Chapter 28: The Big Event
The Courier woke up with a quick breath at the minor nightmare he had. Not that he could ever really remember what he was dreaming. He could only really tell that whatever it was, it involved him almost dying in some way. Normally he had nightmares when he wasn't traveling, such as when he stayed in the Lucky 38. He never knew why that was.
The Courier picked himself out of bed and started cracking his back as he tried to wake himself up. It was still somewhat early so he decided to take a quick shower before getting ready for the day.
After the shower, he picked out his same black suit from yesterdays and started putting it on. He still left the top button undone since he still didn't like the idea of wear ties outside of completely necessary events, such as the Japanese Diet. Though in that case he didn't even have a presentable outfit at the time.
He heard a knocking at the door and called out to whoever was on the other side.
"Courier? Just checking to see if you're awake." Kurokawa said from the other side.
"You can come in." He said.
"Are you dressed this time?" She asked with a slight giggle.
"Yes… I'm dressed." He said slightly annoyed.
"Are you sure?" She asked again.
"Yes." He said.
"Are you sure you're not just saying that to try and… eep." She yelled as he walked over to the door and opened it, gesturing to himself as he showed that he was fully dressed.
Kurokawa couldn't help but laugh at how serious he could get. He looked tired and probably wasn't a morning person or in the mood for jokes. She had to admit, he looked very handsome in a suit. It complimented his looks.
"What's that?" The Courier asked as he raised his eyebrow at her strange outfit. He remembered seeing some Japanese people wear that when he was in Japan.
"It's a Kimono." She said, twirling around to show it off. "Do you like it?" She said as she stood with her back to him but her head was still looking towards him.
"Never seen it." He said. It had a unique design with the flower pedal designs on the edges and its blue and gold color scheme.
"Most of the women are wearing it. We all agreed that you all needed a little bit of traditional Japanese culture added here." She said.
"Looks kind of boxy if you ask me." The Courier said honestly.
"Boxy?" She asked in confusion.
"Yea, like it doesn't show your curves at all." He said. "That belt just seems a bit much."
She pouted at that. She spent a lot of time getting ready this morning to try and impress him… and he insults her?
"Are you saying I'm fat?" Kurokawa asked with a huff.
"No." The Courier shrugged. He seemed like he didn't fully understand the trouble he was in. "You have really nice hips so it's a shame to hide them."
Kurokawa blushed at the unintentional compliment. She knew it was unintentional because of the way he just so casually mentioned it and he never seemed like he could read people's tones in a conversation. It oddly enough made him cute.
"Well, thank you for the compliment." She smiled. "But this is actually a very common form of formal wear in this day and age." Kurokawa said. "Although most people wear more western clothes for formal occasions, like suits and dresses. I guess your formal wear is basically all western?"
"More or less, though a few years ago most suits were either pre-war or very poorly made." The Courier said. "I don't really think there is a concept of formal wear for most people. Only the upper class in society even do anything like formal events. Most people are either farmers or travelers who would never be in a position to go to a formal event."
"Anyway." She said, changing the topic. "Are you going to escort me down to the Strip?" She asked, holding her elbow out like a classic western formal woman.
"Sure." The Courier said as he looped his arm through hers and escorted her out the door.
Kurokawa smiled and blushed at the contact. She had been to a few western formal events back home, but she never got a chance to really go on a date in a formal event. She never really dated anyone before, outside of a few small dinner dates, but she had always been so focused on school, work, and later the Defense Force to really get a chance to do anything fancy.
"I think this might be your first date." She smiled.
"This is a date?" The Courier asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Well, it can be… if you want." She said hopefully.
The Courier was slightly conflicted. It was really only last night that he started to come to terms with his feelings for the JSDF woman. He still felt very unsure of what to do or what that would mean for his future in following Mr. House's schemes again.
"I honestly think I do want that." He admitted.
"Really?" She said in excitement.
"Yea, sure." He said. "I think it'll be fun. Though doesn't Japan count as a date?" He asked.
"At the time, no. We weren't on an actual date. So this time it will be." She said. "Why don't we go somewhere nice? I really would like to go to the Ultra-Lux." She said.
"Why…" The Courier asked in slight horror.
"I heard the food is amazing there. I'm sure it'll be better for me since you have such a wastelander pallet." She said, completely misinterpreting why the Courier hated the Ultra-Lux.
"I'm just going to come out and say it… they're cannibals." He said.
"Come again?" She asked in shock.
"Not anymore mind you." He clarified. "I dealt with that issue five years ago, so the new management is much, much better, but they were a tribe of cannibals before House recruited them and they tried to do a resurgence in those practices before I had to stop it."
"House recruited Cannibals!?" Kurokawa screamed. "That's disgusting! Why do you work with him again!?"
"He kind of had to at the time." The Courier said. "The alternative was picking fights with dozens of tribes that would overwhelm him. These days he's implemented very strict guidelines on safety and health inspections, so he basically rehabilitated most of them."
"Still… cannibals?" She asked.
"That's why I don't want to go. Sure, they're better than before… but I'm not taking the risk." He said.
Perfectly understandable, Kurokawa thought. Her appetite immediately went away the moment she heard that.
"How about we go to the Tops. It's much better and really the only Casino that actually likes me. Plus, it has some good shows." He said.
"Sure, I'm sure everyone else will probably enjoy it." She smiled.
Kurokawa and the Courier went downstairs where everyone else was waiting, right at the door leading out of the Lucky 38.
Rory and Lelei wore their normal outfits, though at least for Rory it did look somewhat formal. At least she looked like a high class stripper with how odd it looked. The JSDF and American soldiers all wore their normal Military Dress Uniforms since that was really all they had.
Kuribayashi and Noriko both wore Kimono's that they managed to get delivered from home since they all wanted to look beautiful and weren't a fan of the military dress uniforms. Nanami followed as well, although she had her camera gear with her. However, the princess and Bozes wore formal dresses that were provided by Mr. House. The Courier noted they had a similar style to the dress he found while he was at the Sierra Madre Casino.
The Courier noted that Pina and Bozes maintained a respectful distance from the rest of the group since they still didn't like them much or trust them around Noriko. But seeing as how everyone else was going out, Pina and Bozes decided to stay near the rest of them.
"Be nice everyone." The Courier said, noticing the slight tension.
"Don't worry, everything will be fine." Nate said as he stood next to Noriko.
He used his body as a barrier between Pina and Noriko, still very protective of the woman. The group decided to tolerate the princess, especially after having to save her, but they weren't going to be friends by any means.
Kurokawa went into convincing everyone to go to the Tops Casino since she decided that it was the best bet out of the three. She refused to even consider Gomorrah and also hated the idea of the Ultra-Lux, though she was hesitant to say why.
"I am actually really excited to try the Ultra-Lux." Nanami said. "I heard the food is amazing there."
"It's just not a good idea." Kurokawa said.
"The Ultra-Lux were cannibals." The Courier said flatly.
Much like Kurokawa, everyone reacted in complete shock and started asking why Mr. House would even consider keeping them around. The Courier gave the same explanation he did to Kurokawa and that seemed to make everyone be quiet, though the consensus now was that the Tops was the best place to go.
After the short walk to the front of the Tops, the group was impressed by the overall look of the Casino. While not nearly as renovated as the Lucky 38, they could tell there was still a lot of work done to it. While most of the walls and ceilings still weren't replaced, they were very well cleaned from much of the stains. There were a few tarps covering specific sections of the Casino, indicating areas that were currently being worked on.
"Please remove any weapons you are currently carrying before continueing into the Casino." A man in a striped suit said to the group as they walked in.
"Well Ring a Ding Ding." Everyone turned when they heard a voice. "If it isn't the big man himself gracing us with his presence." Another man in a striped suit walked up to the Courier and shook his hand.
"Good to see you Swank." The Courier said.
"Come now Johnny, this is the Courier. He can go in with his piece." Swank said.
"My friends too." He said, pointing to the group.
"Well I'll be damned, seems like the Chinese invasion is happening again." He laughed, which actually annoyed the Japanese in the group.
"We're Japanese." Itami said in a bit of irritation.
"Baby, I don't care." Swank said. "But hey, friends of the Courier are welcomed to the Tops. How about you all try yourselves to some Gambling. The Aces will be open in a little bit so you can check out some of our talent when you get the chance." He said.
"Thanks Swank." The Courier said.
"No problem." He said.
After that, the group parted into small groups and went to the Casino part of the floor. Mr. House provided everyone with a sizeable amount of chips for fun and gambling so everyone was able to enjoy the finer parts of the Casino.
Kurokawa dragged the Courier over to the Blackjack portion of the Casino and sat him down. She had a smile on her face as she told the dealer that they wanted to play.
"Seriously Kurokawa… gambling isn't my thing." The Courier said.
"Oh come on, it's fun." She smiled. "I did it last time I was in Vegas, at least in my world. I think you'll enjoy it." She said.
"I gambled before, but my luck is just completely rotten." He said, unsure of if he wanted to even participate.
"We'll do it together, so you go first." She said.
"Fine." The Courier said as he placed down a few chips for the bet.
The dealer shuffled some cards before putting two towards the couple and keeping two for the dealer. He revealed the Courier's cards.
"19 sir, do you hit or stay?" He asked.
"Stat, I guess." The Courier said. The dealer flipped his own cards.
"Sorry, 20 beats your 19." He said.
"See!" The Courier pointed out.
"It's only the first one, you'll be fine." She said. "Try again."
"22, you're over." The dealer said after another round.
"19 beats your 18." The dealer said again.
"You want to stay at 13? Ok." The dealer said as he flipped his own cards. "20 beats your 13."
After ten rounds, the Courier was fed up with losing and decided to move his seat back to give Kurokawa a shot, who was laughing hysterically at his misfortune.
"21, a win for the lovely lady." The dealer said after she finished the round.
"Wow, lucky first game." She smiled.
"I'm telling you, I'm cursed with terrible luck." The Courier said.
"Well, if you had terrible luck then I bet you wouldn't be here." She tried to reassure him.
"My other skills probably compensated for my poor luck… but I am pretty sure I'd have an easier time fighting if my luck was better." He grumbled.
After another nine rounds, Kurokawa won back all the money the Courier lost. She didn't even lose one match.
"Wow, I guess I balance out with you when it comes to luck." She laughed. The Courier just groaned into his hands.
"Let's never gamble again." The Courier said.
"It's a good thing you don't have a gambling addiction." She laughed. "Otherwise you'd never make another yen… or dollar again." She smiled.
"I'm surprised you gamble to be honest." The Courier said.
"Why?" Kurokawa asked.
"You have this… moral superiority about you." He said.
"Moral superiority?" Kurokawa asked. "You're terrible at complimenting a girl on a date." She said, slightly annoyed.
"You knew what you signed up for." The Courier shrugged with a small laugh. "I'm fully aware I suck at dates."
"So moral superiority?" She asked, getting back on topic.
"Like no matter what, you're always morally right." He said. "Like you never compromise on rules or laws or what you feel is right. I guess I always saw gambling as a vice so I'm surprised you do it."
"Well, it's an attempt at a compliment." She laughed a bit. "But I don't see it as a vice. It's not all that different than festival games, though much more expensive."
After their bit of gambling, the couple decided to head to the Aces Theater to watch some of the shows and acts that were considered a pinnacle of entertainment in the Mojave.
"Oh Serena, it's so good to see you again." Tomiko said with a slight bow as she greeted the NCR woman.
"Tomiko, same to you." She said. "I love your hair, it's a very nice style." She said, referencing the bun on her head.
Hazama and his family had been invited to attend the event with Mr. House. Hazama was there primarily to ensure the VIPs were protected and wanted to personally take over their security. Members of the JSDF Special Forces and American Special Forces acted as body guards and armed escorts for the trip. Luckily there were no issues.
"New Vegas is a very interesting place." Tomiko said. "Though I can't compare it to our Las Vegas since I never went, but it is now on my bucket list."
Howe and Hazama looked at each other while their wives spoke. Currently they were assembling in the Lucky 38 Casino with the rest of the VIPs who were already beginning to mingle before the main event. Everyone was very well dressed, either in their Military dress uniforms or their fancy tuxedos and dresses.
Many of the guests were various business tycoons and men of wealth, along with women who Hazama suspected were either recent girlfriends or trophy wives. It was not a place he felt particularly comfortable in.
His primary security concern were a few Russian and Chinese oligarchs who attended the meeting. There was a concern that they would exploit information gained about the Special Region or the NCR that they would take back to their own countries, however House as adamant that everyone was invited.
Howe though, looked very annoyed at him. He understood, the last time they spoke was when the JSDF violated their airspace and Hazama was forced to write a personal letter to the grieving wife of the pilot who was lost. It was the first time any Commander had to write such a letter about a Soldier lost to a war.
"They're sizing each other up again" Serena laughed with Tomiko.
"I think we should get the rulers." Tomiko agreed.
"Seriously?" Howe asked his wife.
"Look, when we get back you two can go back to scheming, but for now just enjoy yourselves." Tomiko said. "Honestly, you're not getting any younger dear husband. I'm worried for your health."
"I am perfectly healthy." He argued.
"Before we continue this interesting conversation." Howe began. "Since the Japanese trip was so last minute, we never had the opportunity to give you a gift, so my wife and I got some things for you."
"Interesting." Tomiko said. "We actually have some for you as well." She laughed.
"We'll go first." Serena said. "This is a formal dress that is very popular in the NCR higher class." She said, handing Tomiko a box.
Tomiko opened the box and awed at the beautiful dress. It looked very similar to old 1950s styled dresses from early American culture.
"It's very lovely." She said.
"MY husband also has a gift." Serena said, motioning for How to give his gift.
"This is an old NCR 9mm Pistol." He said, offering it to Hazama. "It was specially made for General level Officers, though the tradition has since ended a decade or two ago."
"It looks very well made." Hazama said, admiring the craftsmanship of the pistol. It was silver in appearance with intricate engravings that show multiple designs relating to the NCR.
"From me, I got you a Kimono." Tomiko said, handing Serena a folded bundle of clothes. "It's tan and brown in color, representing the NCR of course, and there are instructions on how to wear it."
"It's lovely." She said in admiration.
"I believe our ancestors would roll over in their grave if we accepted that." Howe laughed.
"China here is just as unfriendly to Japan?" Hazama asked.
"I honestly don't even know if they exist anymore, but pre-war… yea." He said. "It's funny how times can change. My ancestor fought a war against democracies in the name of communism… yet here I am defending a democracy."
"It is rather strange." Hazama laughed. "The again, my own grandfather fought against the United States, and now they're one of our close allies."
They did share a moment of understanding, at how enemies can become allies in only the span of a generation or two. It maybe gave them hope for a future where the NCR and Japan could maybe coexist without the threat of war.
"Dear, your gift." Tomiko reminded.
"Of course." He said, pulling out a Katana. "This is a Katana, or Japanese Sword. It's manufactured by one of our oldest companies that still make them using the same methods for hundreds of years. No manufacturing or machines made this, only human hands." He said, presenting the Katana to Howe.
Howe unsheathed the Katana and admired the blade. It looked extremely well made and he could tell it was still very new as well.
"Thank you, I'll treasure it." He said honestly. "We also have some gifts for your children back home."
Tomiko handed them a few books that were black and white in color, though the pictures were very familiar to the Japanese couple.
"This is…" Hazama began.
"Manga in our world never got very popular outside of Japan." Howe said, handing them the books. "However, a few ruined comic book shops still carried a few. Unfortunately all of them are translated into English, and rather poorly. So we only have those."
"It looks like a very old style of art, probably some of our older shows." He said, noticing the designs looked closer to Manga from the 1950s.
"I think you should have given it to my husband instead of a pistol." Tomiko laughed.
"Tomiko." Hazama said in annoyance.
"Oh, he likes comics too?" Serena laughed.
"Yes, and the old style will probably be nostalgic for him." She laughed.
Howe and Hazama looked annoyed as their wives continued to gossip about them. It was a very annoying thing but at least their families were friendly towards each other.
Hazama presented the pair with some gifts for their own children, mostly children's toys and dolls that were popular in Japan, such as magical girl toys or mecha styled figures.
Once it was finished, they all went over near the built up stage that Mr. House was going to use to address the VIPs. It was only a minute or two before the CEO of RobCo will give his address.
Suddenly, the lights all went out, silencing any talking among the VIPs and their armed escorts. The silence was eerie, with the darkness only illuminated by the various Securitron waiters and guards in the Casino.
The curtains raised on the stage, with lights illuminating down in cones to show Mr. House's Securitron, which was holding a glass of wine.
"Visionaries… Scientists… Men and women of brilliance." He began, holding his glass up as he addressed the crowd. "I, Robert House, former CEO of RobCo Industries and the current sole proprietor of New Vegas, do welcome you to the first inter-dimensional gathering of the greatest minds in both our worlds."
"As I look around the room at this gathering of great and powerful minds, I am reminded that the very heart and soul of civilization is founded in rooms much like this. When those with the minds and wealth gather together to share ideas and compete against each other, we are able to elevate the human species to areas that before would be considered impossible. Great minds with the will to push our technologies forward are the things that usher in the golden age of humanity."
"So I have called this little session together, to meet and talk of grander ideas. To share with each other the wonders of technology and work to elevate humanity to the next great stage of social and technological evolution. Together we will all forge a new path to a future greater and brighter than ever before. To work in reigniting the golden age of humanity not seen since the nuclear fires of two centuries ago, and reignite the space age of a world that has not been to the moon in half a century. To go forth and colonize new worlds, build greater machines, and ensure the brightest future for humanity as a whole."
"So a toast… to you. The greatest minds in both the 21st and 23rd centuries. Minds that developed the greatest of technologies and showed that the future of humanity is in good hands." He lifted his glass as did every other VIP in the room. "Now, before anything else. Please everyone, take your chips and begin gambling."
After an applause, Mr. House bowed down in respect to his audience. Hazama admitted it was a nice speech, though he admitted he couldn't care too much. He was a Soldier and didn't have a mind for those kinds of things. Though he did wonder what kind of military technologies would develop in the next 20-30 years from moments like this.
Howe and Hazama sat down and spoke with each other while most of the other guests gambled. Since they were both acting as heads of security, they couldn't afford to be too distracted. Thankfully, their wives were also not much into gambling and preferred to gossip with each other.
Howe and Hazama remained respectful to each other and ensured they didn't talk about the conflict. Instead focusing on simple things like their hobbies and different funny events in their lives, such as when their children would act out.
"General Hazama, a pleasure to finally meet." Mr. House said as he reached out his hand to shake Hazama's. Out of respect, the JSDF General stood up and shook the modified robotic hand.
"Mr. House, I heard a lot about you." He said.
"I'm very sure you have." House stated in a matter of fact tone. "And this lovely woman must be your wife." He said. "Hazama Tomiko, if I'm not mistaken." He said, taking the woman's hands delicately.
"I'm surprised you know." Tomiko said respectfully.
"I make a habit of knowing people who visit my Casino, that way everyone feels welcomed." House said. "I do apologize for interrupting, but I was hoping to borrow the two Generals to discuss business." He said.
"We agreed there would be no talking about work while together." Serena said.
"And I assure you they will not break that promise, however I am rarely in a position to speak with both and I'd love a moment of their time. It would only take a moment and I promise it will not ruin the evening." He said politely.
Both women relented and allowed the Generals to step aside so they could speak with Mr. House.
"What's this about House?" Howe asked.
"You know I cannot make any promises or decisions without Government approval." Hazama stated.
"Nor am I asking for promises or favors." House said, dropping his polite tone and into his more business oriented persona. "What I wanted to discuss is a possible proposal, if you'll allow me to."
"Go ahead." Howe said.
"With growing hostilities between your armies and the ongoing war with the Empire, I fear that it would cause both sides issues if there are increased aggression between the JSDF and the NCR." He began. "So I would like to propose a little joint venture between the NCR and the JSDF."
"This better be good House." Howe stated.
"What venture would this be?" Hazama asked.
"The NCR is obviously at war with the Empire, while the JSDF seeks to bring justice onto the people that tortured and enslaved their people. Especially the young girl held at the Capital by the Imperial prince." He began.
"As much as it pains me to say…" Howe began carefully. "I cannot devote NCR resources to helping Japanese retribution against the Empire, nor can I allow JSDF operations to interfere with NCR operations." He said.
Hazama, while not pleased with the rejection, did understand Howe's stance. Hazama would probably do the same if the roles were reversed.
"We already assisted the JSDF in recovering all their lost people." Howe continued. "An operation that was already beyond NCR obligations."
Hazama wanted to call his bluff, knowing the real reason why he approved the operation in order to conduct soft operations against the JSDF and espionage when they stole the American radio. But he held his tongue.
"And what I request actually will have no effect on NCR resources and would not compromise further operations. What I request will be a benefit to both sides and will meet both sides goals." House said.
"Then speak plainly House." Howe said.
"The Courier is under my employment again." House stated, knowing that he was taking a gamble in stating the Couriers alliance before officially getting an answer from the man himself. However, this would be the only time he could speak to both men in person at once.
"That makes me very concerned House." Howe stated, already remembering the Mojave and what happened last time the Courier sided with House.
Hazama only listened. He knew bits and pieces of the war five years ago, but he understood the controversy of the Courier since although he was instrumental in the war, he did push the NCR out of Vegas owned territory.
"I assure you Howe, my success is dictated entirely on your career." House said cryptically. "I would have nothing more than to ensure you have a successful and glorious career."
"I'd like to hear his proposal." Hazama said, mainly out of curiosity.
"I propose a joint venture between the JSDF and New Vegas. I will offer the Courier's services to the JSDF in seeking retribution against the Empire." Mr. House stated.
"How would that benefit the JSDF?" Hazama asked.
"The Courier is a very popular man in the NCR. It will allow JSDF operations legitimacy in NCR territory since he's popular among the local Soldiers." House said. "The only thing I would need is permission from Howe to allow my employees to escort JSDF personnel in NCR territories." He looked at Howe.
"How does this benefit us?" Howe stated. "No offense to the General, but this would cause issues if they decide to gain intelligence against us." He said.
"Because, the JSDF have the means to strike against specific targets in the Empire that the NCR cannot. The Rangers are good, but they can't move as fast or are as numerous with the JSDF's air fleet." House proposed. "In other words, the JSDF will get the justice they so rightfully deserve, and in doing so will weaken the Empire for the NCR."
Both men knew it was a good deal. Both men knew that the NCR's poor logistics would make the campaign extremely difficult even without opposition. So losing much of the nobility and military leadership who bought Japanese slaves would only help the NCR. While at the same time, the JSDF could operate near NCR positions in order to get justice for their people. It was a perfect deal that benefited everyone.
Which is why both men were skeptical. Howe knew that in Casino's, the House always wins. House was a great help so far, but he's worried about the potentials of House being allowed to make backdoor deals since it could cost the NCR a second time. This time, much like Oliver, he would be made the scapegoat.
"We can work out the details tomorrow morning before everyone leave." House stated. "All I need is an answer that the broad strokes of this proposal, which being the Courier's contribution and escorted JSDF Operations are allowed." House stated.
"I'll agree for now." Howe said.
"We'll go over the specifics tomorrow." Hazama stated. "But for now, I'll allow the Courier's presence within Alnus."
"Excellent." Mr. House said. "I'm glad we can come to an understanding."
"However, I want to make it clear that this is not being treated as working with the NCR." Hazama clarified. "We'll agree to Mr. House's "employee" to assist, however the Courier will still be restricted since he is considered a member of the NCR."
"We can iron out the details later." Mr. House waved off. "For now, let's go back to enjoying the evening. I believe I upset your wives enough by this point." House said charismatically.
"Yea, I can feel Serena's glare from here." Howe laughed.
"Agreed." Hazama also laughed, as both men glanced at their wives who were glaring daggers at Mr. House.
"Well, I have other guests to annoy." Mr. House laughed. "I'll have a securitron bring out one of my finest Brandy's as an apology."
With that, Mr. House rolled away, leaving the Generals to return to their annoyed wives.
Pina was busy doing what she was trained from a young age to do, speak with influential men and navigate political and social nuisances. Her beauty was extremely effective in getting the wealthy men from beyond Alnus to speak with her, especially with Bozes at her side. She wished she still had her white formal robes since it was much more provocative than the dresses given to them by Mr. House, but they served their purpose.
Though she hated the idea of using her body as a weapon or for political bargaining, she didn't mind using a bit of charm as long as her purity was not the currency being used for political gain.
Currently she was laughing at a joke one of the men she was talking to made. Truthfully, she didn't understand the reference he made, but she had enough social understanding to know when she was supposed to laugh at the climax of the joke. If anything, it helped her to understand the political climate beyond Alnus, since the Empire knew next to nothing.
Here's what she learned. The NCR for the most part wanted to completely colonize and take over the Empire, at least as far as feasible, while at the same time eliminating the current government in Sadara. Meaning that the idea of peace was impossible with the NCR.
However, Alnus, which consisted of the "Jap-Nees" Government and a coalition of several nations, were divided in not only how they felt about the En-Sear, but also how they felt about the Empire. The Jap-Nees were mostly upset about their people being taken as slaves, however the other nations were divided in how they felt.
Some governments, like this "You-Ess" nation, was split on whether to support violence against Sadara or work to socially reform the Empire to get rid of "Barbaric" concepts such as slavery, torture, or lack of "Human rights". The other nations seeing the Empire as being a young nation in need of guidance instead of destruction.
It reminded Pina of events the Empire would hold, where foreign lords and politicians would travel to the capital and the sense of superiority that the Empire had towards other less developed nations. How strange it was to be on the receiving end of such a feeling.
After excusing herself, Pina took Bozes to one of the bars where they picked a spot that was far enough away to speak privately.
"It's like you thought my princess." Bozes said. "Alnus is by far leagues beyond the En-Sear."
"True, so if we were to buy father time, it seems like the best option would be to support Alnus and manipulate them into waging war against the En-Sear." She considered. "Though they're significantly stronger, their lack of desire to expand and how fractured their opinions are can be exploited to at least ensure the Empire survives." She said, already forming a plan.
"Like the En-Sear though, they don't do political marriages and won't be able to be convinced using a woman's purity as currency." She said, taking into the idea of selling themselves into consideration.
"So we'll need to find other ways to manipulate them." Pina said. "Either way, it seems that if we're to form any kind of alliance to buy father time, we'll need to shift priority to the Jap-Nees."
"True, their lack of resolve would give us an advantage. Especially if we try to ensure the side that seeks reforms wins out over the pro war politicians." Bozes agreed. "At least that will give us diplomatic and negotiating power."
"…. Do you think some reforms would be bad Bozes?" Pina said after a long pause.
Both women didn't speak of it, but their experience with those underground bandits left a large impression on them. The horror of being bound, unable to defend yourself, and the possibility that your whole future would be destroyed after being sold like a common slave was so fresh on their minds.
"I don't believe our opinions matter princess." Bozes deflected the question. "Your father's law is absolute, and when Zorzal takes the throne, there is no way he'd even consider the idea of abolishing slavery."
"True." Pina said sadly. "After all, the basis of our entire economy depends on it. If slavery were to end overnight, the Empire would collapse from a severe economic depression." She tried to defend.
Pina was well educated. She knew how economies worked. Sure, some kingdoms could thrive without the use of slaves, however after building an entire infrastructure, where a quarter to a third of all people in Sadara were slaves, such a reform would functionally have the same result as being conquered by the En-Sear.
"Could it be a slow change?" Pina asked. "One that could maybe take a generation?"
"If your brother ever has sons, I don't think it'll ever happen." Bozes said.
"What if… Zorzal wasn't made the next Emperor." Pina said with hesitation.
"Are you mad?" Bozes asked. "To even consider plotting against your brother? The nobles don't even take us seriously as knights. What makes you think they'd take you seriously on the throne? Even if you could take it."
"I know, but if I…" Pina was cut off.
"Not to mention, you'd give your brother an excuse to not only disband us when he gains the throne, but also to be made his slaves." Bozes countered. "We both know he's the kind of man that won't let blood stop his perverse desires."
"Even if we do nothing, you see how he looks at you and the others." Pina said. "If father were to ever get ill and pass, I don't think I could protect you. He's always insulted me for trying to be a warrior. What better humiliation than to break my loyal knights?" Pina asked.
"We understood much of the dangers when we joined you as young girls princess." Bozes said. "But we can't ever allow you to be placed in a position that gives him or any other noble an excuse. Even if we must sacrifice ourselves."
"I am the leader Bozes." Pina countered. "It is my job to protect all of you."
"Commanders sacrifice their Soldiers." Bozes said. "Even if I or any of the others have to be sacrificed, be that on the battlefield or in a bed chamber, we will willingly do so to elevate you. But we can't allow the idea of you taking the throne. You would be made a stain on the history of the Empire and we both know Zorzal would do everything he could to ensure the rest of history remembers you as a foolish woman."
"Then I won't think of it." Pina said, a little too quickly in Bozes opinion, but she let it slide.
Even though Bozes was a lesser noble compared to the princess, she still spoke her mind when she felt Pina was making a mistake. Even if Pina did order them to seize power, they would through their loyalty to her. However, they would try to convince her otherwise.
"Anyway, we should focus on making more connections." Pina said.
"Agreed." Bozes replied as they turned to speak with more of the wealthy men.
"So you've come to a decision then?" Mr. House asked.
The Courier was near the bar where Mr. House was moments ago speaking to some VIPs. The Soldiers and civilians decided to stay in the Presidential Suite since they felt that this kind of event was a bit too high class, though they did come down to check it out. The day's events on the Strip was more than enough fun.
"We went on a small date, so over all everything went well." The Courier said.
"Was any progress made?" House questioned, hoping the Courier would be willing to assist.
"It was a simple date, though not much happened. We talked a bit, did some gambling, and saw some shows. Nothing intense."
"Should I give you payment in advance?" House asked, recognizing the Courier's poor gambling skills.
"Kurokawa won it back." The Courier laughed. "Thanks though."
"Of course." House said. "So what's your choice? Will you aid me again?"
"Pretty impatient." The Courier laughed. "I know how you like to scheme, but I never noticed you to give people unfair deals or do anything bad unless your life was on the line."
"I do have a sense of morality you know." House said dryly.
"I know." The Courier shrugged. "I'll support you again, so whatever you need, I'll help. But I want you to know I'm doing this for me. I won't promise to see this through to the end if my priorities shift."
"Even a bit of help from you will make considerable gains." Mr. House said.
"So what do you need me to do?" The Courier asked.
"Nothing you haven't done before." House said. "Work with a group, impress them, and gain influence and respect in order to get them to be more agreeable to me." He said.
"So the same with every other group we ever worked with." The Courier laughed. "Sure, just impress a few people. I can do that." The Courier said.
"Howe and Hazama are aware and agreeable to it. Officially, you'll be working under my employment with the JSDF so you won't be considered an NCR asset." Mr. House explained.
"You made that deal before I came to a decision?" The Courier asked. "Did you know what I'd say or was it a gamble?"
"I had a feeling you'd help, though it was also very much a gamble." Mr. House confirmed. "If you decided not to, I'd have a hard time trying to negotiate with both Generals in the future."
"I thought you said don't play your hand if you don't have a good hand." The Courier said.
"Sometimes the pot is too big to fold." House explained.
"That's fair." The Courier said.
After the conversation the Courier decided to head back upstairs to get some sleep. Tomorrow everyone was going to return to the Gate so he wanted to make sure he was well rested.
Honestly, the last few chapters I wasn't too proud of lol. I wanted to do a lot more but at the same time I want to get to the actual meat of the conflict. I guess you could say that Chapter 30 will be the end of Act 2. Though I didn't entirely plan to have each act be 15 chapters lol.
Act 1 focused on the political set up while Act 2 focused on the individual characters, so if you notice there were much more character moments compared to large political and strategic moments.
Act 3 will focus back on the large scale political moments, though will still have character moments. I honestly don't know how the pacing is or if it's even serviceable lol. I'm also wondering how it works with the "Climax" of each Act. With the end of Act 2 it's not climactic in an action sense but more resolving some of the things set up earlier.
Such as the Courier's indecision, setting up Rory's arc, the peace attempt by the NCR and JSDF (Though that doesn't mean there won't be problems lol, don't think that everything will be fine now), and the start of Pina's scheming.
I'd say I'm less proud of the latter part of Act 2 but I think it serves a purpose. If I really had the time and desire to redo a lot of it I feel like I'd be proud of the final product, but as it stands I think it does the job. Maybe not well lol.
Oh well, just another thing to learn from and improve moving forward lol. Thanks again for everything you guys do in reviewing and critiquing. I feel like you guys are helping me to improve, though I probably still have a long way to go lol.