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.

6. Siege of Italica

AN: Eyyyyy lmao.

So as is clear by now, there's plenty familiar from the old story, but there's enough to see the changes, and we're gonna get into some more in the future. That being said, I'm going to try and keep the chapters at around the 18-22 thousand words a chapter range if I can help it from here on out. Keep things from dragging out with the perspective changes, especially now that we're getting into the moments where the language barrier is going down further and further.

...

Base Detention Camp.

The Legate they captured their first day here, a Nero Bernardus as he eventually admitted, had been compliant since his stay.

The dagger he had was never used to break free or anything, nor did he use his magic to try and break out, and it was clear he was magically capable. He seemed content to stay here... almost as if he accepted his fate as a sort of punishment. At least that's what little they could make of him in the interrogations. The Ghost, Diaz, had been helpful, but they could only get so far with how little he said. It wasn't defiance per say... likely something else... perhaps this 'Damocles' he kept talking about. With everything that's been documented, including the literal demigoddess in their camp, they were willing to believe it.

That's why they were hoping the interrogation expert they called in could help. It was said he knew how to get answers from anyone... exaggerations most likely, but it was worth a shot. He had been requested about a week after the Legate's capture. But the wait paid off, he finally arrived. An Isaac Briggs from the CIA, allegedly, you can never be too sure as the Japanese guards say. An African-American who served in the Army, son of a Ghanaian professor and grew up in D.C. His line of work therefor, wasn't out of the ordinary. That and the papers were genuine. So there was little in the way of keeping him from working.

He entered the interrogation room. Nero looked up at him, looking less miserable, but still unwilling to make a mess of things.

"Hello." Briggs began, in Latin. "My name is Briggs, I'm going to be talking to you, Legate Nero." His tone was respectful for the most part. Not sure what these folks asked or subjected you to, but needless to say, we're going at your pace." The briefcase Briggs brought with him was lifted and placed on the table, but Nero didn't pay it mind. Briggs got a good look at him now. He was a middle aged man. Not imposing but a handsome man, he had an air of regalitythat would be great were he not in this position wearing an orange jumpsuit. "Guard!" He called. The door opened and an JSDF member entered. "Undo his cuffs."

"N-nani."

"Undo his cuffs... if what was said was true, he won't be of any trouble. So he won't need those. The man hesitated, unsure really. "Go ahead. It's fine." The man decided to do so, carefully letting the Legate's hands free before leaving, as expected, the Legate did nothing. Briggs let the man get comfortable with the cuffs off, and the first thing he did was fumble with the dagger, looking at the details. "That dagger... what is it for? Clearly it's not for killing." Nero slowly looked up, eyeing Briggs. Then back down.

"It is my dagger of Damocles." He answered. Finally speaking. Briggs looked at it.

"Can you unsheathe it? Or is that not allowed?" Nero looked up, then to the window, he seemed to instinctively know it was a one way mirror window. "Don't worry about them. It's just you and me in here that matters."

"..." Nero slowly unsheathed it. And Briggs was breathlessly amazed. The sheath was rather impressive, a skull right under the hole where gold decorative linings ran. But the dagger itself? On its scabbard was a face, looking like an evil mask from a Greek play, the scabbard indented with long thin lines. And the blade... the blade was clearly more for appearance than function if he had to guess. Black as night, yet his reflection was clear as day. "Damocles was a great Legate of the Empire. His men followed him faithfully, the people loved him, he did everything for them... and it earned him enemies, but not from without, within."

He paused, then continued. "In a great battle his cowardly fellow Legates abandoned him, and he was slain. When he arrived to the underworld, the goddess of death and sleep, Angerona, was enraged at how he had been wasted due to jealousy and mistrust from fellow leaders. The god of war, Erebus flew into a rage, disowning the cowards while Gregorius, god of revenge swore to make things right... the three agreed and sent Damocles back to the mortal world as a vengeful spirit, a black armored Legate who hunted down the traitors and killed them. To this day, all officers from the lowliest Centurions to the highest Legates carry a dagger such as this with them, to remind them of their duties. To take care of their men and serve the people first, or else the Black Legate will come for them to punish their misdeeds."

Briggs listened as the Legate finished his story, the dagger being put back into its sheath. "I see... you keep that dagger with you as a reminder to do your job... is that why you stayed behind while your soldiers fled?"

Nero nodded. "I failed them and Sadera... I would be no better than a brigand if I tried to flee with them. I acted foolishly and without a plan. This is simply part of my penance."

Briggs felt a twang of sympathy, maybe it was fear of Damocles himself, but the fact this man was willing to go this far to atone for his mistakes? That takes some guts right here. "That's rough. But... perhaps I can help with that. I want to know more about your people."

"You wish me to tell you how we fight? Our strategies?" Nero asked incredulously.

"No. I mean your people. Who are you? What are you like? What do you consider normal? We have a rough idea besides you being called the Saderan Empire, but we want to know more. The fact your people are so resolute in the face of battle against us despite our technological superiority is a surprise in and of itself."

"It is nothing Saderans cannot overcome. We failed, I failed that day. But you fool yourself if you think this war can be won in the end." Nero said, some fire beginning to spark inside him.

"Why is that?"

"You think that was all the soldiers we can muster? All the magic we can conjure? You think we fear the unknown and unexplained? That we'll back down just because you have fancy weapons and contraptions unlike anything we've seen? You have no idea."

Briggs held up a finger. "Hold on, before we continue, I think we'll need to be prepared for a long talk." He reached into the now open briefcase and pulled out a bottle of Cesanese Wine, wine from the days of Rome allegedly. Two glasses also came out as he poured the beverage into both glasses. "Something to wet the lips as we talk. Not sure how you'll like this but... I had to try and bring some wine."

Nero was surprised at this. Wine? From these people? They had wine? Briggs handed the glass over and placed it by Nero. Who hesitated at first, then figured the gods favored the bold and took a sip. He was not disappointed. "By the gods, honest to the Mother City wine! It's no trick at all!"

"Also." Briggs continued. "You may not be able to read this but, I also brought these with me. I figured the pictures may be enough. He pulled out books next, some of the strangest Nero ever seen. Big but very skinny. But the moment he saw what was on them he nearly jumped. On one was a pictures of men that looked almost like a copy of his legionaries. But their tunics and shields bore a brilliant red color and the armor was full lorica segmentata of the past, not like the plate armor with segmentata pieces Sadera wore today. Another was an aerial view of a painting of a city that looked ALMOST like one of Sadera's own, and the final one bore the picture that looked just like a gladiator. "Surprised?"

"How did... what... what is..."

"Ah, right, did I mention long ago, back in our world, millennia ago, that there was a nation, an empire just like yours?" Nero looked up in shock. "They were known as the Romans, named after their city, Rome. And there are many similarities between you. And much of what they did, be it create or copy influenced the future up to present day. The public buildings, theaters and stadiums, how street blocks are laid out. Even water supplies, all have roots in ancient Roman cities." He sat for a moment, letting Nero process all this. "That's why I want to know about you, because if you are as much like the Romans as we think you are, we feel we are really in for a major fight as you say."

"... well... when you put it that way, how can I refuse?"

Briggs smiled. It was genuine, but it was all part of his plan to get him to talk. Get to know the guy, flatter him a bit, weaken his will, or in this case, sorrow, and get him to talk. And now, Nero was willing to talk.

"How about we start at the beginning?" Briggs asked, grabbing his recorder.

"Mmmmm that's tough, much of Sadera's founding is lost in myth and legend..." Nero said, honesty in his voice.

"Try it anyway. It may be worthwhile."

"Well... so be it... it all began with the brothers Saderus and Seerus."

...

Pina Coretta. Fifth child of the emperor.

In her childhood, she was quite a cheeky girl, often causing trouble. Especially to her family. She'd always steal Savagii's wooden gladius, she'd rearrange her sister's bookshelves, and she would always spill something on Zorzal's hair when he visited and took a nap. The little red head was clearly a bundle of energy without limit. At age 10, she began to play Order of Knights with the daughters of other nobles, said parents believing that it was a good influence. It was a couple years later that Grey Co Aldus, veteran knight, was talked into giving them formal military training. Over time they learned the values of independence, discipline, and respect. Forming bonds with one another as months turned to years. Then Pina turned 16, and founded the Rose Order of Knights, a mostly female order among others in the knightly fashion.

Knights in Sadera did not follow the standard procedure of those in other nations. Rather than owning land in exchange for service, they were usually wealthy plebeians or a particular breed of patrician in love with the idea of chivalry and set off to fight in full plate armor. A particularly un-Saderan taste, but one with its uses, uses the empire was more than happy to utilize. Knights were symbolic elite shock soldiers like their foreign with suits or armor. They were as chivalrous and dreaded as such too.

Pina had set out to the enemy's location with Helena Rhoda, the Page of Pina and her most stalwart friend. Petite and young with shoulder length brown hair and jade green eyes. Nero Co Maleus, one of the few males in the Rose-Order of Knights. Notorious for being a bit slow and a womanizer, but his skills in battle unquestioned. A young man with short light blonde hair and brown eyes. And Grey Co Aldo, the old knight who helped her create the Order all those years ago. A large well built man of many years with greying short hair. The rest of her order was gathering before following, many having gone for other pursuits until being called upon.

Pina and her group had stopped at a bar on the way, catching food, drink and rest. That was the plan until a certain waiter ran her mouth about a tale. A tale about the Flame Dragon being bested by the Otherworlers themselves! A small group that took in a small number of refugees from the village while the vast majority followed a man named Marcus towards Castra Falco and beyond. Such a tale had one of three effects. One, that the Otherworlders were some sort of monsters that not only killed around around 25 thousand legionaries and over 30 thousand or so vassal soldiers with little casualties of their own capable of fighting such a beast. Two, the Otherworlders were not as 'destructive' as they seemd if they were willing to do such a thing for a handful of refugees. Three, they didn't believe her. Pina, thinking it would be worthwhile to hear what she said indulged her. She didn't know much, but the fact she described the Otherworlders to a T, the strange patters on their clothes and the weapons they carried, gave credence. Let alone the fact they had such strange 'horseless carriages.' She was on the right trail, that much she knew.

After this they would go on to continue for more information, from surrounding towns and villages. This part of the empire had yet to reach the levels of cities seen across other provinces, many cities being closer to the borders further east or futher south down the mountain range. Pina asked the locals about any updates from the Otherworld presence or otherwise. But there wasn't any. There was however someone from the battle brought here and looked after. It wasn't known how he got so far from the hill in his condition, but here he was. Her knights outside the small structure, Pina entered.

"King Duran, what are you doing...?" Her shock evident on her face.

The man stirred from his sleep. His black hair gone white, with his left limbs missing. "Pina, Pina herself? What brings you here?"

"I... I was... how are you here?"

"I... I was carried here by a kindly man, and the healers were took pity on me as I've heard... how I got away from Alnus I don't know... all I know is my men abandoned me like the curs they are.

I was searching for information on the Otherworlders at Alnus, and the people here told me that a man of high birth was recuperating from his wounds here." She replied. "But you? What are you doing all the way this north? Shouldn't you be back in your kingdom?"

"Information?" Duran asked a tad bit confused. "You don't know what happened at Alnus?"

"I have. You suffered a terrible defeat alongside our legions and were forced to retreat. I'm terribly sorry for your losses, I know Savagii did-"

He began chuckling, stopping her. Memories of the enemy's weapons filled his mind. How his mass assault was ruined by Ligu, the fog attack beaten back, and the night raid put to a stop as he was abandoned by his men. "The Imperial Army was there for us, but they were defeated before we even fought, yes? The Emperor knew that, yet he called upon the allied nations anyway. After all, we were a potential threat to the empire, so he figured he could maybe kill two birds with one stone, or at least get rid of us. Your brother saw to that!"

Pina couldn't believe what she was hearing. No, she WOULDN'T believe what she was hearing. Yes there were tensions and troubles between their peoples but THIS? Let alone her brother! She ran to the side of the man's bed and attempted to speak. "I'm aware you and Sadera have had much to disagree about but, but-"

"Pina," the king said, interrupting her, "the allied armies fought to the very end, and we were close to winning. But our true enemy was to our rear."

"Your rear?" She asked, more confused than before.

"Don't you understand?" He looked back at her with a gaze straight from Hell. "Your Empire! Sadera was our true enemy! It is no surprise that your subjugation of us is a slower more peaceful alternative to absorbing us, but now without our armies, what could possibly prevent that? Hmm?"

Now Pina was growing desperate. "How can you say that?! There's only 19 men of the 14th Legion left, and the 28th is badly mauled! And why would that be the case if Savagii himself was there in the thick of it with you!"

"If you can't see the clear signs after what I've said, what makes you think saying more will change your mind? Go tell your brother I'm still alive, he should do the job himself if he wants to get rid of us. If you want to know more, go to Alnus Hill yourself!" With no way of getting answers from the man, Pina exited the building.

"Farewell, your majesty." She responded, a bit of venom in her voice. "Perhaps you speak some truth. That being said, perhaps father was right to want you dead... after all, who'd want a vassal as delusional as you?" Pina left, neither one saying a word after. Now a thousand thoughts were swimming in her head. Was he so delusional, did he really think that much about the empire, that they really tried to kill him and the fellow kings like that? Was there something she was missing? Something she didn't know?

This was not at all what she imagined this to be. Oh certainly this was no mission for glory as her father deemed, just simple information gathering... was it just another 'thing' for her to do? Now here she was, looking for said information, only to get unhelpful responses, exaggerated stories, or just nothing useful. She knew no more now than when she started this entire thing save the fact King Duran was still alive. His son had been sworn in not too long ago, and this would most certainly lead to a succession crisis with the ceremonies having been completed and the son seeking to be a great king.

"When you finally get your chance, you WILL know of what I speak of, and just how hard it hits." The words of her brother echoed in her head. Is this part of what he meant... or could be construed as such?

"Please don't tell the knights to charge up Alnus Hill. You recall the survivors we passed. And there's still families carting bodies back home." Helena pleaded.

"I'm not that stupid. Our... resident wasn't that helpful... and I think we have enough information for now. We know no more than before. We're going home... we'll rest at Italica before we return to the capital.

"Maybe it is for the best, but considering how much tension was there when we passed, it also bodes ill." He said.

"Yes... it does... let's go. I'll deal with that now that this is taken care of, so much wasted time." Pina responded dourly. So off to Italica they went, probably for the best so the rest of the order could catch up with them while. As far as size went, Italica was between a small city and a large town. It was one of the very few within the empire to not be directly governed by a Saderan governor, but rather a clan known as Formal. It was a major trade hub in an agricultural area that held a part in Sadera's local economy in the area.

Upon arrival, the knights made to resolve the issue going on. The former leader of the city attended the expedition to the Otherworld, and was killed. This resulted in a state of deteriorating security. The fragile situation was broken after the defeat of the Allied Army leaving deserters of all but Sadera's. The only imperial garrison save for the nearby Fort Salamandra and further Falco were 2 centuries within the walls, about 160 legionaries. Said cohorts being the fourth and fifth from Castra Salamandra, where the 4th legion rested. A few mages and whatever supplies were still there as well.

To make matters worse, the reason for the deteriorating conditions were due to the current Countess Myui's sisters. They had married off into other patrician families to strengthen ties with the empire, so Myui became head of the clan, and she was only 11. The sisters however argued over who would become the guardian of their little sister, what began as talks devolved into scuffles, eventually involving their husbands. The two wives even went as far to hire soldiers from abroad to fight a small scale war, but the entire thing was called off by their husbands lest they be forced to call the army into it. By now, 27 days had passed since the Gate first opened, and it was during this time the sisters decided to have their squabble.

"You two have done more damage to this place than any enemy of the empire has. Have you forgotten that Italica is vital to trade for the empire, therefor vital to you!?" Pina cried out, anger in her voice. The two women, Elle and Loui, shivered under her scrutiny.

"A-a-athousand pardons, madame." Elle whimpered.

"We'll make this right, I promise." Loui added. Pina scoffed before turning to Myui on her throne, intimidated by the display.

She sighed, lightening her tone. "We'll fix this, countess. I promise. In the meantime we'll be here until the rest of our order has arrived. We'll do what we can to calm the people." She took her leave, exiting the throne room and making for the exit of the homestead. She was beginning to see why people who ascribed to more feudal tendencies like these two did were so despised in the empire. Romantic ideals or not.

"Grey, what shape are the Centuries in?" She asked to her former mentor.

"They're well. All 160 men are ready and their attendants are well looked after. The Centurions, the standard bearers, they're all ready for whatever hits them. The problem is there's no auxiliaries around and the ballista on the walls haven't been looked after due to the tensions in the city, while we only have two mages that have yet to become proper adepts assigned to them. Beyond that, other facilities such as the hospital and food stores are fine, but it could be better."

"So basically it's not ideal but could always be worse." Pina responded.

"Yes, madame."

She sighed, slight relief filling her. "Okay, this can be salvaged. So long as these sisters behave we can fix this. I'll send a bird to Castras Salamandra and Falco as soon as I can, that way we at least spread the word that some support is needed. Best to nip this in its rump before it escalates into something worse."

"On that we can agree." Grey said with a smile. "I'll make sure everything stays in place until that happens. It'll be easier when the rest of our order catches up to us."

"Indeed... what of our fellow knights?"

"Helena is out among the people seeing how she can help with the everyday life. Nero is..." He didn't need to finish his sentence. Clearly the other male is out getting drinks in a or winery here. Pina muttered to herself, clearly fed up with Nero and his tendencies for drink. She would have a word with him later. For the time being, she must speak with the countess, reassure her things are fine for the time being. That being said, the plebeians here seemed content. Though the small war was still fresh in their minds, these people were for the most part calm and recovering. Not much of Italica's outside lands had been ravaged, and that was the important thing. Fields of grain, the many mines that existed nearby, and of course the many caravans traveling between cities beyond the mountains and further north came through here. It was a longer route, but safer, further from the border with Denzalcia and the border raids of Hannibal. There was more chance to come across people wanting to buy things anyway, and trade by ship was not always practical, or affordable, and even then the products delivered via sea still mean the product had to go somewhere on foot let alone being sent to said ships. Italica was among such cities being close to other nations such as the Ictuns and other smaller nations out west.. even trade with Denzalcian peoples, a bitter irony given the state between the two nations and Hannibal's raids. Though the actions of Hannibal were sure to change that. Sooner or later.

"So." Pina began, back before Myui and her older sisters. "With that being said, we are sending letters to nearby Castra so that spare supplies can be sent here should the need arise. We're going to nip any issue in the rump BEFORE something happens. You two, you've already paid your little armies, so that means we need not worry about mercenaries. The people are calming down and are content, and the garrison is still up to snuff. And while I said that we must nip it before it starts... I believe we can safely say this hasn't gotten out of hand." Myui sighed, relieved, Elle muttered, while Loui remained silent. "Now then, is there anything to add before we conclude?"

Myui nodded. This girl was quite the silent one. Understandable, she was hardly capable of doing her job just yet. Elle muttered to herself while shaking her head. Loui, again, remained silent. Eyes not meeting the Pina... who caught it.

"Loui... what is it?" Again, silence. "Loui?" She said, more forcefully.

"I..." Loui finally started... "there may be a... small problem."

"... what do you MEAN small problem?" Pina responded, annoyance in her voice. But before Loui got a chance to respond, Helena broke into the room, panting heavily and face full of worry.

"Pina... at the walls, you must... something...!"

"What what is it?" Pina asked, urging Helena to calm down, then looking back at Loui. "What did you DO?!" More forcefully. Loui only cowered in response. Realizing she'd get no answers, she went for the wall itself by horse. The scene outside was a stark opposite to when she was last out. People were in the streets making for their homes in panic while others took spear and shield or whatever tools they had to form militias. Some were fortunate enough to have trusted billhooks and sets of plate armor for their heads and bodies. The legionaries were out in the streets marching quickly to the walls at the south, running into Grey as she reached them. "Grey, what is it?! What's going on?!"

"We have visitors. It seems our friend Loui has unfinished business." Grey answered.

Pina dismounted and marched up the steps as legionaries armed with crossbows made their stand there in neat orderly lines and ranks. Centurions offering salutes, Pina made way to the top and looking over the side of the walls, and found something that made her shiver.

(Cue The Trojan War, Troy Total War)

Outside the walls was an army. An army of Ictuns.

Ranks upon ranks of hoplites organized into groups with their spears and sarissa at the ready, mixtures of iron, steel, bronze, even no armor with greaves alone or in pairs, most of the protection for these men came with their massive hoplons and the spears to give reach. Slingers and archers made up a smaller fraction of their force, all at the rear and ready. In the midst of these men were swordsmen, fewer in number but standing to the sides of the hoplites, ready to guard against any flanking foes. Mixed among them were men of a more foreign taste. Such as gambeson armor which were padded jackets for defense. Jackchains, cheaper skeletal armor for the gambeson arms. Kettle helmets with swords, bucklers and halberds. Mace or two here and there. And that was just the human beings. There were centaurs out there with xystons and muscle cuirasses with hoplon shields of their own and helmets. Among this force were 2 minotaurs, the muscled beastly creatures of surprising sentience to the outsider, often used in Ictun armies and other nations as shock troopers for breaking lines, armed with giant war hammers. And finally, but most certainly not least, a single cyclops in simple leather armor. Simple protection given how big he was, about as big as giants in Saderan service, certainly large enough to peek over the gate walls into the city.

"Loui what have you DONE?!" Pina asked herself in a mutter.

A single man came forth on horseback, flanked by two centaurs. "LOUI!" He called out in an angry voice. "COME OUT! It's been two weeks since that war ended and you had us dragged all the way out here! Where's our pay?!"

"Why did no one tell me about this?!" Pina again muttered. "How did... why wouldn't..." It was clear what happened. Loui in her rush to become Myui's guardian hired mercenaries from outside Sadera, and these were of Ictun stock. Such a thing was not unheard of. Ictuns were famed as mercenaries. As much as the mercenary armies and their condotierro from the island kingdoms of the Avian Sea further east or the landsknechts from within Belka, all of whom could be found in armies, including those of the Denzalcians themselves! Outside these notable examples were the average man who rather than join the army became mercenaries out of a lust for adventure, loot and glory. Others were perfectly content hiring themselves as bodyguards for a range of people. While Sadera's legions were loyal to senators, they did not personally serve in such a manner. So it was uncommon, but not out of the ordinary for a Saderan patrician to have a few personal guards here and there if for no other reason than to ensure the safety of his family. though the practice is generally frowned upon given their history with Denzalcia and the general unreliability of mercenaries to stand and fight when the odds are against them. The problem Pina was faced with here was HOW? How had these men got here without any sort of update?! You'd think an army of this size, around 4,000 men would be reported! Smaller than a legion by 1,000 men, but that was nothing compared to the many legions Sadera had, and the greatest battles could see action from at least 7 or more legions, even though not all at once! But 4,000 men like this was enough to warrant concern, considering 3 of them were giant creatures that ate more than your average being.

"Who goes there?" Pina called out, steeling herself. The man, clearly the leader of this band, looked up to her. A face with full facial hair like any Ictun, his armor much like the rest of his men, but far more elaborate signaling he was in charge

"And who are you?" He called back.

"You first!" Pina challenged. The man smiled, seemingly amused or at least respectful of her backbone.

"Very well. I am Hypatos of Myos! I lead this band of mercenaries. We were called here by Loui Reemus of Italica to fight on her behalf in the war against her sister. As you undoubtedly know, the war was fought and ended quickly, but we have yet to get our pay. We have waited for two weeks after the battle, but now my men are growing anxious, and I have been VERY generous in waiting!"

"I see..." Pina began. "Centurion!" The man saluted. "Take Grey and bring Loui here, if she protests don't be afraid to tie her to the horse and drag her here!"

"Ah. Finally, someone who understands." Hypatos breathed.

"Loui seemed to miss the little detail of having more mercenaries to pay off... funny that." Pina said, carrying on the conversation.

"Oh, did she now? Well isn't that convenient of her." He responded, clearly annoyed, but disguising it with some courtesy.

"Indeed... how did I not hear of your army coming up here?" She asked, hoping for answers.

"She took care of that on her end, letters sent and money from her secured access and supplies for us to go through, and it ensured we didn't pillage the lands we came through to maintain ourselves." Hypatos responded. So that's how it happened. Loui was smart enough to use her husband's money, with permission or otherwise, to open the gates legally and ensure these men didn't pillage the areas they went to maintain their supplies.

"Well... if she's so willing to look after you in such a way there's no reason she should refrain from paying you. All at once or otherwise. We'll get this sorted out when she is brought here." Pina stated. Hypatos said nothing, but it seemed there was an agreement. As expected, Grey and the centurion brought the patrician woman forward and brought her too the wall. "You, dear Loui have MUCH explaining to do... but first... I advise you speak to him." Loui hesitantly looked down at the mercenary leader.

"Uh... hello there Hypatos."

"So... where's our pay, Loui? It's been two weeks." He asked calmly.

"Ahhh... well..."

"Come on, Loui. Is it on the way? Did you misplace it? Come now, spill it to the man!" Pina demanded.

"Uh... there is none." She squeaked out.

"... what?"

"There uh... no pay."

"..."

"What do you MEAN no pay?" Pina asked clearly apprehensive.

"Mmm... uh... my husband closed my access to his purse so that I wouldn't spend any more money on this." Loui admitted. Pina grew even more apprehensive.

"How MUCH did you spend...?"

"... I spend about... about... 800 suwani." The announcement was met with exclamations from the gathered men. 800 SUWANI?! Suwani were the most valuable currency in Sadera. Four coins made up the currency of Sadera. Soruda, coins made from copper and making the vast majority of the economy. Denari, silver coins worth more than soruda, that can last one up to five days. The Sinku, a coin made from gold occupying the top rung of the coins. Finally, the suwani, it too was made from gold, but it was very thick. Far more gold than in a sinku coin. Due to this, it was very rarely seen in the market and often used as a form of investment. 800 suwani?! That was unheard of for such a small thing like this!

"NO WONDER YOUR HUSBAND BANNED YOU FROM HIS PURSE!" Pina shrieked. "So you mean to tell me you have NO MONEY to pay these men!?" She waved her hand at the big army right there before them. Loui simply remained silent. "Wonderful! So what are we to do then, hmm?!"

"I don't know." Hypatos's voice gaining their attention, "but I know what I'm going to do." He turned his horse back to his men and began to issue orders. "Men! Take what you will!" A chorus of simultaneous acknowledgement came from the gathered army, which then dispersed from their spot and made way across the countryside. "If we cannot get what we want through negotiations, then we shall simply take what we wish and leave!"

"HOLD ON HOLD ON! We can talk about-"

"No more talking! No more waiting! If we don't find sufficient loot outside the walls, we'll come in and have what we will! This is all on you, Loui!" Hypatos then rode off with his escorts, making way to join his men. Leaving the walls.

"Pina, there are plenty of people out there still... we have to do something." Pina was seemingly catatonic at the moment. "Pina? Pina" Grey delivered a firm shake on the shoulder rousing her. "What do we do?"

"The only thing worse than having to sacrifice the lives of your people is to see them wasted by a bad call, or worse, arrogance!" The words of her brother again returned. "When you finally get your chance, you WILL know of what I speak of, and just how hard it hits."

"... Grey, go forth and warn as many households as you can in Italica's outskirts... we must fortify the city and wait for relief. I will send the letters immediately. Nero and Helena will join you and spread out... I will follow suit in time." Pina muttered. She turned, receiving an acknowledgement from Grey before departing for the stairs, then looking to Loui. "I'll deal with YOU later."

Loui could only look down in shame as Pina made her back back to the Formal homestead.

…

The refugee camp had been set up finally, no thanks to Itami. Even the moving and use of paperwork was too much for him, something Nishina remedied.

Itami himself was lazing about in the small male bathhouse tent by himself, chilling in the small hot pool. The words Mitchell said to him churning in his mind. His mind wandering back in those days of first joining the army, oh they were hard but the times he had with the pals he made, 'infecting' them with his hobby as his superiors put it. Back to the times he attended all those conventions in his spare time, every year held something new, be it the cosplayers, the up and coming artists or the simple act of going with pals. Back to hanging out with his old sweetheart, Risa... okay maybe sweetheart was generous. More like a... convenient marriage... that was a mess he went through all together. He thought about his times in school, surrounded by friends and... well... not quite bullies but fellow students that liked to talk smack about everyone.

His family... his father, his mother, his uncle.

"NO!" He opened his eyes, looking around. He feared he may have drawn attention... but no one came. A sigh of relief escaped his lips. He spent so long forgetting about them. He wasn't going to remember them again... most certainly his father and uncle. "Stop stop stop." He told himself. So he thought to other things... and the first thing that entered his mind was entering the Gate. The images of men on fire running about from the ballista in the distance or turned into walking pincushions from the arrows flying at them. The battle at the Gate, where the mud mixed with blood and men's guts were stabbed with swords or skulls crushed by poleaxes, or snatched by dragons.

"Nonononono!" He needed to stop thinking about it... but he couldn't. Not like this. So he made to leave the tub and dry off. Clothing himself, Itami exited the tent and made way for his office. The base had in three weeks from a collection of tents with trenches and barbed wire to a collection of structures being constructed, the central command building with multiple floors and other surrounding structures for housing the troops and equipment with more tents that were temporary in nature. For the outside of the base was being dug around and molded by loaders and diggers. They had a style for the fortress in mind. That being said, the plans for Forward Operating Bases was still in place. The amount of material being brought still needing space, let alone the aircraft! In fact, as Itami found out, part of the reason the military hardware had yet to arrive was not just because of the single Gate and commutes in Japan, but because it wasn't just ammo and vehicles coming through. Not just tents and supplies. It was people, civilian contractors for construction, geography, topography, meteorology, and even consultants for warfare, linguists, HISTORIANS.

It made Itami's head spin to think about it. The fact there were contractors here working 24/7, the next shift ready to work immediately after to carry on the work until the work was done. Speed and quality were both integral. But Itami couldn't care less, he just wanted to get these thoughts out of his heads, get back to thinking about his favorite things. Mei-com and his phone games, his manga. Yeah... yeah that'll work. He entered the structure leading to his office, provided to him given his new 'responsibilities.' Oh how he hated that word. At least with everything done, he could get back to his hobby now. Thank the kami. And making sure the door was closed so no one could just interrupt him, got to it. He reached for the manga Kurata gave him, then stopped... hesitation. He looked over next to it and saw the book Mitchell gave him. "The Things They Carried." Once more, the words of the American swam in his head... he hated responsibility.

"A lot of responsibility is on your shoulders, and that load is going to get heavier... Reading about experiences, or things based on them, can offer a lot of insight."

"How the hell does that work?" He muttered. It seemed rather silly coming from him, considering all the manga and material he saw, as there were plenty of anime that offered great stories and learning opportunities. But the thing about those 'experiences' is that they are often lined up and staged, scripted. He knew they were fictional. How can he take something written in a book seriously? After all, it all works out in the end. Bad endings were a rarity.

But something inside him urged him to read it... something... demanding him. It was a strange feeling, almost like his old instructors and superiors ordering him. They were winning, much to his surprise, his hand slowly reaching for the book.

'NO!' A voice inside his head urged. 'Read your manga, find out how Sergeant Shimazu gets out of the mess he's in!' But it was pointless, Itami was reaching for the book with every second.

A series of knocks came from the door, breaking his trance. "Who is it?" He asked, dreading the answer?"

"Lieutenant Itami Yoji?" A voice on the other side asked.

"Y-yeah." He said, hiding his nervousness.

"Someone here to see ya." Realizing he couldn't hide now, he had no choice but to answer the door. But as he approached he realized something... the voice was... familiar. But he couldn't quite pin it down... who was it? Well, only one way to find out. He opened the door, finding another Japanese man there, black hair with chin strap styled facial hair, sharp blue eyes and a rather silly grin. "If it isn't the laziest man I ever met!"

"GAH! Kenji-san!" Itami exclaimed, a silly grin making its way onto his face as well. Not a moment before his surprise did Kenji grab Itami in a headlock and drag his knuckles across his hair. "GAH! Dammit not again!"

"Too slow, sloth! You gotta be quicker than that!"

"Gahhhh let go you asshole!" Itami laughed, making way to get free. It wasn't long before Kenji let him go however.

"All the men in all the Self-Defense Force and they send YOU here. What are the odds?" Kenji asked. "How you been, friend?"

"Baaaaaah you know. This and that." Itami responded. "They still running you through hell in the Rangers?"

"No more than they put YOU through. Can't believe you made it through that shit. By the way you still owe me 3,000 yen for that nonsense you pulled in the mess." Kenji declared.

"Awwwwwwwwww come on maaaaaaaaaaaaaaan! It was just an accident!"

"Yeah yeah, and I'm a tengu. But enough about that, how about you? I hear you're in charge of a recon team now?" Kenji asked, Itami groaned. "Haaaaaaaaah sounds like the Itami I know."

"Forget that, what are you doing here? They finally find a use for the Rangers?" Itami asked.

"More than they did with you." Kenji laughed. "We're here to do what they tell us to do. I'm going to be part of a team myself, though ours is far more dedicated to shooting and scooting if the generals are to be believed. Something about an emphasis on motorized infantry with how dangerous this place is."

"Well you better believe it." Itami said. "It's crazy here."

"Well how about you come with me and see some old buddies, tell us about it?" Kenji suggested. "It'll be like old times."

"Awwwwwwwwwwww COME ON!" Itami protested, but he of course decided to go along. It would be like old times indeed. Before he closed the door, he looked to the book sitting there on the desk... taking a moment to let it sink in.

"Hey, lazy ass, you comin?" Kenji called jokingly.

"Uhhh yeah yeah, sorry, making sure everything's good here." He responded before locking the door.

...

In the female's bathhouse. Leilei, Tuka, and Rory were, well... bathing.

"I must admit, I'm impressed. Many a Castra I have stayed and many a thermae I bathed in, but this place makes a great attempt at providing bathing... shame they only have one for us like this. No frigidarium, tepidarium or caldarium. Just one... but I mustn't be too judgemental." The apostle mused, keeping to her corner of the bath, her full body on display. She was well-built, toned muscles and short hair with just enough growth at the ears and behind the head. Fitting that of a Saderan woman of war, let alone the apostle of war!

"I've never had a bath indoors, either. Not until I began living with my master." Lelei said, scrubbing the hair of a younger girl, Tuka nearby doing the same. "I was originally part of a nomadic tribe called the Rurudo. So I've only ever bathed in rivers and streams."

"The Rurudo people still carry on? Intriguing. I figured they would come to love the cities of the empire... perhaps I was too sure of that." Rory mused in curiosity.

"Do you have such baths at your steads, apostle Rory Mercury?"

"Please, you may call me Rory. Just"

"Then you can call me Lelei."

"Many temples possess such baths, but the likes of a legion's let alone mine must be utilitarian and modest, lest we fall too in love with comfort." She answered honestly.

"Itami said there would be a bath every day." Leilei said.

"Everyday? So they have a standard of hygiene as well. And who did you say? Itami?" Rory asked confused. "Oh, one the Otherworlders. The whining one." Her tone becoming uninterested. "Either Otherworlder military standards are lacking or he has connections."

"Is that the man who saved me?" Tuka asked rather interested.

"No. The one who saved you was Nolan, the medic. Why do you ask?" Leilei said. Tuka sighed.

"Um, I was just curious is all. I mean, I haven't repaid anyone."

Rory mused for a moment. "A lot of people here lost their families and homes. But these soldiers don't seem to want any reimbursement. At least, so I've heard. I must imagine how it will impact their efforts of war. This cannot be free. Nothing in life is free, not even bread and games."

"That is rather surprising coming from you, Rory." Lelei answered.

"It pays to be aware. Even if you learn something not so flattering. It helps make the grand far more grand when a 'flaw' that cannot be removed does not impact your design however bad it may be. As all Saderans say." A smirk on her lips, that Saderan superiority showing. "Anyway," she continued, "you've learned much about their language, haven't you?"

"Languages," Leilei corrected, "I am still learning, but I have learned about this 'Coalition' they have. These people, the JSDF anyway, are from a country called Japan. It's where the Gate originated. Apparently Japan has many allies, and when the Empire attacked, Japan's allies responded to aid the country. All the soldiers you see here are from other nations. Other nations much like them. Though I have yet to learn about them."

"So, it's not just one foe Sadera faces. No different than here in our world." Rory mused, "It shall make victory all the sweeter."

"That reminds me, Rory. These men and women are technically your enemies. So, why didn't you attack them? Surely you can bear their weapons, can you not?" Lelei's question was met with a boastful laugh.

"Not indefinitely. But yes. I imagine I could eliminate perhaps a fraction here before those contraptions of their as hit a lucky shot on me." She answered.

"So why do you not attack them? The refugees are safe and you are no longer needed to look after us."

"Perhaps... I guess I'm just curious to see what happens. It is not everyday I get to experience other peoples, having traveled all over the continent these past 900 years. Besides, if I get involved too much in this war, Erebus will certainly be cross with me. The gods watch over all, but we alone choose our destiny. They merely guide us, and give us a hand of help every now and then."

The flap opened up, but not before a request to come in was heard. "Heya." It was that Kuribayashi woman from the group that escorted them. "Listen, when you three are done, the higher ups want you over at their place."

"Higher... ups?"

"Commanders."

"Oh." Lelei explained what she said as Kuribayashi left.

"Is there a reason why?" Tuka asked.

"We're going to find out..." They eventually got done and went where they were requested. Kato went along with them, if for no other reason than to act as a 'parental figure.' Rory of course being Rory could do neither and came to be polite. Politeness driven to its limits when she had to leave her tools at the door, and reminding the guards 'she wanted them back.' After, armed guards brought them to a room with two couches and a table in the middle, there they sat. 3 men bearing uniforms. Two looked more formal, shades of green with shapes and strange collored fabrics on their left biceps. Decorations or awards maybe? There were other items such as what appeared to be laurels and other emblems in gold on them. One had glasses on. The other bore the same uniform as the rest of the Japanese soldiers, the symbols on his shoulder with what appeared to be three stars. He had the same air as the other two however. The girls made to the couch opposite of the locals, sitting down and readying a small clipboard and some papers.

"So... anyone know what this is all about? We didn't do anything wrong, did we?" Tuka asked.

"Not to my knowledge. Master, you were in your bed right?"

"I didn't even leave it this morning." He replied to Lelei's question. She had no expression, but he knew she didn't believe him.

Rory stretched in her chair. "I don't know about you, but, as far as I can tell, I'm the one they're going to question. I am a Saderan apostle after all. No doubt they were told after we came here, and I did tell them when we registered our names. And with the testimony of their soldiers..."

"Hello." The one wearing glasses said. "I'm General Joshua Keating. This is Lieutenant General, Hazama and Major General Borislav. We need to ask you some questions."

"Questions?" Lelei asked.

"Yes. Questions about this world, and the people here." Lelei took a moment to translate.

"Lelei, let them know I'd like to cast a translation spell... it'll speed this whole process up." The spell was a difficult to learn but useful one. It not so much taught one another to speak each other's language as much as it changed the words coming out of one's mouth as they spoke to be spoken in their language.

The men looked to one another, unsure, understandably so with how dangerous magic was. The guards their raised their weapons, as if to warn against funny business. Kato held up a finger, a minor wave of the staff, and a short, soft burst of energy flowed. "Mmmm uhhh... onions." He said testing the waters.

"Onions... is that some kind of code word or are you hungry."

"Ah good good the spell worked, now the questioning can begin!" He declared.

"... I guess it worked?" Keating guessed.

"Well, I suppose we should start with that then. Magic." Borislav added. "What is magic? We've seen it many times, we have a general idea but would like actual answers."

"Magic, it is the ability to alter or affect the world through magicka manipulation to control reality in someway." Kato explained. "All species have an aptitude in magic, the likes of Elves showing the most prolific abilities. It is also a matter of lifestyle, such as myself. As a sage, I have incredible control over magic."

"Magicka, is that some kind of alternative name? And what do you mean lifestyle and aptitude, by all species you mean EVERYONE in this world can use magic?" Keating asked.

"Yes, magicka is the energy we use to manipulate magic. It is inborn in all peoples, but not unlimited. Think of magic and your ability to use it like your stamina and your ability to use it. The more you excercise, or practice, the more stamina, or magicka you have, and the more you can do or cast. The more you practice using your spells, through studying, learning and practical application, the better you can use it. But if you don't hone or improve it, it won't go beyond your abilities when born, something many people face simply due to their lifestyle. Why would a simple footsoldier spend all that time learning how to summon a gale of lighting and thunder? But unlike stamina, magicka is quick to regenerate." Kato explained further.

"So... what exactly is it, where does it come from?" Hazama asked.

"Well... no one really knows, many theories exist. Some say it is what is left of the ancient god Habird when he was all but destroyed creating the mortal plane. Others say it is the residual powers of the other creators. Others say when Habird created the mortal world he unintentionally tore a hole in reality, allowing the energy to pour through. And the one I believe is that some say it is the accumulated life-force of dead organisms. And many other theories. But there's no way to know for certain."

"Okay... then what kind of magic is there?"

"Five schools exist, allow me to demonstrate if you would?" A moment, then nods. "Illusion, the manipulation of the mind. Things are rarely as they seem," a magical burst again, and Kato appeared as a lizardman, startling everyone, "and illusion can make it all the more confusing." Another flash and he was gone, and then a paper on the table began levitating, only for Kato to appear with another flash holding it with a grin. "Obscuration, illumination, invisibility, and making people see what isn't really there." He said putting the paper down.

"Conjuration, spells that allow one to summon creatures from other planes, drawing weapons of pure magic, and even raising the dead. That particular practice is banned across the known world." Kato cast another spell, and in his left hand appeared a bow of magical energy. He even pulled back, an arrow apearing in the bowstring, then let it all disappear. "Destruction, harnessing the elemental forces, primarily flame, ice, and lightning to obliterate your foes." As he spoke the three forces appeared in his hand. "Very straightforward."

"Then we have Restoration. Shaping the energy of life to heal ones wounds, drive away the undead, and create wards to protect against magical forces." Kato conjured a magic knife and stabbled himself in the arm, yelping in pain and causing the Otherworlders to jump in surprise. Then he cast a spell releasing golden winds of sparkeling light onto his arms, the bleeding wound healing before their eyes. To say THIS surprised them was a massive understatement. "Last, but not least, alteration, controling the physical world. If you would please, turn off the lights?" The request was granted, the room darkening significantly, a wave of the staff and a light appeared, pure white magic that left the entire room awash in light. He cast another spell, and a chair on the other side of the room came to him before landing perfectly.

The lights turned back on after that. "And those are but a few of the spells out there. Those are the schools of magic, but there's also enchanting items. Placing a magical effect on a nonmagical item. This can be cosmetic, some people like to wear clothes that glow in the dark, others like to make their items lighter. Hell, there was one man who enchanted his clothes so he could have a conversation with them! Imagine that?! Hohohohohohohhooooooo!" Kato had a chuckle

"Are there combat applications?"

"Oh yes! For example, arrows can be fired and then explode in midair, landing death on those who are hit in many gruesome ways. A particularly nasty tactic is firing arrows that detonate in air, becoming ice shards that cut through flesh and bone." Kato answered. Much shuddering was had.

"Speaking of items." Borislav began. "Why do you have staffs when many mages we saw do not?"

"Mmmm it's a preference. Many mages who don't have staffs prefer being mobile and carrying less, only very powerful mages keep theirs around to help channel their power. Many styles exist but they all share the same function. Take mine and Lelei's for example." He said showing his while Lelei did the same with hers. His was a staff with a transparent orange stone on the end. Lelei's own being a blue stone that was shaped like stylistic water flowing.

"I see, thank you for your cooperation. Next... ma'am?" Borislav asked the elf. She seemed nervous, rightfully so. Seeming so out of place outside of the white t-shirt and jeans she wore after her clothes were cut off to help her. "you are..." Borislav looked to the notes. "Tuka... Luna Mark... no Marcearu?"

"... yes sir."

"How are you feeling? Any better?"

"Yes... I think."

"You talked about your father in your sleep while at the field hospital. Is he okay?" Hazama asked.

"Yes... no... I don't know... all I know is he tossed me down the well when the flame dragon attacked... then... I think he ran for help... or got eaten... I don't know."

"It's okay, you don't have to talk about it." Keating said. "I think we'll get all we can out of her, she's still in need of time to recover. You three may go, how long will this translation spell last?"

"Well... as long as I stay nearby, say outside that door, you will be fine." Keating nodded, ushering them to go. After, all that was left was Rory. Her posture now up straight, arms crossed, staring straight at them. She clearly didn't consider them dangerous.

"I think you know what's going on here." Keating began. "It has come to our attention that you are an apostle that represents the Saderan God of war."

"I am." She answered.

"Then you understand why we are having this conversation. You're practically the enemy. Why would you come here, and why didn't you attack our forces while you were out there?" She leaned forward.

"I shall get to the point. It is true I could've and would've attacked them, and by all rights, they should be dead. They and your men have spilled the blood of the sons of Erebus, and retribution is nigh." Her voice was calm, but there was clear anger behind it. The sort of anger a mother gets when someone harms her child. "But the sparing of the survivors, while it does not change that you are by all rights my enemy, does make me realize you are not like other foes. You are no bloodthirsty savages, nor are you a hated foe. You are an enemy, but an enemy with a code. It is for this reason, and the fact they looked after those people I stayed my hand, even helped them when the dragon appeared." She answered.

"Don't you think it is... rather strange that you're in an enemy base rather than one of your own?" Hazama asked.

"Do you not consider it strange I was willing to let your people go despite the blood of Erebus's sons they have on their hands? In any case, technically any apostle may go where they please, recognized by friend and foe save for specifically important wars. yet for all our abilities and powers, we rarely interfere in mortal affairs. The Gods watch us, they guide us, but they stay their hands beyond the occasional help."

"What is that supposed to mean?" A confused Hazama continued.

"The Gods fate us the day we are born, but we alone choose our path. You were fated to be generals, and I an apostle. But what drives us to take the paths we take. What makes us the people we are today? That is not for the Gods to decide. You believe yourself honorable men, yes? What made you go down that path of being an honorable man? The son of the emperor, Savagii follows a path that drove him to lead his men when he was but 16 years old. Mortals must choose their own destinies with the fates they are given. Think of the Gods as... parents. Their worshippers their children. It is normal for parents to help their children, but if you always help your child, they don't learn, and if they don't learn they will never be able to grow and become great."

"That... actually makes a LOT of sense." Borislav said.

"Yeah, it really does." Keating agreed.

"So... since the refugees are fine, what will you do now?" Hazama asked.

"I will likely leave. I gave my word that I would not harm you, and I intend to hold that promise for now. After that, I cannot make such promises, something I think I may actually regret... I am already coming to like you people." The answer seemed to satisfy the men, but Borislav had one last question before moving on.

"Before we finish, one last question... are you really as tough as they say? Did you actually fall from a great height and break your legs, then heal it?" He asked.

Rory laughed in bashfulness. "Mmmm yes... yes I did... it was really painful but it wasn't too bad. I've had MUCH worse."

"So... let's say I were to shoot you right now... would it hurt?" Borislav asked.

"Grishaaaaa what are you doing?" Keating asked in a wary tone.

"Can we not piss off the apparently unkillable demigoddess?" Hazama followed.

"You require proof, don't you?" She asked, a grin forming. "Well if it will settle the matter... have at me." She stood, waving her arms to her sides, but not before removing her helmet. "Right on my forehead, that should be good." Stunned confusion hit them save Borislav, who slowly came forth and aimed with the Makarov he pulled from his holster. A pull of the trigger, the flash and thunder, and Rory fell backwards with wide eyes and a mouth twisted in pain.

"OHhhhhhhh! Ohhhhhhhhhhhh! Ouch... that's gonna hurt in the morning." She groaned, slapping a hand to the side of her head as she sat up "Oowwwwwwwwww... I'm a little light headed." She got up and clumsily got to her chair, the wound healing before the eyes of all present as gold light engulfed it.

"No shit, you have a fucking hole in it!" One guard shouted.

"Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaand someone has to clean the floor." The other said

"Well... I think- I think we can write that off as a fact." Keating said uneasily. "Boy would Hollywood pay big to get something like that."

"If it makes you feel better, if I was to lose my head, I would be incapacitated. I'd literally be a headless goddess." She replied with a jest. "But seriously, don't do that... last time I was decapitated it took a whole day for people to find me... it wasn't fun.

"Ok... uh... what other gods are there?" Hazama asked recomposing himself.

"There are 12 in total. You know of my god, Erebus. The god of war and will. He who the people pray to for victory and strength in battle, he who considers us all his children, and he who will see the world burn before we are snuffed out. There is Solaris next, the god of the sun and imperium. The supreme god of our pantheon who rules over all the other gods and gives Sadera the right and will to rule over all we see. It is he who smiles upon us when the sun rises, bathing us in his radiance. Lunaria is next, goddess of the moon, as well as music and peace. For even we Saderans must stop fighting for a time, and nighttime with lovely music is a great way to achieve that. She is the bride of Solaris and they share the time they spend looking over us with day and night."

"Next is Evangelus, the god of light, justice and order. He is the god many... 'chivalrous' types aspire to follow." She said the word with some disgust. "It is he who brings justice and ensures the people are orderly, lest anarchy take us all. Ramirus and his sister goddess, Phoebe are next. The gods of knowledge and learning respectively. It is through their blessings we learn and grow. The two are never separated in worship, because without knowledge, how can others learn? And if you cannot learn, what is the point of knowledge? Terra follows, she is the goddess of nature. The wind, rain, forests and seas, the flowers and animals that live in this world. All of it is connected to her, and from her we learn that with all the cities we build we must share this world with other life, lest it becomes cold and dead. Angerona is next." She shuddered reaching that word. "She is the goddess of death and rest... sorry, she is a rather... strange one. But she ensures that when one dies, they are put to rest in the afterlife, ensureing that they no longer suffer and can be free of their worldly problems."

"Deldorus is next, the god of covenants and agreements. Evangelus is of justice and order, but we need a god to dictate what exactly that is! Deldorus ensures that agreements made, laws passed, and pacts signed are honored and respected, for what is such a thing worth if it is not honored, let alone given consideration! Many who excel in laws and customs worship him as their patron. Duncan is the god of smithing and labor. He is the god of all who sweat and toil, be it in the mines, on a farm, at sea or in a blacksmith. Nothing says a people are great like a populace hard at work to keep it all standing, and Duncan ensures these people have much to live for. Gregorius is the god of revenge and vigilance. One must always be careful, and never too lax. That is what Gregorius grants us, and should one break our trust, be shown as a liar or one of our own betray our people, it is Gregorius's wrath they face, and he is a focused and fair, but uncompromising god! And last, but certainly not least is Miritta, goddess of love and fertility. She is the patron of lovers, hopeless romantics and thrillseekers, but she is also tender and caring for only a mother's love can be so pure, and it is Miritta who gives mothers comfort when bringing their children into this world."

"What's the deal with the apostles anyway? Why do you exist?" Hazama asked.

"To give our gods a more physical presence for the people to interact with. Only on rarest times like festivals and celebrations do gods come forth, but even then it is limited. We're not all fighters mind you. The apostles of Ramirus and Phoebe are teachers and scholars, while Lunaria's is a musician."

"So you could be considered prophets and messiahs." Keating summed.

"Yes... you could say that."

Medical section

"Come on! Put more antiseptic there! He's gonna get an infection!"

"Hai hai!" This wasn't an operation mind you, this was a class. Alex Nolan volunteered as the instructor when this whole thing started. The idea behind all this was to get someone with experience with wounds of the kind they'd expect, given Nolan's attendance at Ginza. That, and Nolan's family tradition of physician was a bonus. He was a man of medicine, but wanted something with true urgency and and emergency. He underwent a humanitarian effort in Eritrea, coming into contact with the Ghosts. He was drawn to their steely resolve and resolved to become one of them. Missions and training later, he was given his chance to be a medic in a Ghost squad. He made a name for himself, able to look after soldiers in the heat of battle. He was quite literally the best medic in the world, in his own words anyway.

Now he was here educating the 'next generation' of other nations, primarily Japanese, on the fine art of medical care as they practiced on dummies. It wasn't exactly all cream and pie. "No no no! You don't pull it out! You either see if you can just push it through without doing more damage or wrap it for the surgeons to take care of. Come on, you know this!"

"G-g-gomen'nesai, Nolan-sensei!"

"That's a type 3 barbed head. Wrap it up, wrap it up, and don't forget the antiseptic!"

"Hai, mochiron! Gomen'nasai!" He made way to another table.

"Wrap the cloth tighter. Not too tight though."

"E, e, e, watashi wa sore- I got it!"

Another table. "You haven't looked at it yet? Come on this guy's in pain, alleviate the suffering!"

"...eh."

"If you forgot how to do it, tell me and I'll help, but don't look at me and expect to read your mind!"

"Ok! Ok! Got it!"

Now he knew how his drill instructor felt. But he wasn't teaching them how to use a gun. He was teaching them how to save lives. Right now these guys were doing a piss poor job. It was only a few days into the lessons and most never had to fight, let alone stabilize patients, but he expected real results. It was really disappointing considering these were members of the JSDF, and they were known for being great relief expets. Maybe it was just him being used to being surrounded by professionals all the time. He hasn't been around newbies for years. Most of the time he was in the company of his fellow Ghosts. Or maybe it was that these were the dregs of the Force, and he was left fixing them up.

"I swear to god, you docs are going to be the best weapon the Saderans ever had." After giving another chewing out, if you could call it that. He wasn't a good shouter. He made it to the next student, Mari Kurokawa. The woman from Itami's squad. She was standing with arms behind her back in anticipation, showing she was finished. "About time someone got done." He thought. He took a look at the dummy. It was an arrow, a barbed head by the looks of the bandages. Antiseptic was applied, the smell evident, and the bandages were properly wrapped. "Hm. Well done." He said, and moved on. Kurokawa let out a breath.

She's been subject to Nolan's calm demeanor during his lectures and lessons, but come the class projects, he was like a drill sergeant. He was getting pretty red too. She was the kind of person really dedicated to this kind of work, she always was a bit of a motherly figure with a caring demeanor given her job as a pediatrician. She of course was not immune to the ravages of war. After the battle against the 71,000 men, she was wide awake for a whole night. Nothing she did worked. There were bodies all over the place like a scene from the Somme. She had been able to get over it, but the images still haunted her. They made her really see how important her duties were. So when you want to learn what you need to know, you go to an expert. Nolan wasn't what one would call a bodybuilder. Those glasses combined with that face and had made him look like the textbook example of a nerd. It was hard not to laugh at.

He joked about it when one of her fellow soldiers called him out on it, Nolan's exact words were 'You're right, you'd look better in these glasses than I do. I hear they're all the rage for Japanese males.' That got a few laughs out.

They started with the human anatomy. The stuff you'd expect in a class like this. The tools of the trade, the sprays and morphine. If he felt the class wasn't paying attention, he'd kick someone's desk over. Usually someone dazing off into space or something, then chew them out on how this was a class to save lives. As that went on, people began to joke less and less about him. He was in charge.

Then came the arrows and bolts. The fact no one knew that arrows came in different types before modern bows really showed how disatvantaged they were. There was the armor piercing bodkin. A four faced arrow whose design allowed it to punch through armor, or at least try to. The thickness of the armor can impact how effective it is let alone the material the arrow is made from. Arrows were a surprisingly expensive commodity. The needle bodkin, used mostly for mail armor, but still a nasty thing. The barbed arrow, the nasty ones with the barbs that face backwards, making taking it out a BAD idea. Less likely arrows to be seen included leaf-shaped arrows best used for hunting game, the swallowtail head, a broad barbed head also meant for hunting, and even a mention of the strange crescent shaped arrowheads.

And in the hands-on exercises, he really let his wrath be known. This just served as further motivation for Kurokawa to not screw up. Finally, Nolan decided to end the lesson. He told the class to learn from the mistakes they made and study up. Everyone was pretty much anxious to go, Kurokawa took her time. "Fun fact. You're the only one who actually did it right the first time today." Nolan said as he grabbed a few things.

"Oh... really? Huh."

"Yep. I'd be surprised if half of this class could tell an elbow from a kneecap. And that's if I'm lucky."

"Don't you think your expectations are a bit too high, Nolan-sensei? I mean you're a specialist. We're not, that's not a fair comparison." Kurokawa reasoned.

He sighed, giving a small smile as he made way for the door. "When you've been serving with the Ghosts for as long as I have, you often take professionalism for granted. See you later, Kurokawa. My gut says we'll be meeting on the field again sooner than we think." He added in a dramatic voice at the end. Kurokawa left the room last, watching as the Ghost made way to... wherever he was going. "Hey, actually I'm heading to the refugee spot. We're making them some food. Wanna come with?"

"... sure. Why not?" Going over to see the refugees was quickly becoming something she enjoyed, especially seeing the children running around laughing. From what she could tell, Nolan didn't seem as enamored with the civilians, though he was already capable of showing he had surprises in store with how he carried himself in this program. "May I ask you a question, Nolan-sensei?"

"No, my glasses to not give plus ten to perception." A small joke, but a good one. "What is it?"

"I... I have to ask... you mentioned you were an ordinary doctor before all this right? Why did you get mixed up in the military?" Nolan looked at her. "I mean, don't take it the wrong way but you don't seem like the kind of guy who would go that way, and not because of your looks... more like your behavior, at lesat until now."

"Wait, lemme guess." He said, joking as he 'thought.' "You were expecting me to be a Professor Frink." Mari let out a small laugh, recognizing the name of the stereotype scientist from the Simpsons.

"No nononooooo... it's just, you seem like you'd do more good... well, in a civilian environment. The way you lecture us and go on about how it's important to save lives, it's something that could be better seen in that world given how cheap they all seem."

Nolan pondered the thought for a moment, sighing as he replied, "Yeahhhh you sound like my mom... just taller." His final joke being made, he continued, "Well if you must know I did do a stint as a civie during medical school, but it just didn't cut it for me. The work I was doing... plenty of folks in our line could do it. I wanted something with real urgency. Something that screamed 'if you don't do your job, people will get hurt,' and I found it in the army. What made you join your army?"

The spotlight now on her, she replied with. "Well, the defense forces were getting really popular, especially after what happened in 2011 with the earthquake. That and with what happened with Artemis and the rising tensions with China, I figured I could do good here. It's a good side task with being a pediatrician."

"No wonder you get along with the kids." Nolan responded. Mari nodded, a smile on her face. "Well after getting into the army, I went to Eritrea for humanitarian assistance in 2009 during that war when Tesfaye Wolde and his lackeys from Ethiopia made for the Eritrean coastline. So we went in and kicked their asses back to their side of the border. And that's where I first met the Ghosts. And that's what set me on my path, as I went to the 36th Area Support Medical Company and went to Asia for a tour, and here I am. And that's the great story of how I became the best medic in the world." His joking side coming up again. "Probably do this until I die, after all, you get married to the job as they say."

Mari didn't notice, but after he said that, the familiar unpleasant sensation of an itch came forth over his heart. Seems his joke had the unintended consequence of reminding him of his injury back in Afghanistan. The tunnels the Taliban used were far, wide, and many. One of them got lucky and nailed him as he cleared it out with the team, missed his heart by a few inches. The fact he survived, as they say, was a miracle considering how close it was. But he did, and he went back to his job. 'It could've gone closer,' He said about it, and now a scar had formed over it... his 'badge of courage' or whatever you want to call it. Plus, he kinda liked it, because it reminds him of his mortality, and of the fact the lives of others were just as frail, and that's why he took his job so seriously despite being a wisecracker.

"Besides, if I left, I'd be no better than those cheap docs and their health insurance overlords you bring up. Ironically being in an organization dedicated to delivering death and destruction as so many like to label it gives me the chance to help people."

"Seems like a contradiction, doesn't it?" Kurokawa asked, slightly joking, as though trying to get into his good graces.

"Mmmmm not really. There's lots of ways to help people, Kurokawa. Sometimes by healing the sick, hurt, and lost. Other times by killing dangerous people. Either way helps. Give some time to think about it and it'll make more sense to you... soooo uhhh... you wanna get a bite before we get there? The mess ain't much right now but they serve good stuff at the moment.

The next day.

The refugees were concerned where the future would take them.

The Coalition kept telling them to not worry about paying them back, and there would be humanitarian aid incoming. But at the same time they couldn't really give them any more. They couldn't live here like this forever, that's for sure. But they had very little money. That being said, there was a saving grace for them. While the bodies had of the dragons from the battle had decomposed, the scales and claws were still intact. These were extremely valuable as peoples across the continent used them to build armor, particularly that for high ranking officials such as Legates. And there were tons of them, enough that it was guaranteed they'd make good money off of it. So naturally, they were all out in the former battlefield, and looked upon the carnage from before. The dragon corpses there. "This is where the battle was waged." Lelei said. "The Coalition says we can take the scales of the dragons. Save for a few samples they have no use for them."

"They fetch a high price!" Tuka said. "We can just take them? No strings attached?!"

"I dunno what you're so shocked about. All we see is a bunch of scales. Sure they're tough and pretty to look at but they're practically useless to us. It isn't cost-efficient to use them for anything." Nolan responded.

It was a lot to take in. When the deed was done, the plying of scales off of bodies as patrols passed them by, at least 200 scales and 3 claws were taken so far. There was much more to be found. Rory was saddened by this, seeing these dragons that once served as mounts to their faithful masters now desecrated... yet it was not outside of normality, as it was something the Saderans themselves did, leaving nothing to waste when a faithful dragon passed. No it was more of sadness for the dragons and their mounts, the same thing one would feel sorrow for the fallen of a past war their nation fought in. Each individual scale was around 13-17 denari. Now it was a matter of where they'd go to trade them in. there was only one place nearby that they could possibly go... Italica. A city further north, deep in Saderan territory.

Thankfully, Kato had a solution to this. A friend of his runs a shop in Italica, and Rory herself, seeing this is a good way to leave the base now that her curiosity had been satisfied, decided it would be best to go with them as well. Now it was getting it there. This would help with the fact the Saderans would surely attack on sight, be on the lookout for any sort of action This plan set up and the generals deciding it would pay off in the long run, and ensure they didn't have to worry for the refugees much longer agreed, and they were provided with transport.

"Mitchell, if this town is as big and important as it seems, there may be a leading official. We want you to interact with them and see if they would be willing to play ball, might give us an edge at the eventual negotiating table." Keating explained. "With our helicopter support here we can reach farther than before and are more than likely going to have air support up and running sooner rather than later. But we still need time to get that up and running."

Mitchell's squad was composed of Brown, Diaz, Nolan, Kozak, 30K, Burke, Bo, Smith, Beasley, and Kim. "Understood sir." He said.

"To help you on that. We're sending a specialist with you. Temporarily from retirement." The General motioned to a man approaching them, wearing a familiar old uniform of a SEAL. The name Fisher on his nametag

"Captain." He responded curtly.

"Former SEAL Sam Fisher has served in the CIA once upon a time along with his military career. He'll accompany you for any diplomatic matters. Other than that, you have full reign." Keating said.

"Yes sir." Said Scott. The two saluted and parted ways. "So… an aide huh?"

"Yeah, good to be back in the field after so long, even if it is to play nice with some namby pampy from another world." Fisher said.

"I like this guy." Nolan responded. "He gets it."

"I don't. He's got that air of secrecy, the kind that makes it impossible to know about it." Beasely said, he always was one to see and hear everything, get a sort of idea of who's who.

"If he's on our side, then it's fine." Diaz responded.

"Yeah, if."

It was practically all straightforward now. The soldiers piled up in the vehicles, Sam in one of the Humvees. With that, they took off towards the town. Rory had taken to standing in the HMV's open top canvas so anyone that saw them saw her, and be hesitant to attack. And as a measure of caution, they tied white cloth to the antennae of their vehicles, the experience with the Legate back at Alnus teaching them they recognized the white flag as a symbol of 'don't attack.'

There was hardly any talking going on this ride. Seemed everyone was busy keeping an eye out. Itami for his part took to his journal as he usually would.

"What ya writing?" Asked Kurata.

"Nunya." Itami responded. Kurata laughed a bit.

"Fine, keep your secrets."

"Oh I will." Itami took to writing

So here we are off to this place called Italica. The refugees here collected the scales and claws from the dragons that died the battle weeks ago, apparently dragon scales take forever to degrade like the rest of the dragon and are very very valuable. If I recall correctly, this many at once is worth a fortune. So if we pull this off we don't have to worry about them anymore as far as their basic needs are concerned. That of course depends on us getting through this situation. Three refugees stand out to us, and that's mostly because of certain characteristics. Kato El Altestan, a sage. He's a smart guy, a bit of a goofball but overall a good man, he's basically become the fatherly figure of the refugees here. And with what we see, he's a very very VERY powerful sage. If what I hear is true though, he's not exactly 'popular' with the ladies. I can see where this is going. He has an apprentice named Lelei La Lalena, a mage in training, but she's rather skilled herself. The girls is a bit of a cross between a dandere and a kuudere. She's quiet, asocial and not very talkative, and she has no emotions to speak of. But she's not stoic of cold, she's just... expressionless. Then we got Tuka Luna Marceau, an elf. An honest to kami elf. She's a bit shy and not too talkative, but that's probably the trauma from her run in with the flame dragon having yet to wear off. All I can say is she seems... well she seems to swing the other way, I see the way she regards Kurokawa.

Then there's our other guest. She scares the hell out of us. Rory Mercury, the apostle of the Saderan war god... yeah, the people we're at war with. She was dead set on killing us, or would be if we hadn't let those men at the battle go, and had we not helped those refugees. She won't be around for long, which we're all thankful for. After this business in Italica we go our separate ways. That being said, she was courteous yet had that 'better than you' attitude. I'm assuming it's because she's Saderan and they seem to have that behavior if the refugees are to be believed.

On the other hand, I got to see Kenji again! Haven't seen him since Ranger training! That was hell but I managed to get through! Here he is in the Special Region as a Ranger Lead, he has his own team and is going to be part of the war effort. He had good timing showing up too, thanks to him I got those damn thoughts out of my head. Mitchell hadn't been much help as it seemed, said something about how a book would help me... I guess we're just too different to really click in the same way. In the meantime, I haven't really been an inspiration for my team... well it's not my problem. Besides, it's not like we're going to be in the thick of it. We're a recon team for crying out loud!

"Let's see. We should be getting there within the next few miles. I'm guessing this over here is Italica" Kuwahara muttered, before noticing Lelei next to him staring at the map in his lap, compass at the ready. Noticing Lelei staring at said instrument. "Ah, you're wondering what this is, right?"

"We used to call him the Demon Sergeant, and now he's going all grandpa over a cute little witch." Kurata quietly said. Itami scoffed in amusement. In the back of the vehicle Itami was Kurokawa sitting at the end, talking to Nolan who tagged along. They were reviewing on what she had learned in her lessons on arrow wounds. There was also Rory and Tuka. Itami noticed the elf girl constantly looking at Kurokawa. She looked embarrassed, uneasy, a pink on her face. But Kurokawa seemed far more interested in Nolan... or at least more attentive to him, but the attention was clear.

"What are they doing back there?" Itami asked amused.

"Ok, so let me get this straight." Burke snapped over the radio, the silence that long presided over the convoy finally broken. "We're 'escorting' these people to a city held by our enemy so they can trade some damn scales? I like this plan, I actually like this plan." Her sarcasm was again dripping from her words.

"Cut the sarcasm, Burke. We got an easy detail." Bo Jenkins replied.

"Really? How is going straight to an enemy city easy? Shouldn't we be out and doing actual recon? You know, doing damage to the enemy?"

"The other Ghosts are managing that just fine, and with specialists coming in every day alongside the average grunts we're slowly finding more free time." Nolan began. "So come ooooooon, look out the window, see the woooooorld."

"And I'm sure this Rory chick will tell them. She is their demigoddess, right?" Beasley asked.

"OR, she could lure us in and wipe us out in one swoop. I ain't gonna end up like those poor bastards at the battle!" 30K cried.

"30K shares my attitude. This is gonna end badly, you mark my words." Burke sourly added.

"Relax." Smith began. "Captain always has a plan, you know this. We've been through far worse back home."

"Yeah? Back home we didn't face arrow storms and ice breathing dragons or-" A sigh was heard. "I'm just really apprehensive. How do you get over something like that?"

"We won, let's focus on that. It was hell but we won. We can beat them, we just need to prepare for some brutal warfare." Kim answered. Mitchell began to stir, slowly waking from his slumber.

"Ugh... how much further we got?" He asked, rubbing his eyes.

"Kuwahara said maybe another couple of miles before we get there." Kozak answered, using that drone of his to scout ahead of the vehicles as usual. "Hey... I got something."

"I see it. There's a smoke plume over to our right." Kurata said. Sure enough there it was, a single tower of smoke going into the air behind the hills. Second time this has happened to them now.

"Huh, so does the road take us anywhere near where the smoke is coming from?" Itami asked.

"Yes, we're gonna go right through it if the map's correct." Kurata answered.

"Let's get going, once we get closer I can check with the drone." Kozak added.

"All right, so this is the second time we're running into a column of smoke." Itami deadpanned. "Heads up everybody, lets be sure to keep our eyes open."

"Keep going until we're about a mile away." Mitchell ordered. When the desired distance was reached, and the smoke was more dispersed, multiple smaller smoke trails evident. "Stop the convoy." The drivers obeyed. "You advance slowly. Kim, Diaz, Kozak, you're with me. The rest of you stay and keep the convoy safe. Move slowly and listen for my orders." Mitchell said as he dismounted from the Humvee with the mentioned Ghosts and ran forward.

"Sir! What are you doing?!" Itami called.

"We're called Ghost Recon for a reason. You keep the convoy moving, listen for my orders, and whatever you do, don't go on some hero plan or fall asleep." Mitchell ordered before storming into the grass towards the town.

"Isn't he the coolest?" Kuribayashi asked dreamily.

"Put your tongue back in before you trip on it, fangirl." Nolan wisecracked. The convoy began continuing at a slow pace now. Mitchell and his team made their way over the hills and far away, but no teletubbies came out to play. Scott himself was now taking these moments to consider the composition of his company. Though he had issues about said company. The SDF soldiers were good under fire, it was the others in the group.

Lelei, she was a smart kid, she had a future to look to. But she was the kind of person for pencil-pushing, at least in Scott's opinion. Sure she had potential. But it was comparable to a politician with a pistol.

Then there was Tuka, she was a good shot, but her PTSD was placing her in the denial stage about her father. A more subtle denial stage. She constantly looks for him at the base. As much as he didn't like it, there was no chance her father survived. If no one else did, how could he? The psychologist Nolan recommended would help, but if she didn't get some kind of rehab, her mental state would continue to deteriorate. Sooner or later, the issue had to be dealt with, lest she become an asylum resident.

Lastly was Rory. She was clearly the biggest threat despite her pledge of nonaggression. But that pledge was running out. If they can't find some way to deal with her in the future, they're in MAJOR trouble. On her own she would be no trouble for a whole force, but the same could be said about Ghosts, or the M1 Abrams, or literally any military asset. An army is greater than the sum of its parts, and the proper application of its parts is what matters. Put her in the right place at the right time...

"Ghost Lead, I made it. I have overwatch on the area." Diaz reported.

"Kim here, same. It's a damn mess out there. I have hostiles on sight. Up on the walls." Ramirez was using binoculars as he got to the ground. Mitchell followed suit and used his own pair. It was indeed a mess. The walls were in a state of disrepair. Bodies of men in varying clothing, armor, and weapons were all over the front of the gates, many of them looked like ancient Greek soldiers, the hoplites to be precise. Among their number were centaurs and a single cyclops tending to bolts shot into its hand. Spots of what could be assumed as oil were everywhere along the wall with broken ladders here and there. Blood of course was there too. But the biggest concentration of was at the gate itself, broken and open with barricades in its place. One bearing a door. Entire bodies piled at the sides with so much blood it looked like a pond was forming. With the defenders being Saderans, it was undoubtedly work of the gladius. The deceptively short sword was easily more devastating than any war hammer or greatsword out there. Why use all that strength and time to annihilate someone's skull when you could just quickly stab them and spill their guts out while hiding behind those giant scutii? Mitchell's seen lots of blood before. But this much at a time was more than he's ever seen.

If that was the case, then the phalanxes obviously didn't work too well pushing into the gate, evident with the bodies of other men bearing other weapons out there on the ground. Assortments of Greek looking men with gambeson armor, leather padding, a whole assortment of ancient and medieval styles.

Kozak's drone flew high, looking down into the walls of the city. Sure enough there were legionaries down there amongst average citizens. Some wearing the tunics of the Saderan people, others looked more early middle ages with herigauts, chemises, and other clothes, some looking more like militia. They were all armed with crossbows or bow and arrows while the citizens had a mix of tools and actual weapons. Scott's mind briefly flashed back to the battle. These weapons were the leading cause of casualties among friendly forces. And along with that, some scorpios and ballistae. Modern firepower or not, the defenses were too strong unless preemptive action was to be taken. But they weren't here to fight. They were here to escort the select refugees to the city. "Convoy, this is Ghost Lead. Got eyes on the city. There's been a battle recently, expect heavy enemy defenses with substantial heavy weapons. Saderan presence confirmed. Advance slowly." The Ghosts waited for the convoy to approach, then Mitchell and Kozak returned to them, stopping to discuss the plan.

"So, what the hell do we do now?" Kuwahara asked. "We can't just walk up to them and say 'Hey! I know we're enemies, but can we come in and trade some dragon scales?'"

"That's what I'm here for." Rory said, having not moved an inch the entire ride.

"NO! No way. We have no reason to trust you, goth girl!" Kuribayashi cried.

"I am the demigoddess of Erebus, the god of war. They'll listen to me. Erebus is the most popular god within the Saderan pantheon."

"That's just it. You're a demigoddess of the enemy. How can we just trust you to help us here? Especially considering that we're at war with you?"

Rory let out a long annoyed sigh. "If you don't trust me, then you were fools to tag me along. I simply came with you before to ensure the refugees would be safe. Don't you think I'd have killed you long after we left your base if I wanted to?"

"Pfft. Easy for you to say! You're nearby some-"

"THAT'S ENOUGH!" Kuwahara barked, cowing the belligerent woman.

"That was the original plan." Mitchell began. "Rory, go ahead. But try anything though and all bets are off, needless to say. Diaz, Kim, you're on overwatch." She just nodded, and the snipers sent acknowledgements. He and Kozak reentered the vehicle. Demigoddess or not this wasn't going to go badly. They were far from the fort and had no backup. By the time reinforcements got there if called... the worst could happen. Again, the convoy moved ahead, but Mitchell and his team stayed out and low to provide cover. Sam was in the front passenger seat of one of the Humvees readying a pistol. Mitchell recognized it as a Five Seven USG in a two-tone black scheme. Integrally silenced he guessed. "Expecting to fight?" Mitchell asked the uniformed aide.

"Don't put me in adult diapers just yet, I still know how to fight." Sam said with a smirk.

"I hope we don't have to find out. But we'll see." Mitchell said.

The convoy finally reached the town, making way past the countless bodies that were spread out across the field. Bo let out a whistle, "Talk about missing the fun, damn."

"Approach slowly. Keep a good distance away, but keep those finger triggers ready. We don't wanna fight if we can avoid it." Mitchell said. The convoy obeyed and stopped a good distance from the gate, where ballistae and guards stood. In fact, some those guards looked like civilians. "Ok Rory, go do youre-" Mitchell's sentence was stopped as activity on the wall went down. Saderan legionaries were lining up against the merlons and embrasures, all armed with crossbows. It was perfect synchronization as they placed bolts in the bowstrings and aimed. "Oh man."

"Sir, what do we do?" Itami asked tensely.

"Steady... they aren't firing. Yet." Following this, the ballistae on the walls turned towards them, bolts ready to fire.

"Well... that's a warm welcome."

"We're their enemy, what did you expect? A hug?" Burke asked.

"They aren't gonna drop boiling water on us, are they?" Kurata asked. No one wanted to be the recipient of that. It was better to die than survive that.

But then the soldiers stopped, they all saw Rory there in front of the convoy, instantly kneeling down and chanting... a prayer or oath or something. But then remembering the enemy right there, they recollected themselves. A man wearing a Centurion's getup appeared on the walls and the two entered banter. "Let's just sit it out. Let her do the talking."

...

To think things couldn't get worse.

Grey had been able to round up as many people from the outskirts as he could, Nero, Helena, and eventually Pina going out to help as well. They could only carry so much with them though. Their luck seemed to be holding out at first. The unpaid mercenaries were more interested in grabbing material things like whatever coin was left behind and stores of food and animals than they were in the people. Basically anything not nailed to the floor. And to be expected they set fire to whatever was left. Alas the knights couldn't reach every nearby household, the centaurs reaching the furthest households. And unless help came fast, the mercenaries would break in, and THEN the people were at their mercy. History is full of stories of cities and even kingdoms suffering because they didn't pay their mercenaries. You don't hear stories of mercenaries leaving when they run out of pay because it's just that, they leave. With cases like this, the mercenaries cause great damage. The situation was worsened by the fact that even though many militiamen were up and ready, few if any were of Saderan stock, no experience and little training, their saving grace being that some bore the billhook, an evil looking weapon that could be used as a spear, bringing the point on one side down on someone's head, or of one was truly trained, use the curbed blade to exploit the back of the neck unguarded by armor and helmet and pull back.

Hypatos and his men returned... it seemed they didn't find enough to satisfy their demands, and now the city was next. To his credit, how little one may perceive it, he did say if the people threw what valuables they had over the walls they would just take that and go. But of course they didn't happen, so taking by force was the key. And the mercenaries didn't just spend time looting and pillaging. They made siege weapons and ladders to climb up the walls, those minotaurs and the cyclops being a big help in those efforts to get things standing, lifting men up, even doing some of the work themselves.

(Cue Medieval 2 Total War: Darker Skies Ahead)

They reached the walls. The legionaries fired their crossbows to varying effect. Some shots clinking harmlessly off their hoplons, others finding lucky shots in legs, others striking true. They were met with slinger shot and archer hails. Slingers, the deceptively destructive weapon of war. Using something as simple as a mere rock on the ground, or purpose crafted objects of varying shapes, slings were little more than two lengths of cord with a pouch for ammunition in the middle and grips at the ends. Slipping a finger at the end of the cord with the other fingers holding the tab on the other end, ammunition is placed into the pouch before swinging the cord over their heads or at the side, then when sufficient speed time has passed, they let go and send the projectile flying. A hit from this could even be enough to go through some armor or leave a horrible wound on the target. And there were at least a hundred slingers out there. Not to mention how some of these projectiles would have inscriptions on them such as 'catch this,' or 'ouch!'

While they pelted the walls, the hoplites moved in with ladders to climb up. The legionaries would have an advantage once taking sword and shield as hoplites were better fighting as a group than independently. That being said, legionaries were as dependent on fighting as one, but they at least had the comfort of helmets that did not obscure their sight.

"They are climbing! Be ready! Where are the mages, hit those ranged devils!" Pina shouted out, putting on her closed burgonet helmet and readying her short sword as the hoplites climbed up. Legionaries readying their gladii and scutii. 16 ladders altogether, meaning the fighting had to be spread out and the legionaries couldn't use their crossbows once the enemy mounted the walls. She held up her shield as a spear came at her, then countered with her sword which was stopped by the hoplon. That man however was taken care of by a legionary with a stab in the back. Another hoplite made for her, but she had an easier time with him, the blade going through the linothorax and kicked him back over, knocking another man off. Other mercenaries pulled out their own swords, the hoplites leaving spears down at the ground and taking out a xiphos, if they had one. Pina again slashed, catching one at the chest before striking downwards and striking through the armor through the shoulder blade and down into the heart.

"Mind the edge of the walls! Form groups with spaces where the ladders are!" Grey shouted through his visored barbuta helmet, swinging a great sword with skill while hoplites could only block or die on the other side of the gatehouse, the message carrying on as the Centurion parroted his orders. The legionaries worked as quickly as possible, those at the walls and not protected by the merlons put their shields up facing the enemy outside, ensuring projectiles cannot hit them be they from bow or sling. Those behind them and at theirsides covered by the merlons were ready for the Ictuns to come forth. It seemed like madness doing such a thing, leaving space for the men to climb up. But it was sound, not only would this allow the Saderans to better spread themselves and cover the holes and more importantly, replace one another after a time had passed, the Saderans having perfected shifting ranks so their men did not tire as quickly as other forces, increasing enemy casualties and decreasing their own. And that would be EXTREMELY important here. Legionaries at the gatehouse, keeping it from being opened, with more guarding the entrances to the towards leading to the left and right to prevent the enemy getting into the city as well as protect the volunteer archers inside. The gatehouse at the front of the city was being attacked, from there the wall extended to three towers on both sides. At the third, the walls ran at an angle, them going straight again to the next gatehouse. The walls being at least 13 meters tall with towers as tall as 19.

"They're bringing a battering ram! It's on wheels and those minotaurs are pushing it!" Nero called out, taking a moment to move the visor of his deep visored helmet before taking off to the gatehouse with Helena, her own helmet being a visorless barbuta. All the while as the battles on the walls carried on, slinger shots and arrows soared into the air into the city. For the time being the volunteer militia hid under roofs and other overhead obstacles while the legionaries kept shields above their heads to form a testudo. "Those damn beasts are gonna push through, make sure the pila are ready!" Monster or not, no one likes being hit with javelins, especially javelins that bend when being used and are nearly impossible to pull out. As was the intention, making shields they penetrate unwieldy, and once used cannot be thrown back as the ends are bent and break off due to how they are made.

"This is going to be BAD..." Helena said with uncertainty.

"Bahhh we'll be fine! We just need to be ready!" Nero declared.

"Heya, Nero!" Grey shouted down to him, tossing a hoplite down their side of the wall. "How about we trade places since those overgrown bulls are sure to ruin your pretty face!?"

"Oh sod off!" Nero responded, but he obliged anyway, figuring he'd do better up on the walls while Grey do more good down here when the gates were broken open. If anyone could stare down a minotaur on foot, it was Grey.

"Careful down there Grey! Same goes for the rest of you!" Pina shouted, arrows and sling shots pinging off her armor and shield, her sword hitting the soft spots of whatever Ictun armor she could. She and another hoplite were bashing against one another with their shields, the hoplite being male, and with a bigger shield was winning at first, but Pina was quick and took the chance to step to the side, strike down with her sword on his helmet, rattling him a bit, then stabbing, this man having no armor. "Some of them have no armor, so it's not all bad." She said to herself.

Then one of the sections of the walls was hit by a fireball from below. The mages had arrived! Only two of them but that was enough! "The mages! Thank the gods, get up here and harass those ranged warriors!" The mages of course obeyed, making for the towers rather than the walls themselves, and began a game of whack an archer. The mages casting lightning bolts at the ranged soldiers in the distance. They only hit a man every now and then, but it did sow panic, making them run around to avoid getting hit. And since they were so far off, ducking behind the merlons, and even moving from the towers to shoot from the walls or diverting their attention to help with the walls, it was nearly impossible. The only problem was that there were only two mages, the rest held back to help with the inevitable wounded. These two mages had grabbed all the magicka potions they could carry so that they could take less time to wait for their reserves to replenish, so if something critical was happening they could act. And something critical was indeed about to happen. The battering ram had reached the gates. The ram part itself with bits of whatever steel, iron and other solid parts could be found. The men that joined the minotaurs taking and slamming it against the gate doors. Hot sand was poured down through the defensive holes onto the ram to keep any other soldiers from helping out.

The minotaurs of course made sure to be away from the unpleasant feeling, the hoplites using the ram itself. And since it was hot sand, it was harder to get back to It was rather clever how this worked. The men attending the gate house defenses were in the towers on either side, the sand is put into a bowl that is heated by flame magic, and once heated sufficiently it is, with protection of course, poured through a large funnel leading down through the walls and out from holes over the gate. As hoplites continued mounting the ladders and climbing to fight, the minotaurs made every effort they could to break open the gate, simply pushing it directly from behind wouldn't work, trying to time their efforts while the sand was poured down. Their only comfort being that the gate wasn't that strong.

"We'll worry about the walls!" Grey ordered to the other legionaries. "Let our comrades deal with the gatehouse! We're thin enough as it is!" Another hoplite sent over the edge. But they were catching on and gathering in the open spaces on the wall before pushing, the mages and whatever legionaries down on the ground hitting them, troubling their efforts.

The sound of stomping came forward, the cyclops was coming to play now. A big club in its arms, it was perfectly suited for attacking the walls and driving legionaries off the walls, and then tearing them down if trouble was given. The sound was followed by *KACHUNK* sounds, and giants bolts flying forward from the gatehouse tower roofs. The ballista firing to drive it off

"Gaaaaaaaaaah, damn you!" It shouted, making for one of the towers, only for a lighting bolt to hit his head. "Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!" The mages were hard at work clearly, their magicka reserves surely running low as they went above and beyond their abilities to fight, separating their attention every few moments it seemed. This affair went on for what felt like hours, until the gates finally broke open. From there, the ram was pushed back, and the first to enter were the minotaurs, hefting their hammers. Only to be met by a hail of pila that embedded themselves into their flesh.

Both let out roars of pain as they backed off to get themselves taken care of, the sensation like having dozens of barbs stuck across one's body. That left the hoplites to come through the now broken door, and a few arrows and sling projectiles soaring through over their heads. Scutum were helpful here, but it couldn't last, especially as the hoplites got closer, the sarissa bearing ahead of them. Meter long double-ended pikes capable of keeping distance between the hoplites and their foe. While wide, the gate was not big enough for a true phalanx and it was a thin one, some keeping their hoplons up as best they could. Difficult indeed with the men in the 5 row and beyond needing to keep their sarissa up while those in the first four ranks could keep theirs down comfortably low for combat. It was further hampered by the fact that dedicated men recognized as hypaspists to protect the flanks of phalanxes, as such formations were inflexible and slow to react.

"Bet I can kill more than you, Helena!" Nero declared up on the wall to Helena down below.

"It's not a contest!" She scolded.

"Besides, you got a head start up there!" Grey declared.

"You don't count, old man!" Nero retorted, and the phalanx having made it into the city and ready to swell and divide were set upon by the legionaries at the side, those at the front trying to destroy the sarissas to inconvenience the hoplites and force them to switch their pikes around. In that time the legionaries with Helena and Grey hacked through the pikes as best they could to get closer. It was far easier with the knights, covered in their plate armor while the legionaries had to take quick hacks with their gladii to cut through the forest of pikes. Slowly but surely the legionaries at the sides got through the defenders and attacked the phalanx itself, and it was here the pikes were being dropped, the xiphos and kopis coming from their sheathes, the phalanx losing its integrity and disintegrating into men keeping together to face the legionaries bearing down on them.

"HAH! Not so tough without their fancy poles!" Grey laughed bashing through a few of them, stabbing and hacking.

"Don't be full of yourself!" Helena shouted, slamming the pommel of her sword down on a man's head, dazing him for a strike which was delivered swiftly, followed by her taking another down with a neck strike. The cyclops returned, hand slamming down on one of the towers to kill one of the mages, but that didn't work out, so he was content with trying to slam down onto some legionaries on the walls with his club. But the ballista kept at it, one nearly missing his eye. This being enough to drive the giant beast back for a moment.

"GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" He roared in annoyance. "I will deal with you when I get this out!" The mage he missed coming back out, a lighting bolt flying to the bolt lodged in his face. Luck once more on Sadera's side as it connected and surged across the metal parts into the cyclops. It wasn't enough to kill him, but it was enough to cause great pain, a pained scream erupting, causing those nearby to stumble momentarily. The cyclops finally moving away. The archers and slingers now finding themselves focused again, it couldn't go on like this. Perhaps most infuriating of all, the centaurs were still out there and unable to fight as well. They had actually tried to break into other gatehouses, but being the eager and boastful, not to mention fond of the drink they found across the countryside, they were surprisingly unable to break through, something with angered Hypatos. So the mercenaries had to rely on the one entrance for the time, believing their advantage could still be pushed.

"21! 22! 23! 24! 25!" Nero called out as he took down the mercenaries, much to Helena's annoyance. They were getting battered. And while the armor protected them, they were growing fatigued and she knew it. It seemed the only ones not growing tired were the ever shifting legionaries and Grey. The man was a damned beast! For the best, surely! More and more hoplites still pushed through the gate, pushing the legionaries back, meaning the militia had to step in. They did what militias, especially such ad-hoc, poorly trained men did best, fight and die. Those who could actually afford good arms and armor besides the knights were, of course, nowhere to be seen. Likely having fled the city or staying indoors. Very few were veteran legionaries having been put on reserve until called up, having made a home here. And to add insult to injury it was the most willing and able who died first, as is often the case in these situations.

"Their center is weak! Keep pushing back!" Pina shouted, decapitating another man. From there, the sand poured at a faster rate as the legionaries went all in on the attack, the militia did their job of at least keeping the holes plugged, letting the professionals get in. The gladius now doing their job proper. The deceptively short sword was perfect. The spear, the hasta for the Saderans had more reach, thrusting, slashing, and stabbing, to throw. Such weapons were often entrusted to the auxiliaries of Sadera, and they used them well. And that reach meant nothing when you got in close with the gladius, which combined with how the Saderans fought as one and shifted ranks was well suited for the task.

The slingers and archers were having little effect, the hoplites couldn't get through, and the minotaurs and cyclops were pricked with bolts and pilum. Hypatos, seeing that the few numbers they had weren't as helpless as he thought, gave the order to pull back. They'd have to try again later. The only consolation right now being there wouldn't be as many men to split the bounties with. "Pull back! We must retreat!" His order carried through as the army began pulling away, men up on the walls made for the ladders as quickly as possible to avoid the encroaching defenders that now bore on them, mercenaries abandoning the gate house as they made to escape. The battle, for now, was theirs.

Pina sighed, taking a moment to collect herself. "Helena! Nero, are you alright?!" She called out, helmet visor moved up.

"Alive and accounted for ma'am!" Helena called out. Nero simply giving out a tired shout.

"Well what about me? You didn't even bother to ask if I was injured. That hurts my feelings." Grey teased, armor dented and scratched but not even a sweat on his brow, sword bloodied from use.

"I know you too well for that, Grey." Pina answered descending the stairs. The man just let out a bellowing laugh in response, all in good humor.

His mood was not shared with the rest of the defenders though. The legionaries had held their ground, but they lost some to the battle, others needed carrying to the hospital, and fatigue was on their faces. But they were in better condition than the mages, all that magicka use had began eating into their own stamina, their fatigue resulting in them having to be carried down by the other defenders so they could rest on proper beds. And the townsfolk, oh gods the militia. They were in such disarray. The path leading to the gatehouse was full of bodies, and blood quickly pooled as the effects of the gladius were made evident. The only thing keeping the legionaries from slipping on the gore was their caligae, the heavy duty thick-soled openwork boots with hobnailed soles. Said hobnails providing good traction on the march, and were perfect for stomping on enemies that had fallen. The metallic smell was atrocious, filling the air quickly. It would take a while to wash this out from the gate, and the smell would only get worse as time passed.

Pina dismissed herself to rest, the centurions and Grey taking over command. For the best, Pina recognized she was really out of her league with this. "Pina, we don't have enough people for this, and they now know this. What are we going to do?" Helena asked following her back to the homestead

"What we HAVE TO DO!" She snapped, gaining the attention of nearby people. "We came here knowing that there was trouble and made efforts to try and fix the situation. But as we find out our problems are caused by the actions of unhinged nobles too busy securing themselves to think of the consequences! So it's up to us, the honest hard working population and what legionaries are here with us knights to keep this place safe! I've already had the letters sent for the castra, and my order is on its way. We need merely to hold out for a while longer. We bit from them as well, so we know we can hold out!"

All that being said, the people were more interested in the here and now, cleaning up and grabbing what could be salvaged from the dead than who to blame or who was coming. The very least some defenders among the populace would have better arms and armor from the dead mercenaries at the very least. Every little bit helps in this case. As well as any fallen legionary could at the very least provide his tools for the few reserves in the town. And who knows how long those ballistae would last before they broke? Given their condition?

Pina made her way back to the homestead, finding rest in one of the gathering rooms. Armor removed and in a tunic, she took a moment to rest and eat. Though her moment to relax was interrupted by the door opening, in walked the head butler of Myui's household, a handsome, elderly man named Bartholomew. What a ridiculous name. Let alone the attire of the man. White gloves, black clothes and a handkerchief or whatever it was called at the front of his neck like some kind of napkin or whatever. Pina couldn't recall. Like the attire of the people of those Avion Sea kingdoms. Such was the practice of these people.

"Yes, Bartholomew?"

"Forgive me for intruding, but with all due respect..."

"Let me guess." Pina muttered, "you wish to surrender?"

"Of course not!" He protested. "But after that brutish display outside, I'm hoping there's a way to settle this without bloodshed!" He explained.

"Oh but of course." Pina answered. "Open the gates and let them in. Let them do as they please. Give them all your belongings and maybe just maybe they'll leave, the men unshackled and the women allowed to stay."

The sarcasm was evident as Bartholomew saw. "You speak facetiously."

"You were expecting some rousing speech?" Pina scolded. "I'm trying to make a point. This whole thing started because two nobles couldn't sit down and let the empire take matters into their hands after they got married into the nobility, and now because of Loui and her excessive spending that army is outside our gates and her sister Elle is clearly incapable of doing anything about it. And you wonder why we Saderans look on you feudal lords and merchant princes as simpletons. So much for a 'peaceful annexation,' yes?"

"Alas she speaks some truth." Another voice came, the head maid, Kaine with a small platter. "Times are changing Bartholomew. We have to look to the future, and like it or not, the future is either with the empire or with death as the current situation tells." Bartholomew scoffed at her statement, muttering about zealous conquerors and submissive milk-herders.

"Thank you." Pina said, taking the platter and grabbing one of the sweets upon it, a simple baked good. "Hm... is there a shortage of sugar here? It lacks sweetness."

"Such foods can shut the body down during a situation such as this. It is but the first battle, no need to risk anything at this point." Kaine replied.

"You mean to tell me this has happened before?" Pina asked, confusion and shock in her voice.

"Yes but not here, to the city of Rosa further to the east when they refused to obey the empire's request for surrender after rebelling against Sadera, I only thank my lucky stars it was Savagii who put it to siege rather than the likes of Zorzal or some other less merciful leader. To think the leaders were so surprised when the empire returned after the Ictuns were pushed back." Kaine explained.

No wonder Kaine seemed more malleable for Sadera, Savagii always was the more reserved of commanders when it came to one's surrender. Pina finished her meal and made for the guest room, though not before a jest of how she should be woken with a pitcher of water should she not wake after being given news. As the time passed, she could only stare at the ceiling as she willed to fall asleep, the thoughts in her mind once again flying through her mind. There weren't many legionaries here, and they had taken casualties of their own. The bravest militia were always the first to die. Her first battle should've been glorious, instead, she's commanding a barely sufficient garrison with few resources with a mere four knights against an army of unpaid sellswords brought here by some dimwitted outsider who didn't know when to stop.

"This is pathetic." She muttered in distress. Her brother's words once more entered her mind.

"When you finally get your chance, you WILL know of what I speak of, and just how hard it hits."

Suddenly she was soaking we, she woke with a startle. "WHAT, WHAT THE ENEMY?! The mercenaries are back already?!" At her bed was Kaine wiht the pitcher as she promised, looking slightly smug. At her side was Grey, though his expression was far more grave.

"Worse." He replied, voice low and concerned.

"What? They have more numbers?!"

"Worse... just come with me." After taking a moment to dry off, then get the armor on, Pina followed Grey to the walls, upon reaching them, the scene was back to as though the siege continued. The smashed gates were replaced with wooden barricades, large stones at their bottom with supports holding them high. One bore a door should anyone need to get in or out. But much of the blood was still there, the scent filling her nose again. It wasn't much, but it would help. In addition other barricades were formed around the gatehouse. The legionaries marching to and fro while the townspeople were in even more of a panic, some were even carrying luggages out side of their homes and making for the gates leading further into the empire, safely blocked by two large rock formations and a river on the other side.

"Pina! By the gods we are in trouble-" The centurion there didn't get a chance to continue as Pina marched up the walls again, looking over. And this sight made her blood stop.

Out there... on the road heading for them through the midst of the dead and blood were strange contraptions... of green and tan and brown...

She immediately recognized what they were.

"Th-th th th- the Otherworlders?!" She cried out.

"They showed up just a moment ago.

"What are they doing here? There's been little movement from them since the battle!" Pina cried. "And so far up north from the Gate! Why did they only bring this small group? Where's their army? Nero! Is there any other signs of the enemy?!"

"No! It's all clear!"

"It has to be a trick. If they're scouts they wouldn't just come right up to us. MEN! READY CROSSBOWS! Get the ballistae primed!" The legionaries ascended the stairs to the walls with the fluid speed of a machine, lining up along the wall's embrasures with nobody getting in the way, crossbows primed and aiming in one fluid motion.

"What do we do?" The other Centurion asked. Pina told him to prepare for another possible attack get anyone who was able to rally as they held them off. But it still didn't make sense. The last battles were brutal and the enemy just attacked out of nowhere and swiftly. So why weren't they doing so here? Were they genuinely outmatched? Outnumbered? They still only knew so little about the Otherworlders, any action is dangerous. She was about to go look for herself when the guards shouted out an unmistakable name.

"Wait... is that..." A legionary began, then the eyes widening. "Her holiness of Erebus is among them!"

She looked back again, saw the undeniable truth. There she was, her holiness Rory Mercury herself standing in one of those contraptions looking as firm and vigilant as ever. What was she doing with them?! Sure, demigods may go where they wish. But this didn't make sense, how did she manage to get close enough to interact with the Otherworlders, let alone let her ride with them? How did she avoid getting blown to pieces?! Why didn't she kill them?! These people didn't know the customs and standards unless she told them, and even if she did, HOW did she do it? Undoubtedly she would've told them who she was!

"This is strange. You think she managed to talk them into coming here and maybe be trapped?" Helena asked.

"I doubt it. They've proven smart until now. This is something else." Grey said. The group stopped, and a door opened at the side, letting Rory get out. She walked to the walls, sure footed and disciplined as the legionaries kneeled atop the walls.

"Apostle Rory of Father Erebus. Priestess of Battle and Saint of the Soldiers. We stand before you, humbly seeking your generosity!" After the prayer, they took to arms again, remembering the Otherworlders there.

"Sons of Erebus." She began. "Do not fear these invaders! They come not for war, but to escort. With these Otherworlders are three refugees from Coda Village! They come bearing the scales of dragons they wish to exchange for currency! The Otherworlders are simply here to escort them, and in doing so be free of the burden of their safety!" The garrison listened intently. "These men, our enemies are not the heartless monsters you may have been led to believe. Their mercy shown to the remains of the 14th and the 28th are proof of that!" Pina, listening to all this, was putting the pieces together. "They indeed fought back against the Flame Dragon to protect those people, despite how few and how perilous it was. I can attest, I was there! Helping them!" HELPING THEM?! "Sons of Erebus, soldiers of Sadera, I beg of you as your icon of battle, do not harm them until the refugees with them are allowed to do business... a truce is to be made!" Rory slammed the halberd's dull end down, the dust clouds forming.

"Your holiness!" The centurion called. "If you will, give us servants but a moment to speak of this amongst ourselves."

"Be quick, Centurion Malleus! These bodies bode ill for all here." She responded.

"You aren't suggesting we turn them away, are you centurion?" Pina asked, some concern in her voice.

"Certainly not, but I suggest we only allow the refugees in! Keep the Otherworlders out! There is enough panic here with the people running around even if Rory herself can alleviate them, if we let them in it'll be havoc, I swear!" Malleus stated.

"I agree but... this is Rory Mercury herself. She does not lie of such things." Helena argued. "Let them in, lest the mercenaries outside realize and find themselves new allies."

"That is possible." Grey added.

"I feel it may be risky to listen to Rory based wholly on that. The Otherworlders are still an enigma to us and could well be playing tricks." Pina said.

"You aren't suggesting what I think you are, are you?" Grey asked apprehensively.

"All I'm saying is the gods are not infallible. Lest we forget the spat between Erebus and Evangelus for the hand of Miritta." Pina responded, reminding them of the heavenly battle between the two.

"Oh Goooooooooooooooooods I did NOT just hear that." Grey moaned facepalming.

"We have to do SOMETHING, the mercenaries won't wait on our account." Helena answered.

Now Pina's head was racing again, Savagii's words of lives wasted from bad choices echoing in her brain. She was indeed out of her depth. The Otherworlders would certainly try something she was sure, but the mercenaries would come back soon... what to do what to do?! Pina realized that she would have to make a choice soon. Was the enemy trying to take over?

No. If that were the case, not only would Rory not be vouching for them. They'd be attacking the city already, after all, Italic DID fly the flag of the empire as much as it's own. Besides... maybe. Just maybe she could persuade them to help, if only for a time. Even if not, Rory being here could be a great morale boost, and she just might decide to help if it got bad enough. Pina made her choice.