Son of Heaven 2014 (Closed, Invites only)

[Wolfenium]

-snip-

Nuray, Zhuhua and Zun followed the Wolfeners in the car, sitting in front of them on the opposite seats. And they tried to make themselves comfortable; it’s not every day someone gets to enjoy the ride in the limousine. With Nuray’s gave a inclined nod with the driver, the vehicle drove off towards the exit of the airport.

“Here we are, again, Welcome to Zhongyang. Why not have a good chat on our way and excuse me if I sounding nosy. And…” She winked at Zhuhua, who looked puzzled. “It’s to help my subordinates practise their English in conversations. Isn’t it right, Shaowei (lieutenant)~?”

[“Hm, me?”] The redhead girl blurts.

[“Zhuhua, it’ll be good for you. You weren’t pretty good in the class.”] Zun adds in.

[“You’re so mean, Zun.”] Zhuhua pouted at him. The boy chuckles in response.

“Say, how’re you been doing all this time, Kaguya-san? Long time no see.” Nuray asked the Fuso-Wolfener. Remembering the incident in Koln, she gave way to wry smile. “It’s been a while we last saw each other with Temu and the others. But I’m happy to see you again.”

"A-Ah..." Kaguya blurted with a blush, looking a bit nervous with Eva around. The Grand Duchess seemed quite mindful of her behaviour, likely because of her civilian status. But part of her had always felt nervous around people in power, especially since most of them did not take kindly to her identity. A child born of wedlock in an affluent Fusou family in Köln, Kaguya had long been ostracized by her family members as a bastard child and a half-blood of Nordic Ruberian descent, from her mother's side. To make matters far worse, her harrowing experience in her arts studies in Köln University, most of which involved rogue, deranged Renaissance-era magic dolls, exposed her ties to another Ruberian noble family, the Ehrlich dynasty. The family which had built and governed Köln up to the Wolfen Civil War, the Orthodox Crystallian dynasty had, for the most part, opposed the imperial ambitions of Eden and the Reformed Titanists in forcing their cultural and religious hegemony on the western electors. Now, she, like a certain clone of a certain queen, was target of ire from fearful Edenites across the empire. Especially for those who wielded the reins of power - which were many - Kaguya represented a fear of resurgence by the western Wolfeners in reversing their struggle for a united Wolfen realm and identity, and opening the door to separation and dissolution of the empire.

"Speak your mind," Eva told her in a nicer tone, feeling unnerved by the look the young girl was giving her, "I'm not a Schild agent, and I'm not here to censor you. Besides, there's nothing about that incident that girl doesn't know," she went, her eyes peering at Nuray. Eva, however, was generalizing, since the authorities were keeping out critical information on the incident from her eyes. Yet, that was information that Kaguya herself knew nothing of, which gives Eva grounds to overlook any minding of the girl.

"Ah..." Kaguya blurted, considerably relieved by the words. Taking a long sigh, she spoke in a less tense voice, "I... I'm happy to see you too, Nuray. About what happened... I'm really sorry. And I'm... I'm sorry for your loss... Temu's..."

Shutting her eyes, Eva appeared content to leave them to talk amongst themselves. After all, the aspiring singer and dancer knew Nuray and Temujin far more than she ever could. Besides, she was not that good at picking out topics to discuss about. She felt that opening her mouth would veer the topic dangerously towards politics, something she was far too knowledgeable about and personally found irksome.

"My condolences too," Eva added in a terse voice, "nothing worse than a weak monarch taking the reins of an overstretched empire at a premature time-Ah... Never mind..." she retracted, "please go on."

Sadly, Eva was not that good at keeping her trap shut. She was gravely tempted to cut in and she tended to shoot down others as much as possible whenever she got into a debate. Peering out the window as if trying to admire the scenery, she tried not to get involved again. She knew it was never going to end well. She had a feeling that any more discussion on the political situation would only worsen the mood.

[Minroz]

-snip-

“Indeed we will.” Mu Shuoyi followed the Auzkhians into the limousine and sat in front of them at the opposite seat. Shuoyi waved her hoof to the driver, the car then started moving forward to its destination.

“However, you’ll be just visiting certain parts of the Forbidden City. So to help you familiarise yourself over there and experience the air of the great palace where the Emperors of the old used to reside in. Oh, you’ll be receiving accommodations at Bīnhǎi wān, a four star hotel after visiting Forbidden City. Though, it’s more on formality reasons but rest assure, it’s a very good hotel, one of the best in the Empire, even for royalties such as yourselves.” The purple pony explained and then gave a friendly wink.

---

-snip-

“Um…okay, I understand what you’re saying, Your Highness. Don’t worry, I’m not going to confiscating it and rest assure, I’m not going to let it get damaged either.” Gang Jiao gingerly holds Rinka’s swords and then take a look, inspecting it. The Tuthinan is right, she thought, the sword is heavy despite the ceremonial appearance suggests.

“It’s beautiful…” The buxom captain remarked sincerely. She gently gave back the sword to Rinka. “An amazing sword to be honest. Never saw much in my life, the weapons of the old I see in battles tends to be augmented with magic and tech nowadays. As amazing as your noble blades are, I don’t think it’s going to work in modern wars due to practical reasons and it’s a shame it happens. Anyhow on the other, more serious note, please refrain from using your sword unless in self-defense. Is it alright with you, Your Highness?”

---

He then sighs at the last comment and then stated, "a civil war would indeed be devastating for your Empire, Your Highness. Saurisia has endured twice over the past two centuries, both of which were incredibly horrible."

“Heaven’s grace, horrible definitely.” Longshen grunts. “But it’s nothing compared to mine, we have a lot of civil wars in the past six thousand years. Be it a peasant rebellion to violent dispositions of the ruling dynasties. It’s like a cycle of golden ages and anarchy alike. You can see it’s like a see-saw. Civil war is the last thing the Middle Kingdom needs…again. Not to mention, my Motherland has enemies watching us like hungry vultures…I shudder to think when that time comes. I swear to the good gods above, no way I’m going to let it happen.

Luckily, the Royalist faction which I’m part of - people who’re still loyal to my Uncle, we tried to make sure they don’t get more funny ideas in having their way in the government. It may not much but at the very least, we’re stalling them…until we find a reason to dispose them out for good.”

“Heh.” The prince began to snicker. “Thank the gods, they’re losing popularity with the people as of late. Well, let’s just say they’re…hilariously incompetent.”

He burst into laughter. Yaotl huffs and made a low snickering in good humour.

---

"If I may dear sirs, how did you become part of the Minrozian empire? Truly you were not born within its border as you are as fair skinned as meine Obersterfuhrurin?" Miki asked.

The white Minrozians stare at Miki for a moment with suspicious frowns. Finally, they relent and relaxed in their seats but kept their conduct as professional soldiers. Although Leonid is quiet, again as usual.

“Alright ma’am,” Andrei spoke. “Since you’re a polite lady, I’ll answer your questions. Though I doubt it’ll have much meaning to you and your superiors.” The Slavic Minrozian clears his throat and ready to answer Miki’s question. “We Ruuz were conquered by our Menggu masters a long time ago. About thousand years ago. Despite our common origins and culture, we were divided because of bickering city-states and we’re not a unified country back then. We were too late to mount an effective resistance against the Menggu horde. Eventually we submit upon our surrender to their Great Khan. You have no idea how ferocious the Menggu horsemen back then and they have a reputation as ‘invincible warriors’. On the hindsight, we Ruuz aren’t the only people to be conquered by them. Lot of nations, particularly the Central Yazhou and Middle-Eastern states fell trying to resist their rampaging conquests. They’re like locusts.”

“If you ask about our personal thoughts, frankly we don’t care. Because a past is the past, nothing to dwell upon it. Besides…” Andrei crossed his arms and looked out the window. “Our hearts and souls is Minrozian anyway, we’re actually born in this great land just like my oriental compatriots. My ancestor is a Cossack who worked his way up, he finally became a commander in the Eight-Banner Army for his achievements and good meritorious service. And his descendents, my family ended up as one of powerful noble families in the Empire today. While Mikhaylov’s…is an orphan. That’s all else you get from my family history…and my fellow Ruuz born and bred in the Middle Kingdom.”

---

-snip-

In response to Eva’s remark, the Jongguon duo made a scowl, feeling she has slandered their prince for no good reason. It’s like insulting Altanmurr himself! Before one of them are about to leap up, Nuray put up a hand, halting them. Surprisingly, Nunu hasn’t changed her cheerful look one bit. Seeing this, both Zun and Zhuhua settle down (albeit reluctantly) in their seats.

“It’s alright, Kaguya. You’re a good girl. Wait till we meet Temu. I’m sure he will be delighted to see you again in person, you can count on that. The boy needs support and help all he can get.” She said, still in her friendly mood. Oddly on the other hand, it’s as if she’s completely ignoring Wolfen princess’s comment and act nothing has happen.

“Well, he’s a smart guy, smarter than most everyone, he’ll work something out. Once Temu became the Emperor, I’ll pray he will become a great man like his father and his ancestors before him, Alhamdulillah.” Nuray nodded sagely. “And most importantly, he’s not alone. And Your Highness…”

The Turanian girl turned to Eva, still smiling. “We can hope it’s not entirely true.” This almost surprised both Zun and Zhuhua. Its clear Nuray didn’t forget Eva’s comment after all. She continues, “We don’t know the future holds for us anyway. No one does. I can say that’s up to the Heavens.”

---

Everyone in their cars…

The dignitaries’ cars and their armed escorts are moving towards the exit section of Zhongyang Airport, bustling with motorised vehicles. From the windows out of curiosity for sight-seeing, one can witness hover vehicles flew over them more than once. It’s like entering a world of science-fiction future laced with magical fantasy.

After going through few road intersections of the vast airport complex, the convoys have finally went on the highway causing local, pedestrian vehicles making way for them. The good news is this freeway leads all the way to the Celestial Capital itself and making their journey clear. After certain brief amount of minutes passed-by, scenes of the towering and majestic buildings of Zhongyang have yet to appear in everyone’s sights but the dusk of the winter seasons isn’t making things easier to see.

[Tuthina]

"We are honoured by your praise, milady. As I said, this was a gift of great importance to me, and I guess it is only fair that its craftsmanship matches its values." Rinkla answered with a faint smile, as Gang Jiao passed the sword back to her. With another simple manoeuvre of her hands and fingers, the sword returned between the legs of its owner. "Perhaps it was considered a waste that well-crafted arms of the old are no longer applicable to modern warfare, but on the other hand, they would no longer be tainted by blood any more."

"Although for the same reason, you can be assured that it would not be used in its intended function during our stay in your country." The lady continued, as she briefly turned to align her sight with her servants, who were looking at the convoy beyond the window. "Given how well-prepared the security measures of our esteemed host are, I believe it is safe to say that when I have the need to defend myself, my blades would not make any differences."

[Rupudska]

Zhongyang International Airport, Zhongyang, Empire of Minroz
11th December, 2014

A crimson private jet touched gently down at the Minrozian capital's airport. On board was the Royal Family of Karlsland, along with Chancellor Bachmeier, and the Royal Family's two guards - as per tradition both were agents of the KGRP's special forces and top of their class. The taller redhead was of pure-blooded Scottish heritage and went by the name of Isolde McCracken. Her grandparents had moved into eastern Prussia to help with relief efforts in the Second Neuroi War, and ended up staying there. The shorter, pale blond one, was Marijona Milavetz who, besides being the first Lithuanian to guard the Royal Family, was also the first Jew to do so.

"Which, as you know, will probably cause... tension with the Nachfolgians," Her Majesty Empress Maria explained, sitting across from her as the plane taxied onto the runway.

Marijona, however, either seemed unconcerned or simply didn't care. "I understand very well, Your Majesty, and I appreciate the offer to stay home on this mission - but I did swear to protect you and your family with my life, wherever you went, and that is what I will do."

HRM Maria was about to continue to object - and perhaps even suggest Marijona stay in the jet - but she was interrupted by the sound of the jet's wheels touching the ground.

"We are here, Your Highness," said Isolde. "I wonder what the Minrozians will send to pick us up."

[Hetland 2]

Zhongyang, Empire of Minroz
Zhongyang International Airport's airspace

"No, you shut up. Being able to amputate your own arm and then stitch it back on and still be able to retain complete range of movement is TOTALLY a great party trick. The new emperor of Minland will love it. Just like the presents I got him."
Hetlan winced as a voice yelled through the phone. When the voice died down he put his ear back to the phone.
"Yeah, alright... Fair enough. I'll relent that. But none of the others. No. No you listen, just because I'm a foreign dignitary doesn't mean I have to be on my best behavior! What? Huh? ... Huh. I am? Even with my reputation? What the fuck does 'prove them wrong' mean? Oops. Sorry love, time to drop, gotta hang up. Ciao ciao."

He hung up his phone and cranked up his music to a blaring volume.

He grinned and cracked his neck before jumping out of the back of the plane.

-Meanwhile, with the normal people-
Zhongyang, Empire of Minroz
Zhongyang International Airport

Liu Feng stepped of the plane, dressed in a classy crimson and black dress, a large handgun strapped to her hip. She placed her phone in her purse and sighed heavily. She turned to the two small girls hiding shyly with a third older girl, who was leaning back and smiling smugly as she tapped away on her phone. Liu Feng behind her crouching down and rubbing their foreheads, "Now, little ones, let's not do what your father does, because he's an idiot."
The two girls looked at each other and giggled and started chanting, "Daddy's an idiot! Daddy's an idiot!" The older daughter swatted the two girls on the head, and glared at them. "Stop that, or I'll suture your mouths shut."
"Vesuvia Feng! We are not suturing anyone's mouth shut, save for your father's if he acts up." She turned to the girls hiding behind her legs. "Tai, Shu, be polite to your father. Only I can call him an idiot, because I have to put up with him, when you three are a sleep." The twins exchanged looks before exclaiming, "Eeeew!" while Vesuvia just started giggling.
Liu Feng paused. "Speaking of lewd behavior... where is my darling daemon?"
She looked up and paused, "Never mind. I see him. Vesuvia, make sure he's ready to meet the press and that he doesn't somehow try to do something embarassing." She watched as the figure plummetted into the ground throwing up large amounts of dirt in the impact. Liu Feng winced. Even though she was used to this sort of thing by now, it never stopped being strange.
Vesuvia nodded excitedly, "I hope Father likes me. I've never met him before." before scurrying off to the impact site.

[Wolfenium]

-snip-

In response to Eva’s remark, the Jongguon duo made a scowl, feeling she has slandered their prince for no good reason. It’s like insulting Altanmurr himself! Before one of them are about to leap up, Nuray put up a hand, halting them. Surprisingly, Nunu hasn’t changed her cheerful look one bit. Seeing this, both Zun and Zhuhua settle down (albeit reluctantly) in their seats.

“It’s alright, Kaguya. You’re a good girl. Wait till we meet Temu. I’m sure he will be delighted to see you again in person, you can count on that. The boy needs support and help all he can get.” She said, still in her friendly mood. Oddly on the other hand, it’s as if she’s completely ignoring Wolfen princess’s comment and act nothing has happen.

“Well, he’s a smart guy, smarter than most everyone, he’ll work something out. Once Temu became the Emperor, I’ll pray he will become a great man like his father and his ancestors before him, Alhamdulillah.” Nuray nodded sagely. “And most importantly, he’s not alone. And Your Highness…”

The Turanian girl turned to Eva, still smiling. “We can hope it’s not entirely true.” This almost surprised both Zun and Zhuhua. Its clear Nuray didn’t forget Eva’s comment after all. She continues, “We don’t know the future holds for us anyway. No one does. I can say that’s up to the Heavens.”

---

Everyone in their cars…

The dignitaries’ cars and their armed escorts are moving towards the exit section of Zhongyang Airport, bustling with motorised vehicles. From the windows out of curiosity for sight-seeing, one can witness hover vehicles flew over them more than once. It’s like entering a world of science-fiction future laced with magical fantasy.

After going through few road intersections of the vast airport complex, the convoys have finally went on the highway causing local, pedestrian vehicles making way for them. The good news is this freeway leads all the way to the Celestial Capital itself and making their journey clear. After certain brief amount of minutes passed-by, scenes of the towering and majestic buildings of Zhongyang have yet to appear in everyone’s sights but the dusk of the winter seasons isn’t making things easier to see.

Kaguya merely bowed her head at the response, quite unsure at how to answer her. She did not believe that she counted for much in term of support. After all, what good did she do against Battle Dolls that ostensibly obeyed her orders without question? Her métallomancy too - metal-manipulating magic - were not something to marvel at. Most mages grew up learning the art as soon as they discovered it. She only just discovered her own, and there were not many, if any, who could or would teach her the kind of spells for her kind of magic. Glancing over at the nonchalant princess, she was not sure what was going through her mind. There appeared to be an air of caution around Eva, and it was enough to make her hair stand on ends at times.

"True," Saber admitted, "nothing could prepare us for the unexpected when it comes, but I feel as long as we keep our wits up, we can always respond quickly to any crises, even foresee it. At the very least, if we could not prevent the crisis from happening, we can always stop it the best we can."

"I beg to differ."

Cutting into Saber's words, Eva gave a distinctly sharp gaze, a cynical outlook rivalling even the jaded emperor himself. Leaning her tilted head on her arm, she rebuked, "Heaven doesn't add to the equation. It's just a matter of cause and effect. Your emperor is a boy destined for a life in the fields of science and knowledge, not politics. A monarchy that exercises considerable power over the executive, legislature and/or judiciary is most vulnerable during its transition, when the old ruler is unable to exercise his powers or when the new ruler has yet to prove his right of rule. You're fools if you believe in leaving this to chance. Anyone with eyes can see that your country is on a path to becoming a single-party oligarchy. Of course, this means a lot for those with interests in your internal affairs. Whether it's good or ill of them... well... I guess that’s up to the Heavens."

It was a sarcastic echo to Nuray's response to her, as Eva paused for their reply. The fact was, anyone could tell what the ruling Kuomintang had in mind for Minroz, and it would cost the country plenty of friends and lend their enemies considerable allies to aid them. In her own honesty, she saw little to gain in interacting with any of Iclamia's nations at all. Trade aside, regional powers absorbed in 19th century neo-imperialist ambitions did not make good allies for non-aligned countries like Wolfenium. The best solution for her, ironically, was forcibly dismantling the unity of these powers into smaller, more manageable entities. But Eva was not rash enough to advocate it publicly, especially in her capacity as princess. Still, she was an adherent to Ludwig von Rochau's concept of Realpolitik, focusing her political aspirations solely on Wolfenium's survival and, eventually, empowerment. To her, no one could be trusted as a lasting friend, especially those larger than the domain she was set to inherit. Paradoxically, these powers could guarantee its survival to an extent, something she was very conscious of. That did not oblige her to advise Nuray on its full implications, not if it was of no benefit to her. But it was worth warning her at least, if only because she believed Temujin was better to work with, and to find something to talk about in general.

[The Floor Kippers]

-snip-

John smiled wolfishly.

"Because they worry what I might do, that I might spread what I am to them and others, all nonsense, these medicines these days allow control of the self, as does training in both forms. The people of France would call me a Loup-Garou," He replied, "The ancient Greeks called us Lycanthropes, today they call us, werewolves."

He smiled as he waited to see what reaction this would get, hoping it would not be a negative one. He couldn't cope if it ended up being like in Indonesia.

"Oh my, what a magnificent building," He commented idly, his eyes adjusting to the dusk.

[Auzkhia]

-snip-

“Indeed we will.” Mu Shuoyi followed the Auzkhians into the limousine and sat in front of them at the opposite seat. Shuoyi waved her hoof to the driver, the car then started moving forward to its destination.

“However, you’ll be just visiting certain parts of the Forbidden City. So to help you familiarise yourself over there and experience the air of the great palace where the Emperors of the old used to reside in. Oh, you’ll be receiving accommodations at Bīnhǎi wān, a four star hotel after visiting Forbidden City. Though, it’s more on formality reasons but rest assure, it’s a very good hotel, one of the best in the Empire, even for royalties such as yourselves.” The purple pony explained and then gave a friendly wink.

---

Everyone in their cars…

The dignitaries’ cars and their armed escorts are moving towards the exit section of Zhongyang Airport, bustling with motorised vehicles. From the windows out of curiosity for sight-seeing, one can witness hover vehicles flew over them more than once. It’s like entering a world of science-fiction future laced with magical fantasy.

After going through few road intersections of the vast airport complex, the convoys have finally went on the highway causing local, pedestrian vehicles making way for them. The good news is this freeway leads all the way to the Celestial Capital itself and making their journey clear. After certain brief amount of minutes passed-by, scenes of the towering and majestic buildings of Zhongyang have yet to appear in everyone’s sights but the dusk of the winter seasons isn’t making things easier to see.

"Excellent." Blue Thunder said, as the Auzkhians stepped into the cars.

"This city is very beautiful!" exclaimed an awe-struck Princess Wish Darling. The Auzkhians were taking it in, the whole magnificent buildings and scenes of Zhongyang.

Of course many Auzkhians were familiar with this "Oriental" style, but the grand scale of Zhongyang was very majestic to them, it was clearly a heart of a mighty empire.
In the car, the Crown Prince decided to strike up conversation. "How is your country, miss?" he said to the purple mare.

[Constaniana]

Aboard the Aero-Frigate R.C.A.S Princess Celeniagh, just outside Zhongyang International Airport,11th December, 2014

It was such a fantastical, almost outlandish concept; Constannians leaving their world. They had been aware of the possibility of such a thing for some time, centuries even, if the Grandmaster of Mesarien's Rangers, Matthew Thorpe was to be believed in his tale of falling into his country through the Void from another universe. Centuries after Thorpe's arrival on the planet the Kingdom of Phoenixia had mastered interdimensional portals, a secret they were eager to show off but less eager to explain.

However, any efforts by the Grand Holy Empire of Constannia to ascertain the portal schematics had been dramatically cut off almost a decade ago, when the magic WMD's used by the Elvish Supremacist Sha-Coronel Malvain during the Elven Civil War on the city of St. Petersmarch ignited such a wave of mass paranoia in the Kingdom that the government used its portal technology to move the entire country into a different dimension, safe from the great and terrible bolts of magic destruction that had hung over their heads. The civil war ended with Malvain defeated and executed, and peace had returned to the Constannian Empire for eight years. And then, a few weeks ago a new portal opened off the east coast of the Holy Fatherland bearing the invitation to the coronation of the new emperor of a previously unknown nation calling itself the Empire of Minroz.

There was a political kerfuffle over whether to accept this strange invite, but Prince Luke Von Constannia had been insulated from it all. His grandfather, Holy Emperor Charles VIII, and his father, Crown Prince Edward V, had dealt with the brunt of the storm of arguments, with some assistance from relatives like his uncle Prince Maximus. The naysayers had grudgingly bent to the opinion of sending a delegation, and at that point Luke leapt at the opportunity to go. His grandfather was now reluctant to go on international trips now because of his health, and his father was scheduled to participate in colonial military exercises in the Aohtanu Islands far in the western fringes of the Grand Holy Empire, whilst Luke longed for a chance to be somewhat on his own, without the rules of his parents or the Imperial University of Combat Mechanics, Engineering and Horsemanship hanging over his head. And so here he was, aboard the Princess Celeniagh, in his cabin as he buttoned up his princely attire. His gloved hand went to reach for his scarlet cape, when there was a knock at his door.

"Your Highness?" Came a young woman's voice through the door, as the prince went over to open it. Standing there already in dress uniform was Dame Dalvriel. She was one of the few Elves in the Swords of the Empire, the chivalric order that served as personal bodyguards and special forces to the royal family of Constannia. Dalvriel curtsied to Prince Luke upon seeing his face, before continuing to talk, "The captain said to check on you and inform you that we're about to land."

"Very well. Thank you for your concern," the prince replied. As if on cue, there was a low rumble followed by a very odd sensation that could be somewhat described as the feeling of jumping up in a descending elevator, indicating that the Princess Celeniagh had landed and was powering down the anti-gravitic coil that carried it aloft. Luke put his cape on and gave a cursory glance at his reflection in the mirror before leaving his quarters, his boots ringing out as leather struck steel. The elf knight was right beside her prince as they made their way towards the exit ramp.

Soon the couple was joined by several more of her colleagues from the Swords of the Empire, including another very noticeable young woman named Dame Lilasani. The knight in charge of the bodyguards was a plain-spoken middle-aged man named Sir Drenvig who lacked any exceptional physical features, sporting a plain close cut of grey hair on his head, simple brown eyes, the musculature expected of someone who had been in his profession as long gone as he had been and the average height of Constannians (which was admittedly greater than many foreigners), and some wrinkles on his forehead. But Drenvig was steadfast and quite good at his job, so his appearance was of little consequence. Luke could scarcely contain his impatience as Drenvig and two more brawny Swords of the Empire disembarked first, lest some anarchist scum was somehow lurking in wait for them right outside. At last the Constannian prince was allowed to step down the ramp, now with Lilasani at his side.

Dalvriel had been put in the back with two experienced knights of her own, the underlying logic being that as Lilasani was the novice of the group it would be better to have her be behind the first line of defence. Not that the young pointy-eared maiden was displeased about it, judging by the smiling glances she kept giving Luke. However, the second-in-line to the throne was ignorant of such things, seeing as the sights of Zhongyang had enraptured his attention. Sir Drenvig kept his eyes searching for their mystery hosts rather than the taking in the sights of another world.

[Saurisisia]

Sighing, Wilhelm chimed in, "that is one of the biggest reasons why the Saurisian government cracks down so heavily on local rebellions. If any such separatist movements secede, they believe it would lead to a chain reaction and the ultimate collapse of the Saurisian union. Which, in turn, would supposedly leave the door open for the various now-independent states to become the cultural and political prey of Saurisia's old rival countries."

The Saurian Prince let out a quiet 'heh' before he states, "well, back home, our little separatists and local nationalists tend to be mocked and poked fun at, especially in the wake of the pacification of the DIC... which was the largest of the separatist groups. I just hope it remains that way for the time being..."

Meanwhile, back in their car, Geanna noticed the flying vehicles and, turning towards Komorowski and said to him, "Interesting. Lieutenant, I have heard that some back home were working on such craft. Are your associates in the Army among them?"

A sigh emanating from his lips, the human, who had been lazily gazing out the window, replied without taking even a glance at the Deinonychus, "Ma'am, as far as I am aware of, it's mostly private ventures and scientific firms were doing such. Aside from the fact that I'm from Army Intelligence instead of the Committee for Special Research, I have heard rumors that CSR is looking into them. But they are just simple rumors and not much else at this point."

As Wilhelm gazed upon the surrounding city that the little convoy drove through, he said to Longsheng, "I have to say, this city is quite magnificent and it kind of reminds me of Sauropolis in all of its urban sprawl."

[Minroz]

-snip-

“I see.” Gang Jiao hummed in understanding. “I have nothing to say about that. But glad you understand. I just want to give some brief warnings in case it happens.”

She gave them a warm smile. “If there’s any questions you want to ask of me, feel free to speak and I’ll do my best in answering as possible as I can. We have lot of time to spare during our journey to the Forbidden City.”

---

"We are here, Your Highness," said Isolde. "I wonder what the Minrozians will send to pick us up."

Apparently the Karlslanders didn’t have to wait. A VIP convoy was waiting for them, right on time to pick them up. Exiting the limousine are the three people. And surprisingly they’re the three people Hanna who really recognised them. The trio are Colonel Meiya Apalkova dressed in the black Kheshig uniform, while the two Lieutenant-Colonel Baichan Guoling and Major Hegiya Yi are both dressed in Soviet-like green army uniform, interestingly all of them are Ai’s old comrades in the Minrozian 501st. They happen to come over to greet the Karlslanders when they’re stepping down their plane.

The three witches made a low, respectful bow to the royal family of Karlsland as well as the Chancellor herself, out of their traditional etiquette. The Eurasian Minrozian is the first to spoke out, speaking in her Eastern European accent.

“Welcome to Minroz, Your Majesties and Your Excellency. It’s a pleasure to meet friends of the Middle Kingdom from afar. Especially it’s time for the coronation of the new Emperor, May His Divine Majesty reign for Ten Thousand Years by the grace of the Heavens. We three are your escorts to the Forbidden City.” Meiya smiled. “And long time no see, Your Highness (Hanna).”

“Yi here! It’s been a while.” The girl whom the Karlslanders were reminded of Erica Hartmann, piped up happily.

“Colonel Bayern, we meet again.” Gouling said, sharply salute Hanna. Though she made a thin smile in spite her stern exterior, she’s happy to see Hanna again. Yi and Guoling served together in Khaydaristan peace-keeping operations with Hanna’s squadron and became friends in 2012. They were also surprised Hanna herself is best friend with their Crown Princess. Nonetheless, things may got more interesting with Karlslanders around in Zhongyang as well as invited foreign dignitaries.

---

-snip-

In the background, a Minrozian VIP convoy and two girls are there with the ‘normal’ Hetlanders.

“Is he going to be alright, Your Highness?” A pink-haired girl asked with concern. She’s Liu Muyuan, cousin of Taoxiang. A sweet, gentle girl at heart and hard-worker, she worked as a government official in Zhongyang city administration and helped a lot of people in her job, rendering her one of Minroz’s beloved officials. Though, she can be naïve at times. And now needless to say, she was shock from the Daemon Lord’s plunge.

“Don’t worry about him, he’ll be fine.” Captain Tsao Yanmei said nonchalantly. She’s a mage-soldier in the Celestial Army and served as Wonggu’s second-in-command, know for her strictness. In fact, she’s a kind-hearted girl who cares for people around her as much as her best friend Liu Muyuan. A tsundere in other words.

“Ah! How can you say that!?” Muyuan utters in shock. “This man can’t survive a fall like this. I’m going over to help!”

“Muyuan, wait-”Yanmei is too late to stop her friend from running. “Aiya, oh gods help me.” She sighs.

Muyuan finally arrived at the scene - the Hetlanders’ position around the impact site. Carrying her med-kit and preparing her healing spells, the pinkette is ready to help out when needed.

“Your Highness (Liu Feng), I’m here to help.” She said.

---

-snip-

Zun and Zhuhua got tense, feeling a bit livid at what they perceived as ‘disrespecting’ not only the Motherland, Temujin too. Before either of them planning to snap their own words against the ‘gwailo’ princess, suddenly something unexpected interrupted their thoughts. Nuray, out of people in the car, burst in laughter in response to Eva. She didn’t seem to be fettered by the cynical retorts of the Wolfen princess.

“Hahaha! Probably true, Your Highness. Of course it’s up to the Heavens. However, I find it strange when you said ‘Heavens didn’t add to the equation’ in the first part. In my experience, cause and effect is just only a factor in life so it’s not everything, who knows what will happen? Though I get your point. But…”

Her expression turns serious as she leaned forward a bit. Nuray’s eyes hide a fiery soul of determination which probably matched the icy gaze of Eva. “You’re speaking for yourself, what about your Fatherland? Has your brother of the Kaiser finally decided who is going to be his successor of the Wolfen throne? Last I check it’s not decided yet.”

Nuray isn’t mocking the Wolfen princess, despite her last words being laced with personal sarcasm. She was just stating a fact. However, there’s an unspoken words of caution from the Turanian girl that Eva should watched her words carefully when in presence of nationalist fanatics in the Qing government….for her own good and Wolfenium. Besides, the Menggus, at least the more traditional-minded, are notorious for being very vindictive when it comes to betrayal. Not many who double-crossed the Menggus lived to see another day and this applies to nations too when they foolishly think they can get away with it.

“Anyhow, with all due respect Your Highness, I believe its way too early for you to make any presumptions about the boy as my Emperor. Bear in mind, His Highness Temu is over hundred years older than the three of you altogether and he has some experience as a statesman one time when he was a governor. Although your opinion is noted and I’m grateful to hear your words of caution. Well…” She leaned back in her seat, returning back to her cheerful appearance. “Then again Hay Allah, I’m a soldier, not a politician. I’m not really well-verse in politics but I do get the idea.” Nuray admitted.

“But I do know there’s people here you can better talk with, with your calibre as a stateswoman. And I’m aware you have your own thoughts and ideas as a princess of your country. Well, I’m saying it’s best for you to meet His Imperial Highness (Temu) in person. Better yet…”

Nuray paused to catch up breathe; she spoke some words as if dropping a bombshell. “His big sister, Her Imperial and Divine Highness Aigiarn is the woman you may want to talk with. She’s practically in charge in place of his late majesty’s. Are you alright with that?”

After late Altanmurr and Chancellor Jiang Yingshen, Crown Princess Jinmao Aigiarn was the most powerful figure in Minrozian politics. Foreigners tend to forget she was a favourite royal candidate to the Dragon throne by the Minrozian people. However, Ai’s humility as an individual wants to decline the position. But the fact remains she has a better chance as the Holy Empress of the Middle Kingdom comparing to other candidate heirs.

---

-snip-

“Ah…okay…” Hu Xiangning nodded in understanding. Frankly, he was not really surprised himself. And he’s not sure what to make of it as his exhibited confusion shows. Because he has met few werewolves in his life time and the Minrozian Empire in particularly has a considerable werewolf population anyway. So it’s not very surprising for many Minrozians.

“It is, Your Excellency. Wait till you see the city itself, it’s much better to take a look up close. Aiya, I admit it’s still hard to see the city when is this foggy.” He adds in response to the latter comment.

---

-snip-

“Pretty good actually. We’ve been a thriving, prosperous nation for over two-hundred years, thanks to his Late Majesty’s wisdom and the blessings of the Heavens. We were fortunate. It made me proud to be a Minrozian.” Mu Shouyi replied with her enthusiasm.

Her ears droop down in sadness. “Alas, my old Emperor is no longer with us as he’s confined to his ICU ever since wounded in battles. We still don’t know when will he ever wake up from his coma. From what I’ve heard, he had little chance of living another day. His youngest son the designated heir His Highness is still too young and inexperienced to be a ruler, even though he’s 150 years old.” She whimpered.

“I pray to the gods, His Highness will become a great Emperor like his father.”

[Hetland 2]

In the background, a Minrozian VIP convoy and two girls are there with the ‘normal’ Hetlanders.

“Is he going to be alright, Your Highness?” A pink-haired girl asked with concern. She’s Liu Muyuan, cousin of Taoxiang. A sweet, gentle girl at heart and hard-worker, she worked as a government official in Zhongyang city administration and helped a lot of people in her job, rendering her one of Minroz’s beloved officials. Though, she can be naïve at times. And now needless to say, she was shock from the Daemon Lord’s plunge.

“Don’t worry about him, he’ll be fine.” Captain Tsao Yanmei said nonchalantly. She’s a mage-soldier in the Celestial Army and served as Wonggu’s second-in-command, know for her strictness. In fact, she’s a kind-hearted girl who cares for people around her as much as her best friend Liu Muyuan. A tsundere in other words.

“Ah! How can you say that!?” Muyuan utters in shock. “This man can’t survive a fall like this. I’m going over to help!”

“Muyuan, wait-”Yanmei is too late to stop her friend from running. “Aiya, oh gods help me.” She sighs.

Muyuan finally arrived at the scene - the Hetlanders’ position around the impact site. Carrying her med-kit and preparing her healing spells, the pinkette is ready to help out when needed.

“Your Highness (Liu Feng), I’m here to help.” She said.

Impact site

Liu Muyuan arrived to the sight of Vesuvia Feng helping her father into his bloody lab. He laughed, "Man! V, did you see that? My ribs totally impaled my heart! FUCKING HILARIOUS!" Understandably, Vesuvia was apparently in shock, her face the picture perfect expression of surprise and his body didn't show even a hint of injury. She'd heard that he was wierd, but she never imagined that he'd be a total freakshow. Why her mother took him in her harem was completely beyond her.
He turned to the new arrival, threw his arm over his daughter's shoulder and guided her over, greeting her with an enthusiastic, "Heya. Wanna see a cool party trick? Once we get to somewhere with a table I can show you something awesome. But now my wife is waiting so let's go."

---

Normal people

Liu Feng looked up and down the girl before giving her a warmish smile. "Hello, Captain. As I'm assure you've been notified, I am the Daemon lord of Hetland 2, and these are my two daughters. Tai, Shu. Don't be rude. Show respect." She cleared her throat and the two girls popped out from behind her, smiling. One of them tugged on Liu Feng's dress and whispered something to her mom, before she whispered back. The two girls exchanged glances before bowing deeply to Tsao, while Liu Feng remained completely unmoving. "Well, Captain, will the car be coming soon? I see my idiot husband coming now."
Hetlan walked up, an arm over Muyuan's shoulder and an arm still over Vesuvia's. "Hey, girly, lookin' sexy!" He grinned lecherously at his wife, to which she only rolled her eyes.

[Wolfenium]

Her unflinching gaze fixed at Nuray's, Eva did not appear fazed when she brought up her brother. Granted, she expected this to crop up sooner or later, since she herself challenged the stability of their succession. The officer's calm and confidence, of course, was truly admirable. Even Eva herself wished there were more like her who held such boundless optimism and support. A quick glance at Saber, the princess could tell she was a bit unnerved at her attacks. She was already breaking a key rule of being a guest, having actively criticized their hosts with almost reckless enthusiasm. Rubbing her eyes, however, she knew how close she was to toeing the line. She did not want to come across as an ass to her local escorts, no matter how tempting it was to continue.

"I probably wouldn't have brought the succession up if it wasn't for personal experience," Eva answered, "I'm not personally that worried. If he can't choose for himself, parliament will choose for him, and there's no way they're going to choose someone but me. In any case, I'd be happy to discuss further with Her Highness. Our... mages had a glowing review of her. I'll try to smile more if helps the mood."

"She's made quite an impression on Lt. Col Yagami's unit," Saber added in a more pleasing note, "it's just rather disappointing White Skies went awry so quickly. I'm sure they'd love to test their mettle against her team another time. I apologize if they're unavailable for our visit here."

Kaguya, on the other hand, looked absolutely depressed, shirking at the corner while the royal dominated the conversation. Well before Eva even cut in, she was already quite conscious about speaking privately in front of the Grand Duchess. Her assurances did little to allay her fears of spewing out something wrong. In fact, she had only become more terrified of her presence.

[Nachfolgia]

The Obersterfuhrurin and her assistant looked at the white Minrozian as he explained some of the history behind his people. Friedrich on the other hand, was looking out the window completely ignoring. It was quite obvious that he didn't want to be there, especially the way he looks now with all the bandages. The sound of him breathing through his high tech respirator could be heard over the Slav's accent thick speech. Friedrich may have not wanted any part of the history lesson, but the Obersterfuhrurin did. She wanted to know as much as she could during her diplomatic visit. She was fully intent on learning everything possible about the Minrozian Empire, especially now since their two nations have recently engaged in combat. This sudden deviation from the normal attitude Nachfolgians give off may be suspicious and strange, but the Obersterfuhrurin was not the most predictable, her behavior always being strange.

" Thank you very much for telling me your history, gracious hosts." Miki said as she bowed her head slightly, making sure her bow did not loosen. " I too know what it's like to be subservient to a stronger entity." Miki continued as he voice got softer and more gloomy.

The Obersterfuhrurin glanced at Miki for a moment before speaking. " Yes, one people's rise leads to another's fall. That is the way of the world...as the Gods have made it." The Obersterfuhrurin paused for a moment and looked out the window of the limo. From where she sat, she could see the towering skyscrapers of the imperial city and the various technological advances of the Minrozians, including the hover vehicles that flew over every so often. " Though it seems that your empire has come a long way from your...barbaric origins." The Obersterfuhrurin said with a sly smile.

[Minroz]

-snip-

It appears that the Constannians don’t have to wait for their ‘mystery hosts’. A fleet of army jeeps and black cars finally arrived at their positions, right on time. Exiting the limo are two young males in black and red-rimmed military uniforms which bore resemblance to the Soviet ones, and a single girl who wore the Court official dress. They’re all definitely Orientals. The three come over and made a low, respectful bow upon greeting the Constannians. Clearly, it’s the two different cultures meeting together.

“Welcome to Minroz, Your Highness and Your Excellencies. It’s a pleasure to meet you all. I’m Major Ku Zhuque of the Kheshig, the Minroz’s Special Forces.” The brunette introduced himself. He then points to the two who were following him.

“And this is captain Tan Kwang-Hyun my subordinate and his friend Lady Sin Ae-Ri, a humble civil servant in Zhongyang’s administration. We’re your escorts to the Forbidden City for a while.”

“Good afternoon, sirs and ma’ams.” Kwang-Hyun quipped.

“W-welcome t-to Zhongyang.” Ae-Ri said demurely with her warm smile. It made her cute though.

Regarding the Constannian elves, the three humans didn’t seem to be surprised due to the fact Minroz has a significant population of elves. So it’s not a problem. The Minrozian Empire is after all a melting pot of races and culture in spite of Far East Asian majority.

Zhuque gestured towards the limo and bowed again. “Please go ahead. After you, Your Highness.”

---

As Wilhelm gazed upon the surrounding city that the little convoy drove through, he said to Longshen, "I have to say, this city is quite magnificent and it kind of reminds me of Sauropolis in all of its urban sprawl."

“Thank you. However, then again given its size, it was expected to be of the capital of my motherland.” Longshen replied. “Zhongyang’s history has come a long way dating all the way back to the antiquity. Funny enough, this great city started off as a backwater village and one mansion, at least according to Imperial historians. Hmph, top of all, we Minrozians has origins as a tribal confederation only to unite under a Great Khan as a nation. But that’s six thousand years ago, we never know what really happens in the past except to rely accounts of past records. Shame, the Nationalistic propaganda didn’t help.”

He leans back and watched the scene of Zhongyang. “Above all else, this city serves as the seat of power for many past Imperial Dynasties. It went through the glories of golden ages and survived tragedies of conflicts. You and I may not be surprised Zhongyang remained as a heart of the Minrozian Empire. My father once said to me that I should not be disheartened when Zhongyang is razed to the ground because the city will rise back to its former glory like a phoenix. Considering the history of the city…”

He sniffs with the smirk. “I suppose I should take pride in it. Believe it or not, this place was a wasteland two hundred years ago and we were fortunate to have magical arts capable of healing the lands back to its pristine condition before the industrialisation. Let’s just say a horrible war took place here.”

[Saurisisia]

"Sauropolis was founded by exiles from a powerful city-state which was the home of a small-born kingdom and later Republic that came to dominate much of the Saurian lands. Greatness from small beginnings, I suppose."

"Our capital has only been torn apart thrice, once during the Mammaire Insurrection, the second during the Red Alliance's failed coup, and the third during the Summer Revolution, with that one being the mos devastating." Taking a deep breath, he then said, "well, if it was that horrible, then it clearly was worse than anything Sauropolis experienced."

"Though considering our own lack of magical abilities, we had to rebuild our cities through four years of hard work and having to sleep outdoors in the streets."

[Auzkhia]

-snip-

“Pretty good actually. We’ve been a thriving, prosperous nation for over two-hundred years, thanks to his Late Majesty’s wisdom and the blessings of the Heavens. We were fortunate. It made me proud to be a Minrozian.” Mu Shouyi replied with her enthusiasm.

Her ears droop down in sadness. “Alas, my old Emperor is no longer with us as he’s confined to his ICU ever since wounded in battles. We still don’t know when will he ever wake up from his coma. From what I’ve heard, he had little chance of living another day. His youngest son the designated heir His Highness is still too young and inexperienced to be a ruler, even though he’s 150 years old.” She whimpered.

“I pray to the gods, His Highness will become a great Emperor like his father.”

"Ah, good, Auzkhia has had great emperors. But, his governments were less stable, some dictatorships, even if the same party ruled for over 100 years." Prince Regal Stallion said. "Auzkhia is one of the greatest empires in our world, I am proud to be Auzkhian as well. That being said I like my home state."

"He's not dead?" inquired Blue Thunder.

"Too young?!" Franz-Otto said. "150 seems like a good age. I guess your people live longer than us."

The Auzkhian Crown Prince was almost 18, but he could live over 200 years old, or more when his magic gets better.

[Minroz]

-snip-

“No need, Your Highness. They’re already here.” Tsao Yanmei points at the VIP cars meant for the Hetlanders. “Please get inside; we’ll be heading to the Forbidden City now.”

While Muyuan gave a warm smile and gave a friendly wave to the girls, Yanmei remained stoic.

In her thoughts, she couldn’t believe she has to be with a foreign lunatic, even though his wife and his daughters are alright with her. Yanmei is afraid his trouble might ruin the coronation ceremony. All she has to do is trust Liu Feng to handle her husband and pray it would not turn out to be an international incident, just because Hetland thought it’s funny to do some crazy antics during his stay in Zhongyang.

---

-snip-

“It’s fine but good to hear nonetheless.” Nuray nodded in approval. “Her Imperial Highness (Ai) will certainly be interested in what you have to say, Your Highness. I will see if I’ll try making arrangements once we arrive.”

Peeking at her Wolfen friend from Koln, she didn’t forget Kaguya is here and already can tell the poor girl is afraid of Eva. Nuray felt regretful, feeling she can’t much to help Kaguya right now but it can’t be help since Eva is dominating the conversation for now. Perhaps later on, Nuray can help Kaguya as a friend. On the plus side, she’s certain the Fuso-Wolfener has better chance of meeting her Minrozian friends again.

“On the other note, is there something I shou-” Nuray stopped when she noticed the limousine everyone riding on is slowing down.

[“What’s happening?”] Zhuhua exclaimed.

[“Black hells I know, Zhuhua.”] Zun mumbled.

“Excuse me…” Nuray peeked out the window. Scowling for a reason and sighing frustratingly, she sat back whilst making an indignant pout.

[“What’s the matter, colonel?”] The redhead Minrozian asked her commander.

[“It couldn’t be that bad.”] Zun remarked.

[“Nope, guys. It’s worse. We nearly forget about them.”] Nuray huffed.

“Huh?” The duo then checked outside from the window. They too scowled and sat back in their seats, looking displeased written on their faces. The Wolfeners can see their Minrozian escorts are not happy to see what’s up outside…for a reason.

---

-snip-

“Perhaps I could say the same for yours, Your Excellency.” Andrei replied tinge with sarcasm. He knew the Obersterfuhrurin is learning certain details of his history explanation behind his Ruuz heritage. And he knew it’s not for altruistic reason on Nachfolgian part.

Well, he could only best humour her as a gentleman. Even though both Andrei and Leonid didn’t understand women, well, the two were pretty much oblivious anyway.

“It’s only in part to my late Emperor’s wisdom and the blessings of the Heavens we became like this. I suppose we’re lucky to have a good ruler.” He adds.

Leonid kept his silence as usual. He seems to be more in the mood to carry out his escort mission than talking. Moreover he didn’t think it’s worth talking to the Nachfolgians. Leonid figured it’s better to keep silent like a good soldier and let his best friend Andrei do all the talking. Nevertheless he kept watch on his charges with vigilance.

Suddenly the limousine slows down, much to the curiosity of the white Minrozians. Andrei asked the driver in Minrozian (Chinese), demanding to know why the car is about to stop. Once he gets the answer from the driver, Andrei and Leonid took a glimpse outside the window.

The two muttered something in their ancestral tongue as if they’re cursing their luck and finally relaxed back in their seats. Despite their eerie silence, everyone can tell by judging by their stares earlier, they are as if they’re saying ‘you got to be kidding me’. The Nachfolgians will find out why.

---

-snip-

“Tragic it is.” Longshen nodded. “Not a nice time to live in. I can tell you these histories are meant to remind us of the hardships our ancestors have gone through and sacrifices they make contributing to the very survival of our great nations. Pity not everyone can learn something from history. Nowadays, people are being too lax with their lives. And-”

The prince felt the limo slowing down. “Oh gods above, sorry about that. It seems we ran into something, Your Highness.”

Longshen beckoned his T-Rex bodyguard to check outside the window. And so he did. [“…milord, it’s just only the security checkpoint.”] He said in his accented Minrozian (Chinese).

[“Who manned them? I almost forgot while I was talking with our guests.”] The prince inquired.

[“The ‘Eyes and Ears’.”] Yaotl replied cryptically. With the deep sigh, Longshen relaxed back in his seat. He didn’t seem worried but by the tone of his grunt, he didn’t sound pleased. The Saurisians can see why.

---

-snip-

“Hmm?” Mu Shouyi tilts her head in confusion. She didn’t understand why the Auzkhians are surprised until she finally widened her eyes in realisation.

“Oh, my bad. I forgot to tell you about my royals.” The purple pony said sheepishly. “They received genetic engineering, cyber implants and magic augmentations, allowing them to live long time and at the same time retaining their youthful looks. Even some of their organs began failing.

Sounds fascinating, is it not? His Highness one who is about to become Emperor of Minroz happens to be an equivalent of fifteen years old. Gods, I’ve heard rumours from my colleagues that he’s not ready to be politician. However, His Highness is actually a genius in the fields of science, even by Minrozian royal standards. I’m sure he’ll make it, I hope to gods.”

She and the Auzkhians felt the car slow down. Mu Shouyi then asked the driver in Minrozian (Chinese), wanting to know what’s going on. Her eyes look out the window, the purple unicorn suddenly recoiled back with fear, stuttering out one word. “G-g-guoanbu…”

---

Dignitaries’ cars…

The dignitaries’ cars and their escorts halted before a large security checkpoint, guarding a tunnel. Apparently this tunnel is the only entrance inside Zhongyang city itself, directly from the International Airport and the highway. Granted, it’s not surprising since the Truthmakers terrorist attack a week ago. However there’s more reason the Minrozian guides didn’t seem to be comfortable, regarding the men manning the checkpoint themselves.

Looking outside, there are armed, masked men donned in their intimidating uniforms hailing from all species of the Middle Kingdom (predominantly humans), ranging from nekojins and elves to tall and burly oni-like ogres. There are armoured combat vehicles like APCs, flying sentry drones hovering all over the convoys like vultures looking for prey, powered-armoured suits armed with large, menacing-looking guns and even the presence of Tesla troopers standing-by near the tunnel like palace guards. And they’re all look ready to shoot at slight notices. Not to mention, the tunnel is blocked by what appears to be an energy shield acting as a gate.

And interestingly, everyone in the cars can see the iconic Qian trigram symbolising the harmony of Earth, Mankind and Heaven together, and these symbols were marked on soldiers either the armbands or the stamped on their respective body armour for all to see. And it’s clear to everyone who is very familiar with Minroz that these men belong to the infamous Ministry of State Security and Intelligence, the Guoanbu.

Luckily, the VIP convoys were on the designated highway meant for them. But the luck cannot be better for locals who’re stuck in the traffic jam on the other side with its own security checkpoint.

[“Bloody hell and by the beard of the prophet, so much for welcome party. I forgot they’re part of the security alongside us.”] Nuray muttered sarcastically in Turanian (Turkish).

[Wolfenium]

Peering through the front windscreen, Eva could not help but feel a bit piqued. She did see the need for security in such a major event, especially this soon after a terror attack on the residence of their head of state. However, she still considered the excessive checks annoying and inconvenient, especially since she was in a hurry to get home. On hindsight, she should have insisted they head for the hotel first. At the very least, they would have very well spent the time to unpack rather than wait in line for the security to scan them through.

"This looks more like a roadblock for a dangerous fugitive than a normal security detail," she remarked, "if I've known we'd run into this, I would have asked Saber to follow me on foot."

"I don't think it's wise at this juncture," Saber went, "our hosts might get even more flustered. Besides, don't you think it's a bit rude to abandon them like that, and what about the guest we're bringing-"

"Ok, ok," Eva waved off, "stop pestering me, will you? Say, Miss Nuray? Anything we should be notified about when we get through the checkpoint?"

[Nachfolgia]

The Obersterfuhrurin looked at the white Minrozian as he talked about his former Emperor getting the empire to where it was now, a large and powerful nation. " I know what you mean, Herr Andrei." The Obersterfuhrurin said with a faint smile. " The previous Obersterfuhrur, my father, was also a great leader. He led us to where we are today. Not too long ago, The Reich was in a terrible rut. We were weak...we were divided, we did not have the singular identity we have now. Thanks to my father's great wisdom and leadership, the Reich was reborn. He revamped our social and economic programs and rebuilt the Wehrmacht from the ground up. He gave us new pride in our people and our nation. That is why he became known as the Great Obersterfuhrur. I guess you could say I have pretty big shoes to fill." The Onersterfuhrurin said as she chuckled a little bit.

Before the conversation could continue, the motorcade stopped. The Nachfolgian representatives looked out their windows at the huge and extensive security set up by the Minrozians. The Obersterfuhrurin looked on at the checkpoint in awe at the technology involved, especially the drones and the armor of the soldiers. There was no doubt in her mind that this was the best the Minrozians had to offer. " I see that your people take security very seriously. We have similar security measures, but it's mostly concentrated in the governing district of Sturmgeistberg." The Obersterfuhrurin said as she continued looking at the checkpoint.

[Rupudska]

Apparently the Karlslanders didn’t have to wait. A VIP convoy was waiting for them, right on time to pick them up. Exiting the limousine are the three people. And surprisingly they’re the three people Hanna who really recognised them. The trio are Colonel Meiya Apalkova dressed in the black Kheshig uniform, while the two Lieutenant-Colonel Baichan Guoling and Major Hegiya Yi are both dressed in Soviet-like green army uniform, interestingly all of them are Ai’s old comrades in the Minrozian 501st. They happen to come over to greet the Karlslanders when they’re stepping down their plane.

The three witches made a low, respectful bow to the royal family of Karlsland as well as the Chancellor herself, out of their traditional etiquette. The Eurasian Minrozian is the first to spoke out, speaking in her Eastern European accent.

“Welcome to Minroz, Your Majesties and Your Excellency. It’s a pleasure to meet friends of the Middle Kingdom from afar. Especially it’s time for the coronation of the new Emperor, May His Divine Majesty reign for Ten Thousand Years by the grace of the Heavens. We three are your escorts to the Forbidden City.” Meiya smiled. “And long time no see, Your Highness (Hanna).”

“Yi here! It’s been a while.” The girl whom the Karlslanders were reminded of Erica Hartmann, piped up happily.

“Colonel Bayern, we meet again.” Gouling said, sharply salute Hanna. Though she made a thin smile in spite her stern exterior, she’s happy to see Hanna again. Yi and Guoling served together in Khaydaristan peace-keeping operations with Hanna’s squadron and became friends in 2012. They were also surprised Hanna herself is best friend with their Crown Princess. Nonetheless, things may got more interesting with Karlslanders around in Zhongyang as well as invited foreign dignitaries.

The Karlsland delegation all bowed in unison.

"Nice to see you again," Hanna said, nodding to the three Witches. "And it's nice to finally be in the Minrozian capital."

Bachmeier nodded, surveying the area and quietly analyzing the Minrozian Witches with her eyes. "Rather unusual for Minroz to just send military personnel to guard VIPs. Normally they send in government agents, from, shall we say, similar backgrounds to my own." It was no secret that Bachmeier had formerly been an agent of Karlsland's own secret police, the KGRP, nor was it that much of a secret that she had been part of the Unsichtbar, its special operations division. Or, for that matter, that she had been Minister of Intelligence - and therefore head of the KGRP - prior to her election as Chancellor.

The six Karlslanders all entered the car. "Lead the way," His Majesty said.

[Saurisisia]

When Wilhelm noticed that their vehicle had stopped and how shocked the Minrozians looked, the Tyrannosaurus gazed out the nearest window to see what was the matter and was rather shocked by the security details at the checkpoint. The rather heavily-armed and black-uniformed guards, the robots and personnel in power armor, and the VTOL aircraft; it reminded him of the Department of National Security in all of its paranoia and heavy-handed security measures. In fact, he was reminded of how the DNS wanted to impose strict security procedures on the guests who were invited to the Tyrannus Family's banquet and how it took his older brother Charles and their father Marcus to personally visit the office of the Secretary of National Security to finally make the DNS back off.

In their vehicle, the relatively human-sized Saurisians were talking amongst themselves regarding the checkpoint. "By the wings of Hathvarigar, this is going a bit too far in terms of security," muttered Geanna.

"Eh, standard procedure back home," was Komorowski's indifferent response. "Gotta say, though, their VTOLs are certainly more advanced than the ones we currently have. Ours are merely tiltrotor-based at this point, rather than jet-based... or whatever these guys have."

Diocleetuk sighed at the human practically drooling over the Minrozian military tech as he personally wondered if the ridiculous security procedures were really necessary at all.

[Hetland 2]

-snip-

“No need, Your Highness. They’re already here.” Tsao Yanmei points at the VIP cars meant for the Hetlanders. “Please get inside; we’ll be heading to the Forbidden City now.”

While Muyuan gave a warm smile and gave a friendly wave to the girls, Yanmei remained stoic.

In her thoughts, she couldn’t believe she has to be with a foreign lunatic, even though his wife and his daughters are alright with her. Yanmei is afraid his trouble might ruin the coronation ceremony. All she has to do is trust Liu Feng to handle her husband and pray it would not turn out to be an international incident, just because Hetlan thought it’s funny to do some crazy antics during his stay in Zhongyang.

As the Hetlanders entered the car, Hetlan and Liu Feng cuddled into the corner, in what was apparently was going to be a rather intimate kissing session. The twins, seemingly unphased by their parents sudden make out session, looked out the windows as the cars, energetically naming every gun, suit of power armor, and every peice of military gear (with disturbing accuracy), while the older girl blushed and sat farther off, across from Yanmei.

[Minroz]

-snip-

“Oh right, that’s I was about to ask that earlier.” Nuray replied. Although earlier she overhead Eva’s conversation and needless to say, she did not approve of the Wolfen princess going ‘on foot’. Otherwise, Eva will be getting into trouble than bargain for with the Imperial authorities even the Wolfener has diplomatic immunity or not. However, Nuray is a patient person thanks to her hundred years of life experience and a soldierly veteran.

Noticing a Guoanbu soldier who appears to be a lieutenant rank, began knocking on the limo’s window, she opens it and both of them salute each other before exchanging words in Minrozian. Actually, the Guoanbu lieutenant is requesting for IDs before the ride can go through the checkpoint, standard procedure. Nuray promptly gave her ID card to him, Zun and Zhuhua follow suit with their IDs (thought begrudgingly). While they wait for the Guoanbu officer who is scanning their IDs, the Turanian colonel continued where she have left off.

“Well here’s the run-down, we’ll be going to another checkpoint once we’re inside the city. You, along with the other foreign delegates here will be then having a little tour around the Forbidden City so you’ll get used to the area and next there’ll be a banquet and refreshments waiting there in the hallroom. Feel free to chat with other guests or anyone presented, however you’re not going to meet Her Highness (Aigiarn) today. Once mealtime is over, Your Highness and everyone else will be accommodated at the hotel with your luggage inside. Then do whatever you like to do in the hotel like rest-up in your room or shopping. Tomorrow will be a big day. Besides, the ritual ceremony is just getting started.”

Nuray crossed her arms and leans back in her seat, peering outside the window as she’s watching the Guoanbu men inspecting a lorry on the civilian side of the road. She felt the limo is being scanned by a device hanging on the tunnel entrance.

“One more thing, since the security of the city is beefing up than usual since the terrorist attacks a week ago. Practically everything around here is now under Guoanbu’s jurisdiction and we Khevtuul happens to be ‘extras’ for support, orders from High Command. I’ll be no longer your escort once we’re at the hotel because the responsibility will be the Guoanbus being in charge of hotel security. I’d advise you to pay heed to their instructions and you’ll be fine. And I’d trust you know not to make trouble, Your Highness.”

---

-snip-

“This is the capital city, the heart of the Middle Kingdom. What do you expect, Your Excellency?” Andrei grunted but in polite and professional manner.

He sees one Guoanbu soldier is knocking on the car window on his side. That masked man has a rank of sergeant. Andrei opens up the window and two gave a quick salute before giving his ID card to the Guoanbu. Leonid does the same. When the masked sergeant is busy scanning their IDs, Andrei continues the conversation…in a different topic.

“Well, what do you know about the Guoanbu?” Andrei asked the Nachfolgians. “Don’t ask me, I am soldier working in the Special Forces. Even they’re my fellow countrymen, I still don’t understand how they operate or think, aside from the fact they help us with fields of intelligence-gathering. This doesn’t mean I trust them with my life. Not to mention, they’re often secretive for my taste.”

“No, they’re just doing their jobs, Anderi. Weeding out internal enemies of the Middle Kingdom is their task. It’s no surprise their methods tend to be...dirty.” Leonid adds in, breaking his silence. Then the two felt the limo is being scanned by a device hanging on the tunnel entrance.

Despite the best efforts of Nachfolgians spies infiltrating Minroz, the Reich has little luck or idea how the Guoanbu exactly operates, nor comprehend the nature of this enigmatic organisation. Comparing to the rest of Minrozian intelligence agencies, the Guoanbu is the most secretive. It made them a very formidable opponent in the shadowy world of espionage. Notably the Guoanbu spies in Nachfolgia’s territory were either paid local informants or Persians who seek to avenge the destruction of their homeland and their loved ones. They don’t need to send their own agents to gather intelligence; they’ll just make use of people from disaffected segments of the targeted nation to do the work for them.

---

-snip-

Once the Karlslanders and their Minrozian guides entered inside the car, the convoy drove off and exited the airport. It’ll be more than an hour journey to the entry of Zhongyang itself. Now Meiya is going to answer Bachmeier’s inquiries.

“Your Excellency, technically every security details in Zhongyang are pretty much supervised by the Guoanbu. I’m part of the State Security branch of the Kheshig, the Khevtuul. And we happen to be ‘extras’ for support. You can say we’re working for them at this time. Hmph.” The Eurasian snorted with distaste. “Orders from above in the Kurultai.”

“Well, we just happen to passing-by.” Guoling added, speaking for herself and her blonde wingmate. “And we’re just meeting Apalkova for old times’ sake.”

“Although it’s a coincidence, I missed the old times in the 501st.” Yi quipped. “I hope Ai and the others are alright.” The blonde sounded bit melancholy. “She lost her mother and now His late Majesty is treading the thin line of life and death. It came down hard on her family. Gods bless his soul.”

“Anyhow, we just want to help.” The brunette witch spoke.

“Oh speak of the devil…” Meiya said dejected when she saw an incoming checkpoint at the tunnel entrance.

The convoy finally arrived at the checkpoint, behind the rest of the other VIP convoys but the presence of the Guoanbu personnel didn’t made the three witches happy. Evidently, they naturally scowled from the windows at the men in black, military uniforms. One with rank of the captain knock on the window, Meiya promptly opens it and saluted him to which he returns. She then gave him her ID upon his request in Minrozian tongue. Guoling and Yi does the same.

Watching him scanned their IDs in one corner, Meiya leans back in her seat, her suspicions never leave her face. She gazed back at the Karlslanders with forlorn look.

“I’m sorry about this, Your Majesties. We’re going to have some more detours like this on our way. Security is taken seriously since the terrorist attack at the Forbidden Tower a week ago. I’m asking you to be more patient. God, not to mention the partymen (Kuomintang) are real jittery about making sure the ceremony is ‘perfect’.”

“These guys are just making excuses to make themselves look good.” Yi said casually. “Most of them got up their positions through currying favours with each other.”

“Hegiya!” Guoling chides her best friend.

“What? I’m telling a truth. Everyone in the army and the spooks know it.” The blonde shrugged. The brunette sighs with silent agreement.

---

-snip-

A Guoanbu officer saluted and asked the prince for his ID from the window. And the long-haired man and his T-Rex bodyguard promptly gave their IDs to him.

While waiting for the IDs to be scanned, Longshen decided to explain about these men in black uniforms, “These gentlemen you see outside belonged to the Ministry of State Security and Intelligence or known as the ‘Guoanbu’. Men-in-black types who’re sometimes above the law and they answer directly to the Emperor, not the Kurultai. They’re what our American guests called them long time ago in the seventies ‘the KGB of Minroz but Asian, deadlier and more efficient.’ The Guoanbu are not the people you want to mess with unless you have a death wish.”

“I may be a prince but I have no jurisdiction over them. And most of all, I’m a Kheshig commander. And we Kheshig don’t have…favourable opinions regarding the Guoanbu.”

Yaotl adds in his words, “We just don’t trust them. And they don’t trust us. Simple as that.”

“How can I put this, well, you can say it’s a matter of interservice rivalry for the lack of better word.”

---

-snip-

Tsao Yanmei cursed her luck, wondering to the gods about what she has done wrong to deserve this. Even though, she was astonished by the twins being able to name the equipments of the Guoanbu soldiers presented at the checkpoint, her military discipline prevented her from showing it. Although, she take it the twins were bored out of their minds.

“Awww, how beautiful~?” Muyuan squealed, watching the couple making out. “This is true love~.”

Tell me about it, Yanmei thought sarcastically. She finds the act inappropriate at this time. Then again, she used to have a crush on the certain prince and have given up because the man she loves already had a woman at his side. Thus Yanmei decided to leave the Hetlander couple alone, giving them privacy.

Sighing as she stares outside the window, her convoy was waiting in line behind the others. Soon, it’ll be their turn.

“Gods, give me a break…” Yanmei muttered incomprehensively.

[Auzkhia]

"Ah, so they did." Blue Thunder said when the purple mare talked about the royals of Minroz.

The Auzkhians looked all the guards and soldiers.

"This security seems like a closed border. I really do hope that we are not trouble." said Princess Wish Darling "Is everything OK? Who are the Guoanbu?"

Regal Stallion and Franz-Otto were very curious and worried.

"Relax, everyone. It's probably just a checkpoint for security reasons. It's a good sign, we will be safe." said the Empress, she was calm and stoic compared to the Ponies.