Chapter 15: The Legion's Oath
The morning sun slanted over the freshly established barracks of the Arcadian Foreign Legion, giving them an air of gravitas and solemnity. The air was cool and fresh with the scent of dew and the distant sound of a city waking up. Inside the main courtyard, a line of eight civilians from Chaldea stood at attention, their expressions a blend of solemnity and resolute determination. Jaune looked over the recruits, his eyes pausing on Bracknell, who gave a subtle nod. Holding a scroll in his right hand, he approached the group.
"As you recite this oath, know that you are pledging to become a bridge between worlds," Jaune began, his voice echoing off the stone walls. "You are the vanguard of a new alliance, the bearers of hope and protectors of peace. Are you ready to commit to this duty?"
One by one, the recruits declared their names and repeated the oath after Jaune.
I, voluntarily enlist in the Arcadian Foreign Legion, aware of the duties and risks that my commitment entails. I swear to serve with honor and fidelity, the Crown of Arcadia, its people, and the Arcadian Foreign Legion to which I dedicate my strength and life. I vow to obey all orders from my superior officers and to execute them with unwavering resolve, to the best of my abilities, and without question. I promise to maintain the principles of fraternity and equality among my fellow Legionnaires, irrespective of origin or belief. I accept, with humility and duty, the potential sacrifices required of me, including the forfeiture of personal freedoms for the collective welfare. I pledge to conduct myself with courage and valor, to face adversity unflinchingly, and to protect my comrades in arms, even at the peril of my own life. In victory or defeat, in peace or in combat, I shall never dishonor my weapon, my uniform, or my military standard, nor abandon my post or my brothers and sisters in arms. With Arcadian soil beneath my feet, I stand steadfast. By my Aura and soul, I am bound to this pledge. So swear I, under the Twin Moons of Arcadia and before the spirits of those who came before me, to uphold this oath until my service concludes, either by honorable discharge or by the ultimate sacrifice.
The voices of the newly sworn-in Legionnaires carried through the open air, rich with conviction and passion. Their words echoed for miles, reaching even the small gathering of onlookers from Chaldea and Jaune's friends from Beacon. Ruby's eyes shone with pride as she watched her comrades take their oath, and nearby Nora wiped away a tear, deeply moved by the gravity of the moment.
Upon completion of the oath, King Jonathan and Queen Evelyn stepped forth from the shadows - a surprise to many. The entire crowd watched in silent awe as they bestowed their blessing upon the freshly sworn-in soldiers.
"In this ever-changing world, you are charged with protecting not only Arcadia but our son, Jaune, during his remaining time at Chaldea," the King announced.
The Queen added softly, "Your loyalty and bravery are not taken for granted. You represent the first soldiers of the legion, but surely not the last."
The newly inducted Legionnaires stood at attention and rendered a salute to the king and queen, as well as Jaune. Their stance was an unmistakable sign of their dedication and loyalty.
After the oath was solemnly recited and the king and queen had imparted their charge, the courtyard was filled with a hushed reverence. Jaune approached Bracknell, who stood a little apart from the newly sworn-in Legionnaires.
"Bracknell," Jaune began, clasping his hands behind his back, "the Arcadian Foreign Legion was your idea—a vision we've now realized. How does it feel to see it come to life?"
Bracknell turned to him, a slight smile playing on his lips, the kind that spoke more of resolve than of humor. "It's an honor, sir. But more than that, it's the beginning of something I believe in. The Legion isn't just a unit; it's a symbol of our dedication to Arcadia and our commitment to supporting Chaldea."
Jaune nodded, understanding the depth of Bracknell's words. "Your determination has been the cornerstone of this endeavor. You've shown remarkable leadership."
"Thank you, sir," Bracknell replied. "But it's your example we follow. You've shown us that one person's resolve can change the course of history. I intend to serve Arcadia with everything I have."
The Arcadian training ground had been transformed into a battleground. At the heart of the exercise was a fortified bunker, its defensive positions manned by Arcadian soldiers. They were armed with the FR-27 Flechette Rifle (Deus Ex HR) outfitted with training ammunition.
Overlooking the bunker from a small rise was Jaune and the members of the Arcadian Foreign Legion. Each Legionnaire, including Jaune, was equipped with a P90 outfitted with training ammunition, its compact design ideal for the close-quarter combat they were about to engage in. He was still chuckling from the note that Da Vinci had left him. Jaune, I'm impressed with how dedicated you are to the P90 (and amused). But before you ask me again—no, I won't make you a Stargate. So, let's focus on what is achievable, shall we? - Lots of hugs Da Vinci.
He laughed as he read it, then shared it with some of the Legionnaires nearby. "Looks like Da Vinci has her limits," he said with a grin. "No intergalactic transportation for us, it appears."
The Legionnaires snickered, one of them joking, "Guess we'll have to stick to more standard methods of kicking ass."
Jaune surveyed the bunker through binoculars, his mind working through various strategies. "We need to breach their defenses without sustaining heavy casualties. Ideas?"
Bracknell, standing next to him, pointed to a narrow flank on the bunker's west side. "There's a weak point. We could use a diversion on the front, then penetrate their defenses from there."
Jaune nodded, "Good. Let's split into two teams. Alpha team will create the diversion. Bravo team, you're with me on the breach."
The Legionnaires quickly split into their assigned teams. Alpha team moved forward, opening fire to draw the attention of the bunker's defenders. The sound of their P90s filled the air, their controlled bursts laying down a suppressive screen.
Meanwhile, Jaune led Bravo team in a swift, low crawl through the underbrush, making their way towards the identified weak point. As they neared, Jaune signaled a halt. He took a flash grenade from his belt, pulled the pin, and lobbed it towards the weak point. The explosion was muffled but effective, opening a breach in the bunker's defenses.
"Move!" Jaune commanded. The team rushed in, their P90s at the ready. The close quarters of the bunker made for intense, rapid-fire exchanges. Jaune led from the front, his shots precise and measured.
The Arcadian defenders put up a staunch resistance, their own weapons booming in the enclosed space. However, the surprise and coordination of the Legion's assault overwhelmed them. One by one, the bunker's defenders were marked as 'out' by the training simulation's monitoring system.
Finally, Jaune and his team secured the heart of the bunker, effectively winning the exercise. As the simulation ended, the Arcadian soldiers emerged, nodding in respect to their opponents.
"That was some of the finest tactical maneuvering I've seen," said the lead Arcadian soldier, extending a hand to Jaune. "Your team is as sharp as they come."
Jaune shook his hand, smiling modestly. "We've learned from the best. And today, we've learned from each other."
After the intensity of the field training, a respite was well deserved. The members of the Arcadian Foreign Legion, including Bracknell and his fellow Legionnaires, were given leave to explore the capital and enjoy a day of relaxation.
The streets of Arcadia were alive with activity. Marketplaces bustled with the exchange of goods, street performers captivated passersby with acts of magic and skill, and the scent of fresh food wafted from countless eateries.
"Never thought I'd see the day when we'd be strolling through the capital like this," he mused, eyes wide with wonder.
Elena Valtari, her platinum blonde hair cascading in waves, paused at a stall selling intricately woven garments. "Look at this craftsmanship," she said, running her slender fingers over the fabric, her deep blue eyes sparkling with admiration. "The colors, the detail—it's amazing." The lean, athletic build of the Legionnaire, typically concealed under her uniform, was more apparent in her civilian attire, revealing her agility and strength.
They sampled local delicacies, laughed at jesters juggling enchanted orbs, and even tried their hand at an ancient Arcadian game of strategy, drawing a crowd of amused locals. Elena's grace and confidence, so evident in her professional role, shone through even in these moments of leisure.
Meanwhile, Leo Schmidt and Harper Lee found a quiet cafe to unwind in. Leo, of average height but with a sturdy build reflecting his former career in law enforcement, sipped on exotic tea. His short, neatly trimmed brown hair and warm hazel eyes, often crinkling with laughter, made him look both approachable and thoughtful. "We're part of something big," he remarked, his smile ever-present. "Bigger than any of us alone."
Harper, slightly taller and slender, her short, curly black hair framing her youthful, energetic face, nodded in agreement. Her rich, warm brown skin glowed in the cafe's ambient light, and her dark brown eyes, always sharp and observant, reflected a sense of keen alertness as she contemplated their future.
The day of relaxation was not only a chance to decompress but also to bond with the city and its people. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange, the Legionnaires regrouped. Elena, Leo, Harper, and the others shared stories of their day's adventures with bright smiles and easy laughter, their distinct personalities and appearances creating a tapestry as rich and varied as the city itself.
As twilight embraced the city of Arcadia, the palace's grand hall was transformed into a venue of celebration. It was a night designed to be a respite from the weight of duty and the specter of conflict—a night for laughter, camaraderie, and the simple joys of life.
The Legionnaires, along with Team JNPR and other guests from Chaldea, were dressed in their finest, a stark contrast to the armor and uniforms they were accustomed to. The air was rich with the aroma of roasted meats, sweet pastries, and the heady scent of Arcadian wine.
As night descended upon Chaldea, some of Jaune's servants came to join in the evening's revelry.
Cu Chulainn, with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, challenged Jaune to a drinking game. "There you are Master! Let's see if you can keep up with the Hound of Ulster!" he roared, brandishing a large tankard. Jaune grinned and accepted the challenge. "Maybe this time I'll outdrink you Cu."
Cu Chulainn shot Jaune a playful, lopsided grin. "Doubt it will change this time, Master! All right then," he said holding up a large tankard. "Ladies first!" He tilted the tankard back; Jaune mimicked him and took a long pull from his own cup before downing the rest of the contents in one gulp. The taste of fruits and honey filled his mouth and burned slowly as it slid down his throat. Then he made eye contact with Cu Chulainn and laughed.
Napoleon pulled up a chair and gestured chummily with his arms. "Tonight's the night we remember friends, fellowship, camaraderie, and great victories! Every good story needs to be told!"
Beowulf nodded in agreement, raising his tankard in salute. "A toast to tales of valor!" he declared with gusto.
Okita smiled and guided Jaune into a quiet corner with her comrades. "Let us raise our cups to the roads we've walked and those yet unknown," she said softly, her voice carrying a lifetime of battles and stories untold.
Mordred, Gawain, and Gareth clustered around their Master, joining the feast of laughter and revelry. Their voices filled the hall as they raised their cups in honor of the bonds of friendship they all shared.
"To honor! To tradition! And to drinking on our Master's dime!" Cu declared as the cups met in a symphony of joy.
As the evening wore on, the collective stories of valor, adventure, and heroism filled the hall, creating an atmosphere of timelessness. It was a unique gathering of historical and mythical figures, each contributing to the tapestry of the night with their presence and tales.
The night became a celebration not just of their current alliance, but of the rich and varied tapestries of their individual pasts, woven together in the present moment.
Jaune found himself pulled into the dance by a group of Legionnaires, their previous formality lost to the night's festive spirit.
Off to the side, Bracknell shared stories with Ruby and Nora, his tales of Chaldea's inner workings drawing wide eyes and eager questions. Pyrrha and Ren, meanwhile, engaged in a quieter conversation with a few Arcadian soldiers, their discussion weaving through weapons and strategy.
After the revelry of the evening, Jaune retreated to the quiet sanctuary of his room in the palace. The room, a blend of Arcadian elegance and modern comfort, offered a peaceful contrast to the night's festivities. He stood at the window for a moment, gazing out at the cityscape bathed in moonlight, lost in thought.
A soft knock on the door pulled him from his reverie. "Enter," he called.
The door opened to reveal Director Lysander, carrying a small, unassuming package. "I hope I'm not intruding," Lysander said, stepping into the room.
"Not at all, Director," Jaune replied, curious. "What brings you here at this hour?"
Lysander handed him the package. "A little something for your continued journey. Call it a parting gift, or rather, a tool for the road ahead."
Jaune unwrapped the package to reveal a compact, sleek firearm – a smart pistol with an ergonomic design and a matte black finish. It was lightweight, yet Jaune could feel the power and precision engineered into it.
"It's a smart pistol, integrated with the latest in Arcadian tech," Lysander explained. "It has biometric locks, meaning only you can fire it. It's also equipped with a homing bullets feature, useful for... tricky situations."
Jaune turned the pistol over in his hands, impressed. "This is incredible, Director. Thank you."
Lysander gave a small smile, a rare break in his usually stoic demeanor. "Consider it a token of our faith in you, Jaune. You've proven yourself more than capable. But every leader needs the right tools."
Jaune nodded, understanding the unspoken sentiment. "I'll use it wisely."
As Lysander turned to leave, he paused. "One more thing, Jaune. Remember, no matter where your journey takes you, Arcadia is always with you. Stay safe out there."