"The Unified States of Allied Militaries (USAM) was created after the Western Split between the Oceania nations, the Anatolia rise, and the Eastern-Western continental split.
With NATO's collapse and regional blocks superseding one global system, the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, and Australia formalized USAM to secure their security, trade, space, and innovation interests. They combined dozens of past agreements and treaties, such as AUKUS, the US-Japan Alliance, and multiple others, into one organization.
There are multiple Pillars to this organization, outlined in the founding Charter. Pillar 1) Collective Defense to all member states. Pillar 2) Protection for maritime and astralis trade and special resource sharing agreements 3) Defense industrial coordination for purchase, maintenance, and/or repairs. Pillar 4) Technological and innovation collaboration, Pillar 5) Joint astralis outpost and security
The Military Alliance is a three-tier system for member states. Tier 1) are core members who provide the most resources and infrastructure to the alliance. In return for their investment, they gain a seat at the USAM Council. Tier 2) are members who provide military assistance; however, they do not meet the qualifications to join the Council but can participate in the USAM Parliamentary Assembly. Tier 3) are partner nations who ally or coordinate with USAM but are not members of the organization. Tier 4) Are considered strategic protectorate that USAM Parliamentary and Council consider vital to their interests." – Oracle
April 9th, 2069 (military calendar)
Salva, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie
Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore
*****
Exiting the LIRV, Benjamin Ford stretched as he turned toward the massive four-story structure where the Minutemen and other Special Forces were residing. The building's base was made of smooth gray stone, with burnt umber wood panels covering the rest. Mini-decks spread around the sides, which the officers had claimed.
From what Ford understood, this higher-class apartment building was used by the city's elite, support staff for the Palace next door, and diplomats. Anyone with money, influence, and power stayed there.
Ryder turned toward his teammates and said, "Barrett, I wanted everyone rested."
After receiving the acknowledgment from the Sergeant First Class, the Comanche Captain and Warrant Officer-1 departed the group, heading to the Minutemen-occupied City Palace.
"Where are they going?" Fraeya asked.
"Debriefing," Ford replied. "They do that after every mission."
"Do not forget that the Bossman is a King now," Higgins jokingly said.
"Debriefing?" Fraeya said. "Oh, you mean like what they did to me? I am surprised you will succumb to that torture of your own people."
There were some chuckles from members of Comanche at Fraeya's comments. However, Ford knew it wasn't from a silly perspective. The idea was that officers went into a complex meeting after every mission to review every detail, especially in a world they knew little about. The humorous truth was that the elf girl might have had a better experience.
Hearing the next group of LIRVs stopping, Ford watched as Horatius exited their vehicles, except for the Luperca, who was riding in the cargo bay because of his size. Some Legionaries struggled to get out as they were not used to Altaerrie vehicles, making Ford wonder if it was their first time in a car.
From his limited experience with Alagore culture, Ford had learned that while the people had advanced vehicles such as walkers and wagonettes, these vehicles for civilian purposes didn't seem familiar. As Fraeya had explained, crafting complex magitech was costly, making him wonder if the average person simply couldn't afford such luxuries.
"Hey, Sergeant First Class," Natilite said. "Is it okay if Fraeya and I head out? They reopened the bathhouse."
Some of the team's male members cracked jokes about the subject, confusing the Templar and the elf girl. While this was strange to the Americans, based on the girls' reactions, this custom was normalized in this world, so it never crossed their minds that it could be considered a joke. The nerdy Sergeant recalled reading stories from history videos and fantasy manga about how this was common in feudal and classical cultures.
"Why?" Fraeya asked. "It is normal for you to shower together; why is bathing funny?"
"Well," Barrios said. "When you put it like that."
Gregory Barrett stepped between the team members, calming everyone. "Enough. Comanche, hit the showers. Fraeya, Nat, go have fun. Just don't leave the city."
As the women departed, the team went inside and headed to the converted armories. Comanche members were getting out of their battlesuits to be recharged and repaired by the technicians. Some members of the team were boasting about beating back the Aristocracy. The Twins were commenting on what they would do tonight with their dates and fantasizing about the bathhouses.
"What do you think of our new allies?" Gonzales asked.
Ford disconnected his exoskeleton and placed the damaged sections in a bin. "They seem to be able to handle themselves," he said.
"And thank God for that," Wallace said. "I don't mind holding the Militia's hands, but Hispana is supposed to be the big boys in this world. If we had to hold their hands, we're screwed."
"I get that," Barrios said. "I guarantee they are having the same conversation about us."
"Then we have nothing to fear," Forest interjected. "If the rumors and their namesake are true, they are the descendants of the Roman Empire. I would hope they live up to that reputation."
"I know there are a lot of similarities," Ford said. "Do you believe that?"
"They call themselves Legionaries, Hispana," Forest replied.
"And let us not forget, they worship the Republic," Barrett said. "Their armor and ranks resemble the Empire. The terms they use."
"And it explains the evolved version of Latin," Higgins said.
"The question is how?" Wallace asked.
"Through the Bridge, of course," Ford said.
"I get that," Wallace replied. "But how? You'd think that would have been recorded, or clues would have been left."
The armory door opened, and the Minutemen Combat Team-Viking entered. Their uniforms were messy and had an intense odor from being in combat for days.
"Viking," Forest said. "Welcome back to the Den."
"Did you guys break through?" Ford asked.
"We did," Graham replied. "We were able to take out the amplifier tower that was destroying our drones."
Surprised by the stern response, Ford turned to his Staff Sergeant, who reacted similarly. They had completed a successful mission; however, something was off. That was when he noticed Sergeant Patterson was missing.
"Hey," Ford asked. "Where is Patterson?"
Viking's Sergeant, Graham, responded as he started dismounting from his battlesuit. "KIA. He was discovered by an Orc and killed."
"Weren't you equipped with a cloaking module?" Higgins asked.
"Yes," Bailey said. "But they had one of those beast humanoids with them. Neko."
Graham closed the weapons locker and said, "Our cloak gimmick allowed us to slip through easily, but the wind was against us. That damn feline smelled us. Then they got the jump on us while we were pulling back."
Ford turned toward Barrett and saw the sign not to respond, something he struggled to do anyway. It was never easy to lose a brother-in-arms. With all the modern technology and state-of-the-art training the United States had, something could always go wrong.
"Are you going to do a twenty-one-cheer salute?" Barrios asked.
"They don't sell his favorite beer here," Bailey said. "But we will."
Watching Viking head toward the showers, Ford stood there, thinking of their lost comrade. He didn't know him well, being new to the Minutemen. Still, the Sergeant understood that losing a brother was never easy. A twenty-one-cheer salute was a team's tradition of honoring their lost brethren with their favorite alcohol and telling stories.
Barrios exited the showers and started getting dressed. "Hey, Ben. Do you want to come to the bar with us? Going to get slammed tonight."
"Thank you for the offer," Ford replied. "I will pass. I think I am going to go around town for a bit. Get some fresh air."
"If you get bored," Wallace said as he entered. "You know where we will be."
*****
Listening to the gentle, artificially built stone waterfall as it steamed hot water into the large bath, Natilite leaned back and embraced the full sensation of the spa. With the scented candles surrounding them, her once-tense muscles began to ease, and she felt the warm water brushing against her feathers. The Valkyrie was finally able to lower her guard and enjoy the moment.
"I needed this."
"I hate to admit it," Fraeya said. "I forgot how it felt to be a woman. This feels so nice."
"There is nothing like laying back and letting your body relax."
"I have to admit, I enjoy the Altaerrie hot showers, but they lack the relaxation. I feel like I have to rush instead of enjoying the moment."
Hot baths were a known luxury. Laying within hot springs, or in this case, artificial hot springs powered by an Altaerrie generator, was considered a luxury. Using the natural water that flowed beneath the city and mixing it with smoothing milk, a costly addition, the Templar believed they deserved to indulge. Lovely leaf petals added a natural touch.
Based on her comrades' reactions, it became clear that the Americans did not have a similar culture regarding luxury. This led her to conclude that when the spa requested a generator, the Americans had not fully understood what it was for, which she found amusing. However, this difference confused her, as bathing was common throughout Lat territory. Strangely, the Americans were acting more like Vampires.
The Valkyrie glanced over at the wood elf, who was also enjoying the bath. She could tell that the stress of the past few months had begun to fade away.
"Fraeya."
"Yes?"
"I want to say that I am proud of you. You have come a long way since I met you, and all in such a short period of time."
"Thank you. It has been hard adapting to soldier life. This was a life I never expected to venture into."
"I can understand the change. It was not easy for a woman to transition into a fighter. If you need anything, please tell me."
Fraeya began combing her hair, focusing on a knot. "I just hope I am making my Father proud."
"I believe he would be," Natilite said. "We will find him."
"You do not think he is dead?"
"I do not know, but he is important. Being one of the few experts in orilla, they need him."
The elf girl held her legs together, comforting herself. "I hope."
Natilite saw the sadness in her new friend's eyes. She missed her family. Understanding that it was never easy to lose family, especially so recently, she decided to change the subject.
"How is your research?" she asked.
Fraeya lowered herself into the soapy water, sighing at the question. "It reminds me of the academy. The never-ending questions."
"Is that bad? I am surprised it has been this complicated."
"Not really. The issue is that Altaerrie has no terms or words related to magic and magitech. I have to speak as if I am talking to a child."
"The Altaerrie as children?"
The elf girl carefully looked at the Valkyrie. Her sharp eyes suddenly widened, and she quickly shook her head.
"I did not mean to insult."
Natilite gently placed her hands over her lips, giggling. "I know. I found it funny."
"It has been hard. I am a student, not a teacher, so I am not used to this."
"I believe in you. Have you attempted to find help? I will speak with Temptrass Finnea. If it is related to the Bridge, I think they will spare one of their mages to assist."
"Thank you, Templar."
"Fraeya... you do not have to be so formal with me. We are friends now."
The elf girl's eyes widened with excitement. She hurriedly approached the Valkyrie and grabbed her hand.
"Do you mean it? We are friends?"
Finding the response confusing, Natilite answered, "Yeah, I think so. We have been through a lot. I would like to be friends."
"Like you and the Captain?"
The question caught the Templar off guard more than she expected. She could not help but turn bright red as a slight tension grew in her chest.
"Wha... what do you mean by that?"
Fraeya blinked and swam backward. "I meant, they have been commenting on how close you two have become. You two have become close friends, and I find that impressive."
"What would be impressive about that?"
"I do not know. I have heard stories about Templars struggling to befriend others, and with how different the Altaerrie are, I was worried they would not like you."
The wood elf then poked her index fingers together, staring at them.
"I did not have many friends growing up. Either moving around with Father, relocating because elves hated that I am a half-breed, or living with Lats. With my father being considered a disgrace, it was hard. But I have made so many since being here."
As Natilite listened, she could not help but find the elf girl adorable, yet good-hearted. In some manner, this had been a second chance for her new elf friend. New people meant no cultural baggage to weigh each other down. This was also an experience that Natilite had shared.
The Comanche mage was correct regarding the life of a Templar. It was glorious, filled with fame and fortune. However, there was a disconnect. It was hard to make friends with those who were not genetically modified. A Templar knew many but was close to few.
With Comanche and their people, it had been a change of pace, something Natilite had not expected. They had no such warriors on Earth, meaning no culture had developed around such super-warriors.
However, her mind raced toward Mathew Ryder as she thought about their many conversations, the fight at the abandoned fort, and everything else they had experienced together.
"I can understand how you feel. I have grown to respect Matt since we met. Being taken by Kallem and then surviving in the wild while protecting a child... most men on Alagore would never survive that challenge. That is why we are close friends."
"I remember him being taken," Fraeya said. "I was surprised at how loyal his team was. I hope we all can remain friends forever."
"Speaking of friends," Natilite said, "I see you have healed your relationship with Ben."
The elf girl glanced at the water in shame. "I think so. I feel like an excreta, blaming him for saving my life."
"Do not be so harsh. You were in an emotional state. Be happy that you came to terms with it."
As the conversation continued, Natilite saw her wood elf friend slip into a depressed mood. To cheer herself up, the elf formed a ball of water in the air from the bath.
Watching the playful waterfall gave the Templar an idea. She glanced at the smooth, soapy water. Then, an idea appeared in her head that made her jittery.
"Fraeya. Can you make bubbles?"
At first, the elf girl looked confused. She glanced down at the spa water and then smiled. She placed her hands beneath the water. They began to glow, and bubbles mixed with soap rippled across the bath's surface, causing the two women to giggle.
*****
Walking through the Palace doors, Mathew Ryder saw dozens of Minuteman staff working hard. They were coordinating with the other Combat Fire Teams in the field or preparing for future operations.
"Looks like everyone is busy," he commented.
"It has been a busy few weeks," King said. "I heard Aristocracy Franolgno Brigaton pressed against 1st Brigade in the north."
"It is just a diversion," Ryder said. "To direct resources and attention away from Salva."
"They are a persistent bunch."
When Palace security acknowledged Ryder's rank, the militiaman addressed him as Duke. This wasn't the first time many townsfolk had accepted him and his daughter as political leaders of the city. The two MPs were subtle, but he could tell they reacted negatively to being called by a royal title. On the other hand, his friend made a quick joke about the royal statues that had been installed around the city.
King glanced at the silent Captain before placing his hands on his hips. "I am sorry. I didn't mean to offend."
"You weren't," Ryder said. "I am just worried about how people will view me being called that."
"All right, Matt. What is on your mind?"
The Captain suddenly regretted saying anything, realizing he had opened Pandora's box. "Forget it."
King grabbed Ryder's arm, stopping them both. "What is on your mind?"
Ryder placed his hands on his hips in frustration. "I have been hearing comments. What does the team think of all this royal nonsense?"
"Why does their opinion matter, Matt?"
"Don't give me that. You saw those MPs, and they are not the first. No one wants to say it, but I am starting to be seen as a joke by my people."
"And if you want to know if the team is solid?"
"Correct. I am starting to see that balancing both worlds could ruin my reputation. The whole Ceka situation alone..." Ryder sighed. "I sometimes wonder if my wife would be disappointed with how I turned out. Things used to be so simple."
"Do you want my opinion, Matt?"
"Of course."
"Shut up."
It took a moment for Ryder to react, as that was not the response he expected. "What?"
"I personally think what you and Hackett are doing is strange. A lordship? I will admit that the situation at the Redvale Guild left a knot in my gut."
"So, I did make the wrong decision?"
King didn't hesitate, jabbing his finger into the Captain's chest with determination. "I did not say that. I am not in your shoes. Those MPs aren't. Comanche isn't. None of us have a royal Princess as a daughter, with thousands of years of alien history and culture to navigate. I can sit here as a moral judge without having to deal with any consequences, but I wasn't forced to make a significant policy decision out of thin air that could have lasting implications. None of us have to make that decision or live with it, so who gives a damn?"
The Warrant Officer aggressively poked the Captain in the chest again. "The Colonel has confidence. Nat has confidence. The people of Salva have noticed. I might not agree with everything, but I have confidence. The issue is that you need to have that confidence too, and to hell with anyone who disagrees. That is what Carol would want."
Matthew Ryder took a deep breath and glanced around, gathering his thoughts. He then turned back to his friend with another deep, stressful breath. "You're right," he said.
"Of course I am right," King said. "I am your XO. It is my job to slap nonsense into a superior officer."
The two chuckled at the horrible joke. They shook hands before continuing their journey into the Palace, walking into the front-office section that occupied the facility's main chamber. This room was once the foremost gathering place for the formal leader of Salva. Because of its size, it was the ideal location to place the central support staff for Minutemen Headquarters.
Right off the bat, Ryder couldn't help but feel something was off. He couldn't determine if it was related to a well-performing mission or his insecurities. He had a moment of inner conflict, but then an emotion he had never experienced before appeared.
Captain Smith, who was standing next to the front office, giggled.
"What is so funny?" Ryder asked.
"What you said was cute. Your daughter isn't here, and you noticed that. You miss her."
"I know she is not here. She is doing outreach to a fishing village with the Ambassador."
"That does not mean you don't miss her," Smith said. "Honestly, many here do. I have never seen so many grown men miss a child. I guess delivering coffee daily would leave an impression. It is shocking how much the little things matter."
The Captain didn't realize how much of an impression his daughter had made at Minutemen Headquarters. Since arriving in Salva, she had dressed in her maid's clothing and passed water and snacks to the working staff. Even after ascending to the station of Princess of Salva, the dual-eyed girl continued this ritual whenever she was not in meetings with the Council.
However, what Smith said was also true. While he knew that Assiaya was off on a mission, a part of him missed her greeting him when he came home. This was a feeling he had never experienced before. Even when his wife was alive, she had always been home when he returned.
"Do you know when my daughter and the Ambassador left?" Ryder asked.
"I... do not know," Smith said. "Assiaya left here this morning, and the village isn't that far, so they should be back soon. But I don't know."
Finding the answer acceptable and not wanting to badger Smith, especially since she was his superior, Ryder started filling out paperwork before heading to Hackett for his unit debrief. Once Assiaya got home, he debated what to do with his daughter that evening. The Captain wanted to show her some American movies on his laptop.
"Speak of the devil," Smith said.
Finding the comment strange, Ryder turned around and saw the Ambassador, Susian West, enter the Palace. Seeing that his plans could be sped up, a surprising sense of joy consumed him.
"Welcome, Ambassador. I don't think we have properly introduced ourselves."
West approached the front desk, staring at her tablet and refusing to acknowledge the Comanche Captain. "So, you are the Junior Officer playing Lord."
Ryder closed his eyes, frustrated by the comment. He turned to his friend, who shrugged before turning toward the female Captain, who stared at him and warned him to shrug it off.
"I am ready when you are, Duke," West said condescendingly.
The Captain awkwardly glanced at the woman but decided to take Smith's advice and remain silent. Now that it was time for the after-action debrief, he started following the Minutemen officer but suddenly stopped as if a freight train had impacted him with full force.
Out of nowhere, Ryder felt like he had been hit by a freight train and realized something was wrong. He turned toward the Ambassador and asked, "Where is Assiaya?"
"What?" West asked, partially glancing toward the Comanche Captain with annoyance.
"You heard me."
"Watch it, soldier boy. The Army didn't want the State Department involved in this royal nonsense, so be it. Besides, if I wanted to play babysitter, I would have a little monster myself."
"Matt." Smith then looked around and realized why the Comanche Captain was frantic.
Feeling nothing but boiling anger coursing through his veins, Ryder turned to his XO and saw the same concern on his face. The two nodded, and the Captain marched past the two women and headed downstairs to Colonel Hackett.
Seeing the reinforced door, Ryder was about to barge inside but was stopped by Rommel King.
"Boss," King said. "Take one breath and reform."
Ryder wanted to push his friend away but saw the wisdom in it. Taking one deep breath and readjusting his posture to look more professional, he realized he was about to disrespect his mentor by barging inside and making demands. "Thank you."
"That is my job. Now, let's do this."
The Captain knocked on the door and heard the Ambassador descending the stairs. Wanting to get inside quickly, he entered the office when he heard the signal. He saw his mentor at his desk, going through recently translated documents.
As the Colonel prepared to acknowledge Ryder, he quickly said, "Sir. I have a question I need to ask ASAP. Please."
Hackett stared at him with confused eyes but noticed the seriousness in the Captain's expression. The Colonel dropped the document and leaned back in his chair. "Shoot."
"Where is Assiaya?"
The older, gray-haired Caucasian man with fading black hair tilted his head in confusion. "She is with the Ambassador at the village..."
Hearing the door open, Ryder turned and saw Susian West entering the room, which caused confusion to cross the Minuteman Colonel's face.
"Colonel," West said. "Your Captain here was very disrespectful to me. I want to know what kind of operation you are running."
"I will answer that after you tell me where the Princess of Salva is," Hackett responded.
"Not this again," West said. "Why are you asking me? Ask this Duke here. He is the one playing Lord."
Ryder quickly turned toward the Ambassador to respond. However, he heard his mentor say, "Captain," warning him not to intervene. It took all his strength not to comment on the situation as his mind raced to where his daughter could be, but he stood at attention.
William Hackett directed his attention to the Ambassador. "You were supposed to go to the fishing village with the Princess on a diplomatic outreach mission and secure a new food supply," he said.
"With all due respect, Colonel," West said. "I am a state official. I do not do entry-level missions like going to backwater fishing villages. Isn't that why you two created this role-playing game in the first place?"
Hackett leaned back in his chair, placing his fingers together while glaring daggers at the Ambassador. "Let me get this straight. When I pick up this phone to call the Lieutenant General, I am going to tell him that you left a twelve-year-old girl—our Princess and the last survivor of the formal regime of these lands, who is critical to establishing our credibility and swaying potential allies to our side—and let's not forget Matt's daughter, who survived six years as a slave and, for a week, barely survived being hunted down. How many more Ands can I add to this before making that call?"
Ryder couldn't help but glance toward the Ambassador as the room went silent. The woman's eyes widened before being replaced by panic when she realized the gravity of the situation. He was utterly shocked by his mentor's attitude toward the State Department official. Typically, they were given a tremendous amount of respect as civilians overseeing the military; however, he knew the Minutemen Colonel had her.
A red light appeared on the intercom, and Hackett leaned over and pressed it. "I will respond in a minute. Also, please contact Lieutenant General Sherman."
"I will," Smith said. "However, I just got word from the Northeast Gate. Assiaya arrived with Yeldan and a member of the Elstina family. Apparently, she went to the village without the Ambassador."
A sense of relief swept over Mathew Ryder, knowing that his daughter was safe—at least long enough for him to kill her for this stunt. He could see the same sense of relief from Hackett and West. His mentor was happy for the girl's safety; however, he could tell the diplomat was thrilled that her career possibility was about to implode.
"Thank you, Captain," Hackett said. "I want you to get Assiaya here ASAP."
The Colonel switched channels, and Sherman answered. The two senior officers spoke about the incident for about forty minutes, with some harsh words exchanged along the way. The Captain and Ambassador were not allowed to speak, only to listen, adding to the tension.
The office door opened, and Captain Smith and Princess Assiaya entered the room. The Princess ran over and hugged her father.
"I am sorry," the Princess said. "I did not mean to cause trouble."
"It is okay," Ryder said. "We will talk later."
"I am glad you are all right, Assiaya," Hackett said. "Now, what happened? And I want the truth. No sidestepping."
The dual-eyed Princess took a deep breath as she understood the gravity of the situation. "I went to the Ambassador's office so we could go to the Nagal fishing village. I was turned away multiple times, and the final time, I was kept waiting for hours. Then I discovered she was napping the entire time."
The mood in the room changed, and the Colonel stared directly at the Ambassador. West glanced toward Assiaya with hatred in her eyes.
"Let me guess," Hackett said. "You went off alone?"
"Not alone," she said. "The House of Elstina sent their oldest son as an escort, and I recruited two Militiamen. I know how dangerous it is out there, and you said you approved me going to the village."
"I know you did," Hackett said. "And under the understanding of guidance and protection by our security."
"I thought the Militia counted."
Sensing the tense atmosphere she had created, the Princess quickly added, "But... I have good news. The village agreed to the terms. They wanted to sell fish, but they requested military protection. I told them I had to discuss this with you first."
"At least something good came from this mess," Sherman said over the phone. "Colonel, follow up with this lead. Ambassador West, after you go to the village and secure that supply line, I will meet you at Indolass to continue this conversation."
When the Lieutenant General hung up, the Ambassador quickly left the room.
Hackett then rubbed the top of his nose in frustration. "All right. We have our orders, so we will follow through on them. Next time, Assiaya, come to me."
"I am sorry," she said. "I wanted to prove that I am not useless."
"You are not useless," Ryder said.
"Saying that," Hackett said, "while I might not be thrilled with how this unfolded, thank you for not going off alone and being somewhat responsible. Be careful doing that, though. There is a chain of command; please follow it."
She bowed. "I am sorry."
"Now that it is settled, time for the both of you to relax."
*****
Staring at the City-State of Salva, Kallem Verliance saw the heavy defenses of the Altaerrie position. Sparks and light explosions erupted as his forces assaulted the city, attempting to breach the walls.
"The Altaerrie have been more fortified than expected," Kallem stated.
"Their layered defenses have been formidable," Korva responded. "Look here."
The Lord of Verliance walked to his recently promoted Field Marshal, who was staring at a crystal screen attached to a four-legged crawler. The resolution was typically fluid, but being so close to the battle, there was some additional distortion.
The perspective came from one of the many seeker constructs flying through the area, recording every detail. A section from the 13th Order, approximately four hundred and fifty men, assaulted the southeastern region of the wall where the Unity had attacked a few days ago.
The section was fighting valiantly against the Altaerrie, occupying a critical hill close to the city. An intense firefight was being waged as his warriors attempted to reach the base of the Salva wall while the enemy defended it.
The screen switched to a broader view of the city. As Aristocracy artillery began striking the city in an attempt to provide cover for their attacking force, multiple turrets sprayed the sky, neutralizing most of the bombardment, with only a few shells able to penetrate their defenses.
"And this is why you have failed to breach the city?" Kallem asked.
"Yes, my Lord," Korva said. "Our Unity allies have identified additional missile turrets closer to Indolass. They seem to have a further reach than the ones I showed you."
"And what about our artillery?" Kallem asked. "I have heard we have sustained casualties."
"Some," Korva responded as he displayed a regional map on the screen with marks indicating fire-support locations. "It is not as concerning as the troops are making it seem, but we have sustained some losses."
"Are you not relocating them after a volley?" Kallem asked.
"Of course I am, my Lord," Korva said. "The issue is not our tactics."
"Then what?"
"The Altaerrie artillery can respond faster than we are used to. After every volley, our units must relocate because the enemy will respond within minutes. Sometimes less."
"That quickly? And accurately?"
"Correct. I spoke with Commander Stadius Fabillus about the matter. His people believe the Altaerrie have superior elecaves technology, a detection device that tracks objects using electromagnetic wavelengths. Somehow, they can track our shells when fired and discover our location through geometry."
The Vampire Lord absorbed all this new information, attempting to devise a strategy against the Altaerrie's different technological abilities. Initially, it was forgivable for those who believed the otherworlders' enchanted weapons were no threat against magitech. While distinct and inferior in some areas compared to their own tools, the ruler of Verliance could see that this technology had allowed their new enemies to surpass others by not being restricted to magic.
With weeks of nonstop bombardment against the city, it had achieved little. While area defense was not unknown to the Great Powers on Alagore, utilizing amplifiers to shield critical targets, the manner in which the Altaerrie deployed theirs was a surprise to them. While they had identified some energy-based lances, most of their weapons had been kinetic. However, it was not invincible. With enough volleys and energy, basic bolts could penetrate the enemy defenses. The effectiveness of these weapons remained an unknown challenge, preventing any breakthrough.
Korva then chuckled, catching the Vampire Lord off guard. "It feels like the early days against the Unity, does it not?"
Kallem stared at his longtime friend and gave a soft laugh. He found it humorous that his people were back at square one when encountering a far technologically superior enemy.
"It sure does, my friend."
"All this effort for such an ugly place," Ere-hian said. "When will we take the Palace?"
Kallem slowly turned toward his son. He saw the boy standing on the hillside next to many entrenched soldiers, watching the battle continue. His posture showed his excitement, this being the first battle the young Lord had witnessed.
"When the opportunity arrives," he replied.
"I cannot wait to see the fear of that traitorous slave," Ere-hian stated. "Opposing her superiors in such a matter. She will regret fleeing and humiliating our House name."
"Calm, my son."
Ere-hian turned to his father, surprised by the comment.
"Calm? That Lat slave you favored murdered a Priestess of the Katra! And dishonored our family name."
"Because of your actions."
Kallem glanced toward his son, seeing a frustrated stare but unable to challenge the truth.
Word of his formal slave identity had spread throughout the Aristocracy. The last of Balan's blood, along with the formal rules of the Confederacy of Daru'uie, had returned and taken root in Salva. He was prepared to be inquired into by his Unity master and his vessels. Still, the results were more positive than expected.
He was not so blind as to believe that many people had not questioned his decision to have a small Lat slave girl by his side. Still, with her identity revealed, it clarified many of those lingering thoughts. Having the daughter of a centuries-old rival appeared to be enough reasoning for most—a symbolic trophy.
This only made his false story believable: a Lat, or now an Altaerrie, taking a highly valuable prize, a noble girl, was at least enough for most to avoid asking additional questions. Sadly, the event had cost him considerably in terms of influence, command, and autonomy from Unity.
"If I knew—"
"What led you to believe you were entitled to such knowledge?"
"I..." Ere-hian glanced away as he regretfully reflected on his father's words.
"Lord Verliance. Let the youth express themselves. For a long-living race, they are young for a short time."
Kallem knew who was approaching: Temprass Savulot from the Temple of Enlightenment. A thick robe covered the woman's natural feathered beauty. A kitsune holding an umbrella accompanied her, with two servants following behind.
"Savulot," Kallem said. "It is dangerous to be here. You should go back to camp."
"I promise not to be long," Savulot said. "I came with enlightening news."
"Enlightening?" Kallem asked. "Yesterday, you expressed disappointment that the site has not been uplifted."
"I stand by my concerns," Savulot said. She took a cloth and wiped her hands. "I spoke with Commander Fabillus, and while I disagree with the level of progress, he has accepted your viewpoint on the siege."
"Is that your enlightening news?"
"Of course not. I have learned of a town nearby with one of my priestesses on a conversion mission. The Altaerrie occupied it during their attack before the siege. The town remained loyal and rebelled against their occupiers when Unity warriors came to dislodge our enemies."
"I will grant that is positive news," Kallem said. "I would not group it as a critical victory. A slight boost in morale at most."
"I agree with your viewpoint," Savulot said. "That is not why I came to inform you. I wish to bring your son with me. It will be important to show the youthful leader how the light rewards those who walk the path of enlightenment and how we strike down those who resist."
"You are requesting that I watch a reformation?" Ere-hian excitedly asked.
"Yes," Savulot said. "My young Lord."
"My son should remain by my side," Kallem quickly said. "Learning the inner workings of a military campaign is more important than seeing a frontier town."
"Father!" Ere-hian said.
"It is okay, young Prince," Savulot said. "Lord Verliance, I must protest. Living by example has been a founding principle for ages. For example, it creates order, purpose, and stability. If you wish to maintain control over these lands, your subjects must know that loyalty will be rewarded."
"Father," Ere-hian said. "I would wish to see this town. I promise to be an observer and not intervene. I want to see this practice."
"My Lord," Savulot gently said. "If the young Prince is to rule one day, he should witness all elements of leadership. This is the time. Unless you are not faithful to our alliance?"
A powerful knot developed within the Vampire Lord's gut. He was not thrilled about allowing his son to leave with a Unity Temprass without supervision; however, he saw no choice. He nodded in agreement and watched his eager son follow the religious leader.
A part of him was happy to see his son happy again, wanting to learn more about the world. Not being stuck at home, brooding over his dead mother every day. It was his mistake to shelter his children at home for this long. He only hoped that his son would find his path to manhood and not be corrupted in this ever-changing world. Or at least develop the skills to surpass him.
With his son gone, Kallem turned to his Field Marshal.
"Now, breaking the siege. What are the problems and solutions?"