Unto the Breach: A Gate RP (IC|Open)

[Second Helghan Empire]

Spc. Martin Karev

Was listening to radio traffic as he waved Okoya goodbye. She didn't need a translator to speak her own language and honestly Martin was happy to not have to go along the lines of wounded questioning people about the family of a dead man. He'd happily leave that to the giantess. As if saving him by the bell, Martin's radio cracked to life with 1-2 letting 1-1 know he had some HVT wanting to discuss terms. Didn't they already have the princess, who was this? 1-1 responded to the Russian and gave the order to have him bound. With that he heard orders given to 1-5 to head that way and get him.

Martin drew the conclusion a little extra support wouldn't be a problem, especially since neither of the other two could translate. Deciding to head over to help out if need be Martin was approaching Dima in just a moment.

"Ey, khochesh' ruku Ruski?" (Hey, need a hand ruski?) Martin said. Speaking to the Russian gunner. It was refreshing to actually speak the language with someone outside of his own family. He hadn't had contact with many native russian speakers and honestly the change to use his knowledge was something he looked forward to.

[Auropa]

Andrew O’Connor
Crossroads 1-5
Italica

“I can speak Imperial, and I can talk to the escorts, but please... PLEASE... don't do anything stupid.”

Slightly taken aback by the dwarf’s words, O’Connor paused for half a second before giving a short nod, not that it mattered to the dwarf who was already speaking to the others. Either way, once he finished talking the princess began to move and none of the guard seemed to follow. It was a short walk to the commander but O’Connor couldn’t bring himself to look away. Instead his mind mercilessly flashed previous failures across himself, as if attempting warding off the risk of repetition. One memory that particularly stung was from his time with Delta. A simple snatch and grab operation that turned into a nightmare as the target managed to somehow stash a grenade on his person and wipe out 2 of the 5 team members as well as trashing the extraction vehicle. Admittedly though, this was different. On one hand, the empire probably didn’t have any grenade equivalents to worry about but more importantly the princess had the walk of someone defeated. She knew that there was nothing she could do to turn this into a victory, but at the same time, O’Connor had seen her face as the dwarf talked to her. Somewhere inside her there was still an urge to resist, to fight back and protect her people. And that small spark was something he couldn’t help but respect, of course, that was also the reason he had refused to lower his weapon.

Interrupting his thoughts however was Fischer’s new orders
"O'Connor, I want you to locate the other noble Thompson spotted earlier. He seems to have disappeared. When you locate him, bring him to the field Headquarters, the old safe house”

Pausing for half a second to contemplate and understand the orders, as well as quickly push back his own pride, he gave a quick “yes sir” before moving away. Admittedly he had a lot on his mind, coming across a member of royalty was beyond a big deal for the recon team. If handled properly it could balance out the negative press, calm the politicians and hopefully show a level of progress to the people. As he walked through the pile of corpses once more, he couldn’t help but consider how capturing the princess might help prevent things like this from repeating. Funnily enough, her capture may be the thing that saves her people.

Looking amongst the imperial soldiers, it didn’t take too long for O’Connor to spot the familiar armour of the noble Thompson had called out before. Which still left O’Connor with one more problem. Communication. Usually bringing someone in for questioning was easy enough but a language barrier often proved to be one hell of a difficult gap to cross. Making the situation that much better was the fact that the dwarf translator had left as quickly as he came ‘little worm was probably trying to get cosy with every group here’ he figured with as much respect for the short guy’s ambition as distaste for his attitude. Orisa was out of the picture and quite frankly O'Connor didn't trust the other native translators, leaving only the other UN translators. Making a quick note of the noble’s position he began a quick lap of the courtyard in search of help.

Luckily enough it didn’t take too long for him to find one. At the time the specialist was talking to the giant from earlier. And by the looks of it they both seemed pretty upset, all things considered though, neither of the duo lacked a reason. Seeing an opportunity as the giant began to move away, O’Connor got ready to grab the specialist's attention before someone else could but at that same moment an all too familiar Russian accent seemed to break the norm and grab the attention of both of them.

After a quick double take at the rifle in Russian’s hands and a few moments of being left dumbstruck by his sheer lack of luck, he broke into a short run towards Dima while calling out to get his attention “Dima! Stand down! Fischer is looking for this one so please. No. Shooting.” By the time he arrived he figured it was better to just skip using any of the one liners he had been preparing and focus on the mission and stopping his objective from getting shot. Finally looking at his surroundings he noticed the translator he had been following, now standing right beside Dima probably getting a good head start while O'Connor was left perplexed by the universes seemingly endless desire to screw with him.

“Hell of a day, huh?” He said between short breaths to the translator before continuing continuing “Fischer sent me after this guy. Though I could do with some help with the language” Then with a quick nod of his head in the noble’s direction he straightened his back before addressing the two of them.
“Okay, so our well-dressed friend here is apparently some big shot among the imperials here. We’re lacking details and he’s shown himself to have a temper. Now, I think I speak for everyone when I say we don’t want anymore deaths today so be ready in case he tries something. Dima, you watch out for anything. If he makes a move I want you to be ready to pull him off Martin or me, especially me. Meanwhile, we’ll ask the questions. Though it goes without saying these guys are probably out of our league in CQB so anything happens call out for some extra backup no need to risk dealing with any problems alone.”

Pausing for a moment O’Connor took a second to look at Dima and Martin. The Russian had shown himself to be jumpy at the best of times but was a good shot and seemed more than ready to get rough with any imperials. As for the translator, the guy was still relatively young and hadn’t quite managed to get his scowl under control but held himself with a certain level of purpose ‘probably half broken up about the massacre and half determined to stop another one’ he figured. “I’ll ask the questions. Basic stuff mostly, Martin, if you can think of any idioms or ways to get them across better go right ahead. But give me his replies as straight as you can. Afterwards we’ll bring him to Fischer and hopefully get the negotiations underway.” Taking a few moments to steel his mind and take a breath, he gave one last nod to the others before moving to the noble between them.

“Hello, my name is Andrew O’Connor, this is Martin Karev and I believe you’re already acquainted with Dima over there, we’re all with the UN. Now I need you to answer a few of our questions as best you can, give us accurate, clear responses and we’ll escort you to the princess and even allow you to stand by her side at the negotiations table. That said, if you try anything, give me shi… inaccurate answers and you’ll be separated leaving her alone.” Then as he waited for Martin to translate he set about getting his own mind in order. Admittedly it was a bluff, whether he answered anything or nothing, Fischer wanted to have the noble in the HQ. But this guy didn’t know that, which gave O’Connor a chance to get some foundations for the captain as well as see if the guy was stable.

“Let’s get started then. What is your name and position within the empire along with your relationship with the princess? What role do you have within the army, are you a commander, a decorated soldier or something else? Next, do you have, or command anyone with, magical capabilities? Are you aware of any traps my people should be aware of while moving about the city? Bear in mind that we will act in our self-defense if we have to and you can see how effective we are in battle” Pausing for a moment O’Connor looked back to Martin “Paraphrase that last one as best you can to avoid offense and get us an answer. If there are any hidden caches or soldiers this guy knows about, we need to know, god knows it would help our guys moving deeper into the city.”
Then looking back to the noble he continued “Final question. Are there any incoming forces towards Italica that you are aware of? Remember, we’ll know if you’re lying and this is you’re only chance to stand by Cordelia’s side”

[Asturial]

Berian Cergaine

The three green soldiers surrounded him, but they were not overly aggressive, in fact their actions seemed more defensive, waiting for him to do something that was threatening. The landgrave certainly had no intention of doing so, he had long since regained his composure since the attack and was ready to do what was necessary to spare his men ad the people of any hardships further than this.

The apparent translator, one of the green men identified as Martin Karev, was translating the words of a Andrew O'Connor while the large and rather imposing Dima was the one that appeared to have the largest weapon and set of armor in a very abstract way similar to Martin's own. As this Martin Karev translated for Andrew O'Connor it was made obvious that his allowance at the negotiating table balanced on his own choice of words and answer of questions.

"I will answer your questions to the best I am capable." Berian stated.

The first question was simple as could be. What was his name and position in the Empire and relationship to the princess.

"I am Landgrave Berian Cergaine, I am a king of my people, or would be if not a vassal to the Empire. I hardly know the Princess, but she and her followers asked for aid and I responded best I was able with limited time. I had expected to be facing organized bandits." He answered a little more than was necessary but kept things as straight and to the point as possible to expedite things.

As the next question was asked it took Berian a little longer to formulate an answer. He was unsure how much they were expecting. His history and the history of his family in regards to the Imperial army was complicated in the very least. Deciding a long answer was worth it, so as not to anger the questioners with anything they might feel was important that he felt was not.

"Forgive me it is a long answer. In short I am not a part of the Imperial army at all, I lead my own army, however I am a vassal of the Empire and expected to aid it. I also was raised as a tribute commander, I was sent at a young age to serve in a low ranking position in the legions and advanced through the ranks, until my family was..." Berian stopped for a moment. "Until my family was removed and I was installed as a servant of the throne. I have had several victories and some defeats, but I am no particularly decorated as a commander." The Landgrave was honestly a little confused about their question regarding his decorations and awards. While it was officially a reward that he was granted ownership of Regenos, after the Empire's purge there truly were few Regenosi nobles left that could have served in the role. A foreign governor would have bred more problems not less, and a historically complacent region was better given a second chance, or so that was how it seemed to Berian.

The next question was more along the lines of what Berian himself would be asking as well. Was there any magic wielders in his force or was he himself one.

"I am, but only slightly, I truly can only use it with my swords, anything else would be negligible at best. I did not have any magic users in my army and I am unaware of any among the Countess' or the Princess' forces either. Though I can not say for certain." Berian realized he may have just sold out the countess but then remembering the news his captains had brought him earlier he realized it did not bother him in the slightest, perhaps she had even been killed in battle. That was the most honorable end he could stomach for her.

"I do know however that the North Company had a few and used them on our defenses." He remembered the heated combat as the enemy wielders forced them back, they had nearly no defense against them, though they had even less against these green men.

The next question was strange. Were these men actually worried about his men trying to mount defenses against them. What could his knights do against such force. Then again, there seemed only to be a few of them, perhaps a surprise charge by his knights. No, Berian dropped the thought, nothing he had at his disposal could do any great enough damage to these soldiers.

"I have a few hundred men in reserve at the keep and garrison, most are at the keep with the majority of civilians. It is possible that soldiers from other portions of the walls are around the city and there are barricades in some main roads, but our hope was to stop the North Company at the walls." After that Answer Berian realized these men may use that to assault his men. "I can have all of them stand down and surrender with a simple order if you give me the opportunity, no more of my people need to die." There was a slight desperation in his voice. Most of the men at the keep were previously injured, and nearly the entire town worth of civilians was there as well. If only they would give the chance to him he could have his men begin giving up and spare them at least death if not their honor.

The last question was a bit of an issue. The lack of communication between Italica and anyone else meant they had no idea if their messengers had arrived yet or would at all.

"I can't honestly say if others are coming. We sent for aid, but we have no idea if it got through, even if the messengers got out it will be long before there is reinforcements." Berian stated. These questions felt odd to admit, it could be used to assault more of his allies, but he had little choice if he wished to ensure the safety of his soldiers.

[Auropa]

Andrew O’Connor
Crossroads 1-5
Italica

As Martin translated Landgraves words O’Connor came to a reasonably quick conclusion.
“Thank you for your cooperation” he said flashing his ever-friendly smirk to the armoured noble. If anything, this operation was beginning to seem too good to be true for O’Connor, first a member of royalty and now the head of a vassal with its own private militia. Adding to that, he showed the signs of desirable asset. Influential, intelligent and most importantly, helpless against their forces. ‘Or at least for now’ he figured working to keep himself grounded and cautious.

“Alright” he finally said, signing Martin to keep translating “If you follow us we’ll take you to our commander and the princess.” For a moment he felt tempted to make continue with some idle chatter, try to feel out the culture and get some more interaction practice but decided to hold it back in the end. For now, his orders were retrieval and his impromptu interview already put him behind schedule not to mention that pissing off Fischer wasn’t exactly high on his to do list. Especially since recent events meant he’d need a favour from the captain very soon. So with a simple arm gesture and a nod he lead the group back to the new HQ.

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As he entered the safe house again the first thing that became apparent was the new faces and the dwarf’s reappearance ‘you just manage to get around everywhere don’t you?’ he thought with a slight hint of respect.
"I am Selia Aster, Raven of Necromagium, a Missionary."
Grabbing O’Connor’s attention was the newcommer’s voice. But what really surprised him, was the pitch. It was too high, meaning she was too young. O’Connor had a lot of problems and truth be told, he was willing to fess up to being a little messed up and a smidgen amoral at time, but children were something he generally avoided especially during operations. More than anything else, they tended to act irrationally and unpredictably at best. Admittedly, Osira had to be there since she had knowledge of the local customs and had shown herself to be reliable but getting more kids involved seem risky to him. Still, even though this ‘Selia’ was still a complete unkown to him, she was probably here for a reason he figured. She might be powerful or important but either way, it wasn’t O’Connor’s place to decide who went where. So as she finished speaking he gave a quick greeting with a short bow of his head before turning to face Fischer.

“Sorry for the interruption sir. We found the noble” He said while gesturing to the figure behind him “Landgrave Berian Cergaine, leader of a vassal nation to the empire and a small militia.” As he spoke he took a small notepad from one of the nearby tables and began to write as he continued “It may be worth noting that a messenger was sent from Italica asking for backup but its unsure whether it was successful of not. Also Landgrave has asked to stay close to the princess. As far as I can tell, its honour or duty related.” Finally he stopped just a meter short of the captain before handing him the small notebook with his message on it.
‘Noble has likely lost family to empire. Has shown temper but is willing to work with us. Unsure where loyalty lies, seems to value lives of soldiers above honour. Writing to avoid distressing locals’

[Western Imperial Union]

Horst Evras

The warlock rested beneath the awning of a slightly charred building. The scent of blood, burnt flesh, and endless amount of other things was thankfully far enough away from where he sat to only barely reach his nose. Crossing his legs and interlocking his fingers Horst closed his eyes and settled into a state of meditation. He needed to rest and refocus his energy before he could help others to the best of his abilities. Taking in air through his nose and out through his mouth the wizard proceeded with this for quite a long while. Keeping his breathing in order and his power circulating was the best way he could reinvigorate his body within a short amount of time. A hot meal and sleep would have been better but they were more or less out of the window for now.

As he sat a breeze passed over before translucent ghostly figure formed beside him. The apparition of a young man, or possibly a boy. It took a similar position as Horst and joined him in meditation. It had been a long while since the two sat and meditated together. After all these years Horst had changed, but he had stayed completely the same.

"Have you been so busy that you neglected your old master?" Horst joked.

"I am not the one who has been busy Master Evras." Said the boy, a smile on his face.

"Gawyn have you been avoiding these newcomers to our world?" Horst asked.

It wasn't like his old student to avoid people, usually Horst had to restrain him. Gawyn Fench had always been an open and friendly soul, even when encountering bandits, murderers, and other such people. Honestly probably one of the reasons Bryntha had such an easy time getting the drop on him. The point was Gawyn was in most circumstances overly trusting, and for him to be so suspicious of them was worrying.

"Master," Gawyn broke the silence. "Bryntha and Tethric are in agreement. These people, have brought much more death than they should have. They killed civilians last night and you did nothing. You have not even left their company. I don't understand. Any other people and you would have at least abandoned them if not moved actively against them. What is different about these strangers?" Gawyn had turned now to face Horst.

Horst changed, suddenly appearing his younger self. Still however he looked to be Gawyn's senior by at least a decade. Then again he also wasn't transparent.

"They are brutal in their fighting yes. From what I have heard them say, their world has suffered greatly in war, but also prospered because of it's brutality. They now have laws of war of some sort, that keep them from harming their prisoners, and force them to aid the vanquished. They strike terror unimaginable into their enemies a single time, so that a single time is all that is needed, but also act with every bit of caring they can. For now, I will remain in their company, and hope that I am proven right." Horst was resolute, and unwavering in his decision, even the ghostlike visage of his close friend and pupil could see that.

"Very well Master, it is your decision. I do have another question. I have also noticed the presence of the different magically gifted people you have come in contact with. Morgann's son Berian is rather weaker but you met that girl Osira and at least could sense the Necromancer. They are interesting, dangerous and interesting." The apparition had shifted, a woman now rested on her knees beside him, her eyes closed and a placid look on her face.

"Berian would be a capable magic user if taught, and the others are devoted to orders, set in their ways. I fear what a Necromancer could do, but then again everything I have read about the Necromagium is that they serve life during and after death. For now I will wait." Horst again was resolute.

"You were my student long before you ever took Gawyn as a student, I know you better than he ever could. Yet he is right, what happened? Have you grown to be a complacent old man?" Bryntha was trying to pry at him and bring about his more vulnerable emotional side.

"Bryntha, I am waiting. We are waiting. Leave and tell Tethric I have nothing more to say to you." Horst, stood and the apparition vanished as the woman's face twisted into a snarling grimace.

Horst reentered the main square. He was not as rested as he would have liked, but he moved on anyway, helping those he could. Largely giving water to those in need of it or helping to ease pain.

[Zjaum]

Okoya finished her lap. It was a long run, but it was worthwhile. She hadn't done exercise like that in a while. Sure, she had to keep pace with the convoy and make the errand for the company, but she's had worse. This time in particular, her exercise was for leisure, to calm her nerves. She hadn't had leisurely exercise like that in months, perhaps even years.

Still her mind was restless, at least in part. Was Amilus's commander still alive? Where was Haapsalu right now? How was everyone feeling at this point? Were the commoners simply returning to business as usual? By not finding answers, Okoya had just delayed the inevitable voices in the back of her head.

She figured that she should finally act on those voices. Sure, none of the medics would probably be able to help immediately, but perhaps she could find out personally. Sure, it would be long and hard, but she had a lot of time and questions that desperately needed answering. Ah, but the medics might not want her around. If the patients weren't still in shock, they'd at least be unnerved at the sight of a giant. Besides, she didn't know the last thing about care, especially when it came to the foreigners' mystical technology. She'd probably get in the way.

Yet still those voices persisted, and she had to try and act on them. She approached the nurse in charge, knelt, and bowed to make herself as least frightening as possible. "Hello, sir. I would like to help the guests."

The nurse looked at the clipboard and looked back up at her. "Fine. With the number of patients we have, we could always use an extra hand." He nodded towards several clear jugs of water. "The patients should have cups or some kind of container already for holding beverages. I'm sure you can safely pass out water to the patients who need it. Can you handle that?"

Okoya nodded eagerly. The nurse uncapped the first two jugs, and Okoya went straight to work. Most of the soldiers were surprised (to say the least) to see the massive fabric of the tent lift up just to take water requests, but they were glad for the refreshments anyway. Okoya was happy to fulfill their requests but shifted her eyes on a different purpose, eager to find any of the North Company officers from her brief interaction. She had no such luck, but there were many cots to go.

Then she came across a set of four creatures. They barely looked human, with horns and numerous metal piercings and such. They were surprisingly tall, relative to the other soldiers- one was almost half her height, even! Spotting the nearby nurses, looking over their clipboards and shrugging to each other, she confirmed that she was, in fact, seeing clearly. Perhaps their foreign nature meant that they were important to the Empire? Perhaps they were officers of sorts. Regardless, Okoya decided to take a brief respite from her search to satisfy this new curiosity.

She lifted the tent flap behind the four, calculating what to say in Zjaumit and translating into Imperial. "Hello there! It is good to see non-humans around here too! May I offer you water?"

[Atreidya]

Kurak looked up as the Giantess approached him. She was given freedom in the camp it seemed even though Kurak could swear he had seen her alongside some of the North Company soldiers. Not that Kurak was so strictly held in his position but with his and Ahnsa's injuries Kurak was unwilling to try his luck in exiting the medical area.

Ahnsa continued to sleep on the cot beside his. Her brow was still furrowed and cheeks swollen from her tears, but she looked peaceful now. Kurak honestly did not enjoy the thought of when she would awake and remember her sister and her friend lying just beyond the walls. Kurak turned his head to face the giantess once again as she greeted him.

"Yes please." Kurak responded when offered water. He wished to fill both his own and Ahnsa's cups. The girl would undoubtedly be in need of some by the time she awoke.

"I saw you there with the North Company troops. How is it you have such freedom to move here? Actually. Where did you come from exactly miss..." He left it open hoping she could fill in her own name.

[Nations United for Conquest]

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Captain Alois Fischer

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Crossroads 1-1

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Italica | Safe House - Temporary Battalion HQ

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The inside of the old merchant house that was considered by both the members of the Recon Section and A Company Fourth Battalion, was of the classix and somewhat cliche manner that most people would have associated with a medieval type of housing. One of the few things in the Special Region that could generally be compared to their Earth based counterparts. At least in ancient history that was. The house was divided into two floors; a lower one that held two man rooms, connected by open arch ways of an almost Roman style, despite them being located in what was very much a dark ages, to use the term loosely, styled decor and housing structure. A single large fireplace sat off to the easternmost edge of the house. Covered in a multitude of different shades of reds, oranges, and even hints of crimson and other colored bricks, no doubt due to the nature of the different types of clay gathered from the nearby river that flowed just to the North of the city, made for a outline that almost made it seem as if the burning logs were the sun, and the bricks the clouds filtered through with the suns dying color. It likely added in a great amount of color to what was overall a dark and dingy home. But this was the Special Region, Dark ages Europe two point zero, and not some five star hotel you'd find in Europe today. The walls were of a dull grey color, that at one point was likely a white color, but after what was likely decades of use and changing seasons had dirtied and dulled into the current creamy color that found itself plasted against the walls. The walls themselves were likely made of some sort of brick and mortar, not unlike that of the fireplace, acted together when the foundations were first laid. The wallpaper, the closest thing of Earth equivalent, was likely added on to spruce up the place, and cover the brick from possible wear, as well as protect the inhabitants from possible dust and other less favorable conditions caused by the presence of brick walls. The case was the same up in the loft, which had been full of Recon Section soldiers, until just a few minutes ago, though in reality it felt like decades. The difference there was that the large wooden beams that were used to support the roof still remained in full view, adding an almost log cabin like feeling to the upper areas of the house. Not that the Imperials or Special Region Natives likely would understand that if one of the strange green men brought it up in a one off remark.

In comparison to the loft, the first floor, and due to the lack of an visible basement, the only other floor, was quite well furnished. Ornate and large tables stood just in front of the large fireplace, resembling in a way the Earth with the fireplace acting as the sun setting behind a horizon. Elsewhere it was largely spaces, with a few chests, tables, and chairs scattered out across the rooms in an almost random order. No doubt shuffled around and removed from their original positions in the haste of the previous occupants to leave before the North Company arrived. Though that was a fear no long passed with the arrival of the Recon Section and fourth combat battalion. The floor layout was quite open with the exception of a single room set off to the side of the house, near the southern corner. A small room, no more than perhaps ten meters by five meters, which wasn't very small in fact, was the office of the merchant who had previously lived with what was likely his family. A single desk stood, pushed towards the back corner, with no other visible seating pieces. This was likely where he or she had looked over their papers and other good from whatever they had been selling or trading. A separate office to do business in, likely existed somewhere else in the city, no doubt close to the center complex resting upon the hill in the center of the city. It was even possible they could be there this minute, still cowering in fear, likely more now from the large explosions that had come from the Eastern Gate, rather than the threat of the North Company attempting to kill and pillage from them, or worse. Besides the desk there was a small bookshelf, piled up books ranging in all sizes, shapes and colors. Red, green, blue, thin, tall, fat, all sat next to each other in an almost random order. Perhaps they had been mixed up as the merchant attempting to grab what he could and flee, or perhaps, more likely, he was simply unorganized. Perhaps even the books were simply books, and posed to record keeping business beyond the passing of time. Either way, they were collected by UN soldiers to be added to the evidence pile. Who knew what kind of useful information they could find in them. Anything from business records, to hopefully information on slaves taken from Stockholm.

The last thing that remained in the room was another long table, this one made out of a much darker wood. It was nearly to the point of being black, and although smooth, knots and bends in the wood could still be seen. No doubt and expensive table, made from what was likely a rare and old piece of wood, given the amount of knots present in the top of the table, and the lack of any other piece of furniture so resembling it in color and pattern. Perhaps some old type of tree, unknown and rare, a prize gathered by the merchant when he was younger, or a table given from a place far away when he first began his business. Though perhaps it was simply wishful thinking. It had likely, at some point not to long before the arrival of the current occupiers, the Recon Section and guests, had been used by the Merchant to conduct private business. Unlike the table on the other side of the house, the one near the fireplace, this one was much smaller. It held only enough room for perhaps six people, maybe a few more if they were skinny, to sit around and still have ample room to move about their hands. It was here that many deals had likely gone up or down, among the Merchant, his friends, partners, and enemies. Now it currently held both friends and enemies alike. Roles that were possible to change or grow in intensity at any possible moment. At one side of the table sat Fischer and Thompson. Both men sat with stoic faces, though a hint of excitement could be seen through the professional unsmiling face of Thompson. Likely a bit of a hangover from finding the Princess originally in the chaos and confusion of the aftermath of the battle. Or perhaps he was simply closer to completing his intended mission, a mission that was in truth, no different from Fischer's or any man or woman of the Recon Section. But that was a debate best left to another time. To the left of Fischer sat a young girl, her face calm, though her eyes held the showing of many mixed emotions. It wasn't hard to guess some of the theme; fear, excitement, wonder, and the like. Though her face was drawn and large bags could be made out under her normally bronze-ish skin. Likely the result of having stayed up the past night, and combined with the stress of the morning to formulate quite the restfulness in the young girl. And her day was only getting started.

Sitting to the left of Orisa, the young girl, and the two men of the Recon Section, was a younger girl, somewhere in her early twenties, putting her just between the ages of Thompson and Orisa, and likely a decade minor to Fischer. Upon first entering into the room with the men her face, much like Orisa's was a waterfall of different emotions. Predominantly fear and worry struck out from among the others, though a touch of guilty could be seen in her eyes that, once blue, had dipped into the category of grey and dull. It was no doubt difficult for her to stomach much less understand what had just happened in the past five minutes. The sudden arrival of the Air Cavalry, the Recon Section opening up on the courtyard, the fiasco with Thompson and O'Connor, and now she was being forced into a small room with two of the strange green men, who didn't even speak her language, to discuss god knows what. Though through it all, it was easy to tell she was no doubt someone important, as royal family members tend to be. As she lowered herself into the dark wooden chair, where tens if not hundreds had likely previously sat for business meetings and dealings, her face regained a little composure, as did her body. Yet, even as her shoulders relaxed and her face drew up to a hardness, futility attempting to meet that of Fischer or Thompson, the hints of fear and worry could still be seen building up behind her eyes, as they darted from Orise to both of the men, back to Orisa. She wore a questioning and wondrous expression, no doubt searching for the faintest glimpse of an explanation from either the men or Orisa. Neither would be giving one to her, at least right away. First other things had to be laid out. Both sides had questions, especially the young Princess, but they weren't exactly in a position to waste time. Fischer started off the conversation by laying out the basics she likely wanted, or rather needed to know. Things like how the prisoners and citizens would be treaty. He spoke slowly, allowing Orisa ample time to translate his words, as to allow the young Princess to likely receive the full meaning. Watching as Fischer's words were translated to Imperial through Orisa, it was easy to watch as the young Princess' composure slowly broke away. Whether it was through shock or not, she would quickly reveal as she nearly yelling out in Imperial, and the words began to translate back through Orisa's mouth.

...What?...Why? You do not want to execute our soldiers. You do not want money or reparations, you do not wish to loot or rape or burn. Then why? What.. what do you want from us? From me?

As she spoke these words, her initial reaction to the words spoken by Fischer it was easy to tell her emotions. Her once somewhat hardened face had turned into one of dumbstruck. It was if she could not possible understand what the man was saying, as it no doubt went against her pre ingrained beliefs and few experiences in life. Her body told the same story as her muscles tightened up and her face grew darker as she spoke, not even bothering to attempting to look the two men in the eyes.

..With your strength, you could obliterate anything the Empire could muster against you. You have no need to speak to me. It pains me to say this, but it is true that you have no need to be friendly. You fully have power to take what you want by force.. but what is it you want? You do not want money, nor prisoners or glory. Then.. what do you want?

It was just as Fischer and others back at Alnus had assumed it had gone over. Talking with members of the captured forces, both at Alnus following the first battles, and the few who were able to talk after the absolute slaughter at Italica, a single clear picture was painted; the Empire or rather Emperor was censoring any news or views on what had happened at Stockholm and Alnus. It wasn't hard to believe, as it was something that was still common on Earth. Though in the age of digital media it had become harder and harder to do, as more people began having access to directly what was going on. For all of the Special Region and Earths differences many things remained the same in both cases, especially when it came to the populations relation to the government. No government likes to admit to its populations that is it losing a war, if you could even call it that. For the most part it was wolves slaughtering sheep by the bushel. Shooting fish in a barrel for lack of a better metaphor. If such news reached the Imperial common folk, who knew what might have happened. Local lords would likely spring up in open revolt of the Empire's rule for throwing their men and soldiers into such a meat grinder and leaving them unprotected and with nothing. If it was as some of their native allies had said; if a city like Italica was so under defended, who knew what other places in the Empire were like at this time. Sure they had likely made up excuses, but if what happened at Italica was ever revealed, it would make the stories about holding the enemy at bay at Alnus hill more of a forgery. Hell, some might have even argued that it could lead to armed rebellion or in the least, something similar to a governmental reform. A topic always on the minds of those back on Earth when it came to an end game policy for the Special Region. But such a decision was still a long ways off. What was unexpected about the whole situation, was how far up the chain the censoring went. A full blooded royal Princess sta before them, and had no clue whatsoever about what truly happened at Alnus, though it was safe to say what she had just witness had begin to put the pieces together.

Seeing this, Fischer turned towards Thompson, speaking in a hushed tone, as to not allow Orisa to hear and translate it to a likely anxious Imperial Princess, "It's just like Command thought; the censorship goes all the way to the top." Turning back from the Sergeant, Fischer turned back to the young Princess, prepared to begin answering her questions, when a voice suddenly interrupted him from behind.

Apologies for not approaching you directly. There was a man who was threatening her life, and I tried to save her. Next, I found a necromancer among the ranks of the wounded. Considering how much power our last necromancer had, I figured that I should alert you immediately. If possible, I'd like to continue negotiations in here

Turning he found himself staring down the Dwarf who had suddenly reappeared almost out of thin air, and with an ego larger than the room they were standing in, had decided to throw himself into the conversation at had. It was a common sight for the Dwarf to try and get himself involved where he wasn't needed, and between that and his constant tendency to run off, he had been quite a throne in Fischer's side for most of the journey. He had hoped with the arrival of Colonel Sven to Alnus that something perhaps could have been worked out, but with a different man instead coming, a Lieutenant Colonel who's name Fischer had yet to catch from a passing soldier, much less the Major who had brought in Alpha Company, it would seem it would have to wait. Unable to make out the Dwarf's quick words in Imperial, Fischer was only left to hope he hadn't said something that could have screwed up the current meeting, though he severally doubted to the Dwarf was capable of such. At least on purpose anyways. He did however managed to catch the english words, which were spoken directly to him, after all. Something about a necromancer, though the Dwarf's english still had a long ways to go to catching up with that of Orisa. Looking back over his shoulder he managed to come face to face with a young girl, standing a few meters back from the table, and about half way from the door. Even with her face tilted down, and eyes cast off the to the side, likely in a bid to avoid any direct confrontation with either of the Green Men, he was able to regocinier her. She was, in fact, the young girl he had spotted among the wounded earlier. She had the same silky black hair that appeared almost as dark as a Raven's feathers, and she carried the same amber eyes, though now slightly obstructed by her hair hanging down in her face. He had asked one of the medics to check her out and send her up if she was okay, though he couldn't remember asking the Dwarf to accompany her. Likely some sort of bid on the Dwarf's part to butt into whatever was going on between the two men and the Princess.

Fischer had originally intended to ask the girl, who appeared to be no older than Orisa, a series of questions, owning to the fact she carried a staff with her. Something that no doubt marked her as a magic user of some sort, and a threat to anyone inside the camp. Unlike some of the other members of the Recon Section, Fischer had come face to face with Mages of the Imperial Army during the battles of Alnus Hill, and knew very well if given enough time to conjure a spell, they could be trouble. Yet, the Dwarf had identified her as a Necromancer, another strange parallel to Earth, and a magic user known to revive the dead. In pop culture at least. What were true powers were in the Special Region, was largely up in the air. Seeing a chance to figure out what the young girl, who seemed to go by Selia, and ride himself of the annoyance that was the Dwarf, Fischer turned to the Dwarf and began to speak in a calm tone, void of the annoyance he was feeling at current, "See if she is able to help Grace and the others at the medical station. If not, have her remain under close watch with the rest of the Prisoners. And" There was a slight pause, "These aren't negotiations. This is an unconditional surrender by Imperial Forces."

With that the Dwarf and the young girl were off, back out of the command center and likely in search of the medical tent once again. Hopefully that would keep the Dwarf out of his hair until they could get the current situation with the Princess wrapped up. Yet it was no sooner that the Dwarf and young girl exited from the building that another pair came up to take their place. This time, rather than two natives, it was a native and an Earth Soldier. More specifically it was O'Connor, who as ordered, had returned with the noble Thompson had located earlier. Surprising, despite the man's earlier out burst and rage towards the Strange Green Men, most notably Thompson, who sat only a few meters away, and O'Connor who had brought him here, the man's wrists remained unbound. Perhaps someone had finally humbled him, or simply his rage had died out in the time since the stand off with Thompson. An even that felt like hours ago relative to the situation that was still going on. Approaching the table, O'Connor topped just short of the table where the others sat, and turned ever so slightly, to face Fischer before he began to speak,

Sorry for the interruption sir. We found the noble | It may be worth noting that a messenger was sent from Italica asking for backup but it's unsure whether it was successful or not. Also Landgrave has asked to stay close to the princess. As far as I can tell, its honour or duty related

Finishing up he handed Fischer a small notebook before retreating out of the room, and returning to whatever duties he wished to perform outside of the command center. Opening up the notebook a small message was revealed to Fischer, in what was no doubt O'Connor's hand writing,

‘Noble has likely lost family to empire. Has shown temper but is willing to work with us. Unsure where loyalty lies, seems to value lives of soldiers above honour. Writing to avoid distressing locals’

It was good information and a showing that O'Connor, for some of his faults, was truly a spook in the purest sense. He just hoped he wasn't too rash with the man, as Thompson had been earlier in the courtyard, but results were results and certainly interesting one's at that. Both Thompson's and O'Connor's original judgments of the man, that of course being he was some sort of important noble were both correct. Being a Landgrave, likely a title of sort similar to perhaps a duke or baron in their own world, he likely was one of the main military commanders of the forces at Italica, being a staff member of the Princess' war council no doubt. It surely explained his connection. It also gave insight into just how much the Empire was keeping from it citizens, and continued to reinforce the idea of a break away of the smaller kingdoms in the event news about Italica or even Alnus would be released to the public, though it was likely that the man's own reasoning for loose loyalty was his family's past with the Empire, rather than what had happened at Alnus. Though it was safe to say the recent events at Italica weren't going to help heal his resentment for the Empire, if anything it would get worse. There had been talk at Alnus before Italica, about working with local kingdom's like the Landgrave, to defeat the Empire from the inside, but such ideas were quickly shot down. No one, even if they were only armed with bows and spears, wished to see the Special Region turn into the middle east of their own world. Though it would appear it would be on the path to it anyways if things continued the way they were between the governments relation with the people and vise versa. Yet, they did have a sliver of hope in the case of the Princess. How she would help, though, was still up in the air at this point. The most interesting piece of information, however, was the announcement that reinforcements might be arriving at Italica at some point. They UNSF and command back at Alnus had a rough idea of where the Imperial Capital was, and given the arrival of jet propelled aircraft for reconnaissance it was only a matter of time before it was located, and subsequently there would be a mission divided to enter it, the realization that the Landgrave had sent the order, meant that the reinforcements would no doubt be coming from somewhere close. Perhaps extra forces in the next town over that were late getting to the show. Either way it could spell trouble, considering the hundred and fifty or so soldiers present in the city, hadn't even reached the central complex in their sweeps. Which left the other three gates open to attack.

As Fischer went over the information in his head, as likely did Thompson as well, his eyes focused and watched the Landgrave as he settled into the seat on the left hand side of the Princess. Notably away from Orisa, the green priestess he had lashed out against earlier in the day, right before the whole fiasco involving himself and Thompson, who he now sat directly in front off. He watched as the two men locked eyes, as Thompson had been tracing the man's movements as well, likely watching for any possible suspicious actions, towards himself and Fischer, or even the Princess. Instead the man remained calm unmoving, but a pent up resentment could still be seen behind the man's eyes as they shifted across the room. Meeting with Fischer's he returned a cold icy stare towards the man, and watched as the Landgrave’s eyes drifted back towards the Green Priestess, before finally resting on the Princess. It was not exactly the warm 'good to know that you're okay' that one might have suspected, but if O'Connor's not was anything to go off of, it was no surprise he would have mixed feelings about being reunited with her, especially under the duos current conditions. Instead he seemed to exchange some hushed words with the Princess, too low for Orisa to hear, as she simply shook her head as Fischer shifted his gaze towards her direction. No doubt they were catching up on the events that had passed, as the Landgrave's face seemed to react in a similar fashion to the Princess' at some points. Likely she was telling them about the words that Fischer had spoken to her about what was going on. Though his reactions seemed to carry much more anger than the fearful ones that the Princess showed. Likely to due with the loss of his soldiers, which O'Connor's note mentioned he was closely attached to, and the realization that neither of the two, himself or the Princess, seemed to understand why the Recon Section was there, and the reasoning behind all that had happened. Seeming like they had finished, as evident by both facing Fischer and Thompson, Fischer turned to them and began to speak, his voice calm as always,

"I'll start with your first question" There was a pause as Fischer let out a slight sigh. Not one of anger or annoyance, but rather at the lack of appropriate words to explain to someone who had never heard of the Geneva Conventions, much less the laws of rule, "They are our rules. They govern how we fight, so as to avoid killing people who do not need to be killed. They are there, in short, to protect those who cannot protect themselves from war. That is why we do not harm our prisoners, or hurt civilians, or pillage downs. It is illegal, as it is unnecessary and considered evil to our soldiers, citizens, and rulers alike." He paused for a moment allowing Orisa to translate all that he had said thus far. It was likely confusing and a lot to take in. There was also a fact that a lot of it likely didn't properly translate from English to Imperial, leaving plenty of loop holes he hoped Orisa would be able to fill in. Seeing that she appeared to have finished he continued, "And if someone breaks those rules, they are punished. Harshly. Fined, Imprisoned, or in some cases executed." He again waited while Orisa translated the last little bit. It was now onto the difficult question. Explaining why they were there, and what they wanted. No easy task when Fischer himself only knew rough picture and was at the same time running the tip of the United Nations efforts in the Special Region. "As for your second question..." He paused attempting to find the right way to explain it to the young princess, "I suppose you can't help it, as you don't really know what happened, do you?" It was a rhetorical question, as of course will all the censoring done by the Imperial Government there was no way in hell she could understand what had happened previously. As Orisa translated it he watched both the Princess' and Landgrave's faces, as a sense of surprise and question came across them. "I'll be blunt with you. Three months ago, or rather about ninety days ago, your Empire launched a series of raids against a city in our world called 'Stockholm.'" He paused for a moment allowing it to sink in, "During that raid hundreds of unarmed civilians were killed by your soldier, and many taken hostage by your forces. Both things that we consider illegal in war. Then, after defeating the forces that were sent to raid us, he came across the GATE and encountered your armies." He paused allowing Orisa to translate yet again. "I'm unsure what you have been told, but all Imperial forces at Alnus were destroyed on the first three days after we crossed the GATE, over three months ago." He paused, unsure of what words to speak next. "As for why we're here...We are here for answers. We have come to find our missing citizens, and punish the person who ordered those unlawful attacks against us. That is all. We are not here to conquer you." He paused allowing that to sink in, and awaiting any response they might have had to what was just spoken to them, and they likely would.

Just as he finished up speaking there was the sudden sound of combat boots walking across the hardwood floor of the safe house behind Fischer's back. Given the spacing between each step, it was no doubt someone obviously in a hurry, though what about, he couldn't quite be sure from the sound alone. Not fast enough to be new orders, but just quick enough to avoid being a simple update on something like incoming troops, new prisoners, or something else of that manner. Turning away from the young Princess and slight older Landgrace, both of whom were under deep thought towards the likely revelations just presented to them, Fischer was met with the sight of a young British man, no doubt a lieutenant given his age, and the way he was currently holding himself, in the officer type stance. The man wore the name "Smith" stitched onto his uniform, a cliche English or American last name if Fischer had ever heard one, and carried a slip of paper with him. Noticing that Fischer had taken note of his presence he extended his hand forward, and passed off the paper to Fischer. With a quick salute he was out of the door and back out into the courtyard to perform whatever duty his platoon or himself had been assigned to previously. Unfolding the piece of paper, he opened it up to a simple message, addressed to himself from the incoming Lieutenant Colonel who was to take over operations and defense of Italica, whenever himself and the rest of the Fourth Battalion managed to fly itself into Italica. It was a fairly simple note, explaining how the big brass at Alnus was ecstatic at the capture of an Imperial Princess, but had yet to figure out what they were to do with her, once they finished up their post capture question and got her to sign the unconditional surrender of Italica to the UNSF, something that apparently had to be done by the Lieutenant Colonel, rather than Fischer. Even the man himself didn't understand why he had to do it instead of Fischer, given a document was already written up, but orders were orders. Just as he finished reading the note a voice suddenly came across his radio. It was the Company Major.

---

Exchanging some quick words with the major, mostly simple "yes sir" and "I understand" the voice abruptly cut off. Turning to Thompson, who among Orisa, the Princess, and the Landgrave all had their eyes on him, the latter two more so to understand if that might have been more bad news, Fischer turned to face Thompson. Lowering his head, as to block the flow of noise from Orisa and their two guests he began to speak in an almost hushed tone, "Intel says that there's a decent sized force holed up in the center complex of the city, and the occupiers are refusing to come out even in the face of a surrender order. Reports say snipers have even resorted to taking pot shots at friendlies who were sent to secure it." He paused for a second, lowering his voice further, "They're likely the Landgrave's men, thinking we mean to harm the citizens. The Major is ordering us to go and assist as we're the only free Platoon. It's also likely any possible hostages will be there according to the reports. I need you to go get the men assembled by the Ivecos, and be ready to depart in five mics." Having finished speaking with Thompson, who hurried out of the building, off to assemble the men, Fischer turned back towards the two Natives to address them, "Sergeant Thompson and myself have some business to take care of elsewhere. For the time being you will remain here, and when we are ready, brought to the central city complex to begin talks." We waited for Orisa to finish translating what he said, barely leaving them even a second to sound off a question before he and Orisa departed the building. In their stead entered two UN soldiers, one of which worse a translator patch. Just incase something was needed

---

Walking out of the Battalion Command HeadQuarters, at least until the central complex in the middle of the city could be placed firmly under the control of the United Nations Security Forces, it was clear to see that that Eastern Gate had gone under a full transformations with the arrival of Alpha Company Fourth Combat Battalion. At one point, no more than an hour or seo ago the courtyard had been littered with the broken and mutilated bodies of some few hundred dead Imperial and North Company soldiers alike, plus and few civilians that had been unfortunately caught in the crossfire. Acceptable Caudilites if you will. Their corpses and limbs covered nearly every spot of the courtyard, leaving but a few spaces untouched by limbs or body parts, but not a single centimeter untouched by blood. Yet already these bodies had been moved out towards the out areas of the wall. They were collected and piled up against the walls, not unlike the same style the Recon Section had used to clear the road of the dead Imperial scouting party, only a few days prior to the battle of Italica. Yet, unlike the small gullies over flowing with blood and guts back near Alnus, these piles of dead were soon the source of large column of black smoke, as the bodies, unable to find able ground to bury inside or outside of the Eastern Courtyard, were burned in place of a burial. A common thing in these parts likely, and just another day in the office for Fischer and the others who had already seen it play out many times. Not just here, but back at Alnus too. It was at least better than letting them sit and be pecked to the bone by vultures and other scavengers, or whatever the Special Region's equivalent of such beasts were. Though, in the wake of the removal of bodies, new work and construction had already begun. The prisoners, once scattered and lying and sitting about in the courtyard, divided by only a thin line of green soldiers, guns pointed at their masses, had been moved into a seperate building, not unlike the one that was being used for the headquarters at the moment. Eventually all the prisoners would be shuffled back to Alnus or even Earth one way or another. It was by far the most prisoners taken since the battle of Stockholm, but then again, there was no heavy artillery present at this battle.

But the moving of prisoners and dead bodies wasn't the only transformation currently going on in the Eastern Courtyard. With the arrival of a majority of Alpha Company and the Eastern Gate fairly secure, construction on additional fortifications and other buildings was well underway. Hesco blocks were being set up in various locations around the courtyard, as well as in smaller areas outside the gate. In the case of the latter it was mainly a small winding back designed to act as a checkpoint of sorts, to disrupt any horses or wagon from entering the city without the UN soldiers present knowing about it. At the Eastern Gate that was. The other Companies that would occupy the remain gates were only just beginning to show up, as evident by helicopters settling in the distance, likely the courtyards of their respective gates. Elsewhere inside, Hesco blocks were being used to form loose bunkers and indirect fire shelters. Less to defend against grenades and mortars and more so to defend against possible arrows or even some magic attacks, should the need arise. And with the information passed on from O'Connor, it was all the more likely they would be put to good use in the near future. Upon on the walls, in the places where seventy millimeter rockets, hellfires, or short burst of thirty mill shells and destroyed the ramparts, sandbags were being used to fill in the cracks and holes. Additionally heavier machine guns, notable MG3s and M240-Bs had found their way up onto the walls, positioned facing out towards the woods and small dirt moat that surrounded the walls of the city. Looking down into the courtyard itself, the once small medical station run by Grace and a few other medical personnel who had arrived with Alpha Company, had grown to a much larger tent, though still temporary, armed with twice the medical personnel. Among them it was easy to spot the small form and dark hair of the young girl from earlier. Though the Dwarf must have gotten bored as he was nowhere to be found. For better or worse. Elsewhere, small little machine nests, and mortar pits had been set up towards the back of the courtyard, with shiny eighty one mill mortars, about six in total, gleaming in the midday sun. Next to them sat soldiers, eagerly await a chance to use them, due to their heavier brothers having taken a majority of the glory back at Alnus.

Walking down into the courtyard itself, it wasn't hard to see the Ivecos and IFV neatly tucked into the corner near a large opening that seemingly ran into towards the center of the city. Likely one of the Roman style main roads that the ariel intelligence they had received earlier had described. It was wide and surprisingly paved, meaning the Recon Section would have an easier time traversing it to arrive at their destination. As he and Orisa approached it was easy to make out the members of the Recon Section assembled near the vehicles, some like the members of the IFV crew, sitting upon the vehicles as they waited. Others, Like Thompson and the Old Man simply leaned against the machine or sat squarely on the ground, awaiting the arrival of the Captain. Upon arriving, and subsequently the members of the Recon Section noticing, most straighten out a bit as they turned their attention towards Fischer, awaiting the reason they were all assembled. Most look physically tired, it only being about seven hundred hours, and the battle only concluding about an hour earlier, they hadn't had much time to relax or sleep, and on some of the new faces, especially those of Karev, it was quite evident. But at the sound of actually having something to do, rather than sit on their asses or move more dead bodies, they seemed to perk up. Finally arriving within talking distance, to avoid shouting over the man conversations of over a hundred and fifty soldiers to their rear, he began to speak, "Intel has come down that says the remaining enemy force, about fifty or so, are holed up in the center complex of the city. They've refused to give in, assuming we've come to harm the civilians, and attempts at talking have resulting in them taking pot shot with arrows from the upper story of the building. Company A's CO is tight on men and has asked us to go up and support his second Platoon on retaking the building. Now here's the plan." He paused for a brief second, scanning over the Recon Section's faces before continuing, "We're going to mount up and ride up to the Central Complex. We'll be assaulting the North Eastern side of the building, with Second Platoon tackles the South East side. Unfortunately due to the geography there aren't a lot of area to get a good vantage point on the windows, but reports indicate there is a three story building not far from our deployment position. As such, I want Thompson and Popov up in that building to try and take out those archers. As for the rest of us, we'll be dividing into two teams, just like the infil mission. Fire Team one will take the left of the hall, Team two the right." He paused, letting out a slight sigh of annoyance, not at the members of the Recon Section, but himself, "Due to the possibility they are directly defending civilians, he have to go in light. No breaching charges, and no grenades. This is going to be by hand, and it's going to be rough. Stay sharp, and be careful. If you don't have to enter a room, don't. Alright, let's go."

Even for all their advance technology and weapons, the Recon Section and UN forces at a large would be outmatched in a close combat situation. The enemy was drilled and highly skilling in close combat, owing to a majority of their weapons being melee based, rather than projectile based, like that of the Recon Section. This was especially dangerous in the small dark rooms of the central complex where it only took one guy with a short sword standing behind a closed door to do serious damage to a soldier. Even with their body armor that could easily stop pistol, and in the case of some, a rifle round, it would be no match for a well placed stab or swipe to the stomach. The swords were sharp, and if it happened to rupture something, the poor souls would be dead before they could even carry them out of the room. Every man in the Recon Section had the right to be a bit on edge, evident by some tightly gripping their weapons, and the distinct lack of conversation. Most of the guys there, including Fischer, probably had done this exact thing a thousand times, but this was different from a bunch of insurgents holed up in a building laid with IEDs and AK-47s. There'd been no casualties thus far in the UN campaign, and Fischer wasn't about to let the first one happen under his watch. It would only be a few minutes drive to the central complex, and before they knew it, they were hoping out of the back of the Ivecos and rushing towards the large doors of the Central Complex. Upon reach them, each team lined up to the sides on the steps, Fischer went up and kicked in the door. In went the Recon Section. It was time to get down to business.

[Zjaum]

"I saw you there with the North Company troops. How is it you have such freedom to move here? Actually. Where did you come from exactly miss..." He left it open hoping she could fill in her own name.

"My name is Okoya. I've actually helped the foreigners since they came through Alnus. Well, a day or two afterward, but still, close after. I was on good terms with them, but I didn't know they were planning to fight the North Company. I'm not one of them; I just wanted to make new friends.

"As for my native land... I hail from Unterritory, a place far from this city. I came here to accompany my father-master Haapsalu Argyrix. I don't know where he is now; he should be around here somewhere. Oh, I hope you meet him! He is a good man, and he's raised me well ever since I was... this tall!" Okoya raised her hand to a still-unbelievably tall height before continuing her conversation. "Oh, I apologize! Talking and talking. Let me fill your water!"

"See if she is able to help Grace and the others at the medical station. If not, have her remain under close watch with the rest of the Prisoners. And... these aren't negotiations. This is an unconditional surrender by Imperial Forces."

"Hello, sir! Nice to finally see you again after losing you for a solid day. How are you doing? Thank you for preparing everything hours in advance of our arrival. Sorry we fucked it up when we slaughtered everyone indiscriminately and almost murdered your princess outright, but we're so glad that you saved our sorry asses. Please, have a seat with the rest of us."

That's what he expected from all he'd done. He instead received what could best be described as the opposite of gratitude.

An honorable businessman, with valuable skills, reduced to a mere lackey! Unthinkable! After all the relations he saved, after all he'd done for the foreigners, and this was his reward?! "What a curious nation you come from, where you don't have to tell a conquered nation what to do when they surrender to you; they just know exactly what to do!" It was but naturally intentionally bitter. His calm composure had gotten him nowhere, and clearly he couldn't get anywhere. "She had just come from the hospital, but, following your infinite wisdom, I will return her there." His anger had diffused slightly, but not nearly to the levels of diplomacy. He took Selia's hand and spoke in Imperial. "I apologize for the rude behavior of the foreign commander, but we're to be sent back to the hospital. I will lead you back there." He lifted up the flap and passed by an Imperial/foreigner couplet. "By any chance, do you have any healing spells in your arsenal?"

Despite Haapsalu's offer, the medical facility was by no means hard to spot. Okoya was offering water out to the patients inside the medical tent, and her rear end stuck out like a sore thumb. She was doing an adequate albeit inefficient job: she was unable to keep her patients' glasses from overflowing, which would have required master reflexes, foresight, and restraint on her part. Haapsalu and Selia returned to her. "Hello, Okoya! How are you doing right now?"

Okoya finished pouring her water for her most recent patient. "I'm doing well. I kinda have to go to the bathroom now." She lit up as she recalled something. "Oh, I've met people that you must meet!" She picked up the dwarf and the wizard-looking girl she met before and took them to see the blue-skinned party. "These are new friends. New friends, this is Haapsalu!"

Haapsalu had a clean slate with these new guests and so acted like it. "Hello, hello! My name is Haapsalu Argyrix, Tazj-ka-lak of the Gahnospinel Mining Company, at your service!" He made a short bow and turned to Selia. "I have a necromancer here, and we wanted to check and see if she could heal wounded prisoners in the camp! Selia, could you try and heal these people, or would you rather start with someone easier?" He thought a little before turning to the tall blue man. "Good sir, how different is your anatomy from that of a human?"

[United Islands of Polis]

Dimitri Aleksandr Zubarev
Recon Section One
Special Region, Italica

As Dima was watching over the noble, Karev had come up beside him to offer help, and oddly enough it was in Russian, just how many people on this team had the capability to speak his mother tongue. "Is okay, I don't need any help, and you don't have to speak to me in Russian, I'm able to speak in English see." Dima replied back in a thankful but serious tone given the situation in front of him.

Dima rummaged through his gear while holding the LMG in one hand, looking for zip ties, rope, ductape or anything to bind the Noble's hands together until he heard the voice of the local spook yelling not to shoot the noble right before he grapped the end of the LMG "Why would I shoot him in the first place Urod." Dima said as he yanked away the LMG from O'Connor's hands.

As usual, as if in a movie, the roles were as cliche as possible with Dima the big Russian being the guy who gets to beat the living shot out of the noble if he steps out of line and attacks, but if anything his priority would be to protect Karev over O'Connor given what the latter person had previously done. As they walked to where the Captain was questions kept comming like a non-stop artillery bombardment .

As they got to where the Captain was Dima noticed the dwarf was inside, seeing as how he seems to be able to get into anything Dima already hated that, ot compromised a great many things and it was no good, Dima showed the displeasure he had because of this, so to avoid it he went outside to wait for further orders.

Eventually the orders came down after Dima had woken up, getting out of the Iveco Dima put his helmet back on as he went to the meeting. After the meeting he went to look for the mobile armory of sorts to see if they had any ballistic shileds given the nature of their next mission. After carefully asking he had been given a ballistic shield, given it was roughly the size of a ballistic plate it was odd but since his PKP would be useless this would have to do.

Eventually dismounting to begin clearing the Northern side Dima went ahead and strapped on his shield, his loadout was a lot lighter with only carrying his pistol with a flashlight attached, 9 magazines for it and multiple flashbang grenades, and it still wasn't as heavy as his normal amount of gear. As everyone began stacking up on the door, Dima's position was behind the captain as he kicked the door down, at the same time, with the flick of Dima's head the face plate of his helmet went down and he followed suit, aiming his pistol at the room with his borrowed shield at the ready.

[Atreidya]

Kurak happily took the water, his cup overflowed slightly but that was not something to grumble about from his position. He was surprised by the giant's attitude. She appeared such a free and happy spirit that simply speaking with her lifted his spirits a small amount. As the Giantess went off to help others he turned back to Ahnsa worrying over her. She remained quiet, apparently exhausted from her mourning and the earlier fighting and struggle to simply survive.

Selia was rather confused by the turn of events. Having been led to this leader of the strange soldiers while in negotiation with the Imperial leaders. She felt out of place, but as Haapsalu took her hand and began leading her away once again she felt somewhat comforted. It was obvious the dwarf was in the good graces of the invaders, even if he and the commander of the green clad soldiers seemed to be at odds just now. As he apologized for the commander's brushing off of them Selia felt happy to atleast have contact with Haapsalu, the dwarf seemed to be one she could trust as long as she was worth something to him. She had met many like him before and she preferred his type to most others do to his predictability. Perhaps if she made herself useful to him, she could also stay on the good side of these people who could decimate armies in a matter of moments.

As he continued to lead her along he asked her if she had any healing spells. She hadn't expected to be helping others so quickly but it was as if the dwarf was reading her mind. Sadly she did not have anything she could offer to that affect. The most she could do was ease another's pain, or help them to stave off the clutches of death a slight margin longer than natural. Perhaps that would be enough.

"I can't heal people, but I can make them not suffer so much while waiting for a healer. I am happy to help out wherever you see fit Mister Haapsalu." It would be nice to lend a hand to some of the soldiers who had been hurt, and even more so the civilians caught in the battle.

The Giantess' strength and speed caused Selia to wheeze and grasp her side in pain as she was suddenly hefted and carried. Placed down in front of two familiar faces Selia instinctively took a step back. Only a couple of hours earlier she been fighting with the very pair of them for her life. Circumstances had placed them beside one another once again. Selia looked back and forth between the pair of beast-men and the dwarf and giant. True these two could use help, but did she really want to give them aid?

Kurak recognized Selia immediately. He stared at her for a moment, no malice in his eyes, mostly just regret, but no words for an apology. Luckily he was able to turn his attention to the dwarf as he spoke. That was ludicrous. A dwarf who raised a giant. That was the setup of some joke told in a tavern.

"I am not so different. I apologize, Mister Argyrix, I had not realized she was one of yours, I assumed she was a scout for the imperials in some way when my band gave her those injuries." Kurak held back the grimace he felt coming on. He had just apologized to who he was assuming was the girl's master for attacking her, when she was right there.

"Forgive me, I believe he said your name was Selia? I am sorry for what happened earlier, I thought you were an enemy. Had I known you were not with the Imperials I would not have acted so aggressively toward you." He watched the girl closely. She approached him and while she couldn't heal him she did relieve his pain. She moved on to Ahnsa and did the same but silently returned to Haapsalu's side.