Gate episode 5

The jeep ride over was the most peaceful one as I pulled out one of data pads to tap into the satellite to get a better look at where we're heading. As I did, I found out that Fireteam's Exodia, Excalibur, and Cadenza had been assigned as Dark Legion assets to this realm and that the new hover tanks and quad copters had also been sent over.

Gods fire team Exodia now that is a name I haven't heard since I was a part of fire team Gladius. Exodia consisted of the best snipers and riflemen in all of the dark legion a true nightmare on the battlefield. If they were here in the special region that was a good thing.

"itami in about a quarter mile the path splits, since we're heading to Italica follow the left path and we should be there in roughly a half an hour" I said.

Itami nodded and then I put the data pad away and watched as Kuwahara pulled out his compass and confirmed it.

Noticing Lelei staring at his compass he started to talk to her about how it works, and Rory looked at me and said, "so that pad of yours, what is it?"

Pulling the data pad out I said, "standard issue dark legion portable data terminal, all legionnaires at the rank of war priest and above are given one to help with tasks and to keep in contact with command via satellite uplink."

Lelei then looked at me and said, "oh High Inquisitor I have been meaning to ask about that, these ranks, they differ from the JSDF right?"

I nodded and said, "if you join dark legion, you start out as an unblooded the equivalent to a recruit, and then you become a deacon which is basically a private, then the rankings go up to cardinal, war priest, Bishop, Paladin, and then the highest rank of Inquisitor."

Lelei then pointed to itami and said, "so what rank would Itami be equivalent to?"

Looking at my brother I said, "paladin first class."

Lelei nodded and said, "fascinating!"

As we drove I noticed out of the corner of my eye how Tuka was blushing a lot at Kurokawa.

Rory seemed to notice this too and started to tease Tuka whispering in her ear, "interested huh~"

This caused Tuka to gasp in shock and blush as Rory continued, "that's the kind of girl you like isn't it"

This caught Tuka off guard as she said, "huh!"

This had me chuckling a bit till Kurata looked at me and said, "High Inquisitor! We got a plume of smoke on our 2"

Looking out the jeep I saw it and said, "I see it Kurata its to big to be a campfire, but to small to be a dragon attack, and judging by the position it looks like it's in Italica, lets double time it 3rd recon!"

Itami sighed and said, "alright so this is the second time we're running into a column of smoke, High Inquisitor would you lead the charge?"

I nodded my head and kicked open the back of the jeep and leapt out activating my wings.

Getting on the comms I said, "keep the frequencies open if this is a bandit attack, we need to be open about it got it!"

Lelei somehow got a hold of a radio and said, "smokes black must be trouble."

Itami got on the radio too and said, "do you know what it's from?"

Lelei said, "looks like its manmade, looks like uh it's a flower."

This confused me and the other, but Itami said, "I think she means fire, fire?"

Lelei verbally nodded in agreement and said, "fire"

What I didn't realize at first was that Rory was somehow flying next to me which caught me off guard till I noticed the dark legion jetpack she had on.

"Oi Rory when did you!" I said in shock.

Rory grinned and said, "oh how could I help myself, a set of wings like this to help me fly like the apostle I am! There is blood in the air Jango and I want to join in the Frey just as much as you!"

Smirking I said, "very well just don't push yourself Jetpacks are very finicky and require pinpoint accuracy to use!"

Rory nodded and soon we made it to the beautiful city of Italica. Or at least that's what I would call it if the front gate didn't have hundreds of bodies piles high around it, such a shame the people fought well but I guess the enemy was equally strong.

over the comms I said, "brother I can see it, yeah it's Italica, looks like they got hit hard, but no signs of bandits Over."

Itami picked up and said, "Ten Four High Inquisitor land right in front of the front gate we'll meet you there"

"copy that brother" I said before making our way to the front gate where we landed and were met with Itami and the jeeps.

As we pulled up a voice called out saying, "Identify yourselves, if you're not our enemy come into the open, and that means all of you".

Nodding my head, I went to the jeep and said, "Itami, you Rory, Tuka Lelei and I will act as representatives for now."

Itami nodded and they departed the jeeps. We then approached and as Itami banged on the door I said, "brother I don't think-"

And then just like Ginsa he was met with the door hitting him square in the face. The woman behind the door though was a pure beauty though dressed in light plate armor with bronze markings and red hair I blushed a bit behind my helmet at her beauty.

The red head did look shocked as she had hit my brother with the door and also a bit worried like she had pissed off a powerful enemy.

Stuttering the woman said, "did i- that was me…huh"

Unable to contain my laughter I started to laugh and said, "yep that was you, so far that's twice my brother has been knocked flat on his ass!"

The red head looked shocked, and I said, "mind if we come in?" before dragging my brother inside by his leg startling the red head.

Pina co lada's pov:

As the soldier dressed in black walked past me, I could sense this aura of death around him as if he embodied the dark god's own will. If this soldier was with the brigands, then the city…no the empire was lost. I still was afraid of him as he appeared in the sky, a demon with pure white wings as if he was a death angel. Who was this man….and who was his brother in green, and more importantly how much of a threat were these people to our way of life!

Back to normal pov:

Tuka suddenly sprung to action dumping cold water on his face scolding the woman saying, "what is wrong with you! What kind of person just shoves open a door without even looking, even dwarves and pixies are more careful than that"?

Lelei then held itami's face and looked him in the face as he woke saying, "hello there Itami at least you aren't dead yet."

Itami looked shocked as he woke up and said, "well I guess they let us in?"

I shook my head yes and said, "second time you've been knocked the fuck out brother best not make this a habit or command might not trust you in the special region."

Itami then got on his radio and said, "3-1 I'm awake."

The voice on the radio said, "glad you finally woke up, I almost decided to give the high inquisitor permission to purge."

Sighing I said, "my blades are starting to rust I haven't sliced through anything since that damn flame dragon I need some fresh blood."

Itami shuttered and said, "give us a minute before you guys do anything crazy, we need to look around."

The guy on the radio said, "you got it" and hung up.

Itami then looked at the gathered soldiers and said, "okay which one of you fine folks are in charge here?"

This seemed to catch them all off guard but finally the red head stuttered and said, "wait wha"

But before she could finish a cute brunette who wore similar armor rushed forward and said, "everyone, you are in the presence of her majesty the third princess Pina colada show some respect."

As if on cue me and my brother said, "wait she's named after a drink?"

Lelei curiously said, "the princess?"

Chuckling I said, "well then princess I am High inquisitor Jango Itami a mercenary from Dark Legion Private Enforcement LLC. I am here helping out the JSDF in their exploration of this realm, and this is my brother first Lieutenant Yoji Itami from the JSDF…there wouldn't happen to be a lord we can talk to is there?"

The princess nodded and said, "follow me" before leading us through the city limits to the main manor.

"so princess what can you tell us about Italica?" I asked.

Nodding Pina said, "this is the fortified city of Italica where the Thessalia and Ahppian Ways come together which makes it extremely vital for trade. This city and the surrounding area was governed by the family of count Formal for generations however the count took ill recently and passed away leaving a political power struggle between his daughters. The two oldest were married into other families but there was still custody battles they had a third sister Myui she happens to be the only legitimate successor of the formal family throne."

I muttered, "I guess that kind of thing happens in your world too."

Itami nodded and said, "sounds like ancient history to me."

This shocked Lelei who said, "wait you two are picking up on the languages?"

Itami nodded and said, "I might not have my brother's inhibitor chip allowing him to automatically understand but I'm slowly picking up."

Pina continued and said, "and then the empire decided to send their divisions through the gate."

This caught me a bit off guard, but I hid my shock letting Pina continue, "all of our nobles were ordered to send troops from their kingdoms to join the empire in the fight in the end none of them made it back here. Public order in this city has deteriorated with no soldiers or anyone skilled in public service its complete chaos."

We finally approached a set of double doors and in the back of my mind I remembered my objective, set up a base of operations so dark legion private enforcement can have access to the special region too. Perhaps Italica would be a nice place. I mean I sense a series of huge catacombs below the city that could be a good hiding spot.

Pina then said, "the mistress of the formal city is sitting on the other side of this door she is princess Myui Formal's countess."

As we entered, I was impressed with how such a young woman was running this entire area all alone. The girl was no more than 11 in age with stunning auburn hair and wearing a pink dress. She looked a little intimidated by us but didn't show it.

Pina then said, "she may be head of the family, but she had never been taught the violent art of leading an army so for now I am commanding what is left of her militia until she can."

AND THERE GOES THE DOLLAR SIGNS IN THE BACK OF MY HEAD. Turning off all vents on my armor I said, "Argus send word to dark legion high command tell them we need fireteam Exodia here now."

Argus chuckled and said, "already on it, sending word for fire team exodia ETA 3 hours."

I then resumed normal conversation and said, "I think we can be of assistance then."

And we reconvened to a less formal place where I told them that I have a fireteam of my finest legionnaires on their way and they should be here in 3 hours and even gave the added bonus that after the battle if she likes their results the princess could hire Fireteam Exodia as her personal military trainers for her militia and even royal guards.

This surprised Itami who said, "are you sure this is, okay?"

I nodded and said, "if the prime minister gets angry, I'll just show combat footage as proof of need of our involvement."

I then turned to the princess and said, "however my service unlike the JSDF comes with a price."

The princess nodded and said, "name it."

"Information is all we need, books, history, anything that we can use to understand this realm and trade routes to be opened up to Alnis Hill" I said.

Itami agreed and said, "yeah and the JSDF will help too."

This shocked Pina who said, "let me get this straight your gonna help this city?"

Itami nodded and said, "yeah I don't think any of the merchants are in the mood to buy dragon scales right now."

Pina nodded and said, "very well then I'll assign the JSDF to occupy and guard the south gate, and fire team exodia the north gate, I hope your troops are as good as you say they are high inquisitor."

Smirking I said, "oh trust me I'd bet my life on it, we legionnaires are worth the price we charge, as our loyalty can't be bought once we have a pact with a client" before pulling out a contract and sliding it to the princess and saying, "Lelei if you could be a dear and read out the contract to the princess."

Lelei nodded and said, "This Mercenary Services Contract is entered into between Dark Legion Private Enforcement LLC, hereinafter referred to as the "Mercenary," and the "Client," collectively referred to as the "Parties," on this Date 1. Services to be Provided the Mercenary agrees to provide specialized combat and security services to the Client, as outlined in the scope of work and mission parameters specified in the attached Annex A. 2. Compensation In consideration for the services rendered by the Mercenary, the Client agrees to pay the negotiated compensation as outlined in the attached Annex B. Payment shall be made in the currency specified in the Annex B and shall be subject to any applicable taxes or fees."

Lelei then turned the page and continued, "3. Terms of Engagement 3.1 The Client shall provide the necessary information required to fulfill the agreed-upon services. 3.2 The Mercenary shall operate with the utmost professionalism and adhere to all local laws and regulations while executing the assigned tasks. 4. Confidentiality Both Parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of any sensitive information exchanged during the execution of this Contract. 5. Termination 5.1 Either Party may terminate this Contract by providing written notice to the other Party. Termination shall be effective 5 days from the date of receipt of the notice. 5.2 In the event of termination, the Client shall compensate the Mercenary for services rendered up to the termination date as outlined in Annex B. 6. Dispute Resolution Any disputes arising out of or relating to this Contract shall be resolved through arbitration in accordance with the rules of [Arbitration Association]. The arbitration shall be held in [City, Country], and the decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding. 7. Legal Remedies In the event that the Client breaches the terms of this Contract, the Mercenary reserves the right to pursue legal remedies, including but not limited to seeking compensation for damages incurred as a result of the breach. 7.1 should Client be found betraying or planning to betray the mercenary, the mercenary has the legal right to execute the client. 8. Governing Law This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [Jurisdiction], without regard to its conflict of laws principles. 9. Entire Agreement This Contract constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties and supersedes all prior oral or written agreements, understandings, or representations.

I then handed Lelei some water because she looked parched and she continued, "10. Severability if any provision of this Contract is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. By signing below, the Parties acknowledge their understanding and agreement with the terms and conditions set forth in this Contract." Before putting down the contract and saying, "I have to admit this is a pretty well thought out contract."

The princesses thought it over and Pina signed and then princess Myui signed and with a smile I looked at my data pad and said, "as of 12:45 on this day the contract between the city of Italica and Dark Legion Private enforcement LLC. Is official and as agreed we will defend this city from invaders till you no longer need our assistance or until you can no longer fund us, our first upfront payment will be access to the towns libraries and records if that is okay with you."

The princess nodded and said, "very well High Inquisitor Itami go now and defend your post."

As we deployed to our separate areas Pina approached me and said, "I am sure the contract has some loopholes, but I hope you honor it to the best of your ability."

Smiling I said, "dark legion shall be honor bound to the contract however should it look like you guys need help at the front walls my brother has the final call to have us pull from our position to assist you at the front gate."

Pina nodded and said, "thank you High Inquisitor"

Bowed and watched as a black jeep zoomed past me and made its way to the southern wall. Rushing over to the wall I watched as a group of men exited the jeep. Fire team Exodia they all wore a sleek, angular shaped helmet with a single red eye in the center, heavily reinforced angular and segmented chest plate with Large, asymmetrical shoulder pads with leg armor made of rigid plating and flexible components and Sturdy and reinforced boots all in black and greys with red bandoliers with huge sniper shells. The standard issue armor of any war priest fireteam.

As one of the men who looked like the leader of the group with a red scarf around his shoulder approached me, he removed his helmet to reveal a bald head with pure black eyes and jagged scars.

"High Inquisitor I am War Priest Bara Kiel it is my honor to be working alongside you, I have brought 4 of my greatest assets all war priests" the man said kneeling.

Raising my hand I said, "rise noble war priest I will not have a fellow brother kneel to me, now our orders are clear, defend this wall to the best of your ability."

The war priest nodded and looked to his fellow men and said, "you heard the high inquisitor deploy!"

As I did, I got a call from Itami telling me we fucked up and were seen as unsworn witnesses for an upcoming political hearing about the incident with the flame dragon.

"Should have figured this would happen…okay once this is over I'll rendezvous with you and get a debriefing before we take on the hearing over" I said.

Itami sighed and said, "ten four."

With a sigh I relaxed and put up my feet before getting startled by Rory who looked at me and said, "Jango can I ask you something?"

Startled I said, "yeah sure Rory go ahead."

Rory looked at me and said, "why are you helping the princess and the empire who attacked your homeland? I mean I know you signed a contract and all but why even put that offer on the table."

Chuckling I looked over to fireteam Exodia who were looking over the wall and even conversing with some of the locals as if they were good friends and said, "same reason as the JSDF to protect the people of this town and to make sure no one has to needlessly die"

Rory smiled getting closer to me and said, "so you really meant it woah."

I blushed a bit and smiled saying, "of course I did, why wouldn't I, lying isn't really my thing and cutting people out of a good deal really isn't my style."

Rory looked at me and then at my katana and said, "it's just someone with a blade like that…a blade soaked in death I assumed would never care for people."

Looking at my katana I said, "I was young and ignorant at one point in my life and this blade killed millions but like a katana I honed my edge to be kinder, now I ask you Rory mercury…do you care about these people? Not just the soldiers but those who can't fight."

Rory smiled and said, "Emroy is a god of battle you know where death and destruction come with the territory"

Chuckling I said, "I guess Emroy must have been a legionnaire then because that comes with our territory too."

Rory giggled at this and said, "but there is motive, it is the most important thing, if your purpose isn't righteous then deception will sully your soul."

This made me think of what my last CO did to me…to my fireteam and how deception was born of his own greed. I would never turn into him.

Smiling at Rory I said, "since I wasn't lying when I said we would help I assume that means you'll stand with us?"

Rory giggled and hugged me saying, "I will stand with you High Inquisitor however I think there is another reason."

I laughed and said, "yes, dark legion would like to explore this land too, but also to show this land that there are other ways, that we aren't this big enemy meant to be drawn out and attacked, in fact I want them to see us as allies and that the princess can talk to us."

Rory raised her arms out and blushed saying, "I like it! I really really like it! Your fear, I can feel it coming off of you! You'll burn into her soul I just know it!" before dancing around.

This confused me but I will admit I did have a bit of fear as I knew death was my end goal. To die in combat and atone for what I did in my youth.

Rory smirked and said, "I look forward to fighting alongside you in the upcoming battle sweetie! It's been so long since I could let loose this should be superb!"

War priest Bar Kiel then approached me and said, "High Inquisitor, Apostle of Emroy I am sorry to interrupt but…the troops are ready for their rites of war."

I nodded my head and said, "which chapter shall I give omens from War Priest?"

The war priest pointed over to the alter they had mad depicting an ebony goblet with a hand made of ivory holding a black dagger and said, "the omen of retribution."

I smiled and walked over to the Alter where a thurible with a ball made from blood wood, the first wood used by dark legion in the ancient times, laid and picked it up filling it with sage and rosemary and began the chant, "Oh, Unseen Shadows of the Abyss, hear the oath of retribution that echoes through our souls as we stand at the threshold of battle. We, the envoys of darkness, gather in your name, fueled by the fire of righteous wrath, ready to unleash the tempest of doom upon our foes. Grant us, O Harbingers of Retribution, the malevolent power to wield our weapons with merciless precision. As we step into the heart of conflict, let the infernal fires of anger and hatred consume us, turning our very essence into instruments of torment. May our every strike be a step towards dragging our enemies into the abyss of eternal suffering. We beseech you, O Profane Forces of Desolation, to cast your shadow of damnation upon us, to envelope us in the chilling embrace of oblivion. May our deeds be the embodiment of dread, spreading terror and despair among those who dare to oppose us. Let our victories be measured by the wails of the fallen and the shattering of hope. We, the harbingers of oblivion, invoke you, O Lords of Eternal Darkness, to unleash the storm that rages within us. May our wrath be embraced by your malefic embrace, and may our journey be a symphony of suffering, an ode to the annihilation we bring forth. In your name, we descend. Amen."

The troops slammed their rifles into the ground shouting Amen and proceeded to take their positions.

Rory looked at me with a giggle and said, "does every PMC have that cultic aura to them?"

I shook my head and said, "dark legion had been around since the crusades in our world where they were seen as zealots preaching to a false god and sent as cannon fodder, however overtime the church saw their actions and deemed them a necessary evil allowing them to continue their arcane and unholy religious ceremonies and continue to operate as an order, over time dark legion evolved from an order of knights to a platoon within an army and finally to its own private military who focuses on religious pursuit and the advancement of technology"

Rory giggled and said, "oooh Emroy would love to have soldiers like you as his apostles, maybe when my time on this earth is over you can be my apostle Jango Itami."

I chuckled and said, "an apostle of Rory mercury goddess of Lolita fashion and giant axes…sounds like fun"

Rory faked an insulted glance and said, "I'll have you know this is the official outfit of Emroy's apostle!"

I burst out laughing and said, "relax Rory I was only joking."

And throughout the night we saw little to no action till finally at the eastern wall we saw it, fires starting to burn and howling of men.

This seemed to anger Rory who said, "why all the way over there! I thought we were supposed to fight them here."

Looking at war priest Bar Kiel I said, "I need a visual deploy a vulture."

Bara Kiel nodded and looked at one of his subordinates who threw a small dagger into the air, and we watched as it turned into a bird and flew over to the eastern wall. The war was in full swing about 6 battalions of men with shields and what looked like giants with them. It was bad, but we couldn't lift a finger Itami hasn't radioed for us to move our assault nor has the east gate asked for our assistance.

Finally, though Itami shouted on the radio a single word, a single order the order I had been waiting for.

Purge.