Chapter Text
Wendy Sadler was leaning against a wall, breathing out the smoke from her cigarette. The nicotine going through her, almost like it enveloping her in a blanket. She heard someone cough and looked to see her colleague, David Harper approaching.
"Y'know those things cause cancer, right? Why not Vape or do Weed?" He grumbled.
Wendy rolled her eyes, familiar with this conversation, but nonetheless said," Well I'm not Vaping, that's for sure. It doesn't provide the same kick as these do. Also, I do smoke Weed, although not when I'm working."
Harper gave her a raised brow and said," There are better ways to relax."
"Well you have your girlfriend and she supports you. Last guy I went on a date with talked about Manchester United for the whole bloody date."
Harper chuckled and said," Still wish I was there to see his face when you said you were a Liverpool fan."
Wendy snickered at the memory; she was actually an Arsenal fan, like the rest of her family. But using Liverpool was funnier. She then said," And besides, where we're going, cancer is the least of our worries. What's the word?"
"Boss got the paperwork done. We are now part of the Press Corps that's going through the Gate. We'll get our passes later. Have you heard who they're allowing in? They really want all sides here."
"You and I both know the optics. Even with the Americans leading this and the promise of the U.N coming later. Japan needs all the good Press they can get. And also they can't keep secrets with something as big as this."
"True, but still, it's anyone's guess what's over there. I can't wait." Harper said.
Wendy nodded, even if the reporter in her was ready for whatever potential story awaited her in the Special Region. Even she couldn't help but be excited and wonder what's in store.
King Duran of Elbe, otherwise known as the Lion of Elbe, surveyed the area beyond the camp of the Allied Kingdoms. The land in the Alnus Region was pristine and quiet, a far cry from what he had heard about it being a horrible battlefield littered with the dead. Courtesy of an enemy from across the Gate, one that had been described as demons, with deadly weaponry. That's what his spies within the Imperial Army had been saying.
From where he stood, all he could see was grassland covered in hills. Some trees dotting the area. And the mountains were far away.
He grunted as he moved a little on the saddle, so his lower back wouldn't ache. It was moments like those where he truly felt his age. He was called the Lion of Elbe for a reason. He was ruthless, cunning and was ferocious as a lion in battle. The numerous wars he fought in, both for his kingdom and the Empire attested to that. But he knew he was getting on in age. His wife had joked about it, but he paid her no heed. Even though it was true, but he was stubborn.
It was one of the reasons why he was training and teaching his eldest son to become King one day. Sure he would advise him and such once he stepped down. But he wouldn't be around forever.
'Maybe this will be the last campaign I shall face in my lifetime. Let the next generation handle things.' He thought.
He got out of his musings when he heard someone approach on horseback and looked behind him. One of his messengers approached him on horseback and said, "M'lord, most of the other Kings have arrived."
Duran nodded and said," Very well, let's not keep them waiting."
Duran whipped the reigns and the horse took off at the bottom of the valley, where the main camp was. And Duran could see the other armies of the Allied Kingdoms were arriving and setting up their own areas. As he rode into the camp, he nodded or shouted greetings to either his men, or to the other soldiers from different Kingdoms. He soon made it to one of the bigger tents; he got off his horse, took off his helmet and walked inside.
Most of the Kings from the other Kingdoms were already there, a couple were missing, which meant they haven't arrive yet.
"Ah, there's the Lion of Elbe himself. We thought you had charged ahead to fight the invaders." The King of Mudwan joked.
Duran snorted and said, "Maybe in my earlier years, Alexandr. Your and my eye can attest to that." He said. "But even I know we need to strategize today. Also, we have yet to hear any updates from the Imperials who are currently at the Hill now."
Another King scoffed and said," Bah, why strategize? The Empire called us to help fix the mess they're in. And I would like to fight these invaders soon."
Another King, this one from the small Kingdom of Arcadian, slammed his fist on the table and said," No, the honor should be ours!"
Before an argument could go further, the tent flap opened and a soldier came inside.
He kneeled and said," M'lords! An Imperial Messenger has arrived and has brought news."
"Bring him in." Duran said.
The soldier nodded and went out. A moment later an Imperial Soldier came and kneeled.
"Why isn't the Imperial Commander here to speak with us?" Duran asked.
"The Commander sends his apologies, m'lord. But it's an all out offensive on the hill. He couldn't leave his position." The messenger said.
"Hmm, from what my scouts said earlier. There is a decent sized amount of enemy troops on the hill. But not enough to keep your Commander away." Duran mused aloud.
The messenger hoped he wasn't sweating or if his face betrayed any worry or fear. For the truth would surely mean his death. And the plan that both the Emperor and his Generals had for their allies.
"I'm sorry, m'lord. That is what I was told to say. But also the Commander said that all that he needs of all of you is to attack tomorrow at dawn." The messenger continued.
Duke Ligu of the League of Principality barked a laughed and said," Is that all? We might as well attack now to get a head start. You may leave boy. We'll give those at the hill a good beating tomorrow."
The messenger nodded and left as quickly as he could.
'After hearing what happened with the Expeditionary Force and the Garrisons. May the Gods be merciful.' The man thought with an internal shudder.
Duran watched as the soldier left, and ignored the talking of the other Kings. His mind racing, thinking of what was going on and feeling as if something was amiss. But he couldn't place it.
"It looks as if a battle is storming in your own head." Ligu joked.
"In a way. I remember this one saying 'He falls not from the bridge who walks with prudence.'"
"Which means?" Alexandr asked, having heard.
"Don't rush and charge in. We need to be careful." Duran said.
He could see Ligu, Alexandr and a couple of others near them considered. The rest who didn't hear continued on with their bickering or boisterous gloating on the future victory tomorrow. Duran let them; he had to prepare himself and his army for tomorrow.
"Shino get up."
Shino groaned as she opened her eyes, blinking away the sleep. She looked to see Mari looking up at her.
"Is it my time for Sentry duty?"
"No, its early morning and we need to get ready. The Lieutenant stopped by to tell us our forward observers checked in and they said the allied armies are on the move. We need to take positions."
Shino got up, stretched and asked," Why didn't he come in and tell us?"
"I was already awake and outside when he told me. He also mentioned he didn't want to go into the women's tent. Wanted to respect our privacy."
Shino nodded, accepting the reasoning. Their Lieutenant may be an Otaku. But at least he respected his female subordinates and wasn't pervy. Not that she was saying she couldn't handle him if he tried something. If she was able to knock down a U.S Delta Force Operator during a friendly sparring match. Then she could handle a male Officer or enlisted looking to cop a feel or worse.
"That's good, because I've been itching for a fight. It's better than doing support work. Hell, I've been itching to explore."
After repelling the Saderan counterattack a week ago, the Task Force got to working on the base. Although things flipped or went back to normal in a sense. The U.S Troops were tasked with defending, scouting or taking care of any stragglers. While the Japanese troops went to a support role. Shino wasn't happy about that, after all, they fought alongside the Americans when they first got there. And helped repel the Saderan Counterattack.
So, to go back to a support role, where they helped clean things up, start moving debris, bodies and other stuff that was in the way. Although it wasn't without it's somber moments, in terms of moving bodies.
During one of the briefings before the invasion, they showed drone footage of the base sometimes after the invasion. Besides seeing the survivors of the Empire's Expeditionary Force. They also saw the captured civilians, but not all of them were alive. The ones that were dead were thrown into a mass grave. And they were all ordered not to focus any fire in that particular area. This also included other areas or buildings that were marked as important. Although the latter two was mixed but wasn't as important. After the Saderan counterattack, a small team was tasked to help a team of Forensic Experts and Pathologists to safely and humanly retrieve the bodies. So they can be identified and bring closer to their families.
Last Shino heard, thanks to Nanami's sources, they had identified thirty, with eighteen being Japanese, while the rest were foreign nationals. With four Korean, three Americans and three Chinese. It was small, but it brought comfort to worried and grieving families.
Not to mention helping the U.S Seabees start building everything. It reminded her of the humanitarian missions she had been on.
But, due to how small the JSDF were as a whole. And to keep the protests of Japan militarizing further. They needed as much American support as possible.
And also she wanted to leave the area. The scouting parties only scouted about a half mile from their positions. They would've gone farther, but there were various issues. Supplies and more troops were coming in. Logistics were always a mess, and she was happy she didn't get that job. Communications were still spotty, even if they somehow got a spotty Wi-Fi connection across the Gate at first. So, if there was an issue, there was a chance the base wouldn't hear them properly.
And vehicles, they only had transport vehicles, some Humvee's, IFV's, APC's and Tanks. They just started on the airfield and started to bring in Helicopter's. They were easier to bring in and reassemble than Jets from what she heard. So the Jets were going to be brought in and assembled last. So if there was trouble and they needed support or extraction that their regular land vehicles couldn't provide. It would take some time and time was always precious in the military.
And also, the enemy allied army and the Saderan's themselves. No one wanted to send people out if there was a chance something bad could happen to them without the proper equipment. So once everything was set up, then they could leave.
Mari rolled her eyes at her friend's enthusiasm and said," Thank God you're only here and not Delilah or Amber. I shudder at what you any of you would do if all three of you were here."
Shino grinned savagely as she put on her plate carrier and said," Fun and mayhem, that's what."
That didn't give Mari any comfort whatsoever.
Meanwhile in a bunker, both Hazama and Davis were with their staff, planning for the inevitable attack. An American Intelligence Officer, with his name patch saying 'Randleman', was busy giving them information.
"From what we gathered from Imperial prisoners in regard to their Vassal States. They range from different sized Kingdoms, combined City States or in some cases, Tribes, sirs. They are led by either Kings or Dukes. Some of the most well-known would be the Kingdom of Elbe, League Principality, Mudwan and Alguna. And from what we gathered based on scouting, drone reports and different flags. We count Twenty-Five Kingdoms in total, with a total number of enemy combatants is around 150,000." Randleman said.
Hazama hummed in thought and said, "While we have 25,000 currently here, with more on the way. Odds like that aren't normally good. But things are far from normal currently. But we still need to consider talking things out. They are the Empire's Vassal States, who knows what kind of relationship they have with the Empire. So maybe they'll head back once we make our intentions known."
Davis nodded and said," While true, there is a chance a little blood might be spilt before they come to their senses. I wouldn't mind things being bloodless, but that's wishful thinking. We'll send a delegation to meet them and hope we can talk things out. If things deteriorate, we'll have artillery soften them up in the pre-planned coordinates. Or have our defenses and troops at the ready if they make it closer. Are there any Imperial Reinforcements?"
Another soldier, this SDF, who had the nametag 'Gojo', shook his head and said in accented English, "None that we saw, just a scouting party or two, sir. Looks like their Vassals are the only ones about to attack, Colonel."
Hazama rubbed his chin and said," Basically sending them as a sacrificial lamb. The Empire knows they are either outgunned or depleted in manpower currently. So, they're buying time. And keeping those who could be an issue from being one. Yet another reason to talk things out."
"What's their estimated arrival time?" Davis asked.
"In an hour or so, sir. They left at dawn."
"Right, we need to send a delegation. Tell the Artillery Commander to have his men on standby if things go south. And have everyone in defensive positions. Who should we send?" Hazama said.
Davis shrugged and said," Eh, why the hell not. I've been wanting some action. I'll be the one to lead it."
Hazama and the others looked surprised, with Hazama saying," Are you sure Arthur? Things could get messy real quickly."
Davis didn't look undeterred and said with a look that screamed that he was a Marine. Even though he was older and an Officer. He then said," Eh messy is what we Marine's thrive in. Besides, gotta show that not all of us are a bunch of battle hungry monsters. We can be civil."
Hazama huffed, but nodded and said," Very well. You alert us immediately if things go south."
Davis nodded with a salute; he then put on his helmet and walked out.
Hazama had a ghost of a grin and muttered," A U.S Marine being diplomatic. These are odd times."
King Duran knew something was up, ever since his and the other Kingdom's armies started to march to Alnus Hill. A couple of scouts had returned, saying they couldn't find any Imperial forces at or around the Hill.
But they did find someone or someone else. Apparently, the scouts were met by the supposed enemy forces. They didn't attack them, all they asked was to deliver a message to whoever was in charge.
The message asked for the Kings to meet at a designated spot. Where they would meet with a small party of enemy troops or officers. Somewhere in the middle ground between them and Alnus.
Duran and the others were skeptical, some thought to ignore and charge at Alnus. But Duran and the other Kings thought otherwise. They were going out of their way to contact them, they might as well hear them out.
But Duran wasn't foolish enough to come unguarded. So he ordered a small detachment to be nearby.
And that's where they found themselves. Duran and the other Kings were not the first to arrive. They saw some people near one of the roads. They were standing alongside what appeared to be armored carriages of sorts. He could see a man that looked to be on the older side and looked to be important. He was also being flanked by what he assumed were his guards.
They all wore some type of multicolored uniforms that were a mix of green and brown. And they also seemed to be carrying what looked to be staffs of some sort. But he didn't see them wearing any visible armor.
The man who looked important seemed to say something to the guards and they then started to approach, with one following after him. With one of them holding a white flag. As they approached, Duran could see that both men looked different than each other.
"Do you think their surrendering?" One of the Kings asked.
"Not sure, but let's hear them out." Duran said, as he got off his horse and the others did so as well.
Once both men walked a certain distance, the one with the flag then said something to the man next him. The other person nodded and then said in the common tongue, although a bit accented, "Are you the leaders of the allied armies?"
"We are! What are your intentions of this summons?" Ligu asked.
"My name is Colonel Arthur Davis. I'm one of the leaders of the army who is occupying Alnus Hill. The others and I don't want to fight, just talk. We are asking you to leave and not attack. We have no intention of fighting you. Our fight is against the Saderan Empire, not against any of you."
Duran blinked surprised by what the man said and then said," So the rumors are true that you defeated them?"
"Yes, we did. Now, please turn back and return to your kingdoms. We'll have representatives from our Governments come to you to talk further and negotiate about the future at a later date. That's all that we ask."
One of the Kings scoffed loudly and said," That's a clever ploy! Once you take care of our ally. You'll come to attack and subjugate us! Take everything for yourselves! We came here to fight you invaders! And we shall do what the Empire wasn't able to! And avenge their sacrifice!"
Duran was very tempted to yell or hit the man, damn the consequences. But before he could berate him, the other Kings were starting to agree with the other King.
"A clever ploy but we are not going to fall for it! You invaders will pay with your blood!"
Davis held back a groan at what his translator was saying. But he continued on.
"We are not here to fight. Please turn back now. Or else we will be forced to defend ourselves!"
"They are calling for our blood! Their colors have been shown!"
"Here this invader! We shall let you and your comrades leave! Only to let your allies know their time has come!"
Davis nodded, he did try and warm them. He and his translator ran back to the Humvee. Once they told their escort, they took off back to Alnus.
"Disciple-2 to Alnus. We have our answer."
Itami looked into the binoculars as he tried to scan the horizon. He was in one of the trenches that lined Alnus. He was with his Platoon, that was mixed with both Japanese and American.
"See anything, sir?" Tomita asked.
"Nothing yet. Just the small group that tried to talk to the allied army and our forward observers returning."
"How come we're not hearing any artillery?" Kuribayashi asked.
"Probably not in range. Or just waiting for them to get closer." Yaoyorozu suggested.
Itami shrugged and said," Probably the latter, make them think they're safe or think they have the upper hand. Or maybe they're reconsidering negotiations."
"So, are they going to bum rush us like the Empire did? Or are they going to use different tactics this time? I remember from one of our briefings that the Allied Kingdoms do use them." Mac asked.
Itami thought about it, he remembered that meeting and reading the intel packets that came with it. The Empire itself was known to use Roman era military tactics. This would include having heavily armed and armored troops to attack. The use of close combat tactics. A lot of times human wave tactics due to their large numbers. The use of bows, medieval style artillery and cavalry. But things went to fantasy level with the use of Wyverns and Demi-Humans.
The Allied Kingdoms were the same but lacked the superior numbers that the Empire had. So, they had to be creative. From what the prisoners had said.
"Y'know, the Geneva Convention isn't a thing here." Yates said.
Everyone looked at him, with Yaoyorozu asking, although a bit resigned," What are you thinking Brandon?"
"I mean, they don't have the same medicines here or the same immunity to diseases. I heard the prisoners got sick. So all we need to do is release an army of rats. And we can bring the Plague. Say we are the Gods unleashing our wrath. And we'll only stop it if they bring some pretty medieval women to us." Yates said with a snicker. "You can even make your harem, Malik."
Everyone gave him blank looks, with Mack smacking him on the head and said," You're a fucking idiot. Did you mom drop you on your damn head?"
Malik rolled his eyes and said," Idiot is right."
"I mean, it wouldn't be the worst synopsis for an anime." Kurata shrugged.
"True, but it needs a little something more." Itami said.
A couple of others murmured as well. But it was a mix of agreeing with what the three said. Or voicing how dumb it was.
Kuribayashi sighed and muttered to Kurokawa," Sometimes I wonder if I should've gone into Journalism like Nanami."
Before Kurokawa could respond or anyone else could say anything, their comms then went off.
"All units, enemy forces are approaching designated firing positions. Prepare defensive positions."
"Alright people, take positions. No heroics, stick with the defensive plan that was laid out to us. That especially goes for the American's here." Itami ordered.
There was a rumble of laughter across the trench line. Yaoyorozu offered Itami a fist bump, which he did back.
"Don't worry, sir. We'll be as professional as a Marine can get." He joked.
'Good, that calmed their nerves. All I need to do is calm mine.' Itami thought.
Itami then watched some figures appear over the horizon. He used his binoculars to see what they were.
"We got Demi-Human troops approaching fast. A couple of dozen or more." Itami said.
"Not much of an attack force." Kurata said.
"Probably to probe our defenses. Send in some cannon fodder, see what we do. And then plan accordingly on how to attack." Yaoyorozu said.
"Guess these guys are smarter than what the Empire did. Whole bird shoot or something back at Ginza and when we invaded." Tomita said.
"Turkey shoot, that's the saying. I mean, the Empire had the numbers. They are considered top dogs here. All their enemies have the same weaponry but are weaker. They had no idea what was going to happen to them once they crossed the Gate. And when we attacked both at Ginza and here." Mac said.
"Hubris basically." Ahmed said.
"Yeah, nice little wake up call for them." Yates said.
The Japanese troops who heard in the vicinity let that sink in. But it didn't last long, due to the distinct sound of Artillery being fired was heard. Artillery rounds came crashing down on the enemy troops. It went on for another 15 seconds and stopped. Once the smoke cleared there weren't any beast soldiers standing. The ones that were, were heavily wounded. They would've fired at them to take them out of their misery. But they needed to conserve ammo.
"First wave's trashed." Yates said.
Back with the Allied Kingdoms, one of the forward observers looked through a spyglass of what had happened.
"Damn invaders. Tell the Kings that the first probe attack was repelled." He told his subordinate, who nodded.
"Sirs, first probe attack was repelled. No reports of any injuries or damage." Someone working the comms said.
"Very good, Corporal. Drone Ops, what's the situation on the rest of the Army?" Hazama said.
"They're still holding but looks like a large contingent of them are moving closer. We can make out bows, as well some magic users."
Hazama heard footsteps and saw Davis walked in.
"That could've gone better." He spoke. "Tried to be diplomatic, but those leaders were out for blood. Although I thought I saw one or two consider. But you know, mob mentality or peer pressure."
Hazama then replied," Well, what can you do. Also, your right on time, I guess they smarten upped a little. They sent a quick probe to gauge our reaction. I already gave the order for everyone to seek shelter once they use any type of artillery. Make them think we're scared, and we'll hit him with the artillery."
Davis nodded as he walked over to one of the screens and watched the live footage.
'Hope you idiots know what you got yourselves into.' He thought.
Sergeant Kyle Wade sat in the bunker with the rest of the platoon. The rumble of enemy artillery was heard. It had started a couple of minutes ago. Once they were warned, everyone took shelter. Wade glanced out of the firing window. Through the after affects of the makeshift artillery, he couldn't see any enemies approaching yet. But he knew they would start to advance at any moment.
"Doesn't beat the RPG's that the militants threw at us back in the sandbox." Dunphy joked.
Slaton snorted and said," I don't know man. I still feel like this shit is some fucked up dream. Like we're all in a coma or something."
Grinkovich gave him a raised brow and said," A coma? One shared coma?"
"Maybe a Vodka induced dream? Huh comrade?" Slaton joked and the Russian American woman flipped him off.
"Y'know damn well my family immigrated back when the Soviet Union collapsed you ass."
"Alright, knock it off you two. Or else you'll be going outside." Wade said. An explosion rumbled outside to emphasize his point.
"So, how much longer until we can allow our Arty finishes them off?" Brady asked.
"The El-tee said once they stop their strikes. Then we'll come out and pick them off as they are confused and taking casualties." Wade said and the others nodded.
And with that, they waited.
Duran gritted his teeth at what he was seeing. He could also feel a bead of sweat go down his face.
This was not war nor a battle, this was a slaughter.
After the probe attack, they had sent a contingent of Archers with Mages to imbue their arrows with explosive magic. The spell from what he heard wasn't powerful, but it could somewhat replicate the magic the enemy had. Once they fired the arrows with the magic and attacked their defenses. They would begin their main attack once the they felt they were demoralized enough. Or were thoroughly injured to the point they couldn't defend or attack properly.
Once they started the main attack, Ligu and a couple of others led it. Everything seemed to be going well at first, they made good on advancing. It didn't last long due the ground and area around them erupted in fiery explosions that left nothing but carnage. If that didn't stop them, then their soldiers firing those accursed magical staffs. Although he was now realizing it probably wasn't magic. And from what Duran heard, the wounds were not good. This showed that the idea backfired tremendously. They enemy on Alnus were demoralized, they were not at their end, calling to surrender. They were doing just fine and winning. And they hadn't fought for a whole day yet.
He had already sent some of his troops to the front, but only a few came back. He was the type to lead and fight with his men. He was The Lion of Elbe for a reason after all. But this time he didn't have a good feeling and he was right.
It was far worse than he could ever imagine.
"M'lord, we just got a request from a surviving commander. There is an order of retreat and to have all available forces to attack once night falls. We'll be able to destroy their machines and whatever magic the enemy has." One of his messengers said.
Duran scoffed, the fighter in him roared in approval at the plan. Thinking that the cover of darkness will give them the victory. And to avenge their fallen comrades. But the more rational side thought otherwise.
'And to think, they wanted to talk first.' Duran thought bitterly
"Do as you must. I am not going to throw away any more of my men into a senseless slaughter. Tell the others, tell them they should've listened and talked." Duran said as he walked into his tent.
Wade cocked his shotgun after he fired a round. The enemy soldier falling down dead into the trench.
He scanned the horizon, Shotgun at the ready, his NVG's helping him see. Only a smaller number of the enemy army made it this close. It had been a couple of hours since the first attack. And things went the same as when the Empire attacked them twice. Although the Allied Kingdom armies thought a night attack was a good idea once night had fallen. It was a good idea in theory or a good idea for their era of warfare. But it was no match for a modern army with NVG's or the use of searchlights if they needed a clear view of the area.
"Didn't think the fuckers would get this close." Raph grunted.
"Poor bastard must've crawled for a bit. Gotta give 'em credit." Rajon said.
"Ugh, should probably move him. I think you shredded his insides and I can smell them, sir." Natasha grimaced.
Wade looked behind him, to see Barnes treating someone with an arrow wound.
"How's Willard, Doc?"
"He'll be fine sir. The arrow pierced his shoulder, can't tell if it damaged anything but I got it stabilized." Dakota said.
"Ugh, fucking fuck! Well I say it did damage something alright!" Willard hissed.
Dakota then slapped his hand, due to him reaching for the arrow.
"Unless you want to cause more issues, don't try and pull it out. I'll give you morphine in a second." Dakota said in her doctor's voice as she did just that.
Another Marine, who was near Dakota, chuckled and said," Wish you just went to medical school instead of the Marines, doc?"
Dakota gave him an unamused look and said," Laugh it up Zack. Or I'll ignore you if you get injured.
Zack and the others chuckled, while Dakota rolled her eyes but had a faint grin. Although she winced when she heard another explosion. The doctor or future doctor in her did not like the loss of life.
The artillery stopped firing and so did the defenders. The only thing that was visible besides the moonlight were fixed lasers that were attached to Rifles.
It was semi quiet, the only sound was the engines of the vehicles nearby. And unfortunately, the sound of the injured and dying.
Lieutenant Hernandez walked along the line, he stopped by Wade's squad and asked," See anything Sergeant?"
"Nothing Lieutenant. We can see a small number of them retreating. But we haven't seen any more approach, sir. Also, we only took one casualty. Willard got hit by an arrow."
"Alright, I'll get Willard to the Aid Station. And good, Captain Ingram needs an ammo and a head count. Guess these bastards are as much bullet magnets like the Empire. We're getting reports of wounded. No KIA's yet. Keep up the good work son." He said as he patted Wade's shoulder and was about to walk away but stopped. "Oh and Sergeant."
"Yes sir?"
"Get someone to clean that mess, please." He said as he pointed at the dead enemy soldier. He then helped Willard up and guided him to where the aid station was.
Wade and the others chuckled, but I didn't last long for a certain someone when Wade said," You heard the El-Tee, Grinkovich. You did say you didn't like the smell."
"Yes sir." Natasha said with a resigned tone.
"Don't worry, you'll have help. Raph, go find a body bag and help."
"Roger, boss." Raph said in the same unenthusiastic tone as Grinkovich.
It would be morning when the defenders started to get out of the trenches to check the many enemy soldiers that were lying dead or wounded across the battlefield. It went like it did during the first two attacks against the Empire. But they remained vigilant if another assault was to happen, but nothing had happened at first. But something then did happen once a lone enemy soldier on horseback approached. He made sure to tell them he wasn't armed or was there to fight. But he was there to deliver a message. Once he was checked and detained to be questioned. Was when he explained he needed to give a message to the enemy commanders.
The paper he had in a leather bag was given to Hazama and Davis. The letter was a formal end of hostilities from the surviving leaders of the allied armies. Saying they were now agreeing to their earlier calls to leave and talk at the requested later date.
After receiving that, Hazama made a call to his superiors, who then contacted representatives from the government. To let them know about the development. Their quick response was to agree to the terms, and that they'll send diplomats at a later date. The thought of sending their representatives was thought of. But both Hazama and Davis agreed it was best for a politician to take the reins of something like this.
Once everything was settled, they told and gave the messenger their response. And allowed him to leave. With the look of absolute shock on his face, one would've thought they would've sent his head back as message. And with the time period he and his people fought in, it probably wasn't out of the realm of possibility.
And with that, the Third Battle of Alnus Hill was done. And the first instance of dialogue between those who lived in this world and those who didn't.
It would also be the next phase of the invasion or possibly the exploration of the Special Region. This was to venture further out into the new world.
It would be a couple of days later, with 1st Lieutenant Yōji Itami found himself in a makeshift tent that was being used as the Division's headquarters. He wasn't alone, with him was 2nd Lieutenant George Vasquez of the U.S Marines, part of a Reconnaissance Battalion. The only other two were missing was Sergeant-Major Sōichirō Kuwahara the senior enlisted officer, both in rank and age. Although the latter was joked about but Kuwahara didn't mind. He was under Itami's command. And Staff Sergeant William Griggs who was Vasquez's Second in Command. Although Itami sorta wished that Staff Sergeant Yaoyurozu and his team were with them. But they were assigned to a different unit.
The assignment in question that Itami and the others were tasked with. Was given by Itami's superior Major Hiro Kakashi.
"So our orders are to meet with locals, reassure them we aren't here to invade or kill them. Basically hearts and minds. While also mapping out the area and figure out local customs?" Itami summarized.
Major Kakashi nodded and said," That sums it up. We can't go around making them think we're their new masters or something. Just friendly neighbors in a sense. And also we need all available information on local customs, culture, military and other valuable information. You'll be in charge of 3rd Recon Team. All teams will be a mix of Japanese and American. Hence Lieutenant Vasquez being here."
Itami would've complained or try to get out of it. But he knew from experience that would only make him get more work. He would do that later.
Vasquez saluted Itami and said," Pleasure to work with you sir."
Itami returned the salute and said," Same Lieutenant. I don't have to worry about your Marine's right?"
Vasquez chuckled and said," No need to, sir. I'll keep them in line."
Itami chuckled a little as well," A Marine behaving? From the experience I've seen and heard. That's not normally the case."
"Well, anything can happen Lieutenant. We have all your equipment and vehicles situated already. And your SIC's have notified and prepared your teams. You leave right away. Dismissed." The Major said.
The both of them saluted him and they walked out. Itami looked over the personnel, vehicle and equipment list given to him.
Japanese Personnel:
1st Lieutenant Yōji Itami - Leader
Sergeant Major Sōichirō Kuwahara - SIC
Master Sergeant Tetsuya Nishina.
Sergeant First Class Akira Tomita.
Sergeant First Class Mari Kurokawa - Combat Medic
Sergeant First Class Shino Kuribayashi - Close Combat Specialist
Sergeant Takeo Kurata
Sergeant Azuma Higashi
Leading Private Haru Tou.
Leading Private Daisuke Tozu
Leading Private Wataru Katsumoto - Heavy Weapons Specialist
Leading Private Hayato Sasagawa
Leading Private Hitoshi Furuta
Vehicles:
Komatsu LAV with fixed Machine Gun
Mitsubishi Type 73 Light Truck Shin
Toyota High Mobility Vehicle
U.S Personnel and Vehicles:
2nd Lieutenant George Vasquez - Leader/SIC
Staff Sergeant William Griggs – Vasquez's SIC
Sergeant Paul Jackson
Sergeant Conner Park
Petty Officer Third Class Martin Gaines - Corpsman
Corporal Leshawna Harris - Vehicle Commander
Lance Corporal Jose Mendez - Vehicle Gunner
Lance Corporal Alexandria Lopez
Private First Class Shawn Roycewiz
Private First Class Haldor Luna Marceau - Scout/Sniper/Marksman
Private First Class Sydney Wong - Vehicle Driver/Mechanic
Private Henry West - Heavy Weapons Specialist
Private Issac Massey
Vehicles:
LAV-25
Couger 6x6 MRAP
Oshkosh M-ATV
Itami blinked at the one named Marceau and asked," Hey Lieutenant, who's Marceau?"
"Oh that's Marceau, he's our Elf." He said causally.
Itami probably got whiplash when his heads turned towards the American in shock.
"An Elf?! I heard the rumor, but it's you guys who have him?" Itami asked shocked.
Vasquez chuckled and said," Yeah, still can't fucking believe it. Even though he's been with us for a couple of months now. He was placed under my platoon."
"Huh, who woulda thought." Itami said.
He could've mentioned somewhat knowing Delilah and Amber. But he knew due to them being in Special Forces units. And they were all about secrecy. He knew he told Yaoyorozu and his squad. While omitting what unit they were in. But the less people knew the better. He didn't want to get in trouble.
"Huh, this makes things easier then. We'll have a local who knows the area. Man, that gives me less work." Itami said.
"Pretty much, one of the places we're going to his home settlement though. Poor kid was forced into the Imperial Army. He'll explain it more once you meet him." Vasquez said.
Itami nodded, knowing it was story he would need to hear on the go. This assignment was probably going to be long and any available distraction helped.
The both of them walked to the assembly area, where everyone was talking to each other.
"Attention!" Kuwahara and Griggs barked once they saw them approach. And everyone stood at attention and saluted.
"3rd Joint Recon Team reporting for duty, sirs!" Griggs said.
"At ease everyone." Itami said and everyone did so. "For those of you who don't know myself or my colleagues. I'm 1st Lieutenant Yōji Itami, your CO. 2nd Lieutenant Vasquez is sharing leadership with me. While Sergeant Major Kuwahara and Staff Sergeant Griggs are our SIC's. So, guess we're stuck with each other for this little road trip. I still can't believe this all started for me because I wanted to go to a convention." He mumbled the last part. "Hope you got your snacks and entertainment for the trip. The objective is we're going out for hearts and minds people. And also for any intel. Lets mount up and get this done. I got my shows all downloaded for when we get back."
The Marines looked at each other, surprised by Itami's words and demeanor. While the Japanese personnel, they were used to it, although it was mixed with slight annoyance or exasperation.
"All personnel! Mount up!" Vasquez said.
"Alright Marine's, lets show the Japs what Marine's can do. Rah?" Griggs barked.
"Oorah!" Came the reply.
"Same goes for you lot. Lets show what these American dogs what we can do. Do you understand?!" Kuwahara barked as well.
"Hai, sir!" The Japanese personal said.
One would think they were trying to start something, but everyone knew it was friendly.
Itami got into the lead vehicle, with him were Kurata, who was driving. While Kuwahara, Kurokawa and Tomita were in the back.
"Alright, everyone sound off." Once he got the affirmations, he then said. "Good. Recon Team 3 to Command, we're heading out, over."
In the MRAP, Lopez smiled at Haldor and said," You hear that Hal? Your almost home. You excited?"
Haldor nodded and said," I am, I can't wait to see my father and Tuka."
"I can't wait to meet some hot Elves." Roycewiz said. "Maybe Tuka can introduce me to some of her friends. You hear that everyone! We're getting a fun welcome!" He called into the radio and got cheers in response.
"Just for that Shawn, I'm telling them to kill you on sight." Haldor groaned and Alex laughed.
In the LAV, Vasquez looked over to Harris and said," Alright, lets head out, Corporal."
Harris beamed and said," You heard the man, you two. Lets get the hell out of dodge and have everything primed if we meet something unfriendly."
Mendez and Wong gave their superior a thumbs up and both primed the weapons and started the LAV up respectively.
And with that, the small convoy barreled out of the base and into the great unknown.