Though there was nothing more precious to him than enjoying the right and privilege to rob those who had shown they were unworthy of possessing the most valued treasure mankind had ever held, Luciano Bradley, Knight of Ten, had finally reached that rare point were an addict began to get bored with their habit despite having the opportunity to feed it whenever he wished.
At first he had managed to fight off this boredom by ignoring the rules that governed the relationship between occupier and those that were occupied. Something that was rather easy to do since the peasants that inhabited the rural areas of the Euro-Britannian Empire lacked the same ability as their military trained compatriots to prevent him from achieving a rapid kill.
For every Britannian solider wounded, he killed 20 civilians instead of the standard 10, though the number had been set at 5 if the perpetrator had been turned without the aid of the occupational authorities.
For ever solider killed by insurgents, he killed 60 civilians instead of the 25 that had been set as the limit for dealing with bandits in an Area that was declared to be under marital law.
But since the Euro-Brits had been unable to carry out this rate of retaliation due to Highland wanting to persevere as much as the native population as possible, the Vampire of Britannia had wasted no time in making good these numbers.
Entire villages had been decimated due to the tenuous, and sometimes not so tenuous links to the forces that refused to accept the superiority of their betters. Which had resulted with the rather impressive body count of 1200 men, 2000 women, and 2450 children.
But while he enjoyed seeing the light fade from their eyes as he robbed them of humanity's most precious gift, though for some of his victims, mostly women but more than a few children, that light had faded long before they gave their final breath, the ease in which this was accomplished was starting to decrease the pleasure he took when performing the duties that had earned him his moniker.
For since he had arrived in Euro Britannia, perhaps only 400 had the courage to willingly die with a gun in their hands. Though thanks to his rank, he had ensured that 50 of them got to enjoy the privilege of being captured alive, though often wounded, by the Vampire of Britannia.
Which meant that the opportunity to kill a man, or woman since he wasn't picky, worth killing were few and far between.
However, as he buttoned his pants after finishing yet another session with one of his prisoners, a rather attractive red head whose skills had been almost sufficient enough to make him almost consider sparing the life of her 8 year daughter, Luciano Bradley felt a touch of his enthusiasm return as a messenger came rushing up to the shack that served as his temporarily field quarters.
"Lord Bradley. Urgent message from the Homeland. They demand that you make contact with them at once".
Smiling at the clearly nervous solider, who lacked both the theoretical balls of his Valkyries, who he had ordered to remain in the Homeland until he sent for him, and the craving for depravity that the men who Highland had placed under his command, the Knight of Ten drew his trusted dagger and proceeded to handle it in a manner that few could call comforting.
"Demand you say? That's rather strong language coming from a low ranker like yourself. One could even say that you're overstepping the bounds that normally exist between a high ranking officer and his subordinates. And while I'm not normally a stickler for such things, I find that my recent mood has allowed me to appreciate them more. If only because it means I get an excuse to punish those who break them".
Enjoying the expression of fear that had come over the understandably pale lieutenant, Bradley swiftly reached behind the man's head, and held it back as he slowly ran his knife up and down the lower ranked soldier's neck.
"That being said, I might be persuaded to show leniency if you provide me with a little bit more detail. So I suggest you speak quickly before I accidentally sever your vocal cords".
Smirking at the man's clear distress, Bradley found himself lowering his blade as the stuttering solider managed to fulfil his part of the bargain.
"Th...the Emperor's off...office has instructed my section to pass on their desire to speak with you. App...apparently it has something to do with a change in diplomatic relations re...requiring a reassignment".
Grinning at this news, since it only mean that the Emperor was transferring him to an area that possessed more worthwhile targets to destroy, the Knight of Ten ignored the relieved looking messenger in favor of casting one final look at the ruins that had once been a community of nearly 200 souls.
No matter what country he was stationed in, his tastes in urban renewal always turned out the same.
Lots of burning buildings. And lots of corpses.
...
Though I had known frequent periods of complete exhaustion during the course of my career, I can honestly say that the methods I had used to achieve this current state of weariness were far more enjoyable than experiencing 3 days of non stop combat with enemy troops, or dealing with mountain after mountain of usually mind numbing paper work.
However, considering the violent, and surprisingly jealous nature of my bedding partner, I sincerely doubt that comparing the last 6 hours to the times we spent on the Eastern Front or overwhelmed by administrative duties would go over well with the smirking seductress that was currently cuddling into my side.
"You know, I never realized it before, but you actually have some good taste when it comes to furniture. Sure you're bed isnt as decorative or large as the ones we found in the Kremlin after we drove the Brits out. But its definitely as comfy, and far sturdier than I could have imagined".
Chuckling at Karina's teasing observations, I allowed my tone to carry a touch of dryness as I agreed with her deceptively innocent statement.
"Considering you spent most of the night trying to break it, I suppose I'll have to accept your knowledge when it comes to furniture".
Earning a laugh from the tired blond, I raised an eyebrow in amusement as she proceeded to defend her actions.
"Well perhaps if you were more willing to accept a…submissive position, I would have been a little more restrained. But you just had to try and fight me for my rightful spot. So if you're looking for someone to blame, you need only look into a mirror. Though I suppose I wouldn't mind if you cast your gaze in my direction. A girl likes to be appreciated for her looks you know".
And to that I decided to hold my tongue in favor of casting a measuring/admiring glance at her blanket covered form.
While her body carried some minor, but visible reminders of the years we had spent fighting off the Britannian juggernaut, my childhood friend turned lover possessed a full fleshed figure that most women would kill to possess, and most men would wish to have in their possession.
Shapely legs.
Flat stomach.
And a chest that was both large and was somehow immune to the forces of gravity.
There was no denying that Karina was an attractive woman.
But only a fool would believe that there was nothing to her besides a pretty face and a lust inducing body. A trait that I was constantly reminded of due to her ability to switch between playful and deadly serious.
"So, now that we've spent the evening satisfying my needs, at least temporarily, care to tell me why you're suddenly interested in the failures of a dishonored air general? I mean, I could understand it if we were trying to seize control over the Caribbean islands. But for the Eastern Front? I'm afraid that you lost me".
Smirking at the fact that she hadn't figured out my plan, though truthfully at this point in time it was less a plan and more like an idea, I gave an answer that would both answer Karina's question, and undoubtedly increase her annoyance at the same time.
"It's actually quite simple really. While most disgraced officers tend to blame others for the failures of their plans, Student is intelligent enough to not only recognize he is at fault for Operation Mercury's outcome, but also identify what needs to be done in order to achieve success should he have the chance to try again".
My words earning a hum of acceptance from my fellow German, though I could tell from her glare that she knew that I was deliberately trying to avoid answering her question without going into specifics, I was relieved when she didn't press the issue.
"I suppose that makes sense. Though I hope you'll give me a better explanation of what you intend to do after you've had some time to look at Student's after action reports. Cause if you still intend to have my ISD Commando's play a part in the campaign, I need to know what's expected of them before I remind them of the consequences of failure".
Accepting her argument with a nod of my head, though I suspected that there would only be minor alterations to the plans that have already been developed, I was once again reminded that Karina possessed the frightening ability to effortlessly to change her personality from serious, to playful.
"Since we only have 2 more hours before returning to our official duties, care for another go? I promise that this time I won't fight so hard to stay on top. Though if you wanna try another position, always up for new experiences".
I probably should say no since my schedule was rather busy this morning. But considering my first meeting was with a man who was rarely on time, I suppose it didn't matter if I was a bit late.
And as Karina swung a rather shapely leg over my lap, I ensured that my face wore a small smirk as I gave my answer to her rather inviting suggestion.
"The sacrifices I make for the Reich".
...
Though he wasn't a man that allowed himself to experience the feeling of optimism before a major operation, for he knew from painful experience that few, if any operation went precisely as intended, Todoh couldn't help but feel impressed with Zero's ability to not only establish well thought out contingencies for unexpected surprises, but also the man's ability to do so with the resources he had available to him.
"As it stands, thanks to recent reinforcements from Kyoto, we currently have enough resources to not only proceed with the main objective of this operation, but to also conceal our motives from Britannian forces. General Todoh, if you would be so kind to go over the details for the upcoming mission".
Nodding his head, and ignoring the way his direct subordinates seemed to preen at having the room's attention shift away from the masked man and onto him, Todoh proceeded to go over the upcoming operation.
"As you all know, while Britannia has indeed suffered heavy losses during the course of the past month, their ability to absorb these losses, as well as their ability to replace them, ensures that we are still unable to meet them on an even footing. Which is why we will be tailoring our current activities to increase our strength by hampering the Empire's the ability to do the same".
Allowing the members of the briefing a moment to process this information, the serious looking officer proceeded to expand on this vague objective.
"Due to the extent of the losses they have suffered during recent combat operations, Cornelia has ordered local manufactures to increase their rate of production in order to supplement the shipments she receives from the Homeland. Combined, it will only be a matter of time before she not only recovers the numerical strength she had possessed before Narita, but also surpasses it to the point where the task of driving them from this country becomes exceedingly more difficult. Thus in order to prevent this from happening, our forces will be not only destroy the facilities that have been converted to military production, but will also pilfer any thing that we can use to augment our strength".
Unsurprised that this announcement had been greeted with enthusiastic murmurings, for not even the most jaded solider could refuse the chance for better equipment, Todoh found his already present frown deepening as one of the members of the briefing broke protocol bu allowing his enthusiasm to get the better of him.
"You mean we get the chance to blow up Brit property AND rob them shit out of them? I knew letting you stuck up army types join us Black Knights was a good decision".
Wondering why this fool had ever been allowed to attend the meeting, for despite being part of the founding members of the Black Knights it was clear that the man displayed little, if any military skill, the frowning general slightly inclined his head to show support for the deserved rebuke.
"Tamaki for Kami's sake shut up. These 'stuck up army types' are our allies. So treat them with the respect they deserve".
Pleased that the now grumbling man had been put in his place, Todoh continued the briefing.
"Through our contacts in the settlement, we have identified 4 major facilities that possess not only the equipment we need, but have also been identified by Britannian to be vital to their recovery efforts. An ammunition plant in Yokohama. A knightmare repair facility Tokyo, which coincidentally is close to a factory that is responsible for the production of Suthlerlands. And finally, a energy filler plant in Nagoya . All but the knightmare factory will be targeted for pilfering".
As expected, this announcement was met with confused murmurings by the Black Knight's leadership. But Todoh only acknowledged this confusion when their second in command, a former school teacher of all things, spoke for the group.
"Apologises for asking this General Todoh, but why aren't we targeting the factory as well. If we can increase our strength by stealing more knightmares, shouldn't we take the chance to do so"?
Pleased to see that the man possessed enough sense to at least think before he spoke, the decorated veteran was less than surprised by Zero's decision to explain this decision.
"Knightmares by themselves are insufficient to increase our strength Ohgi. They need ammunition, fuel, and enough spare parts to keep them operational. If any one is lacking, you will quickly find that all you have done is provide Britannia with an easier target".
Pleased to see that the majority of the room agreed with the man's logic, though he noticed that some of them disliked the prospect of acknowledging Zero's argument on the basis that it was the masked man who said it, Todoh gave a single nod as he voiced his agreement with the masked man's words.
"Indeed. While our logistical needs are far smaller than that of the Empire, they are much better at sustaining their forces then we are. Hence the reason for prioritizing ammunition and fuel over recently produced knightmares. Though that is only one of the factors that has influenced this decision. For while Cornelia is intelligent enough to recognize the importance of logistics, intelligence suggests that she believes that we lack the ability to do the same".
Ignoring the less than pleasant mutterings that sprung from the reminder that Britannia possessed less than flattering opinions in regards to their enemies intelligence, Todoh gave the floor back to the masked man.
"And we are going to take advantage of that".
And as he proceeded to listen to Zero explain how they would be using the arrogance of their enemy to their advantage, Todoh couldn't help but wonder how long it would take for Cornelia to correct this failing.
For unlike her incompetent predecessor, Cornelia was more than willing to expend the time and effort to learn from her mistakes.
…..
Having expected her former classmate to act in a manner that would justify her perception that the Emperor only appointed the most eccentric soldiers to serve as his elite unit, Cornelia was rendered speechless as Nonette proceeded to salute her with all the seriousness that one would expect of her rank.
"Viceroy Cornelia. By order of his Imperial Majesty, I am to place myself under your authority until such time that the Emperor orders me to depart from your service".
Though initially stunned by the Knight of Nine's display of protocol, the purple haired princess nevertheless returned the salute with a barely noticeable nod.
"Then as his majesty's appointed governor of Area 11, I offer my gratitude for whatever assistance you can provide during your time under my command".
Her word's earning a nod from the lime haired woman, Cornelia cursed her brief moment of naivety as Nonette dropped her serious demeanor in favor of one that expressed her true nature.
"Now that we've gotten that out of the way, how about a hug for you're favorite former classmate? Its been ages since I've seen you Nellie, and I can honestly say that I'm looking forward to spending my 'vacation' here as a chance to reconnect. Nice to see that you've managed to keep your figure despite your new administrative duties. Though I suspect with your genes, any extra weight would go right to your ti...".
"Now is NOT the time to be discussing personal matters Nonette. And as for your so called vacation, I'm afraid that my schedule doesn't allow me too many chances for..reconnecting".
Grateful that she had kept Nonette's arrival a secret, for it would not do to have her troops see their commanding officer treated in such a fashion, the purple haired royal nevertheless felt the familiar stirrings of a Nonette induced headache as her self declared best friend proceeded to act like her normally childish self.
"Awwww don't be like that Nellie. With me around, I'm sure I can help you out. I mean, this wouldn't be the first time I helped you with your work load. Or do you forget how helpful I was during our days at the academy. I swear, at the start of our training, you were more uptight than the penny pinchers on the East Coast. But after I took you under my wing, you began to act like you didn't always have an iron rod up your ass".
Sighing at the shameless way Nonette described the first few months of their…relationship, Cornelia took a moment to form her thoughts before adopting a more serious expression.
"I trust that during your time here you wont be…instructing my sister in the same way you instructed me? Her situation is stressful enough as it is. And as such she doesn't need to deal with your...unique teaching methods".
Her words earning a pout from the immature knight, though she knew from personal experience that such expressions were never to be taken at face value, Cornelia was uncertain if she should welcome the change in topics, or curse it.
"Personally I don't see what the big deal is. I mean sure she's a little on the young side, though not as young as some of the princesses that have been married off in the past, and you have this belief that she should remain a virgin til she's approaching 40, but think about it rationally. Chuck could have used her as a means to convince the Eunuchs to join our side. And while Krueger is by no means an ally of Britannia, his stance on...immoral behavior is quite admirable. Or did you think those frozen hells he's constructed only hold political dissidents"?
Conceding the point with a slight nod, for she knew that the Emperor could have used her beloved sister to foster better relations with the men, if they could even be called that, whose penchant for depravity exceeded even the most corrupt members of her country's nobility, the purple haired princess frowned at the more relaxed looking woman as she provided her own opinion on the Reich's leader.
"Still doesn't mean that he will treat her right. And since that...man has expressed a less than flattery attitude towards the Empire, I believe he will do very little to intervene if any of his subordinates decide to target her for the sake of striking a blow against Britannia".
Having expected Nonette to agree with this argument, for like her she had witnessed similar instances when certain nobles, and to her lasting regret certain royals, lost her father's favor and had succumbed to the petty backstabbing that was a common feature of the upper levels of Britannian society, Cornelia's eyes widened in shock as one of the 12 strongest soldiers in the Holy Britannian Empire spoke up in defense of its most powerful enemy.
"You'd be surprised. Unlike you, I've actually had the privilege of fighting the man, and from what I saw, he wasn't the type to be deliberately cruel to those who were at his mercy. Of course if you belonged to a unit that had a reputation for harming innocent civilians, you'd probably get a bullet. But if not, he would at least make the attempt to ensure you would be taken care of. Which is a tad better than what our soldiers were doing to those that surrendered to us. Forget what the ratio was, but I believe it was something like 1/7 soldiers never got to see the inside of a prison camp. And those that did were hardly treated better than the Numbers in the Ghetto".
Acknowledging the point with a nod, Cornelia retained her silence as Nonette continued her surprising tirade. "Probably the only thing you would have to worry about is how our Euro puppets are gonna react once they find out that nearly 20 percent of their territory is gonna be handed over to the man who has prevented them from restoring their former glory. The blond bitch has already proven that assassination is impossible, but the same can't be said for Euphie. Up til now, none of your protective measures have been challenged, but that's only because your reputation prevents your enemies from trying. And since your future brother in law lacks the same fondness you have for the little princess, I suspect that his subordinates will fail to prioritize her safety above that of their leader". Frowning at the blunt, but nevertheless truthful observations of her former classmate, Cornelia somehow managed to keep her temper under control as she listened to the proposed solution to her problems.
"Probably the best thing to do in this situation is to have Euphie win over Krueger before the wedding. Of course such things would have to be done through the use of a chat screen since I doubt you'd allow your baby sister to travel without the equaivelt of an entire battalion at her back, but being able to establish a pre-marrige dialogue would probably go a long way to reducing her nervousness. Far more than if the first time she talked with the man was right after they say their 'I do's'. And before you go on about how you have no interst in letting her converse with the Empire's greatest enemy without a chaperone, I humbly volunteer to ensure that the conversation between the two remain strictly PG. I mean, I think it would be better if the poor girl had a chance to experience SOME fun before she gets tied down, but I know you're sort of a prude when it comes to that sort of thing. So I will do my best to make sure Euphie remains the unknowledge virgin until her wedding night".
Fighting the urge to throttle the grinning woman, though she knew that Nonette would quickly turn the tables on her like she had done numerous times during their day's at the academy, the purple haired royal took a deep calming breath before giving her answer.
"I suppose that would be appropriate considering the nature of your duties here. However, I do ask that you keep your...questionable behavior to a minimum. Its bad enough you have some sort of weird crush on our nation's most powerful enemy. But I don't want Euphie to turn into….well you".
Adopting a pouting expression, though she knew that her friend knew it to be mostly fake, Nonette quickly fell back into her usual smiling persona as she commented on Cornelia's instructions.
"I suppose I can do my best to follow your request since my…lessons would probably cause more harm than good. But you really shouldn't fault my taste in men. Cause national differences aside, Krueger does manage to uphold to the image of superiority Chuck is always going on about".
Choosing to ignore the rather disrespectful nickname that the LIME haired woman had chosen to bestow upon her father, the purple haired royal moved to question Nonette's interest in the one of the few men who had defeated her in battle.
Only to be interrupted by the woman's sudden interest in a topic that was more agreeable than discussing her sister's new role as a political tool.
'So tell me about you're issues in dealing with the locals? I know that you had to spend some time putting the fear of god into the local bureaucrats, but I would have that it would have been child's play to put down these terrorists".
Sighing at the reminder that her efforts of bringing peace to Area 11 had been less than successful, Cornelia moved to hell her self declared best friend of the issues she faced. And the solutions that could now be attempted with her help
….
As a result of his clandestine position within the Reich's diplomatic corps, he was allowed to get away with certain behaviors that would have hardly been tolerated if he had chosen to pursue a more...public career.
Of course his competence in the art of diplomacy would have caused his superiors to overlook several of his eccentricities, but since the role of an official diplomat required one to be polite to those whose intellectual capabilities were greatly inferior to his own, something that was always difficult for him to do for long periods of time, Colonel Han's Landa had decided to devote his energies to dealing with those who preferred to work in the shadows.
One of the perks of operating in this type of role was that schedules possessed a degree of flexibity that was rare to come by in more official positions.
For it was recognized that the agents who had been tasked with promoting their nation's interests from the shadows needed to leave room for unexpected delays. Usually caused by the inability to prevent more public concerns from affecting one's schedule.
Thus, when he had a scheduled meeting with the Chancellor at 8am, he was more likely to show up closer to 10 since the nature of his job meant that he had to triple check that every scrap of relevant info was presented in a manner that was easy to follow.
However on this particular morning, the middle aged Austrian had decided that the nature of the information he possessed meant that he had to at least try and migitate his superior's annoyance before presenting his...report.
But it appeared on this day, Chancellor Krueger, who was normally both an earlier riser and a night owl, was not waiting for him in his office at the appointed time. And despite his best efforts to inquire after his whereabouts, the on duty ISD guards would only tell him that he was heavily engaged in critical matters of state. And that anyone who disrupted him would feel the full wrath of Director Richter.
Having no desire to provoke the anger of the most sadistic woman in the Reich, Landa did what he always did when presented with an unexpected delay in his schedule.
Coming up with new ways to frustrate the external enemies of Europe by reading the published works of the more...outspoken political philosophers of the pre Great War Europe.
But just as he was getting sucked into the intriguing, but impractical teachings of a man named Marx, his master walked into the room with clear signs that he had pulled yet another exhausting all nighter.
"Good morning Hans. I apologize for my lateness, but last night's...work load prevented me from getting a decent nights rest".
Suspecting that the nature of said work load probably had something to do with finally giving a certain German woman what she wanted, for the Chancellor was sporting the same sort of tired grin that all young men wore after a long period of sexual fulfillment, the middle aged Austrian accepted the apology with his usual grace before getting to the point of their discussion.
"No apologies are needed Chancellor. Especially since the news I have is...less than pleasant".
Pulling out the volatile letter, Landa handed it to his currently frowning master, and waited for the inevitable explosion.
Only there was no loud or violent display of rage. Which if anything made the clandestine diplomat more concerned.
"Can you confirm that the source of...this is authentic"?
Swiftly nodding his head, for it was clear that the Chancellor was in one of those rare moods where the slightest misstep could have one banished to the Gulag, Landa expanded his answer.
"I can indeed Chancellor. This...letter was given to me at the same time as the marriage proposal. But I can verify that this letter come from someone high up in the Imperial ranks. Not the Emperor perhaps, but undoubtedly someone who has almost as much authority".
Waiting for Krueger's answer, the middle aged Austria was caught off guard by the direction the younger man's musings took as he examined the name that was displayed at the bottom of the sheet of paper.
"Vincent Vandal. Interesting. Karina recently survived a potentially deadly encounter with an assassin who claimed to have been following the orders of someone named V.V. When pressed for details as to why he was ordered to try and kill her, along with various other things that are strictly on a need to know basis, the assassin told her that it was because her efforts had made me all but untouchable for foreign agents. I wonder if I would have gotten this message sooner IF Karina had been a touch more...unlucky".
Deciding that it was best to maintain his silence as Krueger pondered this piece of information, Landa managed to contain his relief as he was given clear proof that the Chancellor of the Gross Europa Reich was still capable of higher thinking even when he was no doubt filled with justified rage.
"Here's what I want you to do. In 3 days time, I will be giving my response to the Emperor's offer to marry his daughter. At which time, in addition to delivering my answer, I want you to convey to whoever you deal with that I would be most...intrigued to establish a dialogue with the author of this second letter. I suspect that whoever the Brit's send to treat with you, they will be ordered to deliver my responses to the correct recipients. I trust that you can manage this"?
Nodding his head to show that he would take care of it, the middle aged Austrian fought the urge to sigh in relief as the Chancellor dimissied him with a wave of his hand.
Yes, it payed to be a competent subordinate.
For he suspected that if someone else had delivered this news, one whose talents and track record were less polished than his, the most they could hope for would be a demotion, if not a short term stay in Siberia.
For it was a close guarded secret that the Chancellor possessed a hatred for a Britannian that managed to surpass that of the Emperor himself. And the only reason he knew about it was because over 7 years ago, he walked on a scene that few would have expected from the man who had secured Europe's victory at the Battle of Kursk.
A drunken military hero, who couldn't make up his mind if he should laugh or curse at the news of a assassinated Empress.
...
Aaaaaannnnd Thats enough for now XD.
Pleased with the overall direction of the chapter, since it more or less follows the vision I had when I first came up with this story XD.
And now to summarize what has happened.
1st Segment: A scene that focuses on the Vampire of Britannia. Think its safe to say that this would be an accurate portrayal of him when he doesn't have the violence of the Front Lines to worry about. Of course his...methods are rather inefficient considering the Euro Brits want to rule their serfs, not just an empty wasteland, but considering the general policy Britannian has for rebellious areas, think this degree of...violence can be explained. And not to worry.
2nd Segment: The morning after Krueger and Richter have...ahem...done the deed. Think I managed to do a good job with their banter. Have plans on how this relationship with play out with the upcoming marriage Also gave some more MINOR hints about his plan to get Operation Reclamation back on schedule. If your a military history buff, you know who General Student is, and what Operation Mercury was XD.
3rd Segment: Black Knights and JLF war council. Believe that what I managed to create is plausible since Todoh and the JLF has enough power to remain, at least for the time being, more or less equals rather than the prideful remennants of a defeated army. Todoh strikes me as the type of guy who would not allow pride in one's service to get in the way of cooperating to a common goal, but his subordinates, don't believe the majoirty have that vision. Anyways, the segment was also used to show that Zero IS learning to trust other's judgements, hence the reason for their list of targets. Also the decision to prioritize ammo, fuel, and parts over knightmares is because of the saying that 'amateurs study tactics, Professional's study logistics'. Knightmares are good weapons to have, but like the Germans showed in World War II, if you don't have the fuel or ammo to arm them, their useless.
4th Segment: FINALLY got to Cornelia meeting with the Knight of Nine. Think I managed to keep her personality more or less in line with how she's usually portrayed in other fanfics XD. Also, her having a minor crush/admiration for Krueger was planned from the beginning. Both as a means to provide future entertainment with another violent female (I.e. Richter), but also as a way to help speed up Cornelia's development as a character.
5th Segment: Krueger FINALLY getting the note from V.V. And some hint as to why he would react to this. But to those who might have missed it, since this story follows the canon timeline...what event happened 7 years ago XD. Will expand in future as to why Krueger hates everyone's favorite body jumping mother.
And now to address some questions/comments.
Fortitude501
Always appreciate your comments, and your comments about the V4's will be considered.
That being said, the resources used for the German Rocket Program where rather extensive, could have been better used if they went to Jet Research/other venues, so will have to give it some thought on how to do it. Especially since I'm re-reading a very well written comic series where Hitler diverted those resources to a different wunderwaffen project. When first writing this story, had played with the idea of having the Reich possess their own group of 'enhanced soliders, I.e. Geass soliders) but I don't think the concept of the Panzermench would work here XD.
Chancellor ZVE
Question: Cornelia brought up that Euphemia needs to select her own knight for personal security since Nonette's escort duty is only temporary for the duration of the marriage preparations and ceremony, but is Euphemia going to be allowed to keep a knight bodyguard anymore considering she is going to eventually settle within Reich territory? Having a Britannian princess inside Reich borders is tolerable for the sake of a somewhat prolonged peace as well as some territory returned to the Reich, but having a knight bodyguard might be pushing their tolerance a little too much when the Reich can provide some security of their own. Lack of trust will be there, I will admit, but if it's for the Reich's overall benefit in the end, then I'm sure whatever security is provided for Euphemia will be professional about it.
Answer: Still up in the air about that since I am still uncertain if she will still be considered a Princess of the Empire after the marriage. If she does choose a knight, they would probably lose their title if they chose to remain in her employ.
Question: Is Villetta still amongst the living at this point in time? All I read about was that she was found in Mao's travel bag and C.C. used "less than pleasant methods" to handle her, and that can have so many meanings from just killing her, to memory manipulations, to even outright mental damage. It's not that I care, I just want to know if her suffering will extend further into the story or not
Answer: Will address this later since its not relevant at this time/fine tuning idea of what I want to happen lol.
Fuhrer of Europe
Question: The marriage between Krueger and Euphemia is supposed to be a form of peace between the Empire and the Reich, no matter how temporary that might be, and it was decided that Nonette Enneagram is to be the temporary escort for Princess Euphemia for the wedding preparations; however, it has been established that there is definitely some friction (understatement of the century) between Richter and Enneagram dating back to the First Great War. So my question is, what's stopping the Second Great War from starting when Richter and Enneagram come within eye contact of each other?
Answer: Going with the assumption that while these two women would gladly fight each other, whether its due to jealousy or sake of revenge, they will restrain their violent impulses because they are ordered to. However doesn't prevent them from doing some...friendly sparring. Of course that doesn't prevent them from using words.
Question Now here is the other silly question I had to ask since one of ZVE's questions inspired this: "Which individual would you rather meet face-to-face?"
1. Director Richter in a violently jealous mood about anything related to the Chancellor and you are the nearest practice dummy nearby.
2. The Vampire who declares you a spy just because he wants another victim.
3. Nina gone mental concerning anything bad happening to Euphemia and is a danger to everyone close by, with you being the closest.
Some people may think that is like asking what kind of cancer you prefer, but some people also can't help but think on which could possibly be the least traumatizing.
Answer: Its an amusing question, but will answer as best as I can since some answers require explanation.
1. If you were a female 'practise dummy', would be slightly better in terms of health. Though Richter is nice enough to provide full blown medical care (which is near if not equal to that used by the 'mircale' performing Britannians)
2. Think its best to put a bullet in your heat than subject yourself to that.
3. As long as your not a piece of furniture, and are white, you'd be ok.
Anyways. Hope you all enjoyed this.
Reviews are wanted, flames not.
Til next time
Heil Europa.