Touch Me lowered himself onto the inflatable boat which Estessa magically took out from her inventory. He hesitated before jumping from the window, then landed gracefully onto the boat, only slightly rocking it. With everyone present, they drove the boat to shore.
During the brief 20-seconds ride, Sophia could be seen at the back, intently studying the engine. She found it bizarre that the engine functioned as a single component, without small parts. It couldn't be deconstructed, just like how an atom is. There does not appear to be a fuel source or battery inside, yet it works. She then thought back at how Estessa managed to inflate the boat simply by using the [Wind] spell, and how the boat inflated right to a point, where no matter how much air is blown through it, it wouldn't inflate anymore. The laws of natural science that this world operates on seems odd.
Touch Me saw the rest of the pier coming into view as they ascended the harbour steps. As he reached the top of the stairs, he was now able to see the rest of the docks with greater clarity. Curious glances were sent his way by the people working menial jobs like washing and repair in the harbour. At the same time, a passenger fleet was docking, and he noticed how the majority of them weren't humans — they had furs instead of hair, resembling lion beastmen in the game YGGDRASIL. They wore attires similar to that of Englishmen during the Early Victorian Era.
"Excuse me there madams." A lion beastman greeted Touch Me. "If this is your first time in Ishteria, I may be of help."
Touch Me nodded, appreciating the offer of assistance. "Thank you for your kind offer. We're actually just trying to get our bearings in this city. Can you tell us a little more about Ishteria?"
The lion beastman grinned widely, happy to share his knowledge of the city. "Ishteria is a busy port city, one of the largest in the continent. It's known for trade, commerce, and its diverse population. You'll find all sorts of shops and restaurants here, catering to all tastes and budgets. But if you're looking for something more leisurely, there are plenty of parks and gardens around in the city, as well as museums and galleries for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Personally, I'd recommend Grill & Bake over there, they serve really delicious apple pie & cattle roast."
"Dear, don't forget the reason we've came here today, do you have… oh, sorry for interrupting. My husband and I were just heading home. Come now. Jack! Hurry dear!" The lion beastman apologised profusely on behalf of his wife before he left.
"Did you know that Princess Madeline is visiting Ishteria? It will be a big event, I can't wait!" More and more passengers departed from the ships and filled the pier.
It was getting difficult to navigate through the crowd. Touch Me motioned everyone to stay close to each other. The masses of people appeared to be headed towards the centre of the city, where the street intersected into a wide building that resembled the entrance to the French Palace of Versailles. They watched as some people were turned away whilst others who had scrolls or letters were let in.
"Shame that we did not get an invitation." Emma, the musical composer, said. "it would've been magnificent to witness. I wonder what kind of music and food they would have inside."
"And potential source of information." Estessa commented. "Such a high profile event will be quite good for us to attend. If we ever want to get started, this is the time."
"Okay, here's the plan." Sophia said.
Touch Me nodded, taking in Sophia's words. He looked around at his team, each of them ready for action. They had come all this way, and now they had a chance to gather valuable information at the grand event taking place inside the magnificent building.
"Estessa and Ashley, your task is to find a way to get inside that building. Blend in with the crowd, see if you can gather any intel about what's happening in there," Sophia instructed. "Emma and Rea, I want you to keep an eye on the perimeter. Watch for any suspicious activity or potential threats. And I will stay here with Touch Me to ensure we have a clear path for extraction if needed."
The team nodded in agreement, understanding their roles. They split up, each member focused on their assigned task.
As Estessa and Ashley approached the entrance, they noticed a group of guards checking invitations and allowing some individuals to enter. Estessa subtly manoeuvred closer, pretending to be engaged in a conversation with Ashley as they observed the situation.
"I think I have an idea," Estessa whispered to Ashley. "I've noticed that the guards are more lenient with those who have scrolls or letters. We might be able to forge one and present it as our invitation."
Ashley raised an eyebrow, impressed by Estessa's quick thinking. "Do you think we can pull it off?"
Estessa smirked. "With a little sleight of hand and some clever words, I believe we can."
Meanwhile, Emma and Rea maintained a discreet distance, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of trouble. They spotted a few suspicious characters lurking nearby, but nothing that posed an immediate threat.
"Emma, look over there," Rea whispered, pointing to a small alley adjacent to the building. "I saw someone exchanging hushed words with another person. It seemed secretive."
Emma nodded, her senses sharpened. "Let's investigate. It could be a potential lead or someone involved in whatever is happening inside."
With cautious steps, they made their way towards the alley, their curiosity driving them forward. Meanwhile, Sophia and Touch Me kept a watchful eye on their team members, ensuring their safety and readiness for any unforeseen circumstances.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the city, Estessa and Ashley approached the guards, their forged invitation held tightly in Estessa's hand. They tried to appear confident and at ease, hoping to avoid any suspicion.
"Good evening," Estessa greeted with a smile, extending the invitation towards the guard. The guard glanced at the invitation, examining it briefly before returning his gaze to Estessa and Ashley. His stern expression softened slightly. "Very well, you may proceed," he said, stepping aside to let them through.
Estessa and Ashley exchanged relieved glances, making their way inside the grand building. The opulence of the surroundings was awe-inspiring. The interior was adorned with elegant chandeliers, intricate tapestries, and marble statues that whispered of a bygone era.
As they mingled with the guests, Estessa and Ashley discreetly listened to conversations and observed the behaviour of the attendees. They overheard snippets of discussions about politics, trade agreements, and rumours of hidden treasures. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation.
Meanwhile, Emma and Rea cautiously approached the alley where they had seen the suspicious exchange. They kept their footsteps light, careful not to draw attention. Peering around the corner, they spotted two figures engaged in a hushed conversation.
"Did you find out anything?" one of them asked in a low voice.
The other figure shook their head. "Not yet. But I've heard whispers of an ancient artefact that will be unveiled at tonight's event. It's said to possess immense power. We need to gather more information and find a way to get our hands on it."
Emma and Rea exchanged concerned glances. It seemed they had stumbled upon a plot that went far beyond a mere social gathering. They realised the potential danger that awaited not only themselves but the entire city.
Back at the entrance, Sophia and Touch Me maintained their vigilance, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any signs of trouble. They noticed a few individuals who seemed out of place, their demeanour suspicious.
"Sophia, look over there," Touch Me whispered, nodding towards a man who kept glancing around nervously. "Something doesn't feel right about him."
Sophia nodded, her instincts sharp. "Let's keep an eye on him. If he makes any sudden moves, we need to act swiftly."
As Touch Me and his team continued their mission in the medieval city, they found themselves at a gathering of influential figures from different factions. Among them was a delegate from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), a tall and stern-looking man named Mikhail Ivanov.
As Touch Me mingled with the crowd, Mikhail's gaze fell upon him, and a look of shock crossed his face. He made his way towards Touch Me, his eyes filled with disbelief.
"Tsaritsa? Is that really you? I didn't know you would grace us with your presence today." Mikhail exclaimed, his voice filled with a mix of surprise and confusion.
Touch Me maintained his calm demeanour, though internally he was taken aback by the delegate's recognition. He decided to stay in character, not revealing his true identity.
"Greetings, esteemed delegate," Touch Me responded politely, his voice carrying a regal tone. "I am known as Tsaritsa in my realm. It seems we have crossed paths."
Mikhail's expression softened, his initial shock giving way to curiosity. "I apologize for my reaction. It's just that your resemblance to someone I know is uncanny. The Tsaritsa I am familiar with was a figure of great importance in our world."
Touch Me inclined his head, playing along with the delegate's words. "Indeed, the Tsaritsa holds a significant role in this realm as well. However, I am but an emissary, sent to observe and ensure the welfare of my people."
Mikhail nodded, his eyes narrowing slightly. "I see. Well, it is an honor to meet the Tsaritsa's emissary in person. If there is anything I can do to assist you during your time here, please do not hesitate to let me know."
Touch Me thanked the delegate for his kind offer, all the while maintaining the facade of the Tsaritsa. The encounter left him with a lingering sense of intrigue. The fact that someone from the USSR recognized him and the character he embodied raised questions about the nature of their current predicament and the connection between the virtual realm and their own world.
Princess Madeline stood at the center of the grand banquet hall, adorned in a breathtaking gown that shimmered like moonlight on water. The hall was filled with distinguished guests, each eagerly awaiting her introduction. The air was thick with anticipation and curiosity, for this was no ordinary princess. She was known for her wit, charm, and an air of mystery that surrounded her.
As the room fell into a hushed silence, Princess Madeline took a step forward, her voice carrying a captivating allure that drew everyone's attention. Her words flowed like poetry, effortlessly captivating the hearts and minds of those present.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests," she began, her voice resonating with a touch of intrigue, "I welcome you all to this grand celebration. Tonight, we gather not only to revel in the splendour of this magnificent occasion but also to witness the unfolding of secrets and the forging of new alliances."
Whispers spread throughout the room as the guests leaned in, their curiosity piqued by the princess's enigmatic words.
"My father once said that power lies not only in the might of armies or the riches of kingdoms, but in the knowledge we possess and the connections we foster."
The crowd grew even more attentive, their eyes fixed upon Princess Madeline as she gracefully moved across the stage, her presence commanding attention and respect.
"Within these hallowed walls, we stand at the crossroads of realms. We are honoured to welcome visitors from a distant land, individuals who have traveled far and wide to join us in this celebration. Our guests bring with them tales of valour, wisdom, and a perspective that shall enrich our understanding of the world beyond our borders."
Sergeant Marsh, a distinguished representative from the USSR, stepped forward, his imposing figure drawing the attention of the crowd. His voice resonated with authority as he addressed the gathering.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, I stand before you today as a humble servant of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics," he began, his words carrying an air of respect and admiration. "I am honoured to be in the presence of Princess Madeline of the Kingdom of Athisia and to partake in this remarkable occasion."
A hush fell over the room as the lion-beastmen guests observed Sergeant Marsh, their eyes widening in astonishment. The sight of a human in their midst was unexpected, and their curiosity grew with each passing moment.
Sergeant Marsh, aware of the intrigued gazes upon him, offered a polite nod of acknowledgement before continuing.
"I stand here not only as a representative of my nation but also as a witness to the tales of heroism and conquest we have undertaken." He declared, his voice carrying a mix of pride and reverence. "Throughout our journeys in YGGDRASIL, the Red Army, with its indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve, has faced many trials and tribulations, conquering challenges and leaving a mark on the annals of history."
"We have encountered countless adversaries, explored treacherous dungeons, and forged alliances with beings of extraordinary power," Sergeant Marsh continued, utilising his [Projection] magic, painting vivid images of the battles fought and the victories achieved. "But let us not forget that true heroism lies not only in the strength of our swords but in the bonds we forge and the values we uphold."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in, before offering a deep bow of gratitude towards Princess Madeline.
"Princess Madeline, the USSR extend our heartfelt appreciation for your gracious invitation. It is through events like these that we can share stories, learn from one another, and build bridges across the boundaries of our individual worlds."
Princess Madeline continued, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint. "In this realm of fantasy and wonder, where reality blends with dreams, I stand before you as a guide, a conduit between the realms. I invite you to delve deep into the mysteries that surround us, to explore the uncharted territories of our shared existence."
Her words hung in the air, tantalising the imagination of all those in attendance. The guests exchanged knowing glances, their hearts filled with anticipation and excitement.
The princess's voice carried a hint of mystique as she continued, her words weaving a captivating tale. "Tonight, I bring forth an ancient artefact, a gift bestowed upon me by my beloved father, King Edmund. It is a relic of immense power, said to possess the ability to bestow blessings upon the city of Ishteria and its inhabitants."
As she spoke, Princess Madeline's delicate hands revealed a small, ornately adorned box. The guests leaned in, their eyes fixed upon the enigmatic artefact, eager to witness the unveiling of its secrets.
"As we gather here tonight, let us witness the union of past and present, as the blessings of this artifact touch the lives of each and every one of us," the princess proclaimed, her voice filled with hope. "May Ishteria flourish under its influence, and may we, its people, rise together to embrace a future brimming with promise and possibility."