Ghost Recon: The Gate War

by Skootmeister

2021, for 7 years relative peace has reigned over the world in the aftermath of conflict after bloody conflict. The Ghost Recon force takes on a seemingly inconspicuous mission in Japan. Fate however rolls the dice and soon the team, and the world, finds itself at war with an empire of might, monsters and magic. Once again, war has come to call the members of the Ghosts to action.

5. Back to Base

Denzalcia. Denzalcian Commonwealth

The Western Desert.

A land of wealth and gold, of exotic beasts and extreme heat, of war. Laying upon the westernmost peninsula of Falmart, the Western Desert composed miles upon miles of sand and desert rock formations under the mighty sun bordered by the sea to the north and the mountains to the south and east. Rather small compared to the rest of the continent, but large enough to warrant being its own location. Through these mountains are paths leading outside this hot place. To the south of them lay the rest of the particularly large peninsula, home to temperate and arid regions ripe for farming and animal husbandry. In this region many creatures mingled. From basilisks that took to the sky from their cool caves along to hunt, to giant spiders that preferred to stay in theirs, waiting for creatures to come in to escape the oppressive heat. From the humble camel making way over the sands to the mighty elephant that made way even through the mountains beyond the desert. Beyond the east lay the boundaries of the Saderan Empire. Borders that ran along the mountains to the south as well. But this region of the continent was not uninhabited. Far from it in fact. It was here a mighty people had settled millennia ago, and rose to become a force of its own.

Nestled in the tiny inland sea at the western coast of the continent, lay a city. A major port and bustling trade hub. Since emerging from its humble beginnings, it has become a millennia-lasting land with considerable military, naval and trade capabilities. It is through trade and wealth their power is felt. Their land forces composed mostly of mercenaries from allies and vassals. It is their navy that truly shines, for their naval capabilities are second to none. Since they took the lands surrounding their native homes by either vassalship or conquest, this city became a mighty power making a name for itself. This city is Denzalcia, the capital of the commonwealth.

Founded as a trading port colony by another people from a distant land, Denzalcia was nothing more than a mere stop on the road for many trading ships traveling the world, and as such it too got a share of the exotic goods. Silks, spices, incense, food, anything and everything. And while the city grew, it remained a post... until the fall of their mother city long ago. It, like many other hubs was now on its own. But Denzalcia proved itself. It grew beyond its constraints, enforcing its influence on the minor powers around it. The minor client state became the dominant force. But unlike other powers, it made treaties with those it conquered, making them give troops and tribute, meaning its body of local domestic troops was very small. It relied on allied troops and mercenaries paid for with its wealth of mining and trading. But it was their naval power where they shined. An armada of ships of the line to protect the countless trade ships that plied across the seas to distant lands.

Their city easily rivals much found elsewhere in the world. Everywhere you look, you see stores ranging from simple little stands to the great markets that take up entire city blocks. The hustle and bustle bringing goods from anywhere and everywhere you can think into the city via the great harbor, a massive man-made installation capable of holding entire fleets. Both trade and military. A harbor so impressive, that it even protected against the gales and winds of the greatest of sea storms. But it was not only their navy that garnered interest. It was their faith, beginning from their inland routes, established along the paths of the migrations of the elephant herds that dot the lands. They were sacred to the Denzalcian people… to the point of worship. Their chief deity being an elephant. And of course, war. War was a function where the elephants served. They were part of everyday Denzalcian life, but not as expendable as cows, for should an elephant be put to such a fate, the whole body must be used. The skin is to become tarps, canvas and clothing, the tusks to be made into cups, bowls, headwear, the bones not used to be grinded into powder and scattered to the winds and waters, for doing so would enable the soul of the creature to truly be free as its body was put to full use, even in death. Any who failed to follow these customs were executed.

Today however was not what one would call an easy day for the leaders, politicians, and whatnot of the nation. The Council of Elders was assembled, the issue: Hannibal. The son of the great Hamilcar who fought Sadera in two wars, earned victories, and had his name into legend. It seemed his son was bound on the same path, but unlike his father, his actions were split between the wise men and wealthy elite, the generals and mercenary captains. At a high seat in the large rectangular room with pillars adorned in gold and silver was King Tarcca. His tall ornate hat with robes of jewels and gold seemed to wear him down as much as watching for hours as the various men of both sides engaged in the centuries old concept of debate. The supporters and the opposition.

A Saderan diplomat had just departed not too long ago, demanding Hannibal be reprimanded for his attack on Tylis. He was threatening to do so for a while now despite being warned to not do so, but now he's finally went through with it. Much of his wrath directed to the outlying lands of Tylis, a short siege of the city until the Saderan reinforcements arrived. He failed to take the city, but he made off with much for his soldiers.

"Hannibal has gone too far with this one! Border raids against Sadera in the name of his father is one thing, but a direct attack on Tylis cannot be sanctioned! We are not ready for another war! A war he is intentionally pushing for! I declare we take action and remove him from his command!"

"TOO FAR! Tylis was rightfully punished for attacking our allies!"

"And now we are once more on the path to direct warfare! Hannibal must be reprimanded!"

"The wealth his father has gained from distant lands has garnered him one of the richest individuals in the land! Even if you make the decision, it will be rendered useless the day before it even passes. The people look to Hannibal as a hero! If you remove him-"

"They'll get over it! In the end they'll remember Hannibal is the one who started this war, and he will bring his father to greater shame, as if he didn't endure enough! We haven't seen him in years!"

"Mind your tongue, you speak of the man who won us many victories!"

"And defeats."

"Because people like you refused to send reinforcements!"

"We could not spare men and resources to back up a suicidal effort! It has been said several times that his battles would result in failure the longer he pushed the campaigns. Each tactic more foolhardy than the last! All the while costing us MONEY!"

"And on what evidence, do you come here to say that?! Hamilcar lost because of your inability to cooperate with a rival family! And now you risk making the same mistake again with his son!"

"What evidence?! Just look at his son! He abandoned the city shortly after sieging it! Now he's marching back here. You'd think he'd stay after the constant border raids he's led! Why take the city only to just abandon it?!"

"I know him. He always has a plan. It's just a matter of time."

Back and forth back and forth. Just like any other flaming political debate. If Tarcca knew one thing, it's that the Barcid family was one of the biggest and most influential forces in the Commonwealth. They were very popular with the people. But as is often the case, popularity with the people equals tension with the other parties at play. It's prevalent in all societies and nations, even their expanding Saderan neighbors. He sat in silence as they debated, growing more irritated with each passing minute, but now it was past the danger zone. He himself respected Hannibal and knew this was part of some plan he had, but this looked more like a step backwards, particularly with Zorzal incoming. AKA, future of the family with a history of war with Denzalcia. Give him a chance and he'd destroy this whole nation to bring it under Saderan influence. There have actually been wars in the past long before the 2 fought before, but those have long been forgotten. Now it was only on the present and near past. People have short memories.

"Enough!" He shouted, bringing silence to the debate. "The enemy is on the march and your solution is to banter on Hannibal's actions? What has been done is moot as of now! What we must do is concentrate on what has yet to be done! The generals should be out there gathering their soldiers, while you elders and city fathers should allocate funds and resources for the conflict."

"Suddenly his majesty is a strategist as well?"

"Mind your tongue!"

Tarcca continued, ignoring the jab. "War is declared and the pen is useless. It is time the elders step out and the generals step in. You have sat here for hours and we have gotten nowhere! We should've seen this coming ever since this Gate at that place called Alnus opened! It was too much of an opportunity for Hannibal, yet you were more concerned with your coin and trade routes than the inevitable."

"You need money to raise an army!"

"And you have plenty of that." A supporter spat.

"This is getting us nowhere. It will not be long until Zorzal marches towards us. This meeting is nothing but a waste of time. I will gather whatever generals are at the ready. Good day to you!" With that, Tarcca dismissed the meeting and stormed off of his throne. Despite his departure and declaring the meeting over, the elders continued to bicker. He rubbed his temple in frustration. Last time it was of trade routes, after that it was of army upkeep, now it was on Hannibal. What next, elephant migrations? Hamilcar was right about one thing, the city fathers had become increasingly distanced to the concepts of war. This basically left the generals and himself worrying about the issues at hand on how to organize the mercenary armies.

It is important to remember that for the most part, the citizen body of Denzalcia is centralized, meaning when it expanded, it made treaties. The conquered are not absorbed, they are protectorates and contribute troops and tributes. It is their navy they have most of their citizen soldiers in. They preferred manning the shops and markets. This made their army diverse at it would be made up of peoples from different regions and cultures, even from outside their land, it gave the nation a wide variety of skills and expertise, but it brings these disparate peoples together that speak different languages and cultures. It was their general and staff that would hold them together and they would command said army until the council decided to change him, therefore they did not have terms. It would result in them forming into a cohesive force after sufficient time passes. Another reason for Tarcca's worries is their military nature itself.

Hesitation is somewhat justified as for the Denzalcians, an army was a serious investment when it was of mercenaries. You need to pick and choose carefully. The loss of an army is the loss of money, especially when they finally gain the necessary bond after time together when Sadera has vast reserves of professional soldiers should losses be inflicted. And the council is not afraid of punishing their officers should they fail, and excessive punishments were not going to solve the issue. Tarcca trusted the generals, but the elders were mostly… quick to judge. One of the pains of being a king. Now he was on his way back to his palace. Which honestly was a small walk away, right within the same block and area. Made it easier for the king to get to the elders if something happened when it was located next to his home.

Entering from the side is not what you would think of doing for such a grand place, even for a king who owns it, but Tarcca could care less. He needed to think about what he would discuss with the generals who would come to him later in the day, especially seeing as the elders were still in the chambers. He made way to his room the moment he crossed into his house, walls and ceiling lined with gold and silver, with trinkets and riches placed there by past kings to reflect on Denzalcia's wealth and glory. How small it seemed so suddenly. Would he himself have a chance to add to this palace's display? Would he be able to say that he put sweat and blood into making this nation great in his own way?

He shook his head and called for assistants and servants to begin sending messages to the generals in the city. Those out in the field would already know what to do. It was all he could do at this point. Especially as he heard two pairs of heavy feet trotting towards him. The source made itself known as a tiny elephant calf ran into the room like an oversized puppy eager to see its owner. It was a welcome sight for him, he needed something to divert his attention for the moment.

"Hello Baash. You missed me, didn't you?" All the little one did was run between his legs and reach that short trunk up to his chest. "Oh you…" a sighed escaped his lips, "you bring a smile to me every time. I just wish it would last, especially right now." He felt under his eyes, bags were there. He was not sleeping well and now he finally knew it without a fact. "I keep having those same terrible dreams. Breached bones under a harsh sun. Our city nothing more than an abandoned ruin… why am I tormented so? We are diminished no doubt, but we still hold great sway and power." Much of the western part of the continent was under their sway, and the wealth here was unquestionable, even today after so many years. It's been a key of how the nation continued standing after the past 2 major wars with the empire to the east, let alone the amount of times their coin has funded subterfuge in Empire lands.

To think there was a time that they weren't at each other's throats. When they respected each other's borders and wishes. Funny how it all ended long before he was born, resulting in the wars and hatred that is now. The hatred of the Barcid and Zorzal's family is only one result of this. The trade routes they once had are diminished, only so many left, and these are under the risk of pirates and Saderan raiders. But going north nowadays instead of the usual south was all but fatal. And not because it was where a heavy naval presence was, but rather WHY it was there. No one likes going north, it's where they dwell. The only place Denzalcia has is with nations that lay to the western seas and oceans, and whatever ties to Ictan they can get, though that isn't much. But oh no, that wasn't the issue for Tarcca, that was all easily fixable. No, it was the war itself that was his fear. As he predicted, Zorzal was the man who would take up the sword for Sadera. It was his chance to strike revenge for the death of his uncle at the hands of Hannibal, who himself swore revenge for his father's defeats. Said defeats hurling the man into a self-inflicted house arrest. Zorzal was a beast in war, as demonstrated in the countless private skirmishes the two fought, and he was sure to go forward with his ambitions to destroy the nation to add to his ever growing fame. He was no grand strategist that many outside of these kinds of fields would expect, he had legates to help him for that. His specialty was being on the front lines and leading his men personally. The only saving grace is that he would most likely be too focused on finding and fighting Hannibal than actually going forward and conquering the nation, which is fine by their Senate as far as he knew.

"I just hope these elders can get themselves out of this argument and focus on the bigger issue in time. The longer we debate, the more land the Saderans will gain, and the closer Zorzal will get to the capital, and Braah forbid they reach Denzalcia itself. Where are the generals, don't tell me they're going to debate too!"

"Debate about what?" Tarcca's attention was taken to an elderly man in the attire of a general. Mago Bomilcar "You think we've gotten mixed into petty arguments like that bunch? Heh, we got a war to fight, and I bring a report." The man entered with a rolled up paper, placing it on the king's desk and allowing it to open. "The generals who are already out by and near the front lines are readying whatever mercenaries they can throw their coin at. Hannibal himself has gone to the south for reasons unknown, he has yet to send in a status report. The generals here in the city are organizing as we speak. As of our agents within the Saderan side of the Western Desert, there is confirmation of enemy movement. They have reserves being stationed their castra should the need arise."

"And here we are still mustering our own armies. I suppose I should be content with the fact I sent orders when Hannibal attacked Tylis. What luck, am I right, Mago?" Privileged holder of the title of Great General of Denzalcia, the one who oversaw all other generals. He who led in the name of the king and ensured victory was delivered to the dynasties and merchants, and as of now, he who would keep the enemy back.

"Let us hope so, our navy forces them to make that move. But that is our only strength until we get a sufficient number of men under our banners, until then that's the best we can do."

Tarcca nodded. "Ready reports the moment new developments take place, I want to know when armies are ready to move so we can send them where they are needed. In addition I'll be sending a message to our friends in the City-States, see if they can provide a few troops for us. The Ictuns are an adventurous type if anything.

"Of course, my king. I'm already forming a plan into place, hopefully Zorzal is distracted by Hannibal long enough to act before it's complete. Otherwise we may have to give up a couple of cities and forts."

"Unacceptable. We need him to focus on Hannibal more than us, it'll buy us time to better prepare for the war and eventually drive him out. We cannot afford to lose our tributaries. And Hannibal is sure to thank us for saving him the trouble." Tarcca declared

"Of course. Also my king. Have you been keeping an ear to the ground?" Mago asked. The king looked to him with mild confusion. "It seems that the Saderans have suffered a third defeat at the hands of the Otherworlders as they're being called. The reports came to us recently from our spies within Sadera itself."

"Forgive me, Bomilcar. It's just... that's quite a happenstance. How long have these agents been in place, a year? Maybe we should rotate our agents now, they must be getting homesick or something." Tarcca declared. Of course they had some well-placed spies in Sadera's lands, mostly at the lower stations in life, but a select few have spots in the higher echelons like any other nation with agents would. They were there to inform Denzalcia of when the next Saderan offensive would begin, as many predicted would happen soon. But that was put to futility as Hannibal made the first move. Still, this would prove useful now Sadera was committed.

"I wouldn't laugh it off, my king. I hear stories that seem exaggerated, but our spies are getting the same reports. Sadera is mobilizing more and more soldiers to send to shore their defenses near the hill, and many in reserves are willingly joining. There are men dropping their shovels, hammers and even their finance scrolls to grab swords."

"Oh really? You'd think the Northmen or worse were at their doorstep if that was the case. Still I have a hard time believing this is happening. Honestly when was the last time Sadera met such an enemy? I mean what do they even look like?" Tarcca asked in disbelief.

"Well, reports speak of varying shades of green, brown, and tan being among their colors. And their weaponry and armor is far different from anything ever seen. They don't use swords, or horses or dragons. There's speculation they don't even use magic, at least that's what their mages are now saying. They use these… weapons that make very loud noises when used. In 3 days they defeated the armies of Sadera's latest vassals along with 2 legions after driving an expedition force and 2 additional legions away."

"Did you just hear what you said?! THAT many men?! In such a short time? Unbelievable, even for a massive force. 3 days to defeat that many men? Not to mention the addition of dragons, monsters, and more."

"I know, but it's true. They're building, but their next move is a mystery. From what we know, they are consolidating before acting. Smart indeed. And with that logic… I recommend we send envoys to them… seek help in this war."

"You jest. Surely not! Never mind whether I believe you, we know nothing of their intentions or plans. Oh sure they may be at war with Sadera. But what's their motive for AFTER the war should they win it? A new player in this world does not bode well." Tarcca let out a small breath after his declaration. "This Otherworldly presence is something one must not approach as if a long lost friend, especially when we have just learned of it. Besides, who's to say they are not here to simply take what they want as the Saderans do? No… we shall sit and wait while we watch over our lands, keeping the spies in their posts until we can get fresh agents to fill in for them. Then we can see if these 'Otherworlders' truly do exist. NOW… what is the status of our border forts?"

Castra Falco. 2 days ago.

What was the worst that could happen? It wasn't an imperial commander in overall command, but the goal was the same.

The vassal armies were all but gone. The Saderan forces that survived the battle had left the field, a whole legion's worth of them died while the vassals were essentially destroyed. Now it was just a legion's worth left with what survivors could be found from the others. It was humiliating. It's been decades since Sadera was beaten this badly in battle. Other than Hannibal's constantly outwitting them. Undoubtedly news of the defeat had reached the capitol by now. Hopefully they could come up with a plan to deal with this turn of events. Undoubtedly though, everyone blamed Ligu and his cohorts. Going forward like the knights they were to claim honor and glory in battle and completely ignoring the plan that Duran created.

A legionary sitting at the fire with his contubernium sighed. The smallest unit of soldiers in the Saderan army. 8 soldiers with 2 assistants, be they slaves or volunteers. "What am I going to tell to Edner?" He asked, a ruined helmet in his lap. "That his brother is dead? Fallen on the battlefield among thousands of others and rotting with no one to claim him? The one man who joins our army from Coda village and he dies in battle. What a waste."

"That fat bumbling fuck! DAMN YOU LIGU!" One of the Tribunis Laticlaviuses roared sitting at the campfire, throwing his bread into it in anger. "Throws everything to the wind to be at the front of the battle line! This is why knights are nothing but useless! Feudal systems are outdated and obsolete!"

"No jest there! Who died and made Ligu in charge?" Spat the other. "I'd sooner trust a child than that man! He got what he deserved, and is probably in pieces out there. Now we need to rally more men from the reserves! And where are we going to find more mages?! Most are back in Rondel refreshing their lessons and the rest are monitoring the borders! It'll be at least a week for more men to be rallied to bring this legion back to strength." He began calming down. "Until then we'll have to hope the enemy doesn't come out of their fortress until we're ready. We barely have enough legions around, this part of the empire is quiet."

Sighs left the lungs of the soldiers as their gaze returned to the fire. "So... what now, sir?"

"We stay here for the time being. Until further notice you men of the 14th are effectively under the banner of the 28th." A Tribunis said standing. "Take heart men. This battle was a terrible one, but that's just it. This was just one battle. We will have plenty opportunity to take blood for the blood we spilt. We must recuperate and re energize first. And get more crossbows. The war goes on." He left for his quarters, already planning out the replenishment procedures. This was going to take time. There would be eager men ready to fill the ranks, but they needed time to get their gear, their directions and to march here. Logistics takes time.

However, his train of thought was interrupted by the arrival of a cyan dragon appeared above them, two others as escort. Julius Savagii had returned as he promised.

"Tribunus Cato." He called as Leonius descended and landed, letting Savagii off. "I apologize for not arriving sooner, the Senate had much to discuss."

"No need, sir... you did much when you looked after the men after the battle. We just need to lick our wounds now." Came Cato's reply.

"So you know of the war plan here on out."

"Dig in... let them come to us. It seems like madness all things considered, but there's not much else we can do." Cato said honestly.

"Yes. It is my hope we can develop new spells or weapons to fight... or bring them to the negotiating table. We must be wary of our enemies elsewhere. Caecus Jacobus has a propaganda campaign distracting the orcs to the east. Ictan for the most part seems unwary, and word just came in from the west that Hannibal has acted... it seems war with Denzalcia is inevitable."

"Mmmmm, we at least know how to fight them."

"Indeed."

Cato continued. "For the time being, sir, we are holding here and replenishing our ranks... the remains of the 14th Legion are under the banner of the 28th until they are up to appropriate strength. In addition we hope to get proper support for whatever plans in the future are decided."

"You will have it." Savagii promised. "The Mystic Council has already reported they are enhancing armor and weapons as best they can. Your forces will get priority as you are among those expected to fight the Otherworlders. In the meantime you can expect more legions to come in the future. The will to resist these invaders is strong despite our defeats. You've little to worry about Cato, and I will be at the forefront of this effort."

Cato seemed surprised. "Forgive me but, after what happened last time? You are certain that's wise?" The question was sound. Even though the surprise reinforcements were out of his control, Savagii still rightly bore the blame since it was his strategy. The Tribunus, left without his Legate and a whole legion for his fellow Tribunus was rightfully looking out for his men.

"I've learned from this... that is why we are not attacking anymore. We need to consolidate and become like the mountains around us. We must be prepared. I'll keep out of the way for the time being, let you rest and recover. But when they appear over the horizon, you have my word I'll be there on the frontlines like before." Leonius gave a screech to back up Savagii. Cato felt his fears disappate.

"Of course... forgive me. It's just-"

"Don't you dare apologize. You have every right to doubt me for this fiasco. We'll get through this, we just need time to think." The peace was made and the two could get back to work.

At least they would if it wasn't for the commotion coming from the porta praetoria, the front gate of the castra made evident by attendants, legionaries and servants alike rushing for it. Curiosity coming forth, the two made way to investigate, making their way for the front of the slowly organizing crowd. You'd swear the emperor himself had appeared! But getting ahead, the two realized it was something more. Before them was a woman in legionary armor, but it was as black as night with red colorations over a blood red tunic. Covering her completely with segmentata parts on her arms and legs. And far more complex iconography than anything seen even on the highest ranking leaders. A part of the armor on the upper chest appearing almost like a dragon spreading its wings. A sheathed gladius with a blood red blade and a halberd in matching colors, on her back she carried a scutum bearing the iconography of Erebus, galea with red eyes underneath with the Saderan dragon wings in the background. She herself bore red irises beneath a faceguard on her Galea covering the upper part of her face. The skin that could be seen was porcelain white, seemingly out of place for such a woman. She appeared to be around her twenties, and to add to it, a blood red cloak.

The two instinctively kneeled, as did the rest of the crowd.

"Apostle Rory of Father Erebus. Priestess of Battle and Saint of the Soldiers. We stand before you, humbly seeking your generosity." The woman hummed lightly. A smile forming on her lips, seeming so out of place given her title and appearance. It was the kind of smile a friend would give.

"Rise, Savagii... Cato... all of you" She said softly. "It is so good to see you again. You've progressed well in the ranks, Cato. Congratulations on your promotion." She said, removing her helmet Her hair falling out, as black as her armor.

"The feeling is mutual, your holiness. Especially now. If I may, please follow. Your presence will be a most welcome comfort for the men." No surprise there, wherever she went, people were without a doubt happy. It was no secret for her or the other demigods and goddesses considering Erebus was the most popular of the gods. For the likes of Rory herself, it was also normal. She was an apostle, essentially a representative. Mortals chosen by their Gods to form a closer bond to their people, and give a better way to see to needs as the Gods were forbidden from interfering in mortal affairs. It required great importance to warrant the attention of a demigod. Every thousand years, a new apostle is chosen as the old one ascends to godhood to take a place next to their patron. It has been this way since the start.

"MEN! Come see who dropped by!" Cato's call attracted their attention. Seeing the apostle of Erebus led to the eruption of joy from the men, who all began to close in and bow themselves. "Apostle Rory of Father Erebus! Priestess of Battle and Saint of the Soldiers. We stand before you, humbly seeking your generosity."

"Men of the 14th. It seems like just yesterday I saw you marching off to battle." She began. "And I smell the scent of blood amongst you. Surely it was a great-" She stopped. There was only 19 men. Usually it was far more seeing her at a time, and when her arrival was announced, they would often scramble to get to her. "Where's the rest of the 14th?"

The men changed to looks of dread and guilt, looking to one another, until one answered. "We are the 14th."

"What? But, the 14th was as big as any other legion. At 5,000 men! The banners of the 28th are plain as day, but how-" She stopped, processing the information she had, and began putting 2 and 2 together. "Wait... you mean they...?"

"They're all dead." Savagii said. "The armies of the vassals are gone, the 14th is what you see, and the 28th has seen better days. You recall the enemy from the Otherworld? We were sent to fight them... we lost." Rory immediately understood the gravity of the situation, and would take a moment to say a prayer. "That fool LIGU!"

"King of the League Principality? What did he do?"

"We had a plan! Overwhelm the enemy, all at once to mitigate their destructive potential. And he had to play knight in shining armor and ruin it all! We were so close, we could literally see the Gate! Savagii did his best but..." Cato answered. Rory sighed, understanding what he meant. And it was likely the kings were back in their lands licking their wounds and unable to do much. That would likely explain why she came across so much activity in this otherwise peaceful region. The vassals were vassals for a reason. Sadera would've been better off just crushing them and taking their lands like they usually did. Damned Mabel and her stubborn generosity.

Rory decided to stay, comfort the soldiers. If this battle was as bad as they say it was, then it would only make sense for the apostle of Erebus to stay and alleviate their concerns. She began by holding a prayer for the man who once owned the broken helmet.

Third Recon Group.

"The sky is so blue, guess I should expect that of a different world." Itami muttered.

"Enjoy it while you can Itami. The grass is always greener in the other guy's yard." Said Ferguson. Don't we all know and experience that logic? Then again, the chances of traveling to another world because of a war were unheard of.

"You can see the same thing in Hokkaido." Said Kurata, driving Itami's vehicle. And sounding a bit disappointed. "As for me, I was hoping for a place with giant trees. Huge dragons flying, fairies buzzing around. But so far all we've seen were other Humans and other monsters in armies. And the livestock are just cattle and sheep. Such a disappointment."

"All the horrors we saw back at the fort and you're complaining about fantasy attractions? You are a strange man, Kurata." Nishina commented out loud.

"Whatever gets your mind off of that stuff, amiright?"

"Read a manga or something. That's what I do." Itami said. The group had gone a good distance from the camp. Most conversations were kept to the interiors of the vehicles. Mitchell was communicating the standard procedures. Since he was the higher rank, he assumed control. He took the time to learn about the recon squad so he could better direct them, mostly as Itami was briefly talking to them.

And as always, Itami noted this info in his little journal.

So... here I am... leading a recon squad. Curse the luck. Looks like someone's been watching me because a good chunk of the team are people I know. Kurata-san, Nishina-san, Kuribayashi-san, Kuwahara-san, Kurokawa-san. Corporal Azuma Higashi. The guy is as vanilla as you can get. Doesn't stand out, doesn't recede back. But he's nice enough. He prefers keeping to himself for hte most part. The rest are people new to me. But turns out one of them is the massive man I saw at the battle. Leading Private Katsumoto Wataru, guy is a PE teacher at a preschool back home, and he's got the personality to match. Loud and energetic. Seems to get along with me already thankfully. Sergeant First Class Akira Tomita. Guy is calm and collected. And it looks like he was transferred from the special forces. Guy has the ranger and airborne emblems. Turns out we met already before being deployed, at the mess. He seems okay. Leading Private Daisuke Tozu, now this guy's a surprise. He's a low-ranking, start from the bottom type soldier, but his family is PRETTY wealthy. Turns out he's due to be running as co-manager at a bank back home. Not a big bank but a bank nonetheless. He definitely doesn't like me, he's in Kuribayashi-san's camp. But he's far more polite about it. Leading Private Hayato Sasagawa, he works in photography as a hobby, and hopes to send some pictures to the monthly MU, some UFO magazine as it's called. He also doesn't like me, but is more up front about it. Finally is Leading Private Hiroshi Furuta. Honestly he scares me more than the others. He's a nice guy and gets along with everyone, but he seems deadset on finding plants and other items in this world to test in culinary dishes. He works at a well known restaurant part time, something about a quarrel with the owner causing him to seek other pursuits for a time. And that's what scares me... who knows if he grabs a bad plant or worse?

And that's my team. Kami help me.

"Ey. Remind me, what are we doing again?" Wataru asked.

"Reconnaissance. When we reach a destination, we'll scout it out, then attempt first contact if possible. Diaz will handle that part. She's the one with language experience. She can speak in Latin." Mitchell explained. "If we run into any hostiles, and hopefully we don't, we avoid them."

"Isn't that something more in line with your fancy predator drones?" Nishina asked.

"Can't use em here." 30K answered. "There's no satellites here, and you need satellites so the drones have an idea of where they are and where to go. Even then, all that money doesn't beat just going to see it for yourself."

"That's what I keep telling you young kids. You rely on your fancy drones too much, you need to find a balance between using tech and your base instincts, otherwise you get killed!" Kuwahara declared.

"You are SO old fashioned, Pops. It's not even funny." Kuribayashi said, though the tone in her voice indicated she thought otherwise.

"That's the reality of it. All the advances, breakthroughs and lessons of war through history, and the infantryman is still the vital building block of an army."

"Oh come on, the infantryman isn't that great without the latest and greatest of toys!" Kuribayashi said back to him. "I mean just look at our company and you'll see proof of that!"

"Their toys aren't too much use here either, Kuribayashi-san. Unless we can somehow teleport some satellites here in a flash." Tozu muttered.

"Oh you're a real buzzkill, Tozu-san." Kuribayashi muttered back. "Heya, Mitchell-sama, what do you think about this prattle?"

"I think you should keep your eyes out for hostiles, sergeant." Came the gruff response.

"Ah... uh... yes sir." Itami couldn't help but bear a smug grin hearing that. He knew right away Mitchell wasn't one for small talk and preferred keeping his eyes on the prize.

"Hey. Check it out. I think I see history up ahead." Kozak said, manning the M134 on the first Humvee., His attention was upon a set of stones by the road. But they weren't just random stones. They were neatly and orderly lined up. Like the Stonehenge back in their world. Only smaller. The vehicles stopped for a look. Mitchell, Nolan, and Itami disembarked, while Sasagawa grabbed his camera and began documenting the find.

"Well... this is new. Unless anyone has a better answer, I think we're looking at this world's Stonehenge." Nolan said. While Ferguson reported the find to command.

"We find what could very well be the oldest thing here in this world on our first go. Huh. Next thing you know we'll be up shit creek without a paddle." Said Kozak.

"Don't say that, you're gonna jinx us!" Hume cried.

"I'm astounded. Seriously. You think this thing has the same significance as the one back home? Or maybe they just like fancy rocks." 30K said.

"Knowing you, you probably prefer the fancy rocks." Pep said.

"Sore wa chōdo senzai-tekina hakken no yori ōku no kanōsei o hirakimasu." Said Kurokawa, in awe at the wonder.

"Anybody know what she said?" 30K..

"She does have a point. Before you know it, we're going to be tripping over more stuff to make our heads spin." Kuwahara said, poking his head out from his vehicle. Nolan began heading back to the Humvee.

"Yeah. . So far we've seen elves, dwarves and all that Lord of the Rings mojo. What's next? The list is virtually endless. Fantasy worlds have a way of defying reality." He said. "So what's next? Sonic speed dragons? Glowing trees? Spirits?"

Kurata smiled. "I'm voting cat girls." The Americans alooked at him with varying looks of bewilderment and disgust. Most peeking out from their vehicles.

"Man. You are sick, you know that?" Brown stated. Kurata just smiled stupidly. After some more photos from Sasagawa, the group continued on. "Anyway, what was that you were mentioning about reality, Nolan?"

"Reality is often ignored in the lore and legend of fantasy media as opposed to science fiction, which requires some possibility that the events could happen. Fantasy has far-fetched concepts. If we're fighting a fantasy force, we need to expect anything. I can only hope our leadership sees that." Was the reply.

"In other words, we really need to expect anything short of Godzilla?" Kuwahara asked. "Well don't worry! The Self-Defense Forces are masters of fighting giant monsters!"

"Oh NOT AGAIN!" Tozu groaned, Kuwahara referencing Godzilla yet again.

Kozak and Mitchell switched places on the gun, letting the younger soldier take his drone to the skies to scout ahead. Much of the terrain was mostly the same as before. Open plains with hills and trees here and there. "So anyway, I made a list of what we should probably expect to see here in this world." Itami said. "It's really an entire notebook. Vampires, trolls, orcs, snow elves, six legged creatures, giant elephants, you know, that kind of stuff."

"Forget your bucket list, I see something up ahead. About quarter of a mile. Looks like a village. Locals are running for the houses like something's spooked them." Said Kozak.

"Did they see the drone?" Mitchell asked.

"No. Too far up for them to see. Maybe someone was way out and ran back after seeing us." A short distance to the village, the convoy went off the road.

"You all stay here, I'm going in solo." The captain said as he left the Humvee.

"Sir wait, don't you need backup?" Itami asked about to embark.

"No need. Let me handle this. Less chance of detection and not necessary." Mitchell replied before running off. He took to a lower profile upon reaching the shrubbery, About 12 yards from that, he reached an opening and took in the view. The village was more akin to that of a European type from the middle ages rather than the more Latin architecture he was expecting. He moved among the shrubbery closer to the opening to get closer to the structures. A sign of a gate shape was in his way, words in Latin written on them. If he could speak it, he'd recognized it said 'Coda Village.' He activated his magnetic vision. Even if there wasn't anything metallic around, it was a great way to see past walls. There they were within their homes, There were plenty of men around, but mostly woman, children and elderly. "I have a positive ID. Make your way forward, but be slow and careful. You may need to ready your trigger fingers."

"That isn't going to help with public relations." Kurokawa said on the radio.

"You rather we just waltz into an ambush, gorgeous?" Kozak asked. Earning no reply. "This ain't no village in Afghanistan. Hearts and minds can wait until we establish how dangerous they are.

"You think that customs and ideologies here will be… different from those that existed back home back in the day?" Asked Shino.

Nolan answered. "As far as I can tell, we should think these people believe that 8-4=8. Don't ask how it works, just accept they may think that way." The message was clear, expect anything. As everyone else approached the village, they brought their vehicles closer to the forest to better conceal them, then finally going on foot the rest of the way. There was the village. Kurokawa was about to go forward from their hiding spots when Kozak held an arm in front of her.

"What?" She began.

"Wait for the captain." Unlike the others, the Ghosts could see Mitchell's blue outlined form in the shrubbery through the CROSS-COM clear as day. He was moving around and finally heading back towards them, waving for them to come forward. Diaz takes the lead, then Kurokawa and Itami. The three slowly entered the front gate, weapons only at the ready and not being aimed. Diaz caught movement and reacted. A door was opened with a tiny head peeking out.

"Stand down. It's a child." She whispered. Unlike the recruits, the other Ghosts didn't wear any shades over their eyes. Scott however had goggles that he wore whenever he felt like it. So Diaz's crystal clear eyes were visible to the girl while the balaclava hid the lower region of her face. She gave a little wave to the girl. Who slowly waved back. Earning a smile from Kurokawa. The mother of the child came out to pull her in, only to be stopped by the gaze of the three soldiers.

"Ne expavescas, non hic sumus te laedere." Diaz uttered. She signaled for the others to approach, who appeared slowly and holstered their firearms. While slowly and carefully. The townspeople were starting to come out of hiding. Though it wasn't exactly inspired. You could see the fear in their eyes.

"Quis es?" The speaker was a short old man, possibly their leader.

Diaz answered. "US Exercitus." She said pointing to her team. "Exercitus laponica. Scisne bellum gestum sit?" She asked.

The old man eyes widened, likely in fear "Manere. Tu es de Othorom?!" He asked as if he knew the answer already.

"Othorom?" Diaz asked. That's a new word... roughly meaning 'Otherworld.' Is that what they called their world

"Sic suus 'verum ... ones es qui vicerunt ... socium exercitus quid vis nobis?" The old man began. While he spoke with Diaz, the other members were either socializing or looking around.

"So far so good." Mitchell said. A peaceful first contact. So far anyway.

"Looks like it won't be so bad after all." Itami said.

"You had doubts?" Asked Mitchell. Itami laughed.

"I had doubts the moment I entered the Gate." He replied.

Kuwahara gave a nudge to his arm. "Don't let doubts stop you son. Let them motivate you. You just gotta respond differently. That's what I always do. Just remember, things can turn on a dime. It doesn't take much to make a seemingly great start become a-"

"Occidit!" The roar came from a man running around a home with a spear in his arms, running straight at Diaz. "Occidit! EAliena bestias! Barbarum monstra!" He was apprehended by other locals, three to be exact. Another tried to wrest the spear away from him, the man continuously repeating himself and kicking to get free. Guns were already trained on him. The older man approached and began questioning him, the man responded with red face and tear-filled eyes.

"Diaz. What's going on?" Mitchell asked.

"The guy who's trying to attack us?" She began listening to the two talking. "Looks like... he has a brother in the military... well... had one." She would stop to listen as they talked before continuing. "His brother was... with the 14th legion. Sent to Alnus Hill with the 28th and the armies of vassals. That explains why they were so different from one another. He was informed... his brother was killed there."

"Et occidit fratrem meum! Ego solus in hoc mundo!" He wailed as the others dragged him away to a house. So, they got a little more info and left deciding not to fan any now forming flames. The team left the village to search for more. Being given directions from the elder to a forest settlement. Which also had some Saderan ties.

"So much for hearts and minds, eh?" Kozak asked, no one responded.

"So, Kurata." Itami began, trying to get his mind off of that broken man. "You were mentioning other things to see?"

"Yeah?" Kurata asked.

"You really want to see some cat-eared girls, huh?"

"A cat girl, a voluptuous sorceress, whatever." Kurata answered. "What about you? What's your deal, Commander?"

Itami thought for a moment. "Magical girls, I guess." He answered. Kurata laughed a little.

"Like Cardcaptor Sakura?" Ferguson asked over the radio. The Ghosts laughed at his comment, knowing how much they were messing with Itami now.

"Nononono. Emyu from Mei Com." Itami said.

"The fuck is Mei Com?" Kozak asked, getting no answer.

"Oh yeah?" Kurata said.

"Yeah. I'll kill you if you badmouth my waifu." Itami joked.

"Oh, but I can sing the Mei Com opening." Said Kurata.

"Seriously?" Itami asked.

"Imanotokoro, Meikon! Meikon!"

Itami and Kurata began singing, much to the annoyance of Shino and the Ghosts.

"Whoever is clogging the radio with that racket had better give it a rest." Mitchell's stern warning shut the two up right there and then. "Much better."

Hours passed and the trip had grown quiet. Mitchell began feeling a bit out of place. Not from the company with him, but the world. The environment. The US had a strong force here, but there was one thing that they relied on but didn't have. Satellites. There were none here. Sure the CROSS-COM worked, but it was heavily neutered. Outside of seeing enemies and operating in the general vicinity, the Ghosts were cut off from anything outside of a radio. A damn shame too.

The CROSS-COM is a completely wireless wearable computer system with a hands-free HUD that overlays informaiton onto hte soldier's vision. It enabled soldiers to perform faster and more effectively as they would be fully aware of what's happening around them with information from satellites, other forces and even drones. It identifies hostiles, connects with other devides with cameras, shows maps and communicates with other forces among other functions, based on the systems used by fighter pilots. From the outside, it's most distinctive tell-tale sign is that of a blue square emitting over the left eye. This is part of a specially-coated ocular piece allowing the image to be reflected into the user's eye while allowing them to see the outside world unhindered. A crystal clear image combining data and the real world. And Mitchell along with other Ghost Leads can access support through it. He could ascribe to this first hand with it's debut in a mission in Afghanistan, then it's true potential in Mexico.

Currently the system was in its 2.0 model. RnD for upgrades taking their time to work out kinds and improve it before sending it out. He could only hope that the DARPA officials could solve this quickly. As much as technology merely enhanced a soldier's ability to fight, there's no denying this piece was a vital tool.

"Hey, stemming from Itami's question. What do you think we'll find from here on out?" Pepper asked.

"Well, if Lord of the Rings, Skyrim, and World of Warcraft taught me anything… it's that if it's fantasy, it's possible here." Kozak replied.

"Just like that huh?" Pepper said.

"Yep. We don't exactly have a book of references to go off of."

"Why are we still talking about this?" Pepper asked. "The speculation helps no one."

"If I may offer my opinion Itami," Kuwahara began, "let's set up camp in front of the forest." It was getting late by now, and the sun was beginning to set.

"Yeah... yeah that's a good idea." Itami said.

"We aren't going in?" Kurata asked.

"And risk running into something nasty? No. Besides, we'll end up scaring any settlement in there. We're the Defense Force. The people love us. At least, that's what the General was saying. And after what happend in that village, well... yeah." Itami said.

30K spoke next "Yeah, those people at that Coda please reeeeeeally liked you. Is this guy for real?"

Mitchell interrupted. "Ghosts, we'll assist in the setup. After that, we'll perform preliminary recon."

"At night? You crazy captain? Who knows what's out there at night?" Kurata protested.

"We won't go all the way in. We're skirting the boundaries and no further. That's what we have drones for." Scott replied.

"Uh… guys. I'm seeing… I'm seeing smoke. A LOT of smoke." Kozak warned.

"Confirmed." Hume said, looking out his window. There was a massive cloud of ash and smoke rising from the forest ahead. A MASSIVE one. It looked like a storm cloud going up from the forest rather than a wildfire.

"Oh my god…" Diaz whispered. Well, looks like no camp. They drove around for a better vantage point, finally fingind one at a cliff, and found the entire forest was just about burning like the end of the world was beginning.

"It's burning." Kurokawa said.

"Yeah no shit Sherlock." 30K replied, earning glares from the Japanese females.

"Freak of nature?" Asked Kurata.

"More like a giant monster movie." Kuwahara said, pointing ahead.

"The fuck are you talking about-" Kozak stopped as he saw the sight Itami saw. The group saw in the distance over the forest, a giant red monster. A dragon breathing fire.

"Sweet mother of God." Mitchell breathed.

"A one-headed King Ghidorah?" Kuwahara asked. The Ghosts looked at him with confusion.

"The hell-?" Began Hume.

"That stuff's so old, Pops." Itami chortled.

Nolan said. "That thing's way bigger than the dragons we've already seen!" Those they saw before were about as long as a helicopter with the wingspan matching that of an A-10, coming in three colors and specialties. There was bound to be more as speculated by the leadership, but this was something that no one wanted to see or deal with. This thing was at first glance, bigger than an AC-130. Much bigger. The fire from its mouth blasting forth in a massive gout. "Probably as big as a first rate ship. Probably bigger."

"A what?"

"The massive age of sail ships with a shitload of cannons."

"What should we do Lieutenant Itami?" Shino asked. Itami was initially flustered. For once, she was asking in a kind, non-aggressive tone.

"Kuribayashi-chan. I'm too scared to go alone. Wanna come with?" He asked, attempting to flirt as Mitchell guessed.

"No thanks." She said, turning away.

"Oh ok." Itami replied weakly.

"She does have a point." Diaz said. "I ain't going down there."

"You think we can fight that thing?" Asked Kurata.

"Sure. You got an A-10 in your pocket?" Asked 30K.

The dragon roared and then flew away. "It's leaving. Thank the Lord." Cedric muttered.

"Hey… do you think dragons may have a habit of burning down forests for no reason?" Asked Itami.

"Maybe it's a territorial thing? Burn an area, it's yours." Pepper said.

"Like how dogs pee?" Nolan joked.

"If you're interested in dragon behavior, why don't you go after it?" Shino said annoyed.

"No… Itami's onto something…" Mitchell said. Suddenly the American captain's eyes bulged. "My god... the village the elder mentioned..." Mitchell's words trailed off as everyone realized what was being said.

"C... captain." Kurokawa began. "What do we do?"

"What can we do? There's no way anyone survived that" He answered grimly. "We wait for the fire to die out, then investigate."

By the time they got there, it was dawn and the fire had already finished off most of the flora. And ashes were everywhere. The rain that fell as they drove through helped them enter the forest. Dangerous as it was, Ghosts didn't leave anyone to just die.

"My God… it's like a bomb went off." Brown said. All around, was a clear view with residual smoke rising from charcoaled remains. As the soldiers searched for survivors, Vega and Kuwahara said prayers. Scott was kneeling at a well while Itami sat and drank water. Shino came along and filed the reports. 32 remains of structures… and 27 corpses.

"Mother of Mercy… there were more…" Kuwahara whispered. "Different world. Same results."

"Likely a hundred people died." Itami somberly said.

"Suddenly them being able to nearly kick our ass and having that magic makes so much more sense." Hume noted.

"Don't forget the fact that it took AA tanks to kill the smaller dragons from before. We may not have enough HAWK missiles for that." Shino said.

"Is it too late to wish I did have an A-10 in my pocket?" Kurata asked.

Itami was readying a bucket, miraculously surviving the fire. While Mitchell slowly stood. "Better hope you have an AC-130 in your pocket." He said.

"We better report this find to Command. If there's a giant dragon flying around this place, we'd better hope it doesn't come to us. We barely survived that attack, no telling what'll happen if our AA guns can't hurt that thing."

Itami threw the bucket in the well, and a 'donk' was heard. "The hell?" Itami said. Shino shined a light into the bottom, a young girl with long golden hair was down there.

"Holy shit. NOLAN-SAN! We got a survivor!" Everyone was shocked to say the least.

The Ghost medic went down into the well. Reaching the bottom, he tenderly grabbed the girl. Noticing her ears, an elf... an honest to god elf... well an elf that was alive and not trying to kill him for the time being. "Ready!" A Humvee pulled the rope attached to Nolan and helped him up

"Guys. Help. I kinda need both hands to climb out of here." He said holding a hand above the opening. Mitchell and Diaz helped him out. "Kurokawa, grab some dry towels or any kind of fabric! Something!" Everyone also realized this civilian was an elf.

Nolan let Kuribayashi and Kurokawa take over, knowing the elf girl would need to be undressed to properly get better. Meanwhile, Mitchell was feeling a big sympathy pang in him. She was the ONLY survivor of this attack. No mother, no father, nothing. Scott made it a priority to help her right there and then. After all, it's what Ghosts do.

"It's an elf, Commander! And a blonde, no less!" The sound of Kurata's voice broke the air. Mitchell immediately wincing. "This is awesome! Hooray for the Special Region!"

'That small-minded ignorant-" Her WHOLE village was gone. GONE. Nothing but ash left. With possibly no idea of it all being gone, and this perverted soldier was happy that it was a FEMALE BLONDE!? Scott placed his balaclava over his face and marched over to the soldier.

"I sense good things coming our way."

"Dude, you're into elves? You find them moe?" Itami asked.

"No. if I have to pick one. I will prefer the sexy type. There must be lusty witches, pure succubus, passionate vampires and elegant monster girls right? Maybe even naughty werewolf girls!" Kurata sang.

"Yeah…" Itami said, his gaze going behind Kurata. "Well I sense bad things coming YOUR way."

"Huh?" Kurata said. Itami pointed behind him, and Kurata found the imposing figure of the captain staring at him. Face hidden by the balaclava with only the eyes visible.

"You mind doing me a favor son?" He asked calmly.

"... uh... uh... yes sir?"

"Cut the chatter and watch the perimeter!"

"Uh.. yes yes sir! HAI!" The sergeant ran off with his tail between his legs. The captain then looked over to Itami who averted his gaze immediately after.

. "We're camping out here tonight." Mitchell declared. "Tomorrow we'll go back to the village and warn them. It's the least we can do for not attacking us when we showed up. We'll leave this place and set up a site, then move first thing in the morning. I'll keep an eye on the elf."

…

From there, it was pretty much straightforward. The group returned to Coda Village with the elf in tow. They had radio contact still, thank god, and messaged the base ahead of time. Letting them know what was happening and there was a dragon out there. Command replied by saying choppers would come shortly with extra forces.

"What?! The settlement's been wiped out?!" The elder said.

"There was a dragon," Diaz began, "huge, red, and breathing fire. Only one survivor."

The old man paled. "A flame dragon…" He said. "And that poor girl. All alone now… just why?"

"Can you help her? We can't really take her with us." Diaz said honestly. The man shook his head.

"Better to take her to another Elven village. Besides, we must flee." He said.

"Wait… leave the village?" Asked Diaz.

"When a fire dragon tastes the flesh of Human or Elf, it won't stop." The village was in an explosion of activity, with people running to prepare for the long trek to leave. The Ghosts and SDF soldiers helped out while Vega and his soldiers kept an eye out.

"Shit... don't tell me we're gonna look after all of these people..." Hume muttered.

"Maybe we won't have to... check it out." Azuma noted. His attention was drawn to the man from the last time they were here. He was wearing the damaged helmet and had the spear with him, but was far more calm and collected. In addition he was with a far larger group of people making way to leave.

"Marcus, what are you doing?" The elder asked.

"I'm leading these people to Castra Falco. I'm not going anywhere with these damned Otherworlders, and neither are these people... may Solaris shine your path forward, old friend." He answered, his ending words in a saddened tone, realizing this would probably be the last they saw of one another.

"Looks like that guy isn't coming with us. He's takin them refugees to a fort. Probably to join the army."

"It's good news for us in the long run." Cedric said. "Less people to look after. Be surprised how much things can go wrong looking after refugees, especially when they have no vehicles of their own. Or in this case not enough."

"Speaking from experience?" Kuwahara asked, seeing where Cedric was coming from.

"Unfortunately yes."

Meanwhile at a house a short way from the town, two figures, a young girl in a green and blue dress with a blue tabard, blue boots and light blue hair was carrying books to and from a house. With her was an older wizard with a snowy beard were readying for the trek as well. The wagon in front of the house had so much in it, it would be a wonder if the poor donkey could pull it.

"Dammit!" The wizard shouted, bringing books out. A Kato El Alteson.

"We can't keep piling things, Master." Said the girl with relatively no emotion. He fell from the stairs, then started to pout like a child, slamming his fists and kicking his legs.

"But we need our books! Isn't there anything we can do Lelei?"

"Yes. Prioritize the most valuable books." She answered.

"Ah of course. You have learned well, Lelei."

"You're just rushing Master, it's not that hard to figure out." She responded.

"But why now? These dragons usually keep to the wide open spaces and don't bother with settlements, let alone people! This is just ridiculous!"

"Just mount up and sleep for now Master." Lelei said, hoping to calm him.

"HUH?! I'm not interested in little girls like you! But your sister… a curvy woman like her. Big and bouncy!" He blushed like mad, and was responded to by a blizzard cast by his apprentice. "HEY! Don't abuse magic! It is sacred, you know that!" A bolt hit his face, silencing him. "Jeez. No humor whatsoever with you." Kato said, after she stopped and they climbed up on the cart.

"I blame you as my educator, Master." She said.

"OHHHhhhh don't you start."

The donkey was told to move, but alas, too much cargo. "He won't move. I told you we had too much."

"Hmph. In that case…" He began, raising his staff.

"Didn't you say magic is sacred? Nothing to be abused?" The wizard slightly stuttered. "Those were your words, Master."

Only for Lelei took her own staff and waved it. "Of course, we have no choice." The wagon was soon encased in a glow and began to float, allowing the donkey to pull as if it was nothing at all.

"Sorry." Kato muttered.

"It's fine. I've always known that this is simply how you are." Lelei said.

"Then why do you act so-"

"Need to maintain standards."

Upon reaching the village, the two magical Humans found the inhabitants in a line and ready to move with their carts. "Huh? Guess they're already on the move... I think?" Kato mused

"Master Kato! Leilei!" A villager called out. "One of the carts was carrying too much. It's broken and blocking the way."

Kato grinned. "Worry not, I shall-"

"MOVE IT! Get that cart out of the way!" A sudden voice in an unfamiliar tongue reached their ears.

Up ahead was a collection of strangely dressed people, carrying bizarrely shaped metal rods. "Kurokawa, Nolan. Get the wounded taken care of! Diaz, Hume, Brown, push the cart out of the way! What a disaster!" The tone of voice was firm, but gave way to annoyance at the end.

One group dressed in green, while the others had what seemed to be a combination of green, tan, and grey with masks over their faces. Ominous blue glows over their left eyes. Fearsome skull-like mouths on them. One was pointing all over the place.

"I've never heard such a language." Kato said. "You think they're some kind of soldiers? Or something?"

"Mercenaries maybe?" His apprentice responded.

"BAH, impossible. Coda is too poor to hire this many, let alone one. And they are nothing like I've ever seen."

"Cedric, you and your men help with the rest of the packing. Itami, you and your people reroute the villagers! I'm getting command on the horn." The samee man yelled.

"I've never seen such clothes." Leilei said.

"She's hurt!" A woman said.

"I SAID MOVE HER! We need to get this train rolling!"

"Woman soldiers too?" Kato asked in surprise.

"Master, I'm going to go take a look." Leilei said. She hopped from the cart, ignoring Kato's calls.

"Lelei, stop you shouldn't get into-"

Ahead, there was a broken cart with a horse on the ground, foaming at the mouth. A young hurt girl was on the ground. Lelei knelt down to see her condition. "She's in danger."

A woman in green came next and looked upon the girl. "She has a concussion. She may have a fractured skull."

At the horse, a man in the other coloring and wearing a strange hat as opposed to the helmets was checking the whining equine. On his hat was a foreign word, 'MEDIC.' "Rabies. It's too late for this horse. We're gonna have to put him down." He said, readying that small rod in his hands before he looked back and saw Lelei. "Hey. Stand back little girl Let the professionals take care of this." He ordered in a firm voice.

Leilei understood none of it, but one conclusion came to her. "Doctors?" She mused.

A whinnying filled the air, followed by the MEDIC shouting to get clear, unfortunately Leilei was too stunned to see the horse upright and about to tumble down, towards her.

A loud ratatatat filled the air. And the horse fell over with blood squirting. It was dead. The sound came from the MEDIC, who lay on his back after falling over and held an oddly shaped rod of sorts, with a small little stubby hole emanating smoke.

"Jesus, but that was close." He said. "I told you to move." Lelei only said one thing.

"Those people… saved me."

...

"Jesus. That horse was rabid as hell."

Hume's statement went without saying. It almost crushed that little girl, but thanks to Nolan, it was dead. "You don't have to tell me twice." Nolan responded.

"ARE YOU CRAZY?! That thing could've still fallen on her!" Sasagawa cried. "Put that thing away before someone gets killed!"

"Look, I had everything under control until she decided to get involved, you're supposed to keep the civilians back!" Nolan yelled.

"SHUT UP! Back to it, get that thing out of the way and get ready to move out!" Mitchell barked.

"Hey. Don't tell me we're gonna be taking care of all these people forever." Kurata said. Earning some concerned stares. "I mean, isn't there any lords or royalty around? Someone who cares?"

Kurata made a very good point. Lords took care of their people… well, most of them. Or the other likely case of the enemy themselves caring for the village givent he ties. "Yeah… I talked to the elder about that." Diaz began. "None of the lords in this regional kingdom ever came back. No doubt being killed at the battle back on the hill. Some say that they would go to the Empire's cities, but the rest decided not to." Of course, lords and nobility were expected to fight like anyone else in this kind of society. Only they ended up dying in this fight. Talk about 'every action has a consequence.'

"We better get on the road," Mitchell began, "They say other villages are evacuating as well. Dragon or not, this is sure to get the enemy's attention. So we better move while we have time on our side. I already called ahead. Reinforcements are moving slow but we should have helicopter support to accompany us in time, and a contingent of vehicles to reinforce our numbers. Let's move!" After some time had passed, the convoy began to move. Each military vehicle was placed evenly in between segments of the civilian carts. By now, the elf showed signs of regaining consciousness, but had yet to wake. The trek of refugees moved at a very slow pace. Thank God Mitchell called everything ahead of time. With their current rate, the ETA of the reinforcements was 1 hour. Mitchell could only hope for the best. They were beginning to look a bit more down then before. Both emotionally and physically.

A few moments more, an axle broke, and the family was forced to leave the cargo behind. "So… what do we do with them?" Kurata asked.

"Assuming we can't find a new place, we take them to base." Itami said.

A chorus of 'nanis' rose from the SDF soldiers. "Are you serious?! The superiors will have our heads if we do that!" Kurata said.

"So you'd rather let these people die?" Itami asked.

"We can't just bring them in." Kuwahara said.

"It'll help with our reputation. That IS that why we're out here? Right?" Mitchell cut in.

"But… the-" Itami began.

"If he has a problem with it he can come to me." Itami said forcefully. Everyone stopped talking and unanimously agreed to the terms. The trek wasn't getting any better, and spirits began to really go down. The soldiers however, seemed to have a temporary answer to everything. A carriage breaks down, the Ghosts help out, a person gets heatstroke, the SDF helps out. Only so much could be done though.

The only comfort was not too long ago, two Blackhawks had arrived and grabbed some of the civilians, including the unconsious elf. Part of the issue with their arrival was cautiousness. There was paranoia a giant or other dragon would show up and attack them. Though that seemed to be wearing off and the tempo was picking up. The saving grace was the village wasn't far from the base. In fact, Mitchell speculated they were mere miles away from home. Took the number of villagers down from 60 to 48, less of a headache for the team to look after.

"Where the hell are the rest of the choppers?" Kurata mumbled.

"Probably watching the roads and keeping an eye out for other attacks. No one's taking chances."

"With these people out here like this?" Kurokawa said with concern.

"It's about the in crowd, me myself and I right now." Itami added. "Not contempt or lack of empathy, but rather taking care of themselves to keep the mission going."

"How is that any different?" She asked not seeing the difference.

"Kurokawa-san, have you ever helped someone when you had a bad case of the cold?" He asked, much to her confusion.

"I... no?"

"Of course not. How about with a broken leg? Or when you had an eye missing from your head. You see where I'm getting at?"

"I... no?"

Itami sighed. "You need to take care of yourself first before you take care of others, because if you don't take care of yourself, and you get sick or worse, injured, how are you supposed to help others? You think you could've helped that elf when your hand is shattered? That the base can help these people with what little resources we still have and how precarious this world is?"

Everyone was taken aback by the statement. It was... uncharacteristic for such a lazy man.

"Hey hold that thought..." Kurata said. "...someone's coming from up ahead."

"Yeah... I can see someone." Mitchell's voice followed shortly after. A few moments passed, people getting a better look at the incoming stranger. "It's a... woman in legionary attire, with a halberd."

"WHAT?!" Kurata shouted, grabbing binoculars. Sure enough, they were right. But what he expected to be something to look at instead terrified him. Black armor, red coloration, porcelain skin, and eyes that could kill a man if they could. No orders were needed as the Ghosts disembarked and took positions to fire. The woman stopped, taking the sight before her. A tense standoff, the lack of knowledge with past experience was enough to get the adrenaline pumping.

"Otherworlders." She said, the firm voice of an adult. "You are not welcome in these lands."

They looked to one another, Diaz translating. "Who are you?" She responded. The woman took her halberd and slammed the dull end into the ground, sending rather large dust clouds around.

"I am Rory Mercury, apostle to Father Erebus, Saderan God of war and will. Priestess of Battle and Saint of the Soldiers," She took her halberd and pointed the other end towards them. "And YOU have spilled the blood of his sons! By all rights, you should be dead!" The halberd again slamming into the ground, more dust clouds flying. "BUT, you have spared the lives of the remaining army, allowing them to leave, such acts are deserving of praise and respect. Which is why I shall not destroy you, so long as you answer my question... why are these people with you?"

"It's Rory Mercury!" Some of the villagers cried out, running to her. "Praise Father Erebus!" The mood seemed to lighten up as these people took joy seeing this woman. Likely for the best as Mitchell figured. had it not been for everything he's seen so far, he wouldn't have even given this woman a second glance. Already these people spoke all at once trying to defuse her temper.

The sounds of another person running forward caught their attention, Diaz saw the mage man by the name of Kato running to them, shouting for them to not do anything. "Don't attack her! Don't do anything, she is being genuine when she says she'll spare you!"

Even more confusion was flooding the minds of the soldiers now. "Who exactly is she? She said she was an apostle."

"You truly are strangers from elsewhere... apostles are no mere mortals. They are demi-gods, chosen representatives of their patron god. Rory's is the Saderan god of war. If she deems it necessary she will slaughter you all."

"So why doesn't she?"

"She mentioned you spared men at a battle. Is this true?" Kato asked.

"Yes... yes it is." Diaz answered.

"Then that is why. You have shown mercy and shown yourself to be more than mere invaders. This is a sign of respect and generosity, and I beg you to take it. A Saderan's word is as strong as the steel of their swords."

"... well what do we do sir?" Kozak asked uneasy.

"... Diaz, ask her if she's being serious."

Diaz felt rather put on the spot this time. "Uh... Rory was it? You swear you won't attack us if we answer your question?" The woman looked to her from the people crowding her, a softer look on her face, undoubtedly from what these people were telling her of the situation.

"If what these people say is true, you have my word so long as I may accompany you, look after what souls I can."

They all looked to Kato. "Say yes, say yes!"

"... what have we to lose?" Mitchell answered.

"Don't I get a say in this?" Itami asked in the background, but was ignored.

"We accept."

"Good good! Let us carry on then, if I am correct Alnus is not that far away! That is where you travel to, correct?" She asked. Receiving a yes in response, to which she turned and marched ahead of the convoy. The soldiers spotted the motif of a roman helmet with angry red eyes on the back, a feeling of unease looking at it.

"Well, this will either end well or poorly." Itami muttered, pulling his helmet over his face. "Wake me up when either happens."

"You are just USELESS." Kuribayashi growled.

"If you want command, it's yours." He replied, getting no answer in response.

Meanwhile, Lelei was to say the least, very interested in the events taking place. But forget that they were able to peacefully speak to Rory Mercury herself, what really got her attention were the soldiers themselves. Kato, sick of hearing them talk with no idea of what's going on cast a spell to sort out what the hell everyone as saying. Being a master mage lets you do that stuff. From the conversations she heard, it appeared that there were two groups from three separate forces composing the group. A 'recon team' from an army known as the 'JSDF.' And lastly, but more intriguingly, the soldiers from this 'American' force called 'Ghosts.' They each wore a mask with markings strangely resembling that of a skull's mouth. But their name was the biggest mystery.

"Master, ghosts are apparitions, right?" She asked her mentor.

"That is correct, Lelei. Why do you ask?"

"These people, with the masks, call themselves 'Ghosts' yet are as Human as anyone else. Do they do this to perhaps mock the dead or possibly instill fear?" She asked.

"Hmm. It's a mystery indeed Lelei. There are some things even a sage does not know. Maybe when things calm down, you can ask them. You are after all a curious little one." Kato replied.

"And their staffs… for lack of a better word… I've never seen anything like them." She said.

"Neither have I, though I doubt they are magical… maybe I'm a bit biased on the matter but all staffs share a similar appearance to one another. These ones do so with one another, but they lack the gems that are adorned on all staffs. It is these staffs that allow one to channel the power better" Kato answered. That was something weighing on her mind. How did they work? So many questions. So many questions!

...

Castra Falco

"The notices have been sent out? Good good. With that I will take my leave. Best of luck to you Tribuni Cato, Tiberius."

"Of course. And thank you, Savagii."

Savagii had spend the last couple of days here looking at the plans for the Castra. The hope was to make it stronger, more of a nut to crack. Thankfully that wouldn't be too hard. Castra Falco was an old permanent fortress that had stood for centuries, with much added to it to the point it resembled a castle more than a recently constructed emplacement of the army. Like all Castra it bore four gateways, the front, rear and the side gates, which were on the longer walls and constructed a third of the way down the length closer to the front gate. The same laterally running road connecting the two gates, passing the principia in the center. For centuries the Saderans built their Castra to be divided into five zones with the roads inside separating them.

Upon encountering castles in other lands, the Saderans took a liking to them, ever the ambitious innovative imitators. The Castra were enlarged, the walls made with larger towers, and the principia made taller, wider, taking up more space with tunnels for the roads. And as such, could fit more men and material. And was certainly a blessing as that meant any giants while having to crouch to enter would have small but cozy places to rest. Thank the gods they were simple beings! Even if the Otherworlders could break through and take this place, it would take time, and that was the point. It wasn't quite as luxurious as the previous designs despite all the pains taking to make it as aesthetically pleasing as possible, but it still had many of the necessary faculties like the Legate's quarters, the tribunes home, barracks, blacksmiths, healer's hospital, bathing complex, etc etc.

Savagii took his leave leaving the Tribuni take over. The local and surviving officers would take over from there now that the groundwork was in place. And it was this function he planned on examining and expanding upon. The Otherworlders have proven to be unpredictable as those sudden reinforcements showed, such situations required initiative as he realized. That was one resource the Saderans did not lack, for it was encouraged for even the lowest centurion to suggest and even make decisions on their own. But initiative requires information, and information is as precious as time. Messenger birds were useful but took time to make it, riders in battle were faster but likely to be killed. He knew some mages experimented with scrolls that could send messages between two men after it was written, but it was unreliable given how these scrolls could only go between one another.

It was evidently clear to Savagii after this day that better armor, new weapons and stronger defenses would only go so far in this war. They needed new tactics, new methods. Again, he was fortunate, for across Sadera's long life they had discarded ways of fighting to implement and develop new systems. Such as their early early years when they like many other peoples fought in raiding parties or agreed duels. They for a time would then adopt the Ictun Phalanx before creating the manipular system back when Sadera was a budding power and had to look after their own gear. But while Saderans would willingly discard a way of fighting when it proves inefficient, it still took time to train and get accustomed to the new systems.

And of course, Savagii still needed time to learn more about the Otherworlders. It was an admittedly massively ambitious task for himself as he didn't just want to learn how they fought, but how they operated. How small are their formations, how did their command structure work, what did they eat, what were the limits of their contraptions? So many things to learn and likely not enough time to learn them. Besides, it's not like he could just go and ask them himself.

"Leonius!" After his call, Leonius came to Savagii's side. "We have MUCH to do, my friend, and I fear little time to do it. We must rely on what we have for the time being." A whine was the reply. "I know I know, but I must do so. You worry too much. A pat on the snout before moving to mount his dragon."

"Savagii! A message of the highest priority!" A man on horse came rushing to him. "An elf by the name of Hodor Marceau is asking for help!"

"Hodor... the high elf? I know him! He's a long serving auxiliary I met in the war. What is he doing here?"

"His village was just hit by a flame dragon!"

Savagii stopped cold. "What?" Leonius was taken aback as well.

"And we are getting letters right now!" The man added, pulling one such from a pouch. "It is in the area."

"What... but... how is this happening? Such beasts stay away from settlements!" He was not wrong. Dragons of that type were few and far between, and they rarely grew to such sizes if what he was imagining was true. Beasts like flame dragons could find quarry elsewhere like the oceans. Many large creatures live out there. "What happened, what made it act out? Dammit where's Pantera when you need... gather a force. And get a message to Pantera or one of the Black Riders out there NOW! Dammit dammit DAMMIT As if the Otherworlders weren't bad enough!" He muttered mounting Leonius

Such monsters indeed tended to stay away from settlements. They preferred beasts like mammoths, whales, and other sea creatures or beings like giants, cyclopes and other beings with sufficient meat. Humans, elves, orcs and the like were too small, and if the beast DID act, mages and dragons of smaller breeds attack and harass it, very much like how small birds like chickadees attack hawks to drive away predators from their homes. Perhaps the conflict drove it to act? Alnus and the regions surrounding it had yet to see settlements outside the very tiny villages, and such places would be mere appetizers for a dragon like this.

"Hodor! Hodor!" Flying over the front gate, there was the elf down there, clearly out of breath. He was the spitting image of what one would imagine when thinking of an elf save the fact he was well-built. Something people rarely think of thinking of male elves given how elegant and graceful their people tend to be. Long blonde hair past the neck, sharp eyes and glistening skin. The attire however, blue robes with a white shirt bound by a belt, was anything but elegant. Such was the lot of elves living in the forest. "Hodor!"

"S-Savagii?" He gasped in surprise seeing his old commander.

"Yes, I'm here. I was told everything."

"My daughter... I... in the well... everything else-" He panted.

"I know, I know. Relax. Get yourself some rest."

"NO NO!" Hodor protested. "I'm going back... get her..."

"Baaaaah you stubborn old. FINE, but get in your equipment, I won't have you caught without your things."

And it seemed so promising with Rory herself having graced them before continuing on towards the direction of Alnus to other villages... yes... Rory... maybe things wouldn't be so bad. If the dragon came across her, well it may at the very least convince it to leave. But he was taking no chances. He was going to organize a party to harass the beast.

But first. He had a burnt village to look at.

...

"Reinforcements are nearly here, folks. Just a little longer."

The announcement from Mitchell was met with acknowledgements and a murmur. Said murmur coming from Itami. The man was still napping as they continued on, a quick glance he chanced showed the path they took before running into the Stonehenge now further behind them. Maybe about 10 minutes until their reinforcements arrived. "Ugh... I said wake me if it ended well or poorly. It hasn't ended yet." Itami moaned.

"Jeez you are so... UGH." Kuribayashi groaned.

"Give it a rest, Kuribayashi-san." Tozu said. "We know he's useless, you don't have to say it every time he opens his mouth."

"But I thought you hated him too!"

"I do, but I'll save it for when it's appropriate." Tozu answered.

"Sasagawa-san, back me up here!"

"I'll wait until he gets us into trouble for that." Sasagawa said.

"If hating Itami was a job, she'd be CEO." Kurata mumbled under his breath, getting a kick to his seat. "HEY, I'm driving here!"

"Yeah, we're going soooooo fast." Came Kuribayashi's sarcastic response. As for Mitchell, he took his previous thoughts back, he was indeed out of place.

"10 more minutes... 10 more minutes." Itami grumbled, now unable to go back to his nap. So he did what any bored passenger would do; Look out the window. A moment later, he gasps and starts going at his radio.

"What what what is it?" Kurata asked getting concerned at Itami's urgency.

"It's the dragon! The big one that burned the forest!" Panic took hold of the passengers, then as he repeated the update into the radio, the panic spread. Mitchell himself was just as concerned, considering reinforcements had yet to arrive. It wasn't a good match up.

"Get those people out of the way! Send them towards the forest! SHOOT IT!" He ordered, making what choices he could before updating command. The vehicles turned around and drove in zig-zags to distract the creature, it was their best hope.

"Fighting giant monsters is a Defense Force tradition!" Kuwahara shouted in high spirits.

"God, SHUT UP! Damn!" Came Nolan's unamused reply.

The 50. cal and M249 opened fire, the minigun following suit. The minigun seemed to chip at the scaled, but the other weapons were useless. A breath of fire coming down causing the vehicles to swerve and maneuver before again circling the dragon, everyone trying to fire at the eyes. The miniguns were chipping away at the scales, but it was like trying to scratch away a really tough spot of a old dried milk. Nearly impossible. It was like attacking Godzilla, you just made it angrier.

"Dammit dammit, we aren't even scratching it!" Kozak's observation was obvious as day. "What the hell do we-" He was cut off seeing Rory marching towards the beast itself, her scutum now in her left hand with halberd over her shoulders. "What the hell is she doing?"

"What is... is she going to fight that thing?!" Itami asked incredulously.

Before it could unleash a breath, the dragon took notice of the apostle and gazed down towards her. On her part, no hesitation or even a shudder. She didn't flinch as it then gave her its full attention, like the weapons still firing at it weren't there at all. The two stared at one another as the calamity continued, the HMV pulling up to her. "What are you doing?!"

"Acting. Take the refugees and continue down the road. I shall hold this beast off." Rory's answer caused said beast to roar.

"Are you crazy!? That thing's bigger than a frigate or whatever, you can't take it on!" Itami responded. Rory turned her head to look at him. No trace of jest or fear in her eyes.

"You really don't believe I am what I say I am, do you?" She asked matter of factly.

"Who would?!"

"And after all you claimed to have seen... perhaps actions shall speak louder than words." Instantly she took off, and she was like the wind. One moment she was there and the next she's already 20 meters away.

"HOLY SHIT DID YOU SEE THAT?!"

"Baaaaaa I uh... I say take her offer!" Itami said, though no one seemed to listen, watching this woman run at such speeds. "I SAID TAKE HER OFFER, GO GO GO!"

As the team organized itself on getting out of dodge, Rory herself kept going, the dragon now fully dedicating its attention to her. Already it prepared a breath, ready to smite her so it could get back to its previous activity. Said breath now on the way as it surged towards her. Rory skidded to a halt, putting scutum up and hunkering behind it as the firestorm engulfed her. To anyone, especially the likes of the Japanese and Ghosts, it was essentially a realization she was gone... at least that's what they thought until the flames dissipated, the breath losing steam. But what they saw defied explanation. She was still there... UNSCRATCHED. A look through the binoculars revealed as much. Rory then left from behind her shield, standing back tall and looking up.

"That's it?" She asked to the beast. "Is that the power of the mighty flame dragon? With such a pitiful display it's no wonder you avoid settlements, let alone go after helpless groups like this!"

The dragon roared even louder, clearly understanding, and taking offence, at the insult. So if she couldn't be roasted, she would be crushed. The dragon lifted its arm and slammed it down, missing as Rory moved to the side. Once the giant hand came down and pulverized where she once stood, she lifted her halberd and slammed the axe bit down, slicing clean through the scales and bone. A new roar was heard, one of pain. The dragon lifted its hand up as blood gushed from the wound, the claw, with the finger, dangled from it, the cut being clean. Enraged, the dragon kept attacking, trying to either pummel or swipe at her. But each time the result was the same, she would stab with the sharp end of her halberd or swipe, delivering more deep gashes.

When the dragon did so for the eighth time, she took this chance and jumped aside before leaping onto the hand, running up while sticking the halberd into the arm as she ran up to keep her footing much like an ice pick. The dragon breathed fire again, but the shield was brought up again. When the breath ended, she moved just in time as the other claw came down on where she was standing. She continued up the arm, then stabbed at the shoulder blade before hacking at it with the halberd, causing even more roars of pain. After that she moved again, again avoiding a claw. She was running along the back now, going for the wings. The dragon wised up however, and began flying, causing her to need to stick her halberd down to hang on.

As the beast flew around trying to shake her off, Rory struggled to get her shield onto her back, having to change her strategy, though this resulted in her dropping it, the shield falling to the ground below.

"Damn! I need to get that back..." This allowed her to move on with her plan at least, taking her gladius out, the blood red blade now getting a chance to act as she used both blades to crawl to the head of the beast. Of course, the dragon knew this was happening, trying harder to get her off of it.

"Guys guys guys, are you seeing this? Look at this!" Sasagawa was taking pictures of the entire thing, and why wouldn't he?

Everyone else however was taken aback. First she takes a fire breath that burned a forest down like it was nothing. Then she cleaved into its arms like they were butter, and now here she was going on a joyride on the damn thing's back like a monster hunter.

"They do anything like this in your old monster movies, Kuwahara?" Nolan asked watching the spectacle. The old man at a loss for words.

"Uh... uh... no?"

"Working or not, it won't be long before that thing either gets back at us or is driven off. Get these people into your vehicles!" Mitchell ordered.

"There's not enough room!"

"Ghosts dismount! You can have the Humvee, just get these people out of here! Hume, get your Zeus!" The Zeus T2 FGM-172 SRAW. Successor to the AT4, it is a fire and forget weapon. Pre-launch systems measure target speed and direction in conjunction with flight performance of the missile to predict the impact. The missile uses an inertial guidance unit sending the weapon over the predicted point, compensating for crosswinds and launcher motion.

Plus taking it would give more room in the back.

Though this seemed to instill bravado as Wataru hopped out of the Komatsu and rush over with his Panzerfaust 3. "I see what you're planning and I wanna help!"

"Wataru get back here!" Itami shouted. But Wataru's spot was already claimed by a passenger. 10 people piled into the HMV, three people having to balance themselves in the back while Itami and Kuribayashi moved to the opening in the canvas top to make room for 2 others. At least an extra two were squeezed into the LAV while 3 others were lifted on top to hold onto the bars for grip, and the Mitsubishi Type 73 could only fit a measly 3 as Sasagawa stuck to the M249. The two being kids and their mother taking the other two seats, the other seat relinquished by Kuwahara as he ran for the Humvee. The rest tried piling into it. At least 8 could be squeezed in. But 11 still had to run on foot.

"Dammit dammit... everyone but the drivers pile out! Let the rest of the people take your seats!"

"But the e-"

"She'll be fine just get out!" Kuribayashi shouted. The extra room being JUST enough finally. 8 people having left the team's vehicles, though it was still rather cramped, dangerously so. "We're just doing this until we get far enough away. NOW GO GO, RUN LIKE HELL!" Itami's nerve now giving way as the pressure broke him down.

"We can't do anything until it lands... too much of a random chance." Mitchell observed with the dragon flying. "Command! The dragon's here and the civilians had to squeeze into the vehicles! The Japanese are on foot and we're doing what we can! WHERE ARE THOSE DAMN CHOPPERS!?"

Rory for her part saw what she could up high. Finding it remarkable these people were going so far to help the refugees... were all Otherworlders like this? No time to think, she was so close to the head now, and the dragon finally rolled upright. She took the chance, running and then stabbing right into the right eye with her gladius. An agonizing roar reverberated far and wide as the dragon flew down and landed with a mighty crash, sending Rory off with a tumble. One that broke her legs. "GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH! Oh of course! OF COURSE that happens!" Normally she'd be able to walk it off after a few moments... but with the situation being what it was she wouldn't get that long as the dragon bore down on her, clearly fed up and just wanting to kill this little being.

This however, was followed by two loud earth-shattering explosions engulfing the dragon at its upper body, and then two thunderous crashes. When the smoke settled, two giant arms lay on the ground with no body attached to them. The dragon let out an agonizingly pained cry as it took off into the sky. And the cherry on top? Six bizarre contraptions were heading straight for the dragon from the direction these Otherworlders were running. They had blades of a sort on top of them spinning rapidly with smaller ones at the rear. Barrels at the front under their 'snouts' flashed like fire as some sort of projectiles flew forward, more spewing from objects under the stubby 'wings' at the sides towards the dragon. All causing more explosions and bleeding from the beast.

The beast got the message and began flying away, the contraptions following as best they could. No predator wants to be injured attacking its prey, and the dragon just got a diminished return with what just happened.

"You really are a kid at heart." Hume said, referring to Wataru. "Who forgets to check the backblast before firing?" Wataru's response was just to chuckle nervously. In addition tot he choppers, trucks had arrived to lighten the burden of carrying these people.

"About time you showed up!" Kuribayashi shouted. "We were this close to getting our asses roasted!"

"It's over? It's over... it's over... haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa." Itami fell over onto the ground from the mental exhaustion. "I wanna lay dooooowwwwwwwwn!"

"OH COME ON, get up you lazy bastard!" Kuribayashi shouted. The rest of the soldiers were just glad this situation was over. Kurokawa and Nolan however raced for the fallen Rory.

"Holy shit, she's still alive."

"Her legs are all wrong." Rory herself did not recognize the languages, so she could only stare in her usual manner, the pain havng subsided in the time the dragon spent trying to get at those 'choppers' as she heard them described, only to be finally driven off. The two were kneeling down and about to try and apply their help only for Rory to nonchalantly hold up a hand.

"What?" Rory did not respond, just holding up an index finger to tell them to wait. "Wait... for what?" A few moments passed, but nothing happened. They were about to try again when a golden aura erupted, Rory's legs encompased by the light.

"What the, what the hell?" Nolan exclaimed. Though that was nothing compared to what they saw next. The light grew brighter and brighter before it was too much to look at... only to disappear without a trace. In its place were two, perfectly structured, uninjured legs. "What..." Rory lifted her legs up and pushed from the ground with her legs, leaping forward and kneeling as she landed. Then going to retrieve her weapons and shield. Leaving two astounded medics.

"Did I just see what I thought I saw?" Mitchell muttered. In fact, it seemed everyone saw the spectacle, just watching in a trance as this woman walked about like nothing happened, calmly grabbing her equipment before coming back. She saw the expressions on everyone, and a very large grin that could put the Cloaca Maxima to shame in its ability to dispose of excrement.

"I told you. Apostle Rory of Father Erebus. Priestess of Battle and Saint of the Soldiers. As an apostle, I have little need for healing potions or other such things... doesn't mean it doesn't hurt." She said, figuring Diaz would translate for her. Which she of course did.

...

Nothing but smoke, ash, and death.

Savagii and his party of dragons made it to the remains of the village. "How many?"

"Too many."

Savagii sighed. The loss of this village wasn't just a disaster for the fact it was a village of people just living out here minding their own business, but the fact that like Hodor Marceau, many who lived here were superb auxiliaries that served their time in the army and became citizens. Elves were already superb archers, but the fact these were veterans meant they were some of the best in the empire. And just like that they were gone.

"Hardy, take them into your embrace... come then. I do not like being so close to the Otherworlder base. These lands are no longer save with them going out this far." They had run into a whole convoy of refugees from Coda Village led by a Marcus bearing the ruined helmet of a legionary. Turns out he had a brother who died at the battle of Alnus Hill. The Otherworlders had come by the village asking for information before moving on and finding the dragon. The vast majority of the villagers decided to follow him to the Saderan Castra rather than risk the Otherworlders. Savagii had left some dragons to watch after them as they went on.

"Should we move onto Coda Village?" The rider asked.

"Yes. We must be sure." As they made to leave, Savagii noticed Hodor, now in auxiliary gear, was still at the well, arms resting his head on the rocks making its base.

"Come now, Hodor... it's time to go."

"I left her down there. I SWEAR I left her down there to keep her safe." Hodor said, voice threatening to break. "You don't think..."

"... It's a distinct possibility... then again maybe she woke up and climbed out somehow. She's a smart girl." Savagii comforted.

"I... yes... yes... maybe she did. She's a smart girl. Maybe she's ok. Maybe she climbed out. Maybe I brought her with me and she just got separated... maybe... maybe..." He was obviously affected by the loss of his village. Perhaps that was why he didn't remember much. Hordor reluctantly, but surely got up. "My whole village is gone... now my daughter... what am I supposed to do?"

"THE DRAGON HAS BEEN SIGHTED!"

"By the Gods, to your mounts!" The panic gave way to unnerved action as the riders took to their dragons, ready to begin their harassment runs against the larger beasts. Sure enough, Savagii found the creature coming their way on the horizon. The dragons either whining in fear or hissing to establish themselves as the boss here. "Easy, Leonius. We'll get a chance, just remember to..." He trailed off as the dragon got closer, becoming clearer to look at. Something was off.

It had no arms.

It had no ARMS!

Not only that, it looked like it was in a major scrap. It clearly saw the smaller dragons but kept flying, clearly more interested in continuing on to lick its wounds rather than have a snack.

"What... happened to it?" Savagii had no answer. He could only keep watching as the beast kept flying. This meant one of two things. Either another great beast had encountered it and they fought, or... it came from the direction of Alnus.

"We are heading back to the Castra. NOW."

...

"Wh-who said you could bring them here?!" Major Osamu Higaki yelled.

Itami was being chewed out for bringing these people back, Mitchell being part of it was back at his own place but likely wasn't being chewed out.

"Was it a bad idea?" Itami asked.

"Do we have anywhere to keep them, dummy?" Was the response.

"Uh... what do we do then?"

"I'm supposed to ask that!" Higaki responded slamming his hands on the desk. "We're still rebuilding after the battle and are STILL carrying the bare necessities to get this place up and running, let alone to make it a proper base for our operations in the future. These people are going to be a further strain on supplies we can't afford to rush because of the situation back home...! Awwwaaaaaagh... guess I'll report it."

Needless to say, when the report came to the generals, there was quite the discussion. Lietenant Yanagida was first reporting the finds of the villages in the area.

"As we expected the language barrier was easily resolved with the fact Latin is a dominant language here, and we have managed to make a few... 'peaceful' contacts here, sirs." He said, hesitating at peaceful.

"Meaning?" Arnaud asked hoping for elaboration.

"While there's been no altercations like what Third Recon experienced, most of the villages seem to swear loyalty to the Saderans, more importantly they figured out we were the ones who defeated them at the battle, and therefore want nothing to do with us, either out of fear of us or the empire is uncertain in the sourthern villages, those further north however are more than willing to attack us if we come back. Their economy is based around forestry and agriculture, but beyond that there's no telling how some fit into the overall picture of the empire beyond simple villages. Details are in the report."

"Well... here's hoping our time in Afghanistan taught us something about hearts and minds." Valentine muttered.

"In addition, you're aware of the refugees from the village Third Recon found?"

"Da. Send them away. This is a future fortress, not a refugee camp! We'll find other villages willing to take them." Borislav declared.

"You sure they'll be accepted elsewhere if we bring them around? It could very well be that they get massacred just for being with us considering how things went." Arnaud countered.

"We don't have the time or material." Berathraben agreed with Borislav. "If we devote time away from establishing ourselves we run the risk of dragging out the procedure, and these people will end up suffering anyway."

"We do have a few spare tents and supplies." Keating siding with Arnaud.

"And it would send some message when word spreads that we aren't quite the destructive force we appear to be." Hazama added. "At least until we find a proper agency for it."

"We can't even help ourselves yet!" Shin protested. "Are you forgetting we're at war?"

"It's not like we'll be looking after them, just provide enough to get them by on their own." Hazama responded.

"Sounds to me like you're willing to deal with it Hazama. The rest of us will worry about the war effort." Keating said, hoping the suggestion could be agreed upon by all.

"... so long as it doesn't screw up the procedures." Borislav mused out loud

"The JSDF is better suited for humanitarian work than the rest of us." Valentine added. And once more a decision was made. This made its way back to Higaki.

"So for now... we accept the refugees as per of a humanitarian effort. And Lieutenant, you will be looking after them for now." Higaki muttered.

"Wait... you mean I'm supposed to look after them?" Itami asked realizing what he got himself into.

"That's right. You brought them dummy, so YOU TAKE CARE OF THEM!"

Itami was well aware that he wasn't getting out of this... so much for being the great JSDF. Leaving the office, he let out a major sigh, getting his team together. Since it was his responsibility, it was theirs too.

"Kuribayashi-san, Kurokawa-san we need some rations from the quartermaster. Kurata-san and Tomita-san, see if you can find us some tents. I'll go ahead and get the paperwork started." He tasked in a monotone bored voice. There were acknowledgements and a grumble as they departed, Itami about to go off to do his thing until someone got his attention.

"Itami-san... you have a moment?" There was a voice he hadn't heard in a while.

"What, Yanagida-san? What is it this time?" Itami responded, bored annoyance lacing his voice.

"Out back. We'll talk there."

"Oh... goodie..." Itami responded. Yanagida had no love lost for the man, Itami though was much the same way. The two were essentially opposites in behavior and work ethic. Itami, in the interest of expediency oblidged, following him up to the top of the newly established command structure. The tents were slowly but surely being replaced by dedicated buildings.

"Okay then, just admit it." Yanagida demanded.

"Admit what?"

"Don't play dumb, despite how much of a lazy bum you are, you never missed a call -n through your whole service, but now this whole dragon and refugee business happens and you don't even send in one report?" The more diligent Lt. explained. "You thought we would order you to leave them, didn't you?"

"Ah... well you know, it's this place... the radio tower ain't up yet, the construction we got going on, the activity of getting supplies here... things happen." Itami explained like nothing was wrong.

"... you're full of shit. Because Mitchell's radio worked just fine... or did you forget those helicopters that picked refugees up." Itami was busted. Yanagida just turned away. "Listen. There's a lot of resources coming through that gate, and more are coming, more for the war effort. Speaking of... there are certainly resources here, vast amounts of land and no trace of pollution... there's the matter of the people here, but we're the only ones with the gateway to this world. So the Diet wants to know what we're sitting on... specifically they want to know if it's worth the blood and tears of the soldiers we're sending here... and the comfort of their families. Don't forget we're at war here." The gears were turning in Itami's head hearing those words, and it didn't take a genius to realize what Yanagida was saying. One could easily say this could turn into a war for the resources here, for a future in which Japan has everything yet turns the world against them... but the words he was using, 'blood and sweat,' 'soldiers and their families.' He was looking at a more... humanist view.

"Yanagida-san, all I did was help refugees with nowhere to go."

"And in doing so you diverted resources that are supposed to be for us, resources that are already impacting Japan's commutes and workflow so they can get to the place they need to be. Every action has a consequence, something they should've taught you back in officer school... assuming you paid attention. Then again you never seem that interested in your job so who am I to judge, especially based on your behavior? Remember what I said, Itami. There's a lot more bloodshed to go around, that much is certain. You might wanna rethink your work ethic. Before you run into a soldier who died because you decided some random schmuck on the side of the road deserved it more than he did. And when that happens, maybe you'd like to tell his family that too."

Yanagida walked off, leaving Itami on the roof. And just like that, the thoughts of the past before he deployed flooded into him... what Mitchell said before crossing. 'But remember, you're a soldier. And a soldier is always willing to make a sacrifice. Nothing greater than that... I'd choose my job, my duty, my responsibility. Because it's more than that. It's my life. No second thoughts, every time.'

Those words, with what Yanagida said now churned in his head. Just a moment ago he was wanting to just go to bed... now here he was with a million words swimming in his brain. And he knew it was just gonna be like that if he didn't get some answers about something... he hoped the Captain was in a good mood.

...

"WHERE THE HELL IS THAT IDIOT?!"

Kuribayashi was unhappy. VERY unhappy. She was expecting her 'superior' Itami to show up already, but instead he's still busy getting 'paperwork.' All the while here they were setting up the tents for the refugees.

"Is he still not here?" Sasagawa groaned groaned helping Kuribayashi, Tozu, and Kurokawa move boxes. "I'm starting to think he just said that to go sneak off and sleep."

"My thoughts exactly." Tozu added.

"Oh will you shut UP about him already? No one wants to hear you moan about him all day!" Wataru demanded, gaining support from Nishina and Kurata also giving a hand moving boxes.

"Maybe if he did his damn job, I wouldn't be complaining!" Kuribayashi retorted putting boxes of rations down.

"I swear you kids are going to kill each other arguing about him." Kuwahara said pulling a tent up with Tomita, Azuma and Furuta.

"Hey, Kuwahara-sama. How about YOU take Itami's place? You're a veteran and know what you're doing!" Kuribayashi asked, hope in her voice.

"Me? Heh, no can do. I'm a good soldier but I'm not command material. Not anymore. That's why I'm a Sergeant Major now." The old man replied. "Hey, since you like him so much maybe you can convince Mitchell-dono to do it."

Wataru laughed. "Considering how she acts around him, he may flat out say no." Snickers erupted from the others, even Tozu and Sasagawa joined in. Kuribayashi fumed with angry bashfulness at that.

"Well at least Mitchell-dono acts like how a soldier should! That's why he's the coolest!"

"Is he your object of obsession or something?" Kurokawa asked with a tease in her voice.

"What? NO! Kami, NO!"

"Way you act you'd swear she wants to have his kids." Kurata joked.

"Shut up! He's just one of many cool soldiers out there. He's in the top 10... no top 5." Kuribayashi said with a grin.

"How about we put that to the side for now and get back to work?" Azuma suggested. "Sooner we get this done, the sooner we get to do other things, and you can chew out Itami later."

"Why do you hate him so much anyway?" Kurokawa asked. Kuribayashi stopped what she was doing and looked Kurowaka dead in the eye like she was insane for asking such a question.

"... you did NOT... we've known each other for YEARS and you wonder why I would hate a guy like that?" She asked incredulously. "He's the laziest, most useless soldier I've ever met! And yet he's a Lieutenant for doing a good deed and gets to be in charge of this little operation!"

"He's not all bad. He likely got into some trouble to get these refugees to safety." Kurokawa reasoned. "And he's not that useless considering he made a good point in the HMV if you recall."

"Oh yeah, yeah he did. So he gave some words of wisdom. WOOHOO! What do you want, me to kiss him?" Kuribayashi asked sarcastically. Kurokawa had that mischievous grin.

"Mmmmmmm let's not rule anything out.~" She teased harder. Kuribayashi seemed to turn green before getting back to work carrying boxes around.

"Maybe if he shaved that stubble on his beard you'd consider it?" Kuwahara joked. "He almost reminds me of that Shaggy character from Scooby Doo." Everyone almost burst out laughing seeing the resemblance, and it wasn't just that. Not wanting to get involved, obsessed with something, just otaku nonsense instead of food, being a bit... lean for a soldier in Itami's case.

"Oh kami I'm gonna remember that one." Sasagawa said stifling laughs.

"I shouldn't laugh but... BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!" Kurata's laugh caused others like Wataru and Nishina to break down too. Tomita and Furuta almost lost it, nearly causing another tent they worked on to plop down. Kuribayashi for her part lost it as well and fell over busting her gut.

"THERE WE GO!" Kuwahara said with a big grin. "Now, let's forget all this talk about Itami for now and get back to work. Just a few more tents and boxes and we're done!

...

Mitchell rested in his cot reading "The Things They Carried," a book he's read over a dozen times.

It consisted of a series of linked short stories about a platoon of American soldiers fighting groundside in Vietnam. From Lieutenant Jimmy Cross's distraction unrequited love of Martha was broken by a death in the squad, causing him to burn his reminders and focus to O'brien explaining how the dead stay alive by telling stories about them, in turn keeping his childhood sweetheart Linda alive. This book influenced him. Tought him that a the man he was he had to be strong. Strong enough to carry more than his pack, and it would keep getting heavier, meaning he had to get stronger. It was this commitment that helped Marc Entwhiler move on from being paralyzed after being shot down in the Phillippines during the op gone wrong, becoming a civilian consultant for other pilots.

He had time to read it for probably the 50th time now with activity being an all-time low after the incident with the dragon. He was still getting over what he saw with that Rory woman. The apostle... there were certianly no more doubts about her capabilities having seen her legs heal before their eyes after falling however many meters from the sky. He was still very unsure about her presence. She said she was only here to look after the refugees, see they were looked after before moving on to her own people, but the doubts were eating in... she could be injured but how much could she take?

"Hey cap." The voice of Beasley gained his attention.

"Yes?"

"That Itami guy is here, he's asking for you."

Itami coming to him? That's a surprise. "What does he want?"

"He wanted to talk to you about something... he was vague, something about the choices he made." Mitchell gave out a sigh, unsure what this could be all about.

"Okay. I'm coming." He emerged from the cot, walking by the table the Ghosts used, or were supposed to use, for gameplans. Beyond that, the tent had whatever they would need including their weapons. Anything else could be found at the massive armory currently being built. Emerging from the tent, he found Itami tapping his foot while looking at the ground. "Lieutenant."

"Sir."

"What did you want?"

Itami took a breath, hesitated, then asked. "Did I make the right choice?" Mitchell became confused.

"What do you mean, right choice?"

"The right choice helping those refugees." He elaborated.

More confusion hit him. "Why would you ask a question like that?" Itami sighed, then got into the details. Yanagida catching him about the radio, what he said about resources coming through and what could be found here, and how some of those resources were supposed to be for the soldiers.

"So... did I make the right choice?" Itami asked again.

"Honestly son, that's for you to decide."

"Me? Why me? I don't even know what choice I made now! I thought I made the right choice until Yanagida-san opened his damned mouth! Now I can't bear sitting down without that floating around in my mind! I have no answers... how can you not?" Itami nearly falling against the tent, but stopping himself, lowering down onto the ground with his knees to his chin. Mitchell followed suit, sitting criss-cross.

"Do you know about the crisis in Kazakhstan back in 2012?" He asked.

"Some... some Pakistan person trying to take over Kazakhstan or something." Itami answered.

Mitchell nodded. "We worked with a military specialist from the Kazakh Spetsnaz. He was dead set on bringing the guy, Asad Rahil, in. 'You or us, Kozlov. Either way, he's going down.' From there he fought with us, and he was a good soldier. When we hit Astana, we came in the way of a mountain pass full of bunkers to prevent any forces loyal to Rahil from reinforcing the city. But when we took it back, one of my teams defending that same pass came under attack by reinforcements coming to retake the city. I was ready to go back and keep them from gettin in, but Kozlov protested this, saying Rahil would get away if we did that. To let my men do their jobs. I told him I wasn't going to leave them to die, and it would create problems for us if the enemy reached our position. Even though we had to get him, I had Burke and Salvatore stay with Kozlov while I want back to help my guys. They didn't find Rahil." Mitchell stopped a moment...

"On my way to rendevouz with Kozlov, he found Rahil outside of Baikonour and was ready to hit him. I told him to wait for us, but he attacked, wanting to get Rahil. We eventually got him after he got away again... but Kozlov died in the attempt. He was buried outside the town he was born in. I saved my men, but in doing so, I inadvertendly caused Kozlov to die, because I wasn't there to reign him in." Mitchell looked to Itami, who was in shock and unsure of how to respond. "So... did I make the right choice?" He asked him.

"I... I... I don't know." Was all Itami could say. Mitchell stood, holding a hand out for Itami to get up.

"Sometimes being a good soldier means doing what you think is right. But it is never a completley good thing. Sometimes your actions will impact the mission or someone else involved. Sometimes immediately, sometimes down the line. From where I'm standing, Yanagida is only right about one thing." He pointed to Itami's chest to emphasize the point. "You need to change your work ethic. You're in the army now, and your're in a war. I don't expect you to become like me... I expect you to be better than you already are. And since you're in charge of a team, a lot of responsibility is on your shoulders, and that load is going to get heavier."

Itami stared back, unsure of how to answer, caught in that trap of 'nothing you say is a good idea.' Mitchell took this hint and told Itami to wait. He entered his tent and came back out with his book. "You can read English?" Itami nodded. "Read this... it helped me learn what I needed to learn."

"... how is a book going to help me with that?" Itami asked, a soft tone of incredulousness entering his voice.

"Reading about experiences, or things based on them, can offer a lot of insight. This book taught me that if I'm going to be a soldier, let alone a captain, I needed to be strong. And not just to carry my gear. I need to be strong to carry everything from the hopes of my men to the hopes that keep me from going insane, and that load keeps getting heavier, so you need to become stronger."

"... what if I can't?"

Mitchell looked to the Gate, Itami following his gaze. The unspoken answer making itself plainly obvious.