Japanese and US Governments to Investigate Report of Civilian Deaths in Special Region

Tokyo, Japan - The Japanese and United States governments have announced a joint investigation into a report submitted by a Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) officer concerning the deaths of over 100 civilians in the Special Region. The incident, allegedly involving the presence of Japanese and American soldiers, is reported to have been caused by a dragon attack.

The report, which has drawn significant attention and concern, details a tragic event where a dragon reportedly attacked a civilian population, leading to over 100 fatalities. Both Japanese and American military personnel were said to be present at the scene, raising questions about their roles and responses during the incident.

Official Statements

In a press conference held in Tokyo, a spokesperson for the Japanese Ministry of Defense stated, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of civilian lives and are committed to conducting a thorough investigation. We will work closely with our American counterparts to uncover the facts and ensure accountability."

The US Department of Defense issued a similar statement, emphasizing the importance of transparency and cooperation. "The United States takes this matter very seriously. We are fully committed to working with our Japanese allies to investigate this incident and provide any necessary support to ensure a comprehensive and impartial inquiry," said a Pentagon spokesperson.

Investigation Objectives

The joint investigation aims to:

Establish the Sequence of Events: Determine the exact timeline and circumstances leading to the dragon attack.

Assess Military Response: Evaluate the actions taken by JSDF and US Army personnel during the incident.

Identify Accountability: Determine if any lapses or failures occurred that contributed to the high civilian casualties.

Provide Recommendations: Offer guidance on preventing similar incidents in the future and improving response protocols.

Background

The Special Region, an enigmatic and hazardous area known for its unique challenges and dangers, has been under close observation and patrol by JSDF and US military forces. The presence of mythical creatures, including dragons, poses significant risks, necessitating heightened vigilance and strategic planning.

The reported incident has sparked a debate on the effectiveness of current protocols and the adequacy of training provided to military personnel operating in such a volatile environment. Public opinion in both Japan and the United States has called for swift action and greater oversight to prevent further tragedies.

Moving Forward

As the investigation unfolds, both governments have pledged to keep the public informed and ensure that justice is served.

The outcome of this investigation will not only address the immediate concerns but also shape future policies and strategies for military operations in the Special Region. The world watches closely as Japan and the United States navigate this critical and sensitive situation, seeking truth and accountability in the wake of a devastating event.

Source: Global Chronicles Network



Wandering Wyvern Inn, Italica

March, 29, 2028 10:40 (29th day of the Crescent Moon 638)

Back at the Inn, Andrew and Kurokawa were still tending to the girl. Andrew still felt guilty after he got reprimanded by Adam. Kurokawa noticed his troubled expression and approached him quietly.

Kurokawa: You did the right thing, Andrew, If you hadn't brought her here, she would have died, or worse, returned into captivity. You saved her life.

Andrew sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping.

Andrew: I guess...

Kurokawa puts her hand on his shoulder

Kurokawa: Hey, Adam is still your friend isn't he? he understands why you did what you did he's just a bit mad you didn't trust him enough to tell him, that's it.

Andrew sighed heavily in response to Kurokawa's reassurance. He knew she was right, but the weight of Adam's stern words still lingered in his mind. As they continued to tend to the girl, gently cleaning her wounds and making her comfortable, Andrew couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt.

Kurokawa, sensing his unease, remained by his side, silently supporting him through their actions. The little girl stirred occasionally, her fragile form a stark reminder of the harsh realities they faced in their line of work.

After a while, Andrew glanced over at Kurokawa, grateful for her presence and the steadying comfort of her touch on his shoulder. He managed a faint smile, appreciating her attempt to lift his spirits despite his inner turmoil.

Andrew: Thanks, Kurokawa. You're right. We did what we had to do.

As they continued to tend to the little girl she abruptly woke up, her eyes filled with fear and confusion. Without warning, she lunged towards Kurokawa, catching both off guard. Andrew swiftly stepped in, his arms moving to restrain the girl before she could reach Kurokawa.

Andrew: Easy there little one, Wow she's strong!

Andrew struggled to keep the girl restrained, his arms straining against her surprisingly strong resistance. She wriggled and squirmed, her small frame surprisingly agile as she tried to reach Kurokawa, her eyes still wide with fear and confusion. The girl then suddenly twisted in Andrew's grip, sinking her teeth into his arm with a surprising fierceness.

Andrew: Ahh! Hey, hey!

He instinctively loosened his hold on her, giving her enough leverage to break free. The girl scrambled away, her eyes darting around wildly as she backed into a corner, breathing heavily.

Kurokawa, her heart racing with concern, quickly moved towards the corner where the girl had backed herself into. She spoke in a soothing voice, trying to calm the frightened child.

Kurokawa: Hey, it's okay. You're safe here. We won't hurt you.

But the girl only seemed to grow more agitated. Her breath came in quick, shallow gasps, and she eyed Kurokawa warily. Andrew, nursing his bitten arm, watched anxiously from where he stood, ready to step in again if needed. Kuribayashi and Tomita, having heard the commotion from outside, cautiously entered the room, their eyes widening in surprise at the scene unfolding before them

Kuribayashi: Looks like we missed quite the introduction.

Tomita, concerned for Andrew's bitten arm, cautiously approached.

Tomita: Andrew, are you alright?

Andrew winced slightly, inspecting the bite mark on his arm where the little girl had caught him off guard.

Andrew: Yeah, I'll be fine. Just a surprise nip.

Tomita nodded, glancing at Kurokawa who was still trying to calm the frightened girl.

Tomita: Those wolf ears weren't just for show, huh?

Andrew chuckled softly despite the situation, nodding in agreement.

Andrew: Yeah, seems like she's got the instincts to match.

Kurokawa carefully approached the corner where the girl had backed herself into, keeping her movements slow and non-threatening. She reached into a pouch at her side and pulled out a small package of dried fruits and nuts, a makeshift snack she often carried on missions.

Kurokawa: Hey, it's okay. I have something for you. Would you like a snack?

The girl eyed Kurokawa warily for a moment, but her hunger seemed to override her fear. She cautiously reached out, taking the offered snack from Kurokawa's hand. As she nibbled on the food, Kurokawa sat down nearby, giving her space but staying close enough to offer comfort.

Kurokawa: That's it. You're safe here with us. What's your name?

The girl hesitated at first, her eyes flickering between Kurokawa and Andrew, who had moved to sit nearby as well, nursing his arm. After a moment, she spoke softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Girl: Red...

Kurokawa smiled gently, relieved that she was starting to open up.

Kurokawa: Red, that's a beautiful name. I'm Kurokawa, and this is Andrew. We're here to help you, Red.

Red continued to nibble on the snack, slowly relaxing in their presence. Her initial fear began to ebb away as she realized they meant her no harm.

Itami and Adam, who had been observing the tense situation unfold from the doorway, exchanged a glance before stepping forward, startling Tomita and Kuribayashi who had just entered.

Itami: Looks like we walked in at an interesting moment.

Adam's expression was a mix of concern and curiosity as he surveyed the scene, particularly noting Andrew treating his bitten arm and Kurokawa gently coaxing the girl.

Adam: Andrew, are you alright? What happened?

Andrew glanced up, managing a reassuring smile despite the pain in his arm.

Andrew: Just a little misunderstanding. Red here got scared, that's all.

Itami approached cautiously, his presence calm and reassuring as he knelt beside Kurokawa and Red, offering a friendly smile.

Itami: Hey there, little one. I'm Itami. You're safe with us.

Red eyed Itami warily at first, but Kurokawa's presence seemed to lend her some comfort. She nibbled on the snack a bit more, seeming to relax slightly as she took in Itami's friendly demeanor.

Itami: That's right. You're among friends here.

Andrew, now slightly more at ease seeing Red calming down, glanced over at Adam and Itami, who had just joined them.

Andrew: So, how did the negotiations with the countess go?

Adam, noting the tension easing in the room, motioned for Lelei and Tuka to join them. Lelei, with her gentle demeanor, approached cautiously while Tuka followed closely, her curiosity piqued.

Adam: Come on in, Lelei, Tuka. It looks like things are settling down here.

Lelei, noticing Andrew nursing his arm, immediately recognized the need for her healing magic. She nodded silently to Adam and stepped forward, her hands glowing faintly with magical energy.

Lelei: Andrew, may I?

Andrew, grateful for her offer, nodded in agreement, holding out his arm for her to inspect. Lelei gently placed her hands over the bite mark, her healing magic flowing through her fingertips. A warm sensation spread through Andrew's arm as the magic took effect, gradually soothing the pain and aiding the healing process.

Andrew: Thanks, Lelei.

Lelei smiled softly, her healing complete.

Lelei: You're welcome, Andrew. It's the least I can do.

Adam, seeing Lelei's healing magic take effect on Andrew's arm, nodded approvingly.

Adam: Alright, time to get the team together...

Adam then radios the team, his voice calm yet commanding

Adam: All units, rally at the Wandering Wyvern Inn. We've got a situation here that requires all hands on deck.

As the radio chatter confirmed the team's acknowledgment, Adam turned back to Red, offering her a reassuring smile. Itami, sensing the need to introduce her formally, stepped forward.

Itami: Red, these are our friends. We work together to keep everyone safe. This is Adam, our second-in-command, and Lelei and Tuka, who you've already met.

Lelei nodded gently, her calm demeanor putting Red at ease, while Tuka offered a friendly wave.

Adam: Red, we're here to help you. We're a team, and that means we look out for each other.

Red's eyes flickered with a mix of curiosity and apprehension, but the warmth in their voices and the kindness in their eyes gradually began to break down her walls. As she nibbled on the dried fruits, her shoulders slowly relaxed. Kuribayashi and Tomita were already there, standing protectively near the door. It wasn't long before the rest of the team began to arrive, filing in one by one.

Itami: Everyone, this is Red. She's been through a lot, and right now, she needs our protection. Let's make her feel safe and welcome.

Perez, always the first to break the ice, stepped forward with a warm grin.

Perez: Hey there, Red. I'm Perez! don't worry, you're in good hands with us.

Red, startled by Perez's loud voice, immediately darted behind Kurokawa, her small body trembling with fear. She began to growl softly, a low, warning sound that made everyone freeze in their tracks. Kurokawa gently placed a hand on Red's shoulder, speaking in a soothing tone.

Kurokawa: It's okay, Red. Mister Perez didn't mean to scare you. He's just a bit loud sometimes.

Rory, seeing Red's frightened reaction to Perez, approached with a steady and confident demeanor. She knelt down slowly, keeping her movements gentle and reassuring.

Rory: Hey there, little one. It's okay, I won't hurt you. Do you... recognize me?

Red's eyes widened slightly in recognition as she looked at Rory. There was a flicker of understanding in her gaze, a hint that she remembered Rory from somewhere.

Red: You... Rory... Apostle...

Rory smiled warmly, her voice carrying assurance and kindness.

Rory: That's right, I'm Rory, an apostle of Emroy. You're a smart kid, Red.

Red relaxed slightly, sensing Rory's confidence and familiarity.

Red: Good... Rory... good kid...

Rory chuckled softly, her confidence helping to ease the tension in the room.

Rory: Thank you, Red. You're a good kid too. We're all here to help you.

Hill, leaning casually against the wall, couldn't help but smirk at the situation. He glanced at Perez with a raised eyebrow.

Hill: Nice job, Perez. Way to make a great first impression.

Perez, always quick to defend himself, shot Hill a glare.

Perez: Hey, Hill, why don't you just shut the fuck up for once, huh? I'm trying to help here.

Hill chuckled, shaking his head.

Hill: Yeah, yeah. Maybe tone it down a bit next time, alright

Kuwahara, observing the tense atmosphere, approached cautiously, his usual gruff demeanor softened by the sight of the frightened girl.

Kuwahara: I'm guessing the issue you mentioned over the radio is related to the young one, right?

Adam nodded solemnly, his voice gentle yet firm as he addressed the team.

Adam: The kid's been through a lot, and it's clear she's still dealing with trust issues.

Itami nodded in agreement with Adam's assessment, his expression thoughtful as he considered the best course of action.

Itami: Adam's right. Our priority is ensuring Red's safety and making sure those responsible for her ordeal are held accountable.

Hill, ever attentive, interjected with a pertinent question.

Hill: And I'm guessing we have a plan for that?

Adam and Itami exchanged a glance, silently confirming their plan before Adam addressed the team.

Adam: We've spoken with the Countess. She's willing to support our efforts to protect Red and investigate her situation.

Hill crossed his arms, his expression serious as he listened to Adam's plan. After a moment, he glanced over at Itami.

Hill: What about the princess? Is she on board with this?

Itami shook his head, his expression tired.

Itami: She's going to be a challenge. Helping a slave isn't exactly a priority for people like her.

Hill sighed, nodding in understanding.

Hill: Figures...

Tuka, with a nervous undertone in her voice, hesitantly interjected into the conversation.

Tuka: Um, are we... going against the Empire?

Adam noticed Tuka's nervousness and began speaking to her in a reassuring tone.

Adam: Don't worry Tuka everything's going to be fine, here's what we're going to do.



Marketplace, Italica

March, 29, 2028 11:40 (29th day of the Crescent Moon 638)

The bustling marketplace of Italica was alive with the sounds of merchants hawking their wares, the clinking of coins, and the chatter of townsfolk. Stalls lined the streets, displaying an array of goods, from fresh produce to intricately crafted jewelry. Among the crowd, Adam, Itami, and the rest of the team mingled with the locals to try to blend in.

Adam: Alright, stick to the plan ladies and gents. Remember we need to do this subtly and carefully, any lapse in judgment will turn this whole thing into a failure.

Itami nodded, scanning the crowd for any sign of Darius. His eyes settled on a lavishly decorated stall near the center of the marketplace. A burly man with a stern expression stood behind it, overseeing several caged slaves. It was clear that this was Darius' operation.

Itami: There he is.

Itami nudged Adam gently, nodding towards the lavishly decorated stall where the burly man was overseeing the caged slaves. Adam followed his gaze, his eyes narrowing as he recognized Darius. Itami quickly reached for his radio, ensuring he kept his movements discreet amidst the bustling crowd. He pressed the button and spoke in a low, urgent tone.

Itami: This is Itami. We've located the target. Lelei, Tuka, get into position.

Lelei and Tuka, still marveling at the device, shared a brief glance of wonder before focusing on the task at hand. Adam, noticing their distraction, quickly intervened.

Adam: Focus up, you two. We don't have time for distractions.

Tuka's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she nodded, slipping the radio back into her pocket. Lelei, slightly more composed, gave a quick and short answer to Adam.

Lelei: Yes, We're on it.

Adam then radioed Rory, instructing her to be ready to step in if things got messy. Rory, puzzled by why they couldn't intervene themselves, questioned Adam's decision.

Rory: Why can't you just handle it directly? your weapons could take care of any annoyance in no time.

Adam glanced around, ensuring no one was within earshot before replying in a hushed tone.

Adam: It'll cause less chaos if they see an apostle handling it rather than us, their supposed heroes, gunning someone down. Trust me, this is the best approach for now.

Rory hesitated, her brows furrowing in thought. She understood the delicate balance they needed to maintain in this unfamiliar world. With a nod, she acknowledged Adam's reasoning, though she didn't have to like it.

Rory: Fine, I'll be ready.

Meanwhile, Lelei and Tuka stealthily maneuvered closer to Darius' stall, seamlessly blending in with the throng of shoppers. Darius glanced up from his wares as the two young women approached. His stern expression softened, replaced by the practiced charm of a seasoned merchant.

Darius: Good day, ladies. How can I assist you?

Lelei stepped forward, her voice calm and composed.

Lelei: Good day, sir. We are mages from a nearby town. We heard you have slaves for sale and are looking for one to assist us in our household and studies.

Tuka nodded in agreement, adding a touch of earnestness to their cover story.

Tuka: Yes, we need someone who can help with household chores and assist in our magical experiments.

Darius eyed them curiously, his gaze lingering on their attire and the faint aura of magic that surrounded them. He seemed intrigued by their request and gestured towards the cages.

Darius: You are in luck. I have several capable slaves here. Tell me more about your requirements.

Lelei and Tuka exchanged a quick glance before Lelei continued.

Lelei: We need someone intelligent, obedient, and preferably with some knowledge of basic tasks. Someone who can learn quickly and follow instructions without question.

Darius nodded thoughtfully, his gaze assessing the slaves in the nearby cages. He unhooked a key from his belt and approached one of the larger cages, unlocking it with a practiced hand. Inside stood a young man, muscular and clean-cut, his eyes wary but resigned.

Darius: This one here is strong and has some basic education. He can be trained to suit your needs.

Lelei and Tuka exchanged another glance, their expressions unreadable. Lelei stepped closer to the cage, observing the young man inside with a critical eye.

Lelei: May we see more options? We would like to make sure we find the best match for our requirements.

Darius hesitated for a moment, his brow furrowing slightly. However, he quickly composed himself, a smile spreading across his face.

Darius: Of course, my ladies. I have others you might find suitable. Please, follow me.

As they moved through the rows of cages, Lelei and Tuka couldn't help but notice the conditions the slaves were kept in. The cages were cramped, some with barely enough room to stand, and the faces of those inside showed signs of exhaustion and despair.

Lelei: These conditions seem quite harsh for beings under the protection of Italica's laws. Are you sure this meets the city's standards for the treatment of slaves?

Darius paused momentarily, his smile faltering for an instant before he regained his composure.

Darius: My ladies, if I were to strictly adhere to every city law, I would hardly be able to stay in business. These are tough times, and one must make do with what's necessary to turn a profit.

Adam and Itami continued to monitor the situation closely maintaining a careful distance amidst the bustling marketplace crowd. Unknown to Darius Lelei and Tuka were secretly recording his voice and the conditions the slaves were kept in.

Adam's voice came through softly over Itami's earpiece.

Adam: Keep them in sight. Let's gather as much intel as we can before we decide our next move.

Itami nodded silently, his focus unwavering as he observed Lelei and Tuka navigating through Darius' stall. Lelei maintained her composed demeanor, skillfully probing Darius about each slave's capabilities and conditions, while Tuka occasionally chimed in with questions or comments.

Darius, ever the skilled merchant, continued to present slaves with varying skills and backgrounds, each one seemingly more suitable than the last. It became evident to Adam and Itami that Darius was not only adept at his trade but also shrewd in his selection and presentation of merchandise.

Itami: They're handling it well. Let's see where this leads.

Adam agreed silently, his attention sharp as he watched for any signs of tension or suspicion. Meanwhile, Lelei and Tuka continued their act, carefully considering each option presented by Darius while subtly gathering information about the conditions and treatment of the slaves.

Lelei: Keep him talking. We need more details.

Tuka nodded subtly, engaging Darius in conversation about the origins of some of the slaves and their previous occupations. Darius, eager to make a sale, obliged, offering tidbits of information that hinted at a darker side to his operation.

Darius: Many of these individuals were once soldiers or laborers who found themselves in unfortunate circumstances. I provide them with purpose and ensure they are put to good use.

Lelei's expression remained neutral, though her thoughts raced. She continued to probe carefully, her questions guiding Darius into revealing more about his methods and motivations.

Lelei: How do you ensure they are treated well, given their circumstances?

Darius' smile faltered momentarily, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features before he composed himself once more.

Darius: My dear, rest assured that I abide by the necessary standards to keep them healthy and capable. They are my livelihood, after all.

Lelei nodded, though inwardly, she felt a growing sense of unease. The wire concealed beneath her clothing continued to transmit every word and detail to Adam and Itami, who listened intently, evaluating their next move.

Adam: Lelei, Tuka, we've gathered enough. Let's wrap this up and rendezvous at the designated point.

Lelei acknowledged Adam's command with a subtle nod, signaling to Tuka to conclude their inspection. Tuka, sensing the shift in their mission, turned to Darius with a final question.

Tuka: Thank you for your time, sir. We will need to discuss our options before making a decision. Can we return tomorrow?

Darius' smile widened a glint of anticipation in his eyes.

Darius: Of course, my dear. I look forward to your return. Take all the time you need to decide.

Lelei and Tuka exchanged a quick glance, their eyes conveying silent agreement before they turned to leave, subtly making their way back through the marketplace. Adam and Itami followed suit, maintaining a careful distance to ensure they were not detected.

Adam: Well done both of you, everyone head back to the inn.



Formal Family Castle, Italica

March, 29, 2028 15:40 (29th day of the Crescent Moon 638)

Myui sat in her ornate chair, her eyes wide with amazement as she held the "phone" Itami had given her. The device was unlike anything she had ever seen, and she marveled at the moving images and the voices that came from it. She had no idea what a video was, but to her, it felt like a new form of magic.

Myui: This... this is incredible. How does it work? It feels like I'm seeing into another world.

Itami, standing nearby, smiled at her reaction. He understood how bewildering modern technology could be to someone from a medieval fantasy world.

Itami: It's a bit complicated to explain, but it's called a video. It's a way to record and show moving pictures and sound. Think of it like capturing a moment in time and being able to see it whenever you want.

Myui looked up at him, her eyes filled with wonder.

Myui: So, this... video... is showing what happened in the marketplace earlier?

Itami nodded, glancing at Adam, who stood nearby, also watching Myui's reaction.

Itami: Yes, it is. We recorded everything to gather evidence of Darius' activities.

Adam: We wanted to show you how he treats the slaves and how he operates. This will help us decide our next move.

Myui's expression shifted from amazement to disgust as she continued to watch the footage of the marketplace. The poor conditions the slaves were kept in appalled her.

Myui: I know of Darius. He and my father had many loud arguments that woke me up at night. Kaine, do you remember what they disagreed upon?

Kaine, standing nearby, stepped forward with a respectful nod.

Kaine: Yes, Lady Myui. They often disagreed about the treatment and trading of slaves. Your father believed in more humane conditions and proper oversight, while Darius was more focused on profit and efficiency, often at the expense of the slaves' well-being.

Myui: I remember now. Father would always be so angry after those meetings.

Myui hands Itami back the phone, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and sorrow. She takes a deep breath and squares her shoulders, the weight of responsibility evident in her posture.

Myui: Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I will issue an arrest order for Darius immediately. His actions cannot be tolerated within Italica.

Adam and Itami exchange a glance, nodding in agreement. Itami carefully takes the phone from Myui, stowing it away.

Itami: We appreciate your support, Lady Myui. We'll continue to gather evidence and ensure that justice is served.

Myui: You have my full support. Please, come see me tomorrow. We can discuss the details further and make any necessary preparations. Until then, take care of yourselves.

As they turn to leave, Kaine steps forward, her expression filled with concern.

Kaine: Lady Myui, if I may have a word with you in private?

Myui nods, and Kaine waits until Adam and Itami have left the room before she continues. Her voice is low, barely above a whisper, filled with worry.

Kaine: My lady, this decision to arrest Darius could be seen as violating the imperial constitution. It might look like you are seizing a trader's property and siding with the Empire's enemies. This could be considered treason.

Myui paused, her gaze shifting to Kaine with a mixture of concern and resolve.

Myui: I understand the risks, Kaine. But we cannot stand by and allow such cruelty to persist. If the Empire sees this as treason, then so be it. My conscience will not allow me to ignore the suffering of these people.

Kaine's worry deepened, but she knew Myui's resolve was unshakeable. She bowed her head respectfully.

Kaine: I will support you in whatever decision you make, Lady Myui. But please, be cautious. The consequences could be severe.

Myui straightened in her chair, her demeanor resolute.

Myui: I understand. The princess informed me that the her knight's order will be arriving in two days to take over the garrison duty as the other worlders depart.

Kaine's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of concern crossing her features.

Kaine: The knights will be here?

Myui: Yes. Pina might use this opportunity to arrest me, using the knights to enforce Imperial control and ensure that Italica remains under their rule.

Kaine's expression grew serious, her brow furrowing in thought.

Kaine: If the princess intends to move against you, what should we do?

Myui: If questioned about insubordination or any actions I've taken, tell them that I acted alone. I am prepared to face the consequences for the sake of justice.

Kaine's face hardened, her voice tinged with frustration and concern.

Kaine: My lady, I cannot accept this. If you instruct us to claim you acted alone, it places undue risk on you and us. If Pina decides to act against you, we could all face severe repercussions.

Myui: I understand your concerns, Kaine, but this is a matter of principle. I cannot allow Darius' cruelty to continue unchecked, even if it risks my own standing or safety.

Kaine wanted to protest further, but before she could speak, the door to the chamber opened quietly, and Mohmu, stepped inside. Her face bore a look of urgency.

Mohmu: Lady Myui, I apologize for the interruption, but one of the other-worlders' leaders wishes to meet with you. He mentioned that his name is Graves.

Myui recognized the name as one of the other-worlders from the earlier morning's meeting. Her brow furrowed slightly as she turned her attention to Mohmu.

Myui: Mister Graves, you say? What does he want?

Mohmu shook her head, her expression apologetic.

Mohmu: I'm afraid I do not know, Lady Myui.

Myui: Very well, Mohmu. Show him in.

Mohmu nodded and quickly left the room. A few moments later, Graves entered, his demeanor respectful. He bowed slightly before addressing Myui.

Graves: Lady Myui, I apologize for my intrusion and for overhearing your conversation. I understand the delicate nature of your situation, and I believe I can offer some assistance.

Myui studied Graves carefully, her curiosity piqued by his unexpected appearance and the urgency in his voice.

Myui: Assistance? How do you propose to help?

Graves: I can offer protection for you and your loyal staff. I understand the risk you're facing with Princess Pina's knights arriving soon. If things escalate, having additional security could be invaluable.

Myui's eyes narrowed slightly, assessing Graves's sincerity. She leaned forward slightly, her voice steady.

Myui: Are you authorized by your superiors to make such offers? If this is a matter of formal diplomacy or military support, I need to understand the scope of your authority.

Graves shook his head, a faint smile of resignation appearing on his lips.

Graves: I do not have a superior in this matter. I am here on my own accord. I understand that this might seem unusual, but I assure you, my offer comes from a place of genuine concern for your safety and the well-being of your staff.

Kaine, still visibly tense, stepped forward. Her skepticism was evident in her voice.

Kaine: Lady Myui, if he is offering protection, there must be some cost or condition attached.

Graves nodded, acknowledging Kaine's concerns with a solemn expression.

Graves: You are correct to be cautious ma'am. I am indeed asking for something in return, I'm not asking for gold or anything like that.

Myui raised an eyebrow, her expression cautious but intrigued.

Myui: Oh? then what is it that you desire in return for your protection?

Graves looked satisfied with her answer, a small smirk playing on his face

Graves: A base my lady, a base



A/N: The time stamps are just there to help me keep track of the time i also added such time stamps to previous chapters, Oh and that news article shit you see up there? yeah need feed back on that yay or Nay?

Thx for reading Folks <3