are already moving their troops to the grounds. The Ambassadors have been trying to reach you. They say…" Her mother appeared uncertain. "They say they're demanding Cromwell be released in exchange for the students' safety." Henrietta froze, eyes bulging and cold terror seeping into her heart as she finished dressing.

"Mother, please wait for me in my study. I shall not take long." she said with cold determination. She grabbed her staff and sword and stalked down the corridors, past late night palace servants who seemed surprised to see her up this late. As she walked, she realized that the heretical leader had maybe set up a contingency should anything happen to him… no doubt that it needed preparations before being executed. It disgusted her profoundly.

Her angry steps took her to the dungeon.

"Y-your Majesty!" the Tristain guards said as they bowed before her, "Why are you here?"

"It is an emergency. Take me to our dear guest immediately!"

Her sharp tone was not missed by the men who wordlessly took her inside. When she arrived near the cell, the guards from both worlds looked at her quizzically. Faint snoring could be heard in the background

"Your Majesty?" one of them asked.

"There is an hostage crisis at the Academy and M. Cromwell needs to answer for it. Open his cell and do what is necessary to wake him," she coldly ordered.

The cell door swung open as one of the guards entered. The former Reconquista leader looked paler and thinner than last time she had seen him. His hair seemed thinner, no doubt that his stay in Tristain wasn't the most comfortable one.

"HEY WAKE UP SHITHEAD!"

Cromwell slowly stirred to life… only to see a sword pointed at his nose. Despite his throat being hoarse from disuse, his shriek of terror filled the dungeon.

"Good evening M. Cromwell," Henrietta coldly said, her sword still pointing at the cowering man, "I hope you've slept well… because I would like to have a few choice words for you."

"C-come to gloat over me, your Majesty?" he asked mockingly, "Or to confess to your sins?"

Henrietta's eyes grew colder.

"If anything, you are the sinner today! The students have been taken hostage at the Academy by your followers!" Cromwell blinked in surprise before a small smile started to creep onto his face.

"Really?" he asked curiously, implying he had no part in it.

"Yes." Even if he hadn't ordered it, he was still responsible for his followers' actions.

He laughed like a madman.

"Brimir's true followers have once more proven their worth!" he boasted, "If you do not submit to their demands… you will feel our wrath!"

It was truly a spectacular turn of events as his feverish laughter continued. Cromwell didn't know who had done it but would reward them handsomely once everything was done. In his seemingly triumphant haze, he didn't see the seething rage on Henrietta's face as she swung her sword's pommel at his face, knocking him on his side. Pain filled his mind as he looked back up dazedly… only to see a sword come down towards him.

The sound of shrieking and liquid dripping followed by a pungent stench and whimpering filled the cell. But he was unharmed; Henrietta had only cleaved the air next to him. She sheathed the blade while looking at the grown man in front of her who'd just soiled himself. "Pathetic. To think you had caused us so much grief. This is nothing next to the humiliation we will give you." she said disdainfully before turning to the grinning guards.

"I must apologize for this little mess." She told the guards. "Clean him up or leave it. It makes no difference to me." And with that, she strode out of the dungeon to handle the attack.


Phones rang in the White House and Rideau Cottage, catching the US and Canadian heads of state not long before they were about to turn in for the night. Both men were informed of the terrorist attack not far from the portal and the demands that an enemy head of state be released. It was a foreign policy crisis. The war with Albion had just reignited.

"Those bastards!" Trump roared into his phone at the White House, "Get me Mattis and Trudeau now!"

Trudeau was pacing impatiently as he waited for his transport to arrive to carry him to NDHQ when his secured phone rang.

"You've heard of what happened haven't you?" Trump asked, the faint sound of rotors in the background.

"Yes, these terrorists have taken children hostage." Trudeau replied, his voice steely, "Minister Sajjan, General Vance and General Dawe of CANSOFCOM have all been notified."

"I'll see who my people can send up too." Trump assured confidently. "We'll make sure all those kids are getting out alive! Cromwell's going to answer for this little stunt!"

Moments later, both men had arrived at their respective crisis centers. The conference call was already up and running between Earth and Tristain.

"Good evening your Majesty," Trudeau said tensely.

"Good evening M. Trudeau, M. Trump." Henrietta replied, "I have already tasked Chevalier de Milan and my Musketeers to assist in this crisis. Reconquista will not get away with this."

"You're absolutely right, your Majesty." Trump said, "These terrorists still didn't learn their lesson and now they'll pay the price."

"Has Chevalier de Milan already left?" Trudeau asked quickly.

"She and the Musketeers are currently readying themselves to leave."

"Please, let us help by lending our transports." Trudeau proposed, "We can get her and her forces there within an hour to help."

Henrietta looked to one of her aides and ordered him to stop Agnes from leaving.

"I've already confronted Cromwell." She told them. "He had the audacity to laugh."

"Son of a bitch," Trump growled.

"His audacity did not last long however," Henrietta replied, "The guards are cleaning up after his little accident."

"Have you been able to get anything from him though?" Trump asked more seriously though he and Trudeau had small smiles on their faces.

"I'm afraid that I've only gotten more inane ramblings and bragging about his followers."

The Earth leaders cursed the man.

"Do you know anything about these people?" Trudeau asked.

"I'm afraid that we don't know anything about this group," Henrietta answered.

"Nothing. They might be stragglers from the invasion, although we have no idea how they've lasted this long or how they've become daring enough to do this. Sympathetic locals, maybe." Mattis reported.

"How'd they get in? Doesn't that school have guards?"

"No, since it was expected that the professors would be able to handle any threats," Henrietta admitted, "Their talents for magic was considered sufficient to protect the students up to now."

"Good lord…" Trump muttered to himself while Trudeau silently shook his head.

"What is the plan then? My Musketeers will arrive and help secure the area. We can attempt a rescue as well." Henrietta proposed.

"Please wait your Majesty," Trudeau suggested, "We can work together to solve this crisis."

"Not to mention that our people might have a few tricks that Reconquista never heard of," Trump added, "It will give those kids a better chance."

"I see," Henrietta said after a moment, "But what do you suggest?"

"America does not negotiate with terrorists," Trump declared, "Neither does Canada. Am I right M. Trudeau?"

"Yes. We have no intentions of letting these terrorists gain anything."

"Why are you saying this?" Henrietta asked, perplexed at their declaration.

"We'll buy time by pretending to negotiate with them," Mattis explained, "Time with which our forces can better plan and prepare how to rescue them."

"I simply wanted to make sure that you understand our approach," Trump said. "We've dealt with situations exactly like this, your Highness. Trust us."

"Ok." Henrietta nodded to herself. "I trust you."


All commercial activity had ceased and the portal area was shut down and secured to allow in more troops of the Royal 22e Régiment to come in and deal with the developing crisis. There was a lockdown for all Earth installations in Halkegenia. The Academy was completely surrounded, the road leading out especially. Blackhawks circled in the air, spotlights dancing over the stone towers and central structure of the castle as the sun hadn't even started to rise yet.

Huynh and his men had taken up position nearby, their weapons ready for anything. The briefing had been short.

"Reconquista-aligned terrorists have infiltrated the Tristain Academy of Magic and taken the students, staff and faculty hostage in exchange for the liberation of Oliver Cromwell. Secure the perimeter to ensure they can't escape. Negotiators and Special Operations are inbound to handle the situation."

"Bastards," Brisebois growled under his breath as they kept their eyes open and scanning the surrounding land. They'd have to be stupid to try and slip out now, but you never knew.

"You said it tabarnak. Hope your nice friend isn't inside bro," one of the Canadians asked Brisebois.

"Nah, she's with her family in Tarbes rebuilding their place."

"Lucky her," his friend replied before spitting on the nearby ground, "Enculés should have learned their lesson already."

The Canadian infantrymen were grumbling and itching to give the hostage takers a good lesson if they ran out. Religious fanaticism was something that disgusted them to no end… but getting kids involved? And these were kids the Van Doos knew, hell, kids they'd fought alongside in some cases. These kids deserved their peace.

If they got their chance to confront them somehow, there would be no mercy.


The morning news in Montreal had one breaking story for all the city's residents as they got ready for the day ahead.

All traffic through the portal was halted once more, and videos taken in the nights had shown military vehicles rushing towards the park. Speculations were thrown around by pundits and social media. Was it another war going on? Requests were already put in to the Canadian Armed Forces public relations department and the Canadian government, but neither was saying anything yet.

The news even got picked up in the US. People refreshed their news feeds looking for more information, and others even watched the President's Twitter feed, ironically the first place news was likely to break. But nothing was there either. Speculation was running rampant in North America all through the morning.

But people finally got an answer then, many still on their commutes to work. News bulletins were interrupted for an emergency statement from the Prime Minister's Office and the Oval Office: Reconquista terrorists had staged an attack. The nature wasn't fully revealed and it was said to be ongoing and Earth citizens were involved, but everyone understood the severity of the situation.


It had been many hard hours for the staff and students, most of whom had little or no sleep since the previous night. Their weariness was apparent as they struggled to stay awake. Before sunrise, they felt a new pain: hunger. The mercenaries were raiding the kitchen of all the wonderful ingredients and meals Chef Marteau had started to serve recently. They'd mostly turned a blind eye to the staff and students, only paying enough mind that no one tried to get up and leave.

Colbert heard the sound of heavy boots drawing nearer. He had remained the quietest and most unmoving hostage in the whole building ever since he and Menvil recognized each other. His colleagues and friends from Earth had long since given up questioning him on the matter.

But eventually, his old acquaintance decided he wanted to speak to him again.

"Flame Snake, it was quite the pleasure to discover you in this place!" Menvil said, causing Colbert to look up at his old second-in-command, "Do you know how I've longed to meet you once more and feel your heat?"

"The feeling is not shared," Colbert replied quietly.

"Why are you so cold? For one whose flame burned the strongest and hottest amongst our group, I am surprised that a man like you is here. You could be out in the world with us!"

"What are you talking about?" Leroy asked, annoyed at the man's insane words, "Jean is nothing more than a professor at this Acade-"

"A teacher?! Have you really stooped so low?!" Menvil interrupted, "With all your power, you have chosen to be just a teacher?!"

"What's he talking about?" Richer asked again as he noticed Colbert's guilty expression appear.

"It's a part of my past I wish to atone for," the professor said in a low voice, "It was one of my worst mistakes."

"Mistake?! Your deeds were not a mistake! I still remember the intensity you had when we burned down D'Angleterre!" Menvil cackled, "It took only one spell from the Flame Snake that the whole village was lit ablaze! All its residents screaming before being burnt to ashes. It was… amazing."

"You sick bastard!" Richer shouted, "You're lying! Right Jean?"

But Colbert did not answer. He sighed.

"It was… a terrible mistake. I was once a soldier in the King's employ tasked with special missions." He admitted guiltily. "We were ordered to burn down the village because there was a plague that had killed the inhabitants, to prevent its spread. But there wasn't one and no one was sick. We... I didn't realize until after it was too late."

"And then you ran into the flames like a fool." the mercenary mocked, "After you had given me a taste of your raging fire."

"That- that was one of the only thing I did not regret that night. You lost your sanity."

Menvil seemed to smile devilishly as he heard this. He stood up and began to laugh. Harsh, psychotic laughter that echoed throughout the banquet hall and frightened all the students. And then suddenly he grabbed Colbert by the collar of his shirt and hoisted him high.

"You self-righteous bastard!" He snarled, "Do you know how long I've sought you for what you did to me that night?!"

Colbert watched as Menvil reached up to his face. With both hands, he removed his mask and his eye that still shown, revealing it to be a glass fake..

"Since then, I have not been able to see but like a snake… I can sense the temperature around me! And yours still burns brightly!" Colbert gasped at what lay beneath the mask: A hole filled with burnt flesh. Despite how he stomped about them, he had no eyes at all. No vision at all. It was disturbing to think about.

Menvil threw the professor back on the ground and spat on him as he cracked his knuckles.

"And since that day, I've wandered from war to war, building my strength, waiting for the day I would find and finally overwhelm you. Untie him!" He barked on one of his subordinates. "We will duel to reveal who has truly mastered the flames!" He started to laugh to himself.

The binds were cut and Colbert stood. His staff was only on the table behind him with everyone else's weapons. But instead of reaching for it, he took one step towards his former vice-captain and spoke one word. "No."

Menvil's laughter ceased abruptly. "What the hell did you say?!"

"I refuse."

"You WHAT?!"

"I have seen enough blood spilt and enough death," Colbert said neutrally, "I have already done enough bloodshed. I will not endanger anyone to satisfy your insane thirst for power."

Menvil screamed with rage and suddenly struck the professor, knocking him to the ground. And with no one to stop him, he descended on the other man and began to relentless punch him. The students began to scream, and the staff and scientists shouted for him to stop, but the brute didn't let up. Specs of blood splattered everywhere.

"WHY!? WON'T?! YOU! FIGHT ME!?" the mercenary roared.

"I… will… not… fight you," Colbert said, his body in great pain as he struggled to catch his breath, "Even if you've joined Reconquista, I will not fight you."

His foe's face contorted in disgust.

"Reconquista?" he snarled with disdain, "I do not care for them… only that our flames face each other once more."

Menvil raised his fist again.

"But if you will not give such a pleasure," he slammed another nasty blow into Colbert's face, "I will break you with my hands! With you dead, my flames will be the strongest! It is the same to me!" They were sure he'd kill Colbert then and there, but fate had other plans.

"The outworlders are calling for you." His lookout reported. With a growl of frustration, Menvil let Colbert fall from his grasp and went out to see.


The hostage situation had reached its eighth hour by the time everything necessary to resolve it came together. Devers had arrived with some of his own operatives. They had nothing on file about this Menvil guy, but they did provide a detailed map of the Academy they'd made in the early days of contact. Kirche and Tabitha were brought in to verify the details. They stayed in constant contact with the small party that was hold up in the upper floors with two of the students. They were ordered to stay put, since the hostage takers might react violently to everyone if they were discovered.

On the same Chinook with Devers, the 4 man SEAL team based at Clément-sur-Mer arrived with all their gear. The JTF-2 team in Tristania had gotten there only a few minutes before, and several more operators had come through the portal in the middle of the night. More Tier 1 forces were inbound from the US, but they had the forces-not to mention the impulse- to act now. It was summer here in Halkegenia, and the sun would rise early. They wanted to strike while they had the night on their side. But they stayed their hand.

First, they'd negotiate. After sunrise, the first attempt was made. Speakers were pointed towards the Academy.

"Menvil!" the negotiator called out, "We have surrounded the Academy. There is no escape for you or your group! Surrender now and you will treated humanely."

"My terms have not changed!" the man called back with a magically enhanced voice, "If you do not grant us what we have demanded then this Academy will burn!"

"Our governments are working on a possible offer for you!" the negotiator called back, beginning hours of negotiations.

While Menvil and the negotiator exchanged words, the special forces teams and the Musketeers were working on plans to storm the building and rescue the hostages. Barricades were established hastily with troops manning them while helicopters flew overhead, distracting the terrorists.

Meanwhile, amongst the captive students, Malicorne glanced around. The terrified boy couldn't feel his hunger despite not having eaten since yesterday's supper. However, he noticed that a few faces were missing; Kirche, Tabitha and Montmorency weren't there. He also remembered that Guiche was supposed to visit him after meeting with Montmorency. He dared hope that somehow, his friends had escaped.

"Anyone seen Weatherby?" one of the hostage takers asked as he passed by Malicorne, "Been awhile since he was supposed to come back."

"No, wasn't he supposed to search some of the upper floors for anyone hiding there?"

Another man snorted.

"Knowing that idiot, he's probably found himself a little place to sleep somewhere!"

"Of course. Think we should go find'im?"

His question was met with a headshake.

"Boss wants us to stay here, remember? He'll deal with him later."

And so the crisis continued.


"Are you sure about this idea?" Agnes said as she discussed with the Earth team leaders.

They'd planned to hit the terrorists directly, sneaking troops in through the kitchen and through the main passages. While the front gate was being watched, they weren't watching the interior halls around the entrance to the banquet hall. The kitchen was on the side of the hall. They could breach at the same time and set up a deadly and effective crossfire.

"Absolutely," one of them replied, " It's the best chance we got."

"And my Musketeers will lure out Menvil with a bag of écus." she reaffirmed, "While your snipers will take him and his sentry down."

"Exactly."

"Might I propose a slight modification," Agnes said as an idea formed in her head, "I could very easily arrive with a chest instead and conceal a pistol behind it should anything go wrong. He will be also more enthusiastic about coming out if he sees a chest. " Her ally pondered the idea and discussed it with his own commanders.

"If you can produce a chest to use on such short notice, we might as well. We're doing this thing in the next hour."

"There should be something suitable in the trade post." Agnes said.

"Alright, you and one of my men can find one." He turned to the assembled operators. "The operation is green light, get ready!"


Negotiations had predictably failed. There was only one course of action left to take, and at 8:49 that morning, just under eleven hours since it began, the crisis ended.

On the surface, the terrorists' plan was sound- by herding everyone into the banquet hall, they only had two avenues to guard: the main doors, and the kitchen. With the hall so close to the front doors, they had a perfect warning system if anyone entered the grounds through the front gates. But every plan had flaws, and it was always things they didn't consider.

The main building was connected by enclosed walkways to four towers built into the Academy walls. Those towers were where the classes took place. Two of them were behind the Academy, at an angle where anyone standing close enough to the front of the building couldn't see them. That blind spot was the way in.

The mercenaries had grown used to the noise of helicopters throughout the night, so they paid no mind when three flew over the back of the Academy. The SEALs rappelled down onto one of the walkways from a Blackhawk, and twelve JTF-2 operators rappelled from two Griffons on the other. Both broke windows and climbed their way into the walkways. Earth forces had entered the Academy. Three different head camera feeds were feeding information to Earth, mission control at the portal, and Halkegenia HQ in Tristania. Henrietta was at the latter location too, watching tensely with the American and Canadian officers. Julio was behind them.

As they entered the main building, Agnes left the barricade with a chest full of écus but also with a pistol hidden behind it. Two Musketeers flanked her, theirs swords and pistols sheathed.

"Menvil! Our leaders have agreed to begin paying the écus you have demanded!"

Hidden snipers watched as she entered through the front gate to draw Menvil out. Every time he'd come out so far, he'd had the same hostage in front of him, one that only went up to his chest. It's be a hard shot, but with his whole head showing a sniper could take him out. His lookout would be neutralized at the same time. The shots and the breach of the banquet hall would be as close to simultaneous as possible.

That plan went to shit almost immediately when, instead of the teenage girl shorter than him, Menvil came out holding a much taller-and beaten- Colbert in front of him. The bloodied, dazed professor looked barely conscious as the mercenary used him as a shield. The massive man had a stone-like look on his face as dragged Colbert with him towards Agnes and the musketeers.

"I have the enemy leader in sight," Agnes said into her throat mike as Menvil drew nearer.

"Yeah, we see him." They'd given her a small earpiece too. "Stick to the plan. We'll figure something out."

"I see that you have listened to my demands," he said, almost disappointed, "Shame really, I always looking forward to unleashing my flame."

Agnes' teeth clenched slightly in disgust at the man's words.

"Her Majesty values her subjects' lives highly," she said, "Within this chest is 1000 écus for the first hostage."

"Open it!" Menvil demanded, "Prove to me that this is not a trap of any kind!"

"Only if you release one hostage first." Agnes calmly replied, hiding her disgust of the man The professor was not looking good at all, "Perhaps M. Colbert here?"

"I refuse!" The man snarled with sudden ferocity. "I have searched him for years, and I will not lose him now!" Agnes had no idea what he was talking about, but she tried to keep him busy. "What about a student, then?" She proposed. Despite his scowl, the man seemed to be calming down after his outburst, a precious few seconds to the clock. Inside, one of the JTF-2 teams was already moving through the servants' corridors towards the kitchens, and the other two were heading downstairs at the same time, their agile footsteps making barely any noise.

"30 more seconds." The operation leader said through the ear piece.

"Perhaps you require more time?" Agnes asked, "If that is the case, I will return with my chest."

She moved one foot back while still facing her opponent but the man stopped her.

"No!" He shouted. "Open that chest and I will go get a student for you!" Menvil bargained.

"Set it down on the ground." The leader told her. "If he bends over, we can get a shot. The teams are in place."

"Very well," Agnes set it down at her feet, unlocked it while keeping it faced towards around for him to see before stepping back and to the side. A quick trick of the hand while she bent over allowed her to conceal the pistol that was behind it. Menvil stepped forward and peered down over Colbert's shoulder into the chest, grinning in satisfaction at the shiny silver and gold.

"Go get one of those brats and bring them out here!" He ordered his look out, and when he did, he turned his body to the side. It wasn't the opportunity they'd expected, but it was an opportunity they took. A sniper shot sudden struck Menvil right in his side, destroying numerous organs as it passed right through and hit the wall behind him. Colbert fell from the man's grip to the ground. Somehow, Menvil still stood standing even as his guts spilled out till Agnes drew her pistol and fired it right at his head, finally making him collapse. He'd already been dead, but that last shot was for satisfaction's sake.

Another crack resonated right after, followed by the sound of a body falling. The sentry had barely registered his leader being shot before a round blew his chest out all over the wall behind him.

At the same time, flashbangs were hurled into the banquet hall from the entrance and from the kitchen. Bright light enveloped the room, disorienting hostages and hostage takers alike. Cries of panic mixed with the sound of gunfire. Bodies, wands and weapons fell as the terrorists went down to pinpoint upper body shots. Within less than 20 seconds, they all lay dead and the shooting had stopped.

"Clear!" a series of voices yelled in Albionese, frightening the students.

"Canadian Army! You're safe now!" a voice yelled in French as one of the operatives tried to calm everyone down immediately, "You'll be alright everyone! Secure the hostages! Check for any wounded!"

Agnes and several of her Musketeers ran in. The JTF-2 leader raised a thumb, confirming the good news wordlessly.

"Professor Colbert is already taken care of!" Agnes reported.

"Good! Help us untie everyone!"

Meanwhile, in another part of the Academy, Guiche, Montmorency and the medical and guard team finally left the room they'd been trapped in for the entire night with the knowledge of their classmates being held hostage just a few floors below them. Four of Earth's most fearsome warriors had found them and stayed with them for several minutes until the other soldiers had staged a daring rescue. Now, it was time to leave. They were going to escape the Academy with the special forces team.

"Fret not my beloved," Guiche said reassuringly to his nervous girlfriend, "Men like these saved my father and my life during the Battle of Tristainia. These warriors are highly skilled."

As they got downstairs, they saw many other students leaving the banquet hall, most of them still in their pajamas. Their steps were uncertain, as if they couldn't process what just happened to them.

"We're safe," Montmorency breathed out in relief. Soldiers were streaming into the Academy grounds to help carry the weak and wounded. Colbert was carefully being put into a carriage that had a red cross painted on its hood. Everyone, staff and students, were led away to the temporary camp set outside for treatment and a hot meal while the Academy was searched.


Back on Earth, there was relief. While Trump and Trudeau had excused themselves during the night for quick naps, Henrietta had been up the whole night.

"Thank your boys for me, that was good work. Same goes for your ladies, your Majesty." Trump told Trudeau and Henrietta over their conference call.

"You're welcome M. Trump," both of them said.

"I've already told my people to get medical supplies up there. We'll keep everyone taken care of till the Academy and your Kingdom is safe."

"Same for us," Trudeau added.

"Thank you," Henrietta replied.

"We'll send out a communiqué to our countries this afternoon," Trump stated, "Everyone's already asking questions and we need to get everything under control."

"How bad is it on your side?" Henrietta asked.

"There's a lot of rumours and tall tales flying about right now," Trudeau explained, "I'm not going to bore you with their content. What will be the nobles' reactions in your Kingdom?"

"They will demand blood for this even if no one has been harmed. I have no doubt that they will pressure the crown into accepting Germania's proposal of invading Albion. They will also demand that Cromwell be immediately killed for this affront."

Trump merely groaned at the added complications.

"What about your people?" Henrietta asked.

"There's no doubt that the people of Canada and the United States will be angry. Harming children is a very barbaric notion in our world," Trudeau said, "No doubt that they'll want punishment for those responsible."

"Probably not enough to get support for a war though." Trump interjected. "Listen, can you assure us you won't let your people go crazy over there?"

"I will do what I can but as I have said, the nobility will not take this easily," Henrietta replied, "And I will understand their anger. They will demand retaliation for this, especially after the war we've just had. Albion has once more gone too far."

Her tone was laced with anger.

"Do your best to calm everyone down on your side." Trudeau proposed, "Perhaps we can expedite the trial preparations for Cromwell to calm them. Believe me, your Highness. We've dealt with people who do dirty tricks like this before. The best thing to do is not respond to them, or else they'll think it's a good tactic."

Trudeau knew that his words had a good chance of falling on deaf ears but it didn't hurt to try.

"Because if you kill your enemies, they win?" Something in Trump's sarcastic tone made that comment seem off to Henrietta, but she didn't inquire.

"No, because this might encourage more terror attacks from any Cromwell sympathizers," Trudeau replied flatly, resisting the urge to roll his eyes.

"The terrorists are dead. They can celebrate that." Trump pointed out.

"Yes but a group of 'terrorists' dead is most likely not enough to satisfy the nobles," Henrietta said, bringing the conversation to point zero.

"This is getting us nowhere," Trudeau sighed as he massaged his temples, "The best thing we can do right now is announce the good news to everyone first before deciding what to do next."

"Wait a minute," Trump spoke up, "The good guys won and life can go on."

"Excuse me M. Trump?" Henrietta asked.

"I think what he meant to say is that Reconquista failed again. We can easily spin this as a sign of them getting weaker and desperate. We won again and, even better, no one except the enemy died. They are no longer a credible threat to any of us and we can continue our efforts to rebuild your kingdom," Trudeau explained.

"I understand what you mean. If we phrase this correctly, we may be able to calm the nobles down enough." Henrietta realized.

"Exactly your Majesty!" Trump said. "And that's all we need to do to hold off calls for an invasion?"

"Not exactly, M. Trump. The Academy is a international institution. There were students from other Kingdoms, Germania especially. I feel that Emperor Albert will be very angry with me for not choosing to retaliate after this."

"Frankly, your Highness, he can say what he wants." the president replied bluntly, "You are not his country and you have no reason to give him anything."

"There's no risk of any of your people rebelling over this, I hope?" Trudeau asked worriedly.

"No, they will not rebel as far as I know but there will be insubordination," Henrietta explained, "They'll make decision making more difficult and it will also be harder to enact any policy change."

There was silence for a moment before Trudeau spoke up.

"Well, as I've said, we can start relaying the good news to everyone at least and see how everyone reacts first. It will be a good start for now."

"Yes, let us do so." Henrietta agreed, and the three national leaders disconnected. They had populations to reassure.

Author's endnote: Well that was a messy chapter. Hope you enjoyed reading it as much we enjoyed writing it. Don't forget to review and we'll see you in the next chapter.