-M29. 671. Falmart. A Certain Tavern-
Pina Co Lada, the third child of Emperor Molt. She is the daughter of a concubine, Countess Neil. Thus, she did not receive a significant reputation among the noble elites.
Yet, being a daughter of the Emperor made them respect her to a certain degree.
When she heard about the retaliation of two expedition forces, Pina demanded to take the mission to check this case on her own. Despite the fact that she has her father's permission, she lacks the resources to conduct a massive-scale investigation.
"It will cost much of our time. Furthermore, we don't have anything to support us, yet there is no clue about our attackers," Norma said before taking a sip from his mug.
"I've heard that the Alliance Forces survived the battle of Alnus Hills. Yet, from the Zalvus. There was nothing," Grey said bitterly.
"What do you think, Princess?" Hamilton asked the red-haired woman beside her, and the said Princess only stared down at her food.
"Did we discover the surviving member of the Alliance?" Pina asked Norma.
"I can't say for sure, but was it worth visiting, milady?" The blonde knight sighed slowly.
"If we can make contact with the remaining force, our intel can grow significantly. We can't let this chance pass," the red-haired Princess declared with affirmation.
The knights nodded their heads, obeying their lady's order and commitment. Then, laughter burst from another side of the tavern.
"A giant? Killing a Fire Dragon? Are you mad?!" The man laughed again, completely ignoring his surroundings. The uncontrollable chortles were followed by the others, drunk fueling their amusement.
"But that was true! The five giants killed the Fire Dragon effortlessly and asked us to join them. To live with them, live in their country," the waiter said with a proud smile.
"Then why were you here? Why did you not go with them?" The customer asked; alcohol clearly smelled from his mouth.
"I had to decline because I thought I was unworthy to receive such a gift. They showed me the entire glory of humanity, their Imperium of Man. It was... Beyond anything I've ever felt, and with that, I was unworthy." The demeanor changed drastically as she lowered her head in shame, smiling wistfully.
"Then it's just bullshit!" He barked, looking at the waiters with a ludicrous look.
"It wasn't bullshit!" A man shouted in anger across the drunk man's table.
"Oi! What do you mean by that?!" The drunk man still persisted.
"If you've never seen them, shut your mouth up!" The man shouted, glaring with unconditional rage, causing the drunk lad to be taken aback.
"Those giants were real. As I also came from Coda Village," He continued. "They tore the Fire Dragon with their light weapon, beams of indescribable power shoved the red scale like paper, rendering the once mighty creature into a bubbling mass of meat. They are hailed from the Imperium of Man. Using their magic, we can feel what kind of Imperium is. A place of wonders, riches, and glories. The Imperium shelters all. That was all I've felt from that giant."
The explanation was delivered with a firm tone and complete seriousness, rendering the atmosphere chilling. From his tone, it was a genuine expression from an honest statement. The room is silent, continuing after a few moments.
"Excuse me, miss and mister." Pina stood up, approaching the people who claimed to have witnessed the giants.
"Yes?" The female waiter said with a smile. "My apologies. You must hear that."
"No. It's fine." Pina replied, waving her hand in dismissal. "I just want to know more about these giants and the Imperium of Man."
For a moment, the woman only touched her chin as she pondered. From her eyes, she recollected memories that somehow, slightly brought tears to the waiter's eyes.
"They are beings that are somehow holy but do not resemble anything like the Apostle. They are human like us, fighting with power beyond our comprehension. With that power, they killed the Fire Dragon." the waiter stopped, closing her eyes to remember that event without any flaws.
"A light that tore the land apart, a green beam that crushed the dragon's wing, and a fire capable of instantaneously vaporizing the dragon's leg. And a lightning sword that cut the Fire Dragon's head. They are Solar Guardians, who came from the Imperium of Man."
-/-
Pina was still clouded with the waiter's words. If those giants were real, the Empire could easily be destroyed if there were more than five of them.
"Don't let that take your concentration away, milady." Norma snapped Pina from her stupor.
"I-I'm sorry. It was just distressing when it was backed by another person." Pina admitted with a sigh.
"They can outright lie to you, Your Highness," Hamilton said with approval.
"But what if that was the truth?" The question made Pina's escorts hang their heads, thinking about the correct answer to Pina's question.
As the hours passed, they arrived at the location of what was supposed to be King Duran's hideout. Pina left her horse and nodded to her escort. She cautiously approached the door, opening it, and she could see a king of Elbe lying on his bed without his hand or leg.
"Your Majesty," Pina greeted the King of Elbe with respect.
"Ah, Princess," the King replied weakly.
"Your Highness. I want information about our enemy on Alnus Hills, and if possible, I want information about our enemy on Zalvus Hills," Pina's voice sounded calm, but King Duran, the Princess, was distressed.
"So you've never heard the full story, huh?" The King said sourly.
"I've heard they never come back, so... I think the answer was clear, yet I want to seek the genuine one," The Princess said, slightly lowering her gaze.
"Alliance's armies were utterly destroyed by our enemy at the Alnus Hills. Some miraculously survived." The King replied with a sign of bitterness in his mouth.
"What kind of enemy were you facing, Your Majesty?" Pina asked again, walking closer to the bed.
Instead, the King only snorted. "You know nothing, Princess. Let me guess this, the main Imperial forces were obliterated first, am I correct?"
Pina stayed silent and tried not to answer. Her lips pursed, giving Duran the answer he sought.
"Thus, the Emperor must send us to our own retaliation. With that, the threats would be decreased. I think I know who our true enemy is!" The King shouted in satisfaction.
"W-What does that mean, Your Highness?" Pina tried to suppress her trembling hand.
"The Empire is our enemy! They want to destroy us by using the Alnus Hills as friendly conquest!" Duran shouted, glaring daggers at the Princess with burning eyes.
"Please, Your Majesty. If your words were indeed the truth. Tell me, what kind of enemy we were facing!" Pina was desperate, clinging to the King's body as she shouted with dismay.
"If you want to know the truth. You must come to Alnus Hills!" The King said with anger clearly emanating from his voice.
"Then, what about the Zalvus Hills?!" At this question, King Duran snapped. He did not react violently, only staring with a thoughtful look.
"Because Imperial and Alliance's forces were severely depleted, many borders had been plundered by bandits and Beastmen. There sprang rumors about giants. Metal giants protect them from those vile creatures. They said those giants bring them salvation and a safe haven." The King shrugged. "It's just rumors. So I can't say more."
Nodding her head, Pina left the room in disappointment. Her head hung low as her mind was plagued with the King's words.
"Anything, Princess?" Hamilton asked, feeling cautious because of Pina's expression.
"We must go to Alnus and Zalvus if we want our answers. Norma, what is the nearest city to those hills?" The red-haired Princess asked the blonde knight.
"It would be Italica, milady," Norma replied.
"Then that is our next destination," Pina mounted her horse. "Let's move."
Thus, their horses ran through the forest.
Upon witnessing the state of Italica, Pina could feel her skin crawl with fear and anxiety. "Open the gate! I, Pina Co Lada, in honor of the Emperor and Rose Knight. I request an audience with the Lord of Italica!"
With that booming declaration, the gate opened. There, she witnessed the devastation of the city. Some of it was burned by barrages of fire arrows that managed to surpass the defense wall.
As she advanced deeper into the city, Pina only saw wounded people. They had been brave enough to defend this city. She closed her eyes in admiration and pride.
As she arrived at the County's manor, she was greeted by demi-human maids. It was unusual that demi-humans could directly serve in a land lord's house.
"Princess Pina," An old lady greeted her. "My name is Kain, serving as the head maid of Formal House."
Pina nodded her head in affirmation. "I am Princess Pina Co Lada. I request a meeting with the Head of Formal House."
"Please, follow me," Kain answered professionally, leading the Princess and her escort to the main room. Countess Myui was sitting on her throne. Her innocent face made Pina only clench her fist.
She is very green and pure and does not even taste any single battle or blood. Something utterly useless at this time.
"Lady Formal." Pina greeted honorably.
"Princess Pina, I welcome you to Italica. But your visit, unfortunately, happened at a dire time." Myui said neutrally, but shackled emotion could clearly be seen in her eyes.
"I'm aware of that. With that, I offer you my forces and commander, Lady Myui. If Italica fell, the Empire would be in a very unfavorable situation. Also, Italica is part of the Empire, and thus I must guard its people with all of my power." Pina proclaimed firmly.
"I would be more than glad to accept your help, Princess." The Countess of Italica smiled.
"Then let's head down to the siege preparation," Pina said bluntly.
There was no time to waste. Another attack was imminent, judging by the scale of the bandit forces. With Myui's permission, Pina quickly made her way to the command room, accompanied by her Rose Order knights.
Despite having a sizable peasant army at her disposal, Pina couldn't help but feel nervous. While their numbers might rival the enemy, the bandits had the advantage of experience and ruthlessness.
"This is the worst," Pina muttered.
"What should we do, Your Highness?" Grey asked.
"We need to prepare defensive siege platforms and anticipate where the enemy will launch their attack," Pina said, furrowing her brow as she thought about how to exploit the enemy's weaknesses.
"Based on their previous attacks, it seems likely they'll strike from the north gate. They want to wear down our morale by appearing to attack randomly and spread fear," she added with frustration.
"Calm yourself, Your Highness. Panic won't help in this situation," Norma sternly advised, causing Pina to take a deep breath and regain her composure.
"You're right," Pina said with a grateful smile, turning her attention back to the strategy table.
Drawing upon her education under the Imperial Scholars, Pina formulated a plan to withstand the invaders. She positioned archers and guards strategically and assigned garrison soldiers to patrol different sections of the wall. Once her plan was ready, she ordered her commanders to put it into action.
Hours passed, and the preparations were complete. All they could do now was wait.
Then, the onslaught began. Arrows rained down from the sky, turning the blue carpet into a deadly rain.
The defenders heard the sounds of fire and war approaching as the bandits closed in on the city.
"Men! Raise your swords! Let loose arrows!" Pina shouted.
Counterattacks were launched. Arrows flew to strike down the bandits, and boiling oil rained upon them.
Both sides suffered casualties, with bodies and pools of blood staining the land. Pina's armor and sword were soon coated in red. It was clear that this would be a long siege, with the enemy vastly outnumbering the defenders.
Grey and Norma acted as commanders on the field, utilizing their experience to lead the Italican armies effectively.
"Haaa!" Pina roared, thrusting her sword at bandits one after another. Despite her physical disadvantage as a woman, she used her skills to overpower her enemies.
She deflected blows and struck down her foes swiftly, putting her training to good use.
"This will have to do, at least for now," Pina muttered, realizing that their strategy was holding back the invaders as planned.
-/-
Pina finally had a moment to rest, leaning her back against the solid brick wall. The siege had been won, but the enemy still lingered.
She was now returning to the manor, accompanied by Hamilton. Gray and Norma were still organizing the armies for the upcoming siege.
Once back at the manor, she began to clean herself, with some assistance from the maids. It was a welcome respite, giving her a chance to catch her breath. The war was far from over, and a long day lay ahead.
"Princess, your food is ready," Kain called from behind the door.
"Just give me a moment," Pina replied, straightening her clothing.
She opened the door as the head maid greeted her. On the table was a meal and soup. She smiled slightly, sinking into the sofa. Finally, she could feel some relief as the weight on her shoulders lessened.
"This is getting worse," Pina sighed, her fatigue evident.
"Perhaps we should open the gate and negotiate with their leader, Princess," Bartholomew suggested. He was old, but his suggestion made Pina look at him with amusement. He lacked experience in warfare.
"And risk our men being beheaded and our women being raped?" Pina's gaze drifted to the ceiling.
"B-But..." The old man wanted to argue but was silenced by Pina's sigh.
"We don't negotiate with bandits," Pina's tone was resolute.
She resumed her meal while her mind was plagued by various worst-case scenarios. Her father's words only added to her anxiety.
"The food," she muttered. "It's meager, and the portions are small."
"Eating too much during wartime is not advisable, Princess. It's not good for your body," Kain advised professionally.
"I understand. Wake me if another wave approaches," Pina said as she stood and made her way to her room.
"If necessary, I'll splash some water on you," Kain said with a slight smile.
"Where are you from, Kain? That practice seems to come from a specific place," Pina inquired.
"I hail from the City of Rosa. Although it's now under Empire control," Kain replied.
"I see. Very well, wake me when the time comes," Pina said, closing the door behind her.
As she lay on the bed, exhaustion quickly overtook her. Her consciousness began to fade, but a lingering question remained.
"So, this is my first battle. Why... Why?" She murmured.
Sleep claimed her, and dreams began to take shape within her mind. It was her dream to become a knight. After witnessing the exploits of the Rose Knight, she aspired to be like her—a courageous female knight who fought for her country. This led her to establish the Rose Order of Knights, comprising daughters from various noble houses. She aimed to give them hope and equality with men. However, her father did not approve of this endeavor. Even after founding her order, it remained merely an honorary army.
As her dream continued, cold water jolted her awake.
"Whoa!" Pina exclaimed. "Did the enemy attack us?"
"I... I can't say for sure, but you need to see this," Grey replied nervously.
Pina started to her feet with a questioning look.
-/-
Pina immediately donned her armor and strapped her sword to her waist. Grey's expression had turned severe, and it was evident that something serious was unfolding.
"Let me see," Pina commanded, prompting the soldiers to clear a path for her.
At the door, there was a peephole that Pina used to observe what lay beyond the wall. She saw a green metal carriage, but there were no horses pulling it.
"A horseless carriage. How?" she wondered aloud.
"We don't know, but those carriages appear to be made of metal," Grey replied.
Pina was perplexed. She needed to know who these people were.
"Someone is coming out!" Hamilton exclaimed.
"A mage?! This is not good. A mage and potential enemies... Can this situation get any worse?" Pina mused aloud, her escorts hearing her thoughts.
Then, another figure emerged.
"An elf?!" Hamilton exclaimed.
"An elf and a magician. That would be a deadly combination if they're working together," Pina realized, her forehead beginning to bead with sweat.
"Look," Grey pointed out to the Princess.
Pina turned her attention back to the horseless carriages and saw a black-clad gothic woman holding an enormous halberd. She recognized the person and gasped in shock.
"Impossible! Rory Mercury!" Pina exclaimed.
"So that really is the grim reaper, Rory Mercury," Grey said with a tone of dread.
"How did you recognize her, Your Highness?" Hamilton asked.
"I saw her once in the Capital. She's a priest of God Emroy," Pina explained, shuddering.
"What should we do, my lady?" Grey inquired firmly.
"For now, we should welcome them and show them hospitality. That would be the right course of action," Pina decided, bracing herself and taking a deep breath.
She pushed open the door, but nothing seemed amiss.
"I welcome you, Your Holiness!" she declared.
To her surprise, a green-skinned man lay unconscious on the ground. It dawned on Pina that she might have been too forceful.
"This is my fault, isn't it?" she asked awkwardly.
"Definitely," they replied in unison.
-/-
"Geez, you should be more careful when opening doors. You could hurt someone," Tuka scolded the red-haired Princess as she used Itami's water canteen to wake him up.
"Ugh," Itami groaned, slowly opening his eyes.
"Ah, you're awake," Rory noted.
"Leader, are you okay?" the radio inquired.
"I'm okay. Ceasefire," Itami responded calmly.
"Hmmm. Who's going to explain all of this?" the JSDF asked, addressing anyone nearby.
"Eh? Me?!" Pina exclaimed.
"This is an insult! You've been speaking to Her Majesty, the Third Princess of the Empire, Pina Co Lafa!" Hamilton proclaimed.
A stunned silence fell over them all, shocked by this revelation. Pina mentally sighed, suppressing her irritation.
"So, you are the Imperial Princess," a booming voice said, startling Pina and all the Italican defenders. Pina saw a gigantic metal figure standing beside the elf. It was enormous, twice her size.
"Protect the Princess!" Grey shouted as soldiers began to encircle the giant.
"I mean no harm, Princess," the giant replied calmly.
"How can I trust you on that?" Pina said, her eyes narrowing with hostility.
"If I wanted to kill all of you, I would have done so when you let me in here," he replied with a neutrality that bordered on emotionless.
"Is that a threat?" Grey asked the giant.
"It wasn't a threat. It was a fact."
Pina stared deep into the giant's eyes, calculating all the possibilities. Sighing to herself, she raised her hand.
"Stand down," Pina ordered.
"But, milady!" Grey protested.
"Please, stand down," she pleaded. Reluctantly, the soldiers withdrew their weapons.
"What is your purpose here?" Pina demanded, rather than asking.
"I am Raias Seloce, Captain of the 5th Recon Team. We are Solar Guardians, hailing from the Imperium of Man. We are here to meet with the Countess," Raias proclaimed. His statement left Pina on edge. The tone, the intonation, and even the persona this giant assumed were unimaginable. It was a voice of impeccable Falmartian, a mastery that could only be achieved by a diplomat with a lifetime of experience.
"Why do you want to meet with the Countess?" Pina asked, her voice trembling.
"I want to inform her about Count Colt Formal. He is still alive and in our care," Raias declared firmly.
"What do you mean by that?" The Saderan Princess narrowed her eyes suspiciously.
"I will explain everything when we meet the Countess. But first, allow the rest of the JSDF and my team to enter."
Pina had no other option. Clenching her hand slightly in desperation, she opened her mouth.
"Open the gate!"