Here we are people, the final chapter for this Arc, and then we finally get to the invasion into the Special Region. A long time coming, but I wanted to flesh things out beforehand, and not rush everything. And I believe it panned it great. This chapter is going to be a tad shorter than the other chapters though.
Also, I'm planning on making a side story for this soon, it will focus on stuff like deleted or extended scenes, funny things or other stuff. You'll just have to wait and see.
Also, thank you for bringing the story up to 95 favs and 105 follows, it really means a lot to me!
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RonaldM40196867: I'll keep that in mind. Like I said in the first chapter, I was debating on who to set Frost up with. I was stuck with Shino, Mamina and Mari, but ultimately decided to go with Delilah.
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The first part of the chapter deals with politics a bit. It will kind of parallel with current events but with some changes, and please don't cause any issues in the comments or my PM's please.
I own none of the content, please enjoy!
-A week later-
President Dirrel both listened to what his aides had to say, while also looking at the reports that were on his desk. Even if he both heard and read it all, he was still trying to wrap his head around it. Once they finished explain, he let himself think on the subject for a second. He looked around him, besides his aides, he saw Vice President Isaiah Blackburn, who was the first black Vice President, Secretary of State Margaret Walker, who was in Japan taking care of some things in regards to the invasion into the Special Region, so she was on video call. Secretary of Defense Hendricks, General Miller and also House Majority Leader Republican Raymond Williams and Senate Majority Leader Democrat Alejandra Ortiz. As well as House Minority Leader Democrat Treyvon Kane and Senate Minority Leader Eliza Prescott.
One would think and question why the leaders of the House and Senate would be in a meeting like this. But the President and Vice President had a plan.
"So, we're recruiting these… Demi-Humans right?"
"Yes Mr. President, most of the human soldiers, mostly those of higher nobility, are not cooperating. Or we believe that they should stay in the prison camp in Iwo Jima until further notice, or we believe they wouldn't be trusting enough. But we found out that their non-human recruits are more open to helping us." Hendricks explained. "They are now integrating into the units they joined. Well, after they make a deal with the Japanese and our government, and depending on the severity of their charges, based upon what they did during the invasion. A couple of notables which include what is called a Warrior Bunny with a Delta Force Team, a Volralden or some type of werewolf with Task Force 141. And a Marine unit in their Force Recon branch has an Elf."
The man said that as if it wasn't the more bizarre turn of events ever, and Dirrel applauded the man for taking this seriously.
"Well, it's a sound strategy. We know next to nothing about this Sadera or Falmart, and the rest of world. Even with the intel we gathered. So having guides who know the lay of the land is good." Miller said.
"Right, so, from what I understand, the Empire treats these Demi-Humans or Humanoids as inferiors, right?" Vice President Blackburn asked.
Secretary Walker was the one to answer, and said, "Yes Mr. Vice President, from what we gathered, they are basically treated as second class citizens. The majority are treated with indifference, but they are viewed as savages… and some of the human like Demi-Humans, or Humanoids are considered beautiful and uh… are used for... you get the picture. Most recently, the Warrior Bunnies, were attacked by the Empire three years ago. Their Queen abandoned her people, and left them for dead and at the mercy of the Empire. The remaining Warrior Bunnies were enslaved, killed or displaced and took up various works."
Dirrel nodded, while also feeling very angry at what he was hearing, even though he had heard it before. He could tell everyone else was feeling the same, and he saw the look Isaiah was giving him.
Good, that's one step down. Now for the much harder part.
"Right, keep us posted on any more information. You two are dismissed, but the rest of you, please stay."
Hendricks and Miller nodded with a salute, and walked out of the room. Dirrel sighed as he looked at the remaining people in the room.
"So, I guess we can all infer where this is going. We all know a lot of people will become displaced once we cross through the Gate, and fight the Empire with the Japanese. And even if this whole thing ends, and everything rebuilds, people will be looking for homes that may not be there. And their views of Demi-Humans or Humanoids might change or not. So, there will be a possibility that they and the regular humans might want to… immigrate to our world."
He looked at Congressmen Williams and Kane and then at Senator's Ortiz and Prescott, and then at Secretary Walker. Williams, Prescott and Walker were people Dirrel had worked with for a number of years, and was good friends with Williams. While Ortiz and Kane were some of the newer bloods in a sense, or newer and younger members of the Government. And even if they were from opposing parties, Dirrel respected their fire and want to serve the American public while in office.
Williams, Prescott and Walker had the look of people who knew there was a long road ahead, and would do the best that they could do. While for Ortiz and Kane, they seemed to brighten, and also had the looks of people planning for a battle.
Williams knew Dirrel the longest, so he was the one to speak first, "Rob, you do know the implications and the long road ahead of this right? We barely got the approval from Congress and the Senate for sending our boys to fight alongside the Japanese. Heck, public opinion was another factor for the approval, people were calling for us to act and help. And you know this would bring up issues of Immigration and the sort." Williams said.
"Not only that, but some people won't be thrilled about the more... exotic nature of them." Walker said, with Prescott nodding in agreement.
Senator Ortiz surprisingly said," I will admit, it will be hard. Yes, the more vocal members of our party will want to bring them here, and show support for them. But there are some who will be skeptical."
Kane sighed, and said," These people have kicked and berated long enough by this Empire. We have to do something for them. Yes... public opinion will be extremely mixed. But Mr. President, we need to take action."
Dirrel nodded with a sigh, and glanced at Vice President Blackburn. Him and Isaiah had talked long and hard about this before the meeting. Everything that was said, was already seen by them in different briefings. The both of them wanted to get the reactions out of Majority and Minority Leaders in Congress and The Senate. And to see if they could get Bi-partisan support for all of this. And like what Congressman Kane said, they need to act, and find a solution.
"Everyone, I'm well aware. Vice President Blackburn and I discussed this thoroughly, knowing that something like this will happen, and we need to prepare for when it comes. So all I'm asking, is that we can work together on this, gain Bipartisan support for all of this. And we'll deal with the outcome when it comes."
Once he got the nods of approval, Dirrel felt a weight was lifted off of his shoulders, but also felt a new weight was put on.
Well, there's no turning back now.
"Good, now let's get to work."
-A month later-
"Straight to the finish! Go!"
Delilah sprinted, while firing her M4 at the targets and also avoiding to hit the civilian targets. Once she fired at her last target, she sprinted to the end, and heard the beep of the alarm.
"Alright… 20 seconds, plus hitting all enemy targets, no dead civies. That shaves off 10 seconds, which means you finished the pit in less than 10 seconds again. That's great, Delilah." Frost praised.
Delilah flipped the safety on of the Rifle, took out the magazine and the chambered round and placed it on the table. She smiled, and said," Thank you, Frost."
It had been a month since Delilah had been officially inducted into the United States Military, and also an official team member of Team Metal. The day after the celebratory dinner, Command had given the official word that the Special Region Task Force would go through the Gate in a month and a half. After hearing that, Team Metal had ramped up Delilah's training, and the Warrior Bunny was left to wonder if they were actual demons sent by Hardy. She even got to know why Derek's nickname was Frost, he sure did know how to be serious, cold and no nonsense when he needed to be. That also applied to Grinch as well, Delilah knew he was a warrior, but he always showed a good natured, carefree joking side. So it was also a surprise to see him as the same degree of seriousness as Derek was.
From morning to late at night, with only a couple of breaks, including when she got hungry. But also a day out of each week where she would have the day off. They trained her into the ground, until she did everything perfectly, or to their satisfaction. She would sometimes end up passed out on her bed after training, eating and shower, but wake up the next moment when her teammates took turns slamming the door open to wake her up. There were times where she thought about killing them for putting her through all this, but she prevailed. Delilah had thought her trials to become a Warrior Bunny, and also her training to become a staff member of Clan Formal was hard. Including the latter, Kaine was older, but the older woman really knew how to be strict and stern.
The training entailed mainly teaching her and watching her do Delta Force training that they all went through. And correcting her if she messed up, or made a mistake.
Marksmanship, Demolitions and Breaching, using the previous named skills together in a training scenario. Tradecraft, Executive Protection and finally using all previous skills in a test that applies all that they had learned.
Delilah was right at the end of the training, and she had performed exceptionally in the eyes of her team. Even though normally, Delta Force training lasted six months, but Team Metal had managed to condense it to a matter of weeks or a month.
For Marksmanship, once she learned how to field strip and take care of weapons, along with more safety and how to fire from Grinch. She went to the Range, and used all the weapons they gave her. There were some bumps, like when she fell on her back when she used a Shotgun for the first time. She loudly cursed at the recoil and at them for laughing at her. Luckily no other incident with a Grenade either. Thanks to Grinch's teachings, she was able to successfully use each weapon given to her within two days. And due to her abilities, she was able hit moving targets easily. She found herself liking Sub-Machine Guns and PDW's or Personal Defense Weapons, due to their use in close combat situations. And she also got her own M1911, which she had happily showed Frost.
After mastering weapons, she was then given a rundown on a 'Shoot House' where fake targets and hostages were placed. Frost was the one to teach, and show her how to do it. Which she had done just now, but at first, she had a lot of trouble. She ended up taking out all of the fake targets; she dropped her weapons, and went to each target to slash it with her sword. Heck, she also unloaded her magazine of her main weapon and sidearm.
Sandman had not been pleased, and Delilah got to know her superior's more cross and angry side. She saw a little bit when he had yelled at Frost for not properly giving her instructions, but it was different when she was on the receiving end. Even though Delilah was fearful, she was still a proud Warrior Bunny, and took it with a stoic look. But she did listen, and performed the Shoot House a lot less recklessly and more proficiently… well as proficiently as she could as a new recruit. But, she soon got the hang of it.
For demolitions and breaching, Truck helped her out with that. Truck showed her the basics of making bombs, how to detonate explosives. As well as learning how to pick different kinds of locks. Luckily, for the former, there weren't any mishaps, or else a crater would be all that was left of them. But Delilah soon got the hang of it.
Sandman was the one who helped her with the espionage related skills and helped her out with blending in. Even though her ears, fur and tail was an issue, they were able to work it out further. A hat that could hide her ears could only do so much. Although she excelled at surveillance and counter-surveillance, due to her abilities and also her various job for Clan Formal. Besides being a maid and bodyguard, Delilah was also a spy when needed. Apparently all the staff at Italica had these jobs as well. And she promised to them that she wasn't currently, and the Count hadn't asked her to either. She was relieved when they said they believed her. And also, even though Delilah was a bodyguard when needed, she needed to learn security techniques of their world. And that also brought up the need for Delilah to learn how to drive. In case she needed to protect someone while driving, or needing to use a vehicle for either defensive or offensive purposes.
Frost was the one to teach her, and the young Delta Operator was pretty sure he had almost died a couple of times. A lot of reckless driving, trying to teach someone who's worlds only transportation were wagons, horse and Wyverns, learning what to do and not do was a hassle. But like her other training, Delilah soon got the hang of it. But Frost felt like he had a lost a couple of years, and thought that going on missions where he nearly died was less scary.
All these skills, she had used in a final test they did the other day. They had help from another Delta Team, Anvil, with the test. Overall, her final test went great, although a few things needed to be touched up, but she passed.
Another good thing was that she was taking her English lessons and lessons about Earth pretty well. Frost would say he was pretty proud of Delilah, she was a fast learner, and was naturally curious. So she was able to hold a good conversation now, with a few hiccups here and there. Truck was the one to suggest that Frost should use a song as a goal. And the both of them narrowed it to the song 'Alphabet Aerobics', due to how hard it was, and they had Delilah read off from a sheet. And Frost recorded her, so he could show her, her progress. Although one issue she had trouble with was with slang and idioms at times, that led to confusion and humor. And for Earth history, as well as learning how to use modern technology went well. Some slight hiccups and mishaps, but he guided her through it.
Frost grinned and said," It warms my heart to see where you are now. To think, you were just a boot, but now, you're a Tier 1 Operative. That makes you even more deadly."
Delilah then sports a feral grin, and said in English," I was already deadly as a Warrior Bunny. Your training merely made me more deadly."
Frost, who was somehow used to Delilah's moments of sadism, merely shook his head in exasperated amusement.
"C'mon, let's get everything squared away; pretty sure you met your quota in training. Also, pretty sure it's chow time."
Delilah perked up, and said," Then lets feast on what whatever the cooks have."
That was another thing, Delilah found herself loving food from this side of the Gate. The food in the Mess was alright, but considering Delilah had never had most or some of the stuff, she ended up loving it. The cooks even got to know her, and saved her stuff. Not to mention Delilah also loved the food from Murakami's, the bar/restaurant they had went to, to celebrate Delilah joining Team Metal, and the military. After eating, she had hoped to try more of Earth's delicacies, and Frost and the others had promised, depending on how they could get to allow it, take her to America, and have her try more stuff. That had made her more happy.
Frost and Delilah got her gear situated in the training area's armory. As they were leaving, they were met by two people. One was Roach from 141, and the other was the Werewolf or Volralden that was recruited into the Task Force. And his name was Wolf.
Frost and the others had met him after asking 141 to help train Delilah. Due to part of Delta Training other Special Forces groups from different countries would come and both train and share tactics. So it was quite a shock to meet the guy or Werewolf. But apparently instead of being mean and intimidating, he was friendly and mellow. And Roach was the one to be picked to help train and integrate him, like how Frost was doing with Delilah.
"Hey Roach, Wolf, you guys taking a crack at the Pit again?" Frost asked.
"Yeah, big guy here wants to be faster. And hopes he won't fall down the stairs like his first two times." Roach teased.
Wolf rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment and said in English," I was startled."
Just like Delilah, after he was given enough training and was skilled with firearms, Wolf had gone to use the pit. Roach was the one to teach him how to do it, and Wolf had his turn. He was a tad slow, which was reasonable, considering it was his first time. But, when he went up the stairs, he got startled by one of the enemy cutouts that normally popped up near the end of the stairs. And he ended up falling down the stairs. He wasn't injured, but he got a couple of bruises. And also everyone couldn't help laughing, and Roach swore he had heard a chuckle from Ghost. Who didn't seem like the type, or even knew how to, he was that serious. Even though he was prone to jokes in his normal serious way, Soap was used to them, and even said a couple himself.
Frost chuckled, and said," Don't worry big guy, we all had our embarrassing moments. Good luck."
"And maybe we can spar later?" Delilah asked in English.
Wolf gave the Warrior Bunny a nod, even though he looked slightly pained, and said," If I have the time, sure."
Delilah smirked, and said," Don't worry; I won't have Shino come along."
Wolf breathed a sigh of relief, and said," Good, she scares me."
The four walked their separate ways, with Frost and Delilah walking to the mess hall.
"Speaking of Shino, she invited me to have drinks with her, Mari and some of the other female service members. It's a welcome to the JSDF Special Forces for Aurora." Delilah said.
Aurora was the Warrior Bunnies that injured and captured by the military. She had gotten injured after protecting an injured Noble. Both of them survived, but Aurora ended up killing or injuring a couple of Police Officers and soldiers. After talking with interrogators and Delilah, she agreed to help. Although she was on a stricture watch and probation, and had to work with a Japanese unit, per orders from the governments. After the review with Delilah and Team Metal, Command thought she would do well in Special Forces. Her injuries weren't as bad, and due to Warrior Bunnies healing quicker, she was out of the hospital, and walking around a month after Ginza.
"On base, or somewhere nearby?"
"At Murakami's, I already cleared it with Sandman and he got permission from the higher ups. Shino said we're going to have a blast." Delilah happily said.
That was another development, Frost had gone and talked to both Kuribayashi and Kurokawa to help integrate, and hang out with Delilah. Both Japanese women agreed to it, and the three of them had ended up hitting it off, and becoming fast friends. Although Frost unfortunately had to play the fourth wheel for a bit, due to needing to translate. But once Delilah was able to hold a decent conversation, or if one of the girls brought a translator book, they didn't need him. Besides Shino and Mari, a couple of other women, either from the U.S or Japanese service members became friends with the Warrior Bunny. But, Shino and Delilah became best friends, mainly due to them being fighters, and having the same bloodthirstiness for a fight. But they soon found other interests they bonded over. Mari did find herself becoming the motherly figure to them, or the one to rein them in when they became too much. Frost had apologized, and said he would help, but the Medic had politely refused, and said she could handle it. She had even jokingly said she had known Shino for a while, and was both used to her antics, and knew how to rein her in.
Frost shook his head in amusement, knowing how much she liked the place, and said," Once again, if your ever allowed to go to the States. We need to show and give you some good old American food. Authentic kind, not just the stuff they serve in the Mess. Remember, Grinch knows a good BBQ joint in Austin."
"I would much rather go to Sea Till, first."
"Seattle. Really? Why… oh right." Frost remembered, and sighed.
A week after Delilah's celebratory dinner, he was video chatting with his family, and he heard the door open. Truck announced his presence, saying he needed to get something. Frost didn't think any of it, and his family said hi to him. But he soon became confused with the surprised looks they had… well Brandon looked slightly smitten, and Chelsea had an awed expression.
He had turned around, and saw Delilah standing behind him, with a small smile, although a slightly guilty one and waved. Truck was not in the room anymore, and Frost swore he would kill the man later.
After that, introductions were made, and both his family and Delilah became acquainted. Although Brandon ended up asking Delilah if she was single and Chelsea had basically demanded to know everything about her. His parents took a liking to her, some of it for his dad was the fact he could spot someone from military background easily. And he had asked Delilah to swap some war stories, which she was happy to do. While his mom… gushed at how cute she was, asked whether Frost was treating her well. And she had asked her to visit when she was allowed to when given the chance.
After that, Delilah told Frost that she liked his family, and hoped to visit when given the permission too. And Frost was on the fence about it for a bit, but he ultimately decided it would be a good idea.
"Well, like I said before, we'll see. But if you're allowed in the future, then I'll show you around my old stomping grounds, and have a good time around the city."
It all depended on whether the U.S President got the approval to allow Demi-Humans to live in the United States. President Dirrel had recently revealed about a Bipartisan effort to allow Demi-Humans, starting with those who were serving in the U.S armed forces, to live in the United States, and become U.S citizens. Reactions were mixed, but a lot of people were for it. Heck, even the U.N was talking about it. Although Japan was a mixed bag, for obvious reasons, but a growing number of Japanese were starting to support it.
Delilah smirked, and said in a flirty tone," My, do you say that to all the girls, Master?"
Frost chuckled, and felt his cheeks heat up a little, and said," Uh… just be careful and stay with Shino and Mari. K?"
Her fun ruined, Delilah pouted, and said," I'm not a child, Derek. I can handle myself. But don't worry, I will."
Frost chuckled, and ruffled her head; Delilah made a sound, and flicked his ear hard. She also had a small blush on her face. Frost yelped and rubbed it. While also half-heartedly glaring at Delilah, who looked smug.
-Two Weeks Later-
Delilah stood along with her fellow assembled Warrior Bunnies. All the tribes were united. She and everyone else was listening to Queen Tyuule's speech.
"The Empire may have invaded our lands, but they will soon know the full strength, resolve and fierceness of the Warrior Bunnies! May our ancestors and the Gods look down favorably upon us! We will fight, and we will win! The Empire's blood will be spilled!"
Delilah grinned fiercely as an Imperial Soldier she stabbed in the chest, coughed blood, and saw the light leave his eyes.
She looked at Griine and Parna, who she had known since they were kids or kits. And they were even a part of the same training clan. They had also slaughtered their own enemies. They all nodded at each other, and continued to fight.
Feelings of anger, confusion and betrayal after hearing the Imperial Messengers message of Tyuule's betrayal of the Warrior Bunnies.
She let out a cry of anger, and decapitated the messenger, blood spraying everywhere, but she didn't care.
"Parna, w-what are you doing?!"
"I-I'm sorry… I can't go on like this… please forgive me." A broken voice said with sob.
Delilah gasped as she woke up in her bed, her heart was racing, the nightmare… no memories still fresh in her mind. She looked around, and sighed in relief. Good, she was still in her room.
She sniffed, and wiped away the tears on her face.
She looked at the clock in her room, which read 6:10 AM. The first rays of the early morning daylight was starting creep behind her curtains. Knowing she wouldn't go back to sleep, she got up, put on her workout clothes, and went outside. After stretching, she started her run around the barracks area. Normally she would do it with Derek, who woke her up around 7, but she felt she needed to do it alone, and clear her head. She started to jog, and she replayed the memories from her dream. Gods, she hadn't had that dream or sequence of memories in a while. She guessed that the coming days were bringing it back.
The invasion through the Gate was going to happen in a couple of days, and everyone was on edge, or preparing. She herself was ready, she trained every chance she got, honing the skills given to her by her… brothers in arms, Team Metal.
She smiled a little as she jogged, those four… Derek, Andy, Andre and Jason, they were like family to her now. Sure, back in Italica, working with the other staff: Mamina, Griine, Persia, Meia, just to name a few. They became something like a family to her.
Sandman was like a father to her, as well as a mentor. She had never met her father, male Warrior Bunnies were rare, so other men either humans or other species, mainly human men, were taken by Warrior Bunnies. Well… taken was a stretch, most of the men taken by Warrior Bunnies to help procreate didn't complain. The ones who did were a small minority. Her father was human, from what her mother told her, said he was a young merchant. But back to what she was originally thinking, Sandman was someone she could depend on, and look to for guidance. He reminded her of the Tribal Elders who helped or gave advice to the younger Warrior Bunnies. He was still a leader, and helped steer her on the right path when she trained, and didn't… sweet coat it, yeah that was the phrase, when she did something wrong. All of it was to help her succeed, and she did. She had found out he was married and had two kids, a boy and girl, 8 and 13, respectively. He had even showed her pictures of them, and they looked to be a nice family.
Truck, was someone she could relate to about personal issues that they shared. She had found out about his people's struggles, after she talked about her people and other Demi-Humans went through. It made her feel happy that she had someone else who could relate to her issues, but she also felt anger. Just because Truck and other dark colored people looked different, they were still human. She had told Truck that, and he merely grinned, and thanked her. So that was something they could related to. Besides that, he was sorta like Sandman, who helped steer her correctly, and helped her out when needed. He had even showed her the music he liked, which was something called Rap and also Rock music. The former she thought it was okay, but she ended up liking the latter. And instead of a father figure, he was like an older brother to her. Delilah was an only child, even though twins were common for Warrior Bunnies.
Although only child may not be the best term, due to Warrior Bunnies raised and lived together communally. Everyone was family; they all looked out and cared for each other, it was a support system.
Grinch, was also like and older brother as well, and she found his humor to be well, humorous. Even though she didn't understand some of it at first, she slowly started to get it. And like Sandman and Truck, he helped her and mentored her. And he always knew how to cheer her up, and encourage her. Not only that, he helped her with how to understand and use this worlds weaponry. Besides that, he had even showed her some of the music he liked, and even played some songs on his guitar, which she ended up dancing and singing to, like with Truck's music. She had ended up blushing at the praise from him and the others had given her.
And for Frost… no Derek… she couldn't imagine being without him.
Delilah stopped, and felt her cheeks grow red, not from jogging, but from the feelings she was feeling when she thought of him.
At first, she was scared, mainly due to the fact that he had a gun trained on her, and he could've killed her. After that, it was resignation after she came to in her hospital bed, and was told of what happened to her. And thinking she was going to be his slave, but she wasn't thankfully. After that well… it was mix of different emotions, but it boiled down to trust, growing friendship, and comradery. Sure he was her handler, he was supposed to watch her and see if she did anything. But, he treated her kindly, fairly and went out of his way to treat her with respect. He was friendly with her, didn't treat her like how normal Imperials did. He wanted to get to know her, he talked about himself and his life, and she did as well. He protected her, even if she didn't need it. He was a friend to her, but it was starting to change.
She was starting to grow feelings for him. Not the Warrior Bunny kind of feelings, but the normal type others had. She couldn't think of or imagine being without him. But, she wasn't sure if he would feel the same, and it worried her on how he would react.
Would he feel the same, or would laugh it off and think nothing of it?
"Hey, are you alright?"
Delilah looked behind her, and a man who looked to be in his early twenties, had brown hair, which had military style cut, sorta like Frost's. But the most noticeable thing was his ears, which were Elf ears.
"I'm alright, nice to see another Demi-Human. I'm Delilah." She said with a slight bow.
"Haldor Luna Marceau, it's nice to meet you." He said with a nod.
"So, what brings you out here?"
Haldor looked at the rising sun with a small grin, and said," I was watching the sunrise… I did it all the time back in Falmart with my father and my sister."
"Same, before I started my morning chores back in Italica. You wanna get something to eat? The food here is good, and I'm sure breakfast is being served now."
"Very well."
Delilah and Haldor sat down in the mess hall, due to it being the early morning; there weren't that many people there. One of the servers had said morning to her and Haldor, and had given her an extra muffin. One of the perks of being their favorite costumer, which was told to her in amusement.
"So… how are you enjoying things here? Are they treating you well?" Delilah asked.
"Very well, no grievances. I will admit though, with how vicious and bloodthirsty these people were during the invasion, I thought I would die." He said with a shutter.
Delilah winced a little, and said," Yeah, I had a few close calls, even when I was captured. I thought the Imperials fought savagely when they attacked my homeland. But, these people… cleaned the floor with them."
"I think the phrase is 'wipe the floor' with them. But yeah, they may fight like savages, but they are nothing but kind to us. They are nothing like the Saderan's. So, how did you find yourself here?"
"I work for House Formal, the noble family that leads Italica. The Count was called to fight, and I was chosen to be his bodyguard and fighter. Italica may be a safe haven for Demi-Humans, but it's still a part of the Empire. So, The Count and a couple of lower nobles from the city have to take Demi-Human as bodyguards. What about you?"
Haldor had a slightly faraway look, and said," I live in Kowan Village, located in the Koan Forest, with my father and my sister. The Empire leaves us alone, and we don't really have any issues. Every week, a group of us travel to a nearby village to trade. I, my sister Tuka, and a couple of others were the ones to go this time. But, on our way to the village, we were met by an Imperial outfit patrolling. And they were planning on taking us prisoner… no doubt to take us to the slave markets. I even saw one of them look at Tuka, and another female elf, named Avalon in a less than pleasant way. But, I and the two other males bartered and pleaded with them. Take us; our wares, and let Tuka and Avalon go, and they did. Last I saw of my sister was her crying out to me while Avalon ran off with her."
Delilah gave him a sympathetic look, and placed a hand on his, and said," You have my sympathies. What about happened to the other two?"
Haldor sighed sadly, and said," That I don't know. We were separated after they took us to a military camp. I was forced work alongside the archers for the camp, who would then be a part of the invasion into this land."
"At least on the bright side, we'll be going home soon. And maybe we'll be able to find them. So, which branch of this worlds militaries did you go to?"
"United States Marines. I'm part of a Reconnaissance Battalion. Due to my skills with a bow, I was made into a Sniper, and I like it. Even if I prefer my bow. I will admit, the Platoon I was placed in is an interesting bunch. But we've become good friends. Unfortunately, we are not going to be a part of the invasion. What about you?"
Delilah scowled and said," Yeah, I'm in the same... storage house for wheels as well."
Apparently, Special Forces weren't allowed to fight alongside invasions like this. When Delilah had found out about it, she was disappointed and mad. She felt like she had gotten her hopes up, but Derek and the others explained that Special Forces were only used for well special missions or Ops that conventional military assets weren't needed. But Sandman had explained that Command had given them the greenlight to go to Italica once the order was given. And also any other mission the would be needed in the Special Region. Heck, he even said there could be a possibility of her doing missions here on Earth, once given the chance or permission. That did make her feel better, especially the part of going home, but she was still miffed.
Delilah continued by saying, "But I'm with U.S Special Forces. I'm primarily a close quarter specialist, but I can perform other duties. Ironically, I was placed with the people who captured me. It's a long story. But, I'm glad that I was placed with them. I've become good friends with them… especially the one who's been my handler." Delilah fondly said the last part with a blush.
Haldor smirked a little, and said," I take this one is someone you think highly of, huh? Do tell?"
'Crap, looks like Lopez is starting to influence me.' He thought.
Delilah blinked, with her face looking redder, and said," Uh, it's nothing like that. We're just close friends, nothing more."
'Thank the Gods Grinch isn't here.' Delilah thought thankfully.
Haldor nodded, not convinced, but he wasn't the type to pry into others business.
"Well, here's to a successful Invasion, and to reuniting with our family and or friends when we're allowed to go through." He said with a raise of his orange juice glass.
Delilah nodded, raising her orange juice glass, and they toasted and drank their drinks.
She then remembered something, and said," Except, I won't be there when the
-A couple of days later-
Delilah stood along with Team Metal, she and her team were in civilian clothes. She wore sneakers, jeans, a hoodie, with the hood up fake glasses and a beanie. Surprisingly, the beanie wasn't uncomfortable for her ears and was able to still hear clearly. Even though the team weren't going to be a part of the invasion, they were given permission to watch in civilian clothes. It was also an informal test for Delilah, to see how well she would do to remain inconspicuous in a public environment. And so far, she was doing well.
Frost, who was standing next to her, placed a hand on her shoulder, and she looked at him. He gave her an encouraging nod, knowing she wanted to be a part of it. Delilah nodded in thanks, even though she was itching to fight and gut Imperial soldiers, she just had to wait. Hers and the others time to fight would come.
Sandman looked at her, and said," Don't worry kid, our time to kick some ass will come soon."
"Got it, boss man." Delilah said with nod.
Sandman shook his head with a snort, for some reason it amused him to hear Delilah use modern slang or words. At least it showed she was integrating nicely.
Today was the day of the invasion into the Special Region, and the Task Force was lined up into two columns. In the front, were four of each United States M1A2 Abrams tanks and Japanese Type 90 tanks, with the tanks crews standing outside of their vehicles. After that, were troop transports/Light Armored Vehicles, with it being a mix of LAV's, Stryker's and other armored transports. All the troops were standing to the side of the vehicles, ready to embark into the vehicles.
The new Japanese Prime Minister, Motoi Shinzō, stood behind a podium that was in front of the Gate, to his left were General Hazama and Colonel Davis, who were in combat fatigues.
"Two months ago, at this very spot, not only Japan was changed, but the world as well, once this Gate appeared, and a hostile Army came through."
As Frost listened to the Prime Ministers speech, he glanced over to the right, and saw the memorial shrine, where people were paying their respects, mourning or placing flowers. Two people caught their interest, a woman and her young daughter. He remembered them vividly, when he and Itami were helping civilians get to safety, they came across the both of them. And they led them to the Imperial Palace, but the mother was looking for her husband, but after keeping tabs on them later, he found out that the husband had died during the incident. The mother was crying, while the daughter stood next to her, looking lost or not sure what to do.
Frost made a silent vow, promising he would make those responsible for all of them, play.
The Prime Minister soon finished his speech, and once the podium was moved, General Hazama and Colonel Davis stood in front of the column.
Hazama looked at everyone, and said," The eyes of the world are looking upon you all. Let's show this Empire what happens when you awake a sleeping giant." He then nodded at Davis.
Davis nodded, and said," All troops mount up and prepare to move out! Let's go!"
The crews of the two American lead tanks, which were a part of the reactivated United States Marine 1st Tank Battalion, all got into their tanks and started them up.
Staff Sergeant Augustine 'Papá' Perez, who was the commander of his Tank Heroic Villain, sighed in pleasure, and patted the tank. He still remembered when he got the call from Captain Brookes and the Lieutenant Colonel that the Tank Platoon was going to be reactivated. He was thrilled and was in disbelief, but happy that him and his crew, who had been transferred to an LAV, after none of them wanted to leave the Corp yet, were back in the saddle. Not to mention the fact that thanks to a couple of favors, they got their original tank back in their hands as well.
He was worried they would be rusty, but they all remembered it like the back of their hands.
Sergeant Jonathan 'Jono' Miller, his Driver/Second-In-Command
Corporal Norman "Machine" Ellison, his Gunner
Lance Corporal Richard 'Ritchie' or 'Chi' Ingham, his Loader
All of them have been through it all, and they weren't planning on breaking up anytime soon.
"All Rhino and Olympus units, this is Rhino-1. Proceed with checks. Status and we'll get to rolling out. How copy?"
Perez smirked, and said," Solid copy Captain. Miller, Ellison, Ingham, status?"
"She's purring like a kitten, boss."
"All ammo is accounted for, and all weapons systems are hot, sir."
"Ready to load at moment's notice, boss. All good energy and vibes."
Perez smirked, and said," ¡Mis hermanos, vamos a hacer esto! (My brothers, let's fucking do this!) This is Heroic Villain, call sign Rhino-2. We're good to go." He said the last part into the comms.
"Solid copy 2, this is Mississippi Queen, call sign Rhino-1 Actual. We're good and ready to go."
"This is Warpig, call sign Rhino-3. We're good and ready."
"This is Dixie Trouble, call sign Rhino-4. We're good and ready. Let's show'em what happens when they mess with the South."
"This is Spirited Away, call sign Olympus-1 Actual. Ryokai (Roger)… I mean, roger we're ready." The Japanese tank commander said.
"This is Endeavor, call sign Olympus-2. Ryokai, we're ready." The second Japanese tank commander said.
"This is Inuyashi, call sign Olympus-3 reporting. Ryokai."
"This is Typhoon, call sign Olympus-4. Ryokai."
Captain Adrian Brookes nodded, and said, "Good. All tanks. We're REDCON ONE. Prepare to move out."
The barrier in front of the Gate opened up. Once given the greenlight, the tanks rolled out, and into the Gate.
And thus, the invasion of the Special Region had begun.
(Prism Communicate - Hisako Kanemoto, Nao Tōyama, and Risa Taneda, TV Version)
The name of the story flicks like a small fire, and then shows Delilah stretching, and beginning an early morning run. As she runs, in the background in the sky, begins a small slide show that showed Ginza, Murakami's, and an aerial view of the military base Team Metal was stationed. They all transitioned in a pixilated fashion.
The background then showed picture of people, which was of Team Metal. Sandman was first, then Truck, Grinch, Frost, and then finally a picture of them and Delilah standing together and posing. The pose showed Sandman in the front, with his arms crossed, Truck was to the right of them, he had his hands in his pocket, was smirking and leaning a little. Grinch was on the right and doing the same. Frost was standing next to Grinch, he also had his arms crossed and he was grinning. Delilah was leaning to the right of him, her left arm around his neck, and she held her right hand up in a peace sign.
The final shot shows Delilah stopping and smiling at the morning sky.
And there you have it. I'm going to take a short break from this story, and focus on my other stuff.
I hoped you all liked the chapter, and the characters I introduced into this. We'll be seeing more of Haldor in the future, so look out for that.
Besides that, I have nothing else to say besides I hope you all have safe and fun Memorial Day.
Till next time.