"The Unified States of Allied Militaries (USAM) was created after the Western Split between the Oceania nations, the Anatolia rise, and the Eastern-Western continental split.

With NATO's collapse and regional blocks superseding one global system, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, and Australia formalized USAM to secure their security, trade, space, and innovation interests. They combined dozens of past agreements and treaties, such as AUKUS, the US-Japan Alliance, and multiple others, into one organization.

There are multiple Pillars to this organization, outlined in the founding Charter. Pillar 1) Collective Defense to all member states. Pillar 2) Protection for maritime and astralis trade and special resource sharing agreements 3) Defense industrial coordination for purchase, maintenance, and/or repairs. Pillar 4) Technological and innovation collaboration, Pillar 5) Joint astralis outpost and security

The Military Alliance is a three-tier system for member states. Tier 1) are core members who provide the most resources and infrastructure to the alliance. In return for their investment, they gain a seat at the USAM Council. Tier 2) are members who provide military assistance; however, they do not meet the qualifications to join the Council but can participate in the USAM Parliamentary Assembly. Tier 3) are partner nations who ally or coordinate with USAM but are not members of the organization. Tier 4) Are considered strategic protectorate that USAM Parliamentary and Council consider vital to their interests." – Oracle



April 9th, 2068 (military calendar)

Salva, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie

Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore



*****

Exiting the LIRV, Benjamin Ford stretched as he turned to the massive four-story structure where the Minutemen and other Special Forces were residing. The building base was smooth gray stone, with burnt umber wood panels covering the rest. Mini decks spread around the sides, where the officers had claimed.

From what Ford understood, this higher-class apartment building was used by the city's elite, support staff for the Palace next door, and diplomats. Anyone with money, influence, and power stayed there.

Ryder turned toward his teammates and said, "Barrett, I wanted everyone rested."

After getting the acknowledgment from the Sergent First Class, the Comanche Captain and Warrant Officer-1 departed the group, heading to the Minutemen-occupied City Palace.

"Where are they going?" Fraeya asked.

"Debriefing," Ford replied. "They do that after every mission."

"Do not forget that the Bossman is a King now," Higgins jokingly said.

"Debriefing?" Fraeya said. "Oh, you mean like what they did to me? I am surprised you will succumb to that torture of your own people."

There were some chuckles from some members of Comanche from Fraeya's comments. However, Ford knew it wasn't from a silly perspective. The idea is that officers go into a complex meeting after every mission to overview every detail, especially in a world they know little about. The humorous truth was that the elf girl might have had a better experience.

Hearing the next group of LIRVs stopping, Ford watched as Horatius exited their vehicles except for the luperca, who was riding in the cargo bay because of his size. Some Legionaries struggled to get out as they were not used to Altaerrie vehicles, making Ford wonder if it was their first time in a car.

From his limited experience with Alagore culture, Ford learned that while the people have advanced vehicles such as walkers and wagonettes, these vehicles for civilian purposes didn't seem familiar. As Fraeya explained, crafting complex magitech was costly, making him wonder if the average person couldn't afford such luxury.

"Hey, Sergeant First Class," Natilite said. "Is it okay if Fraeya and I head out? They reopened the bathhouse."

Some of the team's male members cracked jokes about the subject, confusing the Templar and the Elf Girl. While this was strange to the Americans, based on the girl's reaction, this custom was normalized in this world, so it never crossed their minds that it could be considered a joke. The nerdy Sergeant recalled reading stories from history videos and fantasy manga about how this was common in federal and classical cultures.

"Why?" Fraeya asked. "It is normal for you to shower together; why is bathing funny?"

"Well," Barrios said. "When you put it like that."

Gregory Barrett got between the team members, calming everyone. "Enough. Comanche, hit the showers. Fraeya, Nat, go have fun. Just don't leave the city."

As the women departed, the team went inside and went to the converted armories. Comanche were getting out of their battlesuits to be recharged and repaired by the technicians. Some members of the team were boasting about beating back the Aristocracy. The Twins were commenting on what they would do tonight with their dates and fantasizing about the bathhouses.

"What do you think of our new allies?" Gonzales asked.

When Ford disconnected his exoskeleton and placed the damaged sections in a bin. "They seem to be able to handle themselves," he said.

"And thank God for that," Wallace said. "I don't mind holding the Militia hands, but Hispana is supposed to be the big boys in this world. If we had to hold their hands, we're screwed."

"I get that," Barrios said. "I guarantee they are having the same conversation about us."

"Then we have nothing to fear," Forest interjected. "If the rumors and their namesake are true, they are the descendants of the Roman Empire. I would hope they live up to that reputation."

"I know there are a lot of similarities," Ford said. "Do you believe that?"

"They call themselves Legionaries, Hispana," Forest replied.

"And let us not forget, they worship the Republic," Barrett said. "Their armor and ranks resemble the Empire. The terms they use."

"And explains the evolved version of Latin," Higgins said.

"The question is how?" Wallace asked.

"Through the Bridge, of course," Ford said.

"I get that," Wallace replied. "But, how? You think that would have been recorded or clues were left."

The armory door opened, and the Minutemen Combat Team-Viking entered. Their uniforms were messy and had an intense odor from being in combat for days.

"Viking," Forest said. "Welcome back to the Den."

"Did you guys break through?" Ford asked.

"We did," Graham replied. "We were able to take out the amplifier tower that was destroying our drones."

Surprised by the stern response, Ford turned to his Staff Sergeant, who reacted similarly. They had a successful mission; however, something was off. That was when he noticed Sergeant Patterson was missing.

"Hey," Ford asked. "Where is Patterson?"

Viking's Sergeant Graham responded as he started dismounting from his battlesuit. "KIA. He was discovered by an Orc and killed."

"Weren't you equipped with a cloaking module?" Higgins asked.

"Yes," Bailey said. "But they had one of those beast humanoids with them. Neko."

Graham closed the weapons locker and said, "Our cloak gimmick allowed us to slip easily, but the wind was against us. That damn feline smelt us. Then they got the jump on us while we were pulling back."

Ford turned toward Barrett and saw the sign not to respond, something he struggled to do anyway. It was never easy to lose a brother-in-arm. With all the modern technology and state-of-the-art training the United States had, something could always go wrong.

"Are you going to do a twenty-one-cheer salute?" Barrios asked.

"They don't sell his favorite beer here," Bailey said. "But we will."

Watching Viking head toward the showers, Ford stood there thinking of their lost comrade. He didn't know him well, being new to the Minutemen. Still, the Sergeant understood that losing a brother was never easy. A twenty-one-cheer salute was a team's tradition of honoring their lost brethren with their favorite alcohol and telling stories.

Barrios exited the showers and started getting dressed. "Hey, Ben. Do you want to come to the bar with us? Going to get slammed tonight."

"Thank you for the offer," Ford replied. "I will pass. I think I am going to go around town for a bit. Get some fresh air."

"If you get bored," Wallace said as he entered. "You know where we will be."



*****



Listening to the gentle, artificially built stone waterfall steaming hot water into the large bath, Natilite leaned back as she embraced the full sensation of the spa. With the scented candles, her once-tense muscles started easing up, and she felt the liquid brushing against her feathers. The Valkyrie was able to lower her guard and enjoy the moment.

"I needed this."

"I hate to admit it," Fraeya said. "I forgot how it felt to be a woman. This feels no nice."

"There is nothing like laying back, letting your body feel gentle again."

"I have to admit," Fraeya said. "I enjoy the Altaerrie hot showers, but they miss the relaxation. I feel like I have to rush, not enjoying the moment."

Hot baths are a known luxury. Laying naked within hot springs, or in this case, artificial hot springs powered by an Altaerrie generator, is a luxury. Using the natural water that flowed under the city mixed with smoothing milk, a costly addition, the Templar believed they deserved it. Lovely leaf petals added a natural touch.

Based on her comrades' reactions, it became clear the Americans didn't have a similar culture regarding luxury. This made her conclude that when this spa requested a generator, the Americans didn't fully understand what it was for, which she found funny. However, this difference confused her as bathing was regular within Lat territory. Strangely, they were acting closer to Vampires.

The Valkyrie glanced over at the wood elf, who was also enjoying the bath. She could tell the stress of the past few months had faded away.

"Fraeya."

"Yes?"

"I want to say I am proud of you. You have come a long way since I met you. All in a short period of time."

"Thank you. It has been hard adapting to soldier life. This was the life I never expected to venture into. I can understand the change. It was not easy for a woman to transition into a fighter. If you need anything, please tell me."

Fraeya began combing her hair, focusing on a knot. "I just hope I am making my Father proud."

"I believe he would be," Natilite said. "We will find him."

"You do not think he is dead?"

"I do not know, but he is important. Being one of the few experts in orilla, they need him."

The elf girl held her legs together, comforting herself. "I hope."

Natilite saw the drama in her new friend's eyes. She missed her family. Understanding that it was never easy to lose family, especially recently, she decided to change the subject. "How is your research?" she asked.

Fraeya lowered herself into the soapy water, sighing at the question. "It reminds me of the academy. The never stopping questions."

"Is that bad? I am surprised it has been this complicated."

"Not really. The issue is that Altaerrie has no terms or words related to magic and magitech. I have to speak as if I am talking to a child."

"The Altaerrie as children?"

The elf girl carefully looked at the Valkyrie. Her Sharpe eyes suddenly got wider and frankly shook sideways. "I did not mean to insult."

Natilite gently placed her hands over her lips, giggling. "I know. I found it funny."

"It has been hard. I am a student, not a teacher, so I am not used to this."

"I believe in you. Have you attempted to find help? I will speak with Tempass Finnea. If it is related to the Bridge, I think they will spare one of their mages to assist."

"Thank you, Templar."

"Fraeya..., you do not have to be as formal with me. We are friends now."

The elf girl's eyes widened with brightness. She hurriedly approached the Valkyrie and grabbed the flying human's hand. "Do you mean it? We are friends?"

Finding the response confusing, Natilite responded, "Yeah, I think so. We have been through a lot. I would like to be friends."

"Like you and the Captain?"

This question caught the Templar off guard more than she expected. She couldn't help but turn bright red. A slight tension in her chest grew. "Wha..., what do you mean by that?"

Fraeya blinked her eyes and swam backward. "I meant, they have been commenting on how close you two have been. You two have become close friends, and I find that impressive."

"What would that be impressive?"

"I do not know. I have heard stories about Templar's struggle to befriend, and with how different the Altaerrie are, I was worried they would not like you."

The wood elf then poked her index fingers, staring at them. "I did not have many friends growing up. Either moving around with Father. Relocating because elves hated that I am a half breed, or living with Lats. With my father being considered a disgrace, it was hard. But I have made so many since being here."

As Natilite listened, she couldn't help but find the elf girl adorable but good-hearted. In some manner, this had been a second chance for her new elf friend. New people mean no cultural baggage to weigh each other down. This was also an experience that she had.

The Comanche mage was correct regarding the life of a Templar. It is glorious, having fame and fortune. However, there is a disconnect. It was hard to make friends with those who were not genetically modified. A Templar knows many but is close to few.

With Comanche and their people, it has been a change of pace, something Natilite wasn't expecting. They have no such warriors on Earth, meaning no culture developed for such super warriors.

However, her mind raced toward Mathew Ryder, thinking about their many conversations—the fight at the abandoned fort and more. "I can understand how you feel. I have grown to respect Matt since we met. Being taken by Kallem and then surviving the wild while protecting a child. Most men on Alagore would never survive that challenge. That is why we are close friends."

"I remember him being taken," Fraeya said. "I was surprised at how loyal his team was. I hope we all can remain friends forever."

"Speaking of friends," Natilite said. "I see you have healed relations with Ben."

Fraeya glanced at the water in shame. "I think so. I feel like an excetra, blaming him for saving my life."

"Do not be so harsh," Natilite replied. "You were in an emotional state. Be happy that you came to terms."

As the conversation continued, Natilite saw Fraeya enter a depressed mood. To cheer herself up, the elf formed a water ball in the air from the bath water.

Watching the playful waterfall gave Natilite an idea. She glanced at the smooth, soapy water. Then, an idea appeared in her head that made her jittery. "Fraeya. Can you make bubbles?"

At first, the elf girl looked confused. She glanced down at the spa water and then smiled. The elf placed her hands under water. Her hands glowed, and bubbles mixed with soup ripped across the bath's surface, causing the two women to giggle.



*****



Walking through the Palace doors, Mathew Ryder saw dozens of Minuteman staff working hard. They were coordinating the other Combat Fire Teams in the field or preparing for future operations.

"Looks like everyone is busy," Ryder commented.

"It has been a busy few weeks," King said. "I heard Aristocracy Franolgno Brigaton pressed against 1st Brigade in the north."

"It is just a diversion," Ryder said. "Direct resources and attention from Salva."

"They are a present bunch," King said.

When the Palace security allowed the two Minutemen to acknowledge Ryder's rank, the militiaman addressed him as Duke. This wasn't the first time many townsfolk had accepted him and his daughter as city political leaders. The two MPs were subtle, but he could see they negatively reacted to being called a royal title. On the other hand, his friend made a quick joke about his installed royal statues.

King glanced at the silent Captain, then placed his hands on his hips. "I am sorry; I didn't mean to offend."

"You weren't," Ryder said. "I am just worried about how people will view me being called that."

"All right, Matt," King asked. "What is on your mind?"

Ryder suddenly regretted saying what was on his mind, seeing that he had opened Pandora's box. "Forget it."

King grabbed Ryder's arm, stopping them both. "What is on your mind?"

Ryder placed his hands on his hips in frustration. "I have been hearing comments. What does the team think of all this royal nonsense?"

"Why does their opinion matter, Matt?"

"Don't give me that; you saw those MPs, and they are not the first. No one wants to say it, but I am starting to be seen as a joke by my people."

"And if you want to know if the team is solid?" King asked.

"Correct," Ryder responded. "I am starting to see that balancing both worlds could ruin my reputation. The whole Ceka situation alone... I sometimes wonder if my wife would be disappointed with how I turned out. Things used to be so simple."

"Do you want my opinion, Matt?"

"Of course."

"Shut up."

It took a moment for Ryder to react, as that was not the response he expected. "What?"

"I personally think what you and Hackett are doing is strange. A lordship? I will admit that the situation at the Redvale Guild left a knot in my gut."

"So, I did make the wrong decision?"

King didn't hesitate, jabbing his finger into the Captain's chest with determination. "I did not say that. I am not in your shoes. Those MPs are not. Comanche is not. None of us have a royal Princess as a daughter with thousands of years of alien history and culture to navigate. I can sit here as a moral judge without having to deal with any consequences, but I was not forced to make a significant policy decision out of thin air that could have lasting implications. None of us have to make a decision or live with it, so who gives a damn."

The Warrant Officer then aggressively poked the Captain in the chest again. "The Colonel has confidence; Nat has confidence. The people of Salva have noticed. I might not agree with everything, but I have confidence. The issue is that you need to have that confidence and hell with anyone who disagrees. That is what Carol would want."

Matthew Ryder took a deep breath and glanced around to gather his thoughts. He then turned back to his friend with a deep, stressful breath. "You're right," he said.

"If course I am right," King said. "I am your XO. It is my job to slap nonsense into a superior officer."

The two chuckled at the horrible joke. They shook hands before continuing their journey into the Palace, walking into the front office section that inhabited the facility's main chamber. This room was once the foremost gathering of the formal leader of Salva. Because of its size, it was the ideal location to place the central support staff for the Minutemen Headquarters.

Right off the bat, Ryder couldn't help but feel something was off. He couldn't determine if it was related to a well-performing mission or his insecurities. He had a moment of clashing, but an emotion he had never experienced appeared.

Captain Smith, who was standing next to the front office, giggled.

"What is so funny?" Ryder asked.

"What you said was cute," Smith said. "Your daughter isn't here, and you noticed that. You miss her."

"I know she is not here," Ryder said. "She is doing an outreach to a fishing village with the Ambassador."

"That does not mean you don't miss her," Smith said. "Honestly, many here do. I have never seen so many grown men miss a child. I guess delivering coffee daily would leave an impression. It is shocking how the little things matter."

The Captain didn't realize how much of an impression his daughter made at the Minutemen Headquarters. Since arriving at Salva, she has dressed in her maid's clothing and passed water and snacks to the working staff. Even after ascending to the station of Princess of Salva, the dual-eyed colored girl continued this ritual when she was not in meetings with the Council.

However, what Smith said was also true. While he knew that Assiaya was off on a mission, a part of him missed her greeting when coming home. This was a feeling he had never experienced before. Even when his wife was alive, she was always home when he got home.

"Do you know when my daughter and the Ambassador left?" Ryder asked.

"I..., do not know," Smith said. "Assiaya left here this morning, and the village isn't that far, so they should be back soon. But I don't know."

Finding the answer acceptable and not wanting to bagger Smith. Especially since she was his superior.

He started filling out paperwork before heading to Hackett for his unit debrief. Once she got home, he debated what to do tonight with Assayia. The Captain wanted to show her some American movies on his laptop.

"Speak of the devil," Smith said.

Finding the comment strange, Ryder turned around and saw the Ambassador, Susian West, enter the Palace. Seeing that his plans could be sped up, a surprising sense of joy consumed him.

"Welcome, Ambassador," Ryder said. "I do not think we have properly introduced."

West approached the front desk, staring at her tablet, refusing to acknowledge the Comanche Captain. "So, you are the Junior Officer playing Lord."

Ryder closed his eyes, frustrated by the comment. He turned to his friend, who shrugged before turning toward the female Captain, who stared at him and warned him to shrug it off.

"I am ready when you are, Duke," West said condescendingly.

The Captain awkwardly glanced at the woman but decided to take the Smith's advice and remained silent. Now that it was time for the after-action debrief, he started following the Minutemen officer but suddenly stopped as if a freight train had impacted him with full force.

Out of nowhere, Ryder felt like he was hit by a freight train and realized something was wrong. He turned toward the Ambassador and asked, "Where is Assiaya?"

"What?" West asked, partially glancing toward the Comanche Captain with annoyance.

"You heard me."

"Watch it, soldier boy. The Army didn't want the State Department involved in this royal nonsense, so be it. Besides, if I wanted to play babysitter, I would have a little monster myself."

"Matt." Smith then looked around and realized why the Comanche Captain was frantic about it.

Feeling nothing but boiling anger through his veins, Ryder turned to his XO and saw the same concern. The two nodded, and then the Captain marched past the two women and headed downstairs to Colonel Hackett.

Seeing the reinforced door, Ryder was about to barge inside but was stopped by Rommel King.

"Boss," King said. "Take one breath and reform."

Ryder wanted to push his friend away but saw the wisdom in it. Taking one deep breath and readjusting his posture to look more professional, he realized he was about to disrespect his mentor by bargaining inside and making demands. "Thank you."

"That is my job. Now, let's do this."

The Captain knocked on the door and heard the Ambassador descending the stairs. Wanting to get inside quickly, he entered the office when he heard the signal. He saw his mentor at his desk, going through recently translated documents.

As the Colonel prepared to acknowledge Ryder, he quickly said, "Sir. I have a question I need to ask ASAP. Please."

Hackett stared at him with confused eyes but noticed the seriousness in the Captain's eyes. The Colonel dropped the document and leaned into his chair. "Shoot."

"Where is Assiaya?"

The older gray-haired Caucasian man with fading black hair tilted his head in confusion. "She is with the Ambassador at the village...."

Hearing the door open, Ryder turned and saw Susian West entering the room, which confused the Minuteman Colonel's eyes.

"Colonel," West said. "Your Captain here was very disrespectful to me. I want to know what kind of operation you are running?"

"I will answer that after you tell me where the Princess of Salva is," Hackett responded.

"Not this again," West said. "Why are you asking me? Ask this Duke here. He is the one playing Lord."

Ryder quickly turned toward the Ambassador to respond. However, he heard his mentor say, "Captain," warning him not to intervene. It was taking all his strength not to comment on the situation as his mind raced to where his daughter could be, but he stood at attention.

William Hackett directed his attention to the Ambassador. "You were supposed to go to the fishing village with the Princess in a diplomatic outreach and secure a new foodline," he said.

"With all due respect, Colonel," West said. "I am a state official. I do not do entry-level missions like going to backwater fishing villages. Isn't that why you two created this role-playing game in the first place?"

Hackett leaned back in his chair, placing his figures together while daggering eyes at the Ambassador. "Let me get this straight. When I pick up this phone to call the Leutenant General, I am going to tell him that you left a twelve-year-old girl, our Princess and the last survivor of the formal regime of these lands that is critical to establishing our creditability and swing potential allies to our side - and let's not forget Matt's daughter, who survived six years as a slave and for a week barely surviving being hunted down. How many more Ands can I add to this before making that call?"

Ryder couldn't help but glance toward the Ambassador as the room went silent. The woman's eyes widened before being replaced with panic when she realized the gravity of the situation. He was utterly shocked by his mentor's attitude toward the official State Department diplomat. Typically, they are given a tremendous amount of respect as civilians overseeing the military; however, he knew the Minutemen Colonel had her.

A red light appeared on the intercom, and Hackett leaned over and pressed it. "I will respond in a minute. Also, please contact Lieutenant General Sherman."

"I will," Smith said. "However, I just got word from the Northeast gate. Assiaya arrived with Yeldan and a member of the Elstina family. Apparently, she went to the village without the Ambassador."

A sense of relief swept over Mathew Ryder, knowing that his daughter was safe—at least long enough for him to kill her for this stunt. He could see the same sense of relief from Hackett and West. His mentor was happy for the girl's safety; however, he could tell the diplomat was thrilled that her career possibility was about to implode.

"Thank you, Captain," Hackett said. "I want you to get Assiaya here ASAP."

The Colonel switched channels, and Sherman answered. The two senior officers spoke about the incident for about forty minutes, with some fire words in the mix. The Captain or Ambassador was not allowed to speak but only to listen, adding to the tension.

The office door opened, and Captain Smith and Princess Assiaya entered the room. The Princess ran over and hugged her father.

"I am sorry," Assiaya said. "I did not mean to cause trouble."

"It is okay," Ryder said. "We will talk later."

"I am glad you are all right, Assiaya," Hackett said. "Now, what happened? And I want the truth. No sidestepping."

The dual-eyed Princess took a deep breath as she understood the gravity of the situation. "I went to the Ambassador officer so we could go the Nagal fishing village. I was turned away multiple times, and the final time, I was kept waiting for hours. Then I discovered she was napping the entire time."

The mood in the room changed, and the Colonel stared directly at three Ambassadors. West glanced toward Assiaya with hatred in her eyes.

"Let me guess," Hackett said. "You went off alone?"

"Not alone," Assiaya said. "The House of Elstina sent their oldest son as an escort, and I recruited two Militiamen. I know how dangerous it is out there, and you said you approved me going to the village."

"I know you do," Hackett said. "And under the understanding of guidance and protection by our security."

"I thought," Assiaya replied. "The Militia counted."

Sensing the tense atmosphere she had created, the Princess quickly added, "But.... I have good news. The village agreed to the terms. They wanted to sell fish, but they requested military protection. I told them I had to discuss this with you first."

"At least something good came from this mess," Sherman said over the phone. "Colonel, follow up with this lead. Ambassador West, after you go to the village and secure that supply line, I will meet you at Indolass to continue this conversation."

When the Lieutenant General hung up, the Ambassador quickly left the room.

Hackett then rubbed the top of his nose in frustration. "All right. We have our orders, so we will follow through on them. Next time Assiaya, come to me."

"I am sorry," Assiaya said. "I wanted to prove that I am not useless."

"You are not useless," Ryder said.

"Saying that," Hackett said. "While I might not be thrilled with how this unfolded, thank you for not going off alone and being somewhat responsible. Be careful doing that, though. There is a chain of command; please follow it."

Assiaya bowed. "I am sorry."

"Now that it is settled, both for you to relax."





April 10th, 2068 (Military Calendar)

Hiplose Woods, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie

Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore



*****



Staring at the City-State of Salva, Kallem Verliance saw the heavy defenses of the Altaerrie position. Sparks and light explosions as his forces assaulted the city, attempting to breach the walls.

"The Altaerrie have been more fortifiable than expected," Kallem stated.

"Their layer defense has been formal," Korva responded. "Look here."

The Lord of Verliance walked to his recently promoted Field Marshal, who was staring at a crystal screen attached to a four-legged crawler. The resolution was the typical fluid, but being so close to the battle, there was some additional distortion.

The perspective came from one of the many seeker constructs flying through the area, recording every detail. A section from the 13th Order, approximately four hundred fifty men, assaulted the southeast region of the wall where the Unity attacked a few days ago.

The section was fighting valiantly against the Altaerrie, occupying a critical hill close to the city. An intense firefight was being waged as his warriors attempted to reach the base of the Salva wall while the enemy was defending.

The screen switched to a broader view of the city. As Aristocracy artillery came to strike the city in an attempt to provide cover for their attacking force, multiple turrets sprayed the sky, neutralizing most of their bombardment, with only a few able to penetrate their defenses.

"And this is why you have failed to breach the city?" Kallem asked.

"Yes, my Lord," Korva said. "Our Unity allies have identified additional missile turrets closer to Indolass. They seem to have further reach than the ones I showed you."

"And what about our artillery?" Kallem asked. "I have heard we have sustained casualties?"

"Some," Korva responded as he displayed a regional map on the screen with marks of fire support locations. "It is not as concerning as the troops are making it, but we have sustained some losses."

"Are you not relocating them after a volley?" Kallem asked.

"Of course I am, My Lord," Korva said. "The issue is not our tactics."

"Then what?"

"The Altaerrie artillery can respond faster than we are used to. After every volley, our units must relocate because the enemy will respond within minutes. Sometimes less."

"That quickly? And accurate?"

"Correct. I spoke with Commander Stadius Fabillus about the matter. His people believe the Altaerrie have superior elecaves technology, a detection device that tracks objects with electromagnetic wavelengths. Somehow, they can track our shells when firing and discover our location through geometry."

The Vampire Lord soaked up all this new information, attempting to devise a strategy for the Altaerrie different technological abilities. Initially, it was forgivable for those who believed the other worlders enchanted weapons were no threat against magitech. While distinct and inferior in some areas compared to their tools, the ruler of Verliance could see that this had allowed their new enemies to surpass others, not being restricted to magic.

With weeks of no-stop bombardment against the city, it had achieved little. While area defense was not unknown to the Great Powers on Alagore, utilizing amplifiers to shield critical targets, it was the mannerisms the Altaerrie deployed that were a surprise to them. While they have identified some energy-based lances, most of their weapons have been kinetic. However, it was not invincible. With enough volleys and energy, base bolts can penetrate the enemy defenses. The effectiveness of these weapons has been an unknown challenge, preventing any breakthrough.

Korva then chuckled, catching the Vampire Lord off guard. "It feels like the early days against the Unity? Does it not?"

Kallem stared at his long friend and gave a soft laugh. He found it humorous that his people were back at square one when encountering a far technologically superior enemy. "It sure does, my friend."

"All this effort for such an ugly place," Ere-hian said. "When will we take the Palace?"

Kallem slowly turned toward his son. He saw the boy standing on the hillside next to many entrenched soldiers, watching the battle continue. His posture showed his excitement, this being the first battle the young Lord had witnessed. "When the opportunity arrives," he replied.

"I cannot wait to see the fear of that traitorous slave," Ere-hian stated. "Opposing her superiors in such a matter. She will regret fleeing and humiliating our House name."

"Calm, my son."

Ere-hian turned to his father, surprised by the comment. "Calm? That Lat slave that you favored murdered a Priestess of the Katra! And dishonored our family name."

"Because of your actions." Kallem glanced toward his son, seeing a frustrated stare but unable to challenge the truth.

Word of his formal slave identity had spread throughout the Aristocracy. The last of Balan's blood, the formal rules of the Confederacy of Daru'uie, had returned and taken root in Salva. He was prepared to be inquired into by his Unity master and his vessels. Still, the results were more positive than expected.

He was not so blind that many people had questioned his decision to have a small Lat slave girl by his side. Still, with her identity relieved, it clarified many of those lingering thoughts. Having the daughter of a multi-century rivalry appeared to be enough examination for most—a symbolic trophy.

This only made his false story believable: a Lat, or now the Altaerrie, taking a highly valuable prize that everyone in Assiaya was royalty—at least enough for most to avoid asking additional questions. Sadly, the event cost him considerably in terms of influence, command, and autonomy from Unity.

"If I knew-."

"What led you to believe you were entitled to such knowledge?"

"I...." Ere-hian glanced away as he regretfully reflected on his father's words.

"Lord Verliance. Let the youth express themselves. For a long-living race, they are young for a short time."

Kallem knew who was approaching: Tempass Savulot from the Temple of Enlightenment. A thick robe covered the woman's natural feather beauty. There was a kitsune holding an umbrella with two over servants following.

"Savulot," Kallem said. "It is dangerous to be here. You should go back to camp."

"I promise not to be long," Savulot said. "I came with enlightening news."

"Enlightened?" Kallem asked. "Yesterday, you expressed disappointment that the site has not been uplifted."

"I stand by my concerns," Savulot said. She took a cloth and wiped her hands. "I spoke with Commander Fabillus, and while I disagree with the level of progress, he has accepted your viewpoint on the siege."

"Is that your enlightened news?"

"If course not. I have learned of a town nearby with one of my priestesses on a conversation mission. The Altaerrie occupied them during their attack before the siege. The town remained loyal and rebelled against their occupiers when Unity warriors came to dislodge our enemies."

"I will grant that is positive news," Kallem said. "I would not group it as a critical victory. A slight boost in morale at most."

"I agree with your viewpoint," Savulot said. "That is not why I came to inform you. I wish to bring your son with me. It will be important to show the youthful leader how the light rewards those who walk the path of enlightenment and how we strike down those who resist."

"You are requesting that I watch a reformation?" Ere-hian excitedly said.

"Yes," Savulot said. "My young Lord."

"My son should remain by my side," Kallem quickly said. "Learning the inner works of a military campaign is more important than seeing a frontier town."

"Father!" Ere-hian said.

"It is okay, young Prince," Savulot said. "Lord Verliance, I must protest. Living by example has been a founding old principle. For example, it creates order, purpose, and stability. If you wish to maintain control over these lands, your subjects must know loyalty will be rewarded."

"Father," Ere-hian said. "I would wish to see this town. I promise to be an obverse and not intervene. I want to see this practice."

"My Lord," Savulot gently said. "If the young Prince is ruler one day, he should witness all elements of leadership. This is the time. Unless you are not faithful to our alliance?"

A powerful knot develops within the Vampire Lord's gut. He is not thrilled about allowing his son to leave with a Unity Tempass without supervision; however, he sees no choice. He nods in agreement and sees his eager son following the religious leader.

A part of him was happy to see his son happy again, wanting to learn more about the world. Not being stuck at home, brewing over his dead mother every day. It was his mistake to shelter his children at home this long. He only hoped that his son would find his path to manhood and not be corrupted in this ever-changing world. Or at least develop the skills to surpass him.

With his son gone, Kallem turned to his Field Marshal. "Now, breaking the siege. What are the problems and solutions?"



***** Author Notes *****

Hello, I hope you all have been enjoying Volume 4 so far. What characters have you been enjoying the most so far and/or like to see more? You are welcome to join my discord and patreon, links on my conversation page.