Skirmish report by Brigadier-General Jacob MacCarter

Report states: Due to the loss of the destruction of the Imperial fourth and seventh army, the local villages have been under attack by bandits and a number of them has been burned. For nine days, Fort Galdush has been attacked by these bandits consisting of rosians, elves and tribals. None have been able to penetrate the first line of defense, however despite suffering defeat daily, the bandits refused to surrender. In response, the fifth infantry brigade was assembled under the order of Lieutenant-General Patrick Coleman and led by Brigadier-General Jacob MacCarter with a mission to wipe out any and all bandit camps within an eighty mile radius. This was dubbed Operation Skirmish and it lasted for seven days. An estimated six thousand bandits of various races were eliminated and the brigade has taken upon itself to rectify this problem caused by REC forces.

Report from the rosian vassals: Lieutenant James Wilson has successfully convinced the dukes Vizoz Gran of Zirith, Tavion Dergoz of Dothen and Corbin Hagot of Elarith, as well as king Ostontul Wolfash to peaceful negotiations with Ambassador Eugene Anderson. The meeting will be held on a flat field between the Alston capital of Olinor and the city of Ulnor.

Report from Lieutenant Caden Roberts of Rift Group 3: Lord Bellon Belus has come to terms with Lieutenant-General Coleman to send a formal letter to emperor Canus and request an audience with either him or other officials. The meeting will be held in the Meilume capital and under Imperial law there will be no physical conflict. Additionally, Lord Bellon has agreed to return the captured Americans that were brought to him by the Imperial army.

Other news: Roughly seven thousand elves from destroyed villages have gathered at Galdush to seek shelter. Lieutenant-General Patrick Coleman has approved the construction of temporary settlements for the refugees. Apart from them, tribals have been gathering at Galdush for the purpose of joining the now named Altian Militia. At the current moment, the Altian Militia numbers one thousand six hundred members of various tribal species and command is currently working on how to properly integrate them into the modern battle doctrine.

Recent drone footage has noticed a sudden amassing of Imperial troops near the border of Zirith. Diplomatic units should be on alert.

---

16th day of early green season

Canus's study, Imperial palace, Elyana

Emperor Canus was furious. No, beyond furious. The humans have taken Galdush and now they've even influenced the Meilume nobility and rosian vassals into peaceful negotiations.

'How dare they?', he thought, 'First, they kill our soldiers. Then, they take our land and people while tricking them they are some sort of good natured explorers who desire peace. Are they blind! Do they not see it is all a ruse?! The visions never lied, so why would they lie now? These... humans, they are nothing but savages and enemies for us to subdue. Why can the others not see it? Am I the only one here who follows the path of light? Hagmar, Lilyth, Khelsa, Alruna. They too stray from the path, keeping these humans as pets. Spirits, I beg of you, tell me what am I to do."

After his train of thought stopped, knocking came from the door. "Go away!", Canus shouted. The door still opened and a cloaked elf walked in. "I said leav-", Canus stopped as he turned around, now seeing who came to him. "Gilshor."

"My sincerest of apologies for interrupting you, Your Majesty.", Gilshor said as he bowed.

"What do you want?"

"I have sensed that you are troubled by recent news. About the humans and their request for peaceful negotiations."

Canus paused for a moment, "Your knowledge of the subject does not surprise me. And yes, I am most troubled. Marquis has insisted on it and Corvus was already in Kuruk. The senators are already on their way. How can they not see this is all a ruse."

"Indeed. However, I do believe most of the senate is against peace."

"I am not worried about them. It is Corvus. That soft-hearted fool will be our downfall. Along with Marquis. To make matters worse, those cunt-sucking rosian barbarians dare betray their oath and parley with the enemy. Have they forgotten what happened to their previous rebellion? These negotiations cannot be allowed to happen. But it is too late."

"Perhaps for you, Your Majesty."

"Speak clearly."

"With your permission I could have assassins deal with these humans and the problematic senator. We could blame it on the rosians and pit them against the humans."

Canus was intrigued by this idea, "Interesting. But braking the Imperial law? The same law my family wrote?"

"No one will know it was us. The rosians will be exposed for the barbarians they are and the humans will take vengeance for their fallen comrades. Think about it, Your Majesty. There are times when something must suffer so that it may be saved."

After some pondering, Canus answered, "Very well. But I want no trace that it was your doing or mine. Should you be discovered, I will hold no responsibility."

"I assure you, Your Majesty, I will not fail.". With that, Gilshor bowed and left Canus' chamber. As he walked down the hall, he couldn't help but feel an itch on the back of his neck, like he was being watched. Turning around, he could see no one, but still felt a presence. Strange. Ignoring it for now, he continued forward. Little did he know, something was definitely watching him. An eye in the wall.

---

(Meanwhile)

Elyana south district

Apart from being the center of the empire, Elyana also has its own region. The region of Elyana can be divided into five districts, east, west, north, south and central, with the central one being the main capital as well as the richest. The best schools, libraries and living conditions are located there. Surrounded by walls, gates and towers, it's also the most well defended stronghold in the empire. Moving away from the center are the other districts, each walled of from the other. As the districts stretch out to the regional border, it starts to take the shape of a less than ideal place to live, with the outer districts being mostly slum-like buildings where crime and slavery are rampant. A perfect place to hide.

"You think he saw the Glass eye?", Anabel asked.

"I doubt it. He probably just had a hunch something was there.", Jack answered. A Glass eye was one of the newest gadgets owned by the CIA. It is a small, easily mountable camera, which overlooks anything in a one hundred and eighty degree radius. It took days, but the team managed to pilot their drones and place enough glass eyes at key areas, as well as bugs for listening in. "Still, he looks like trouble."

"Stay frosty.", said Garcia.

"What are you, a century old?", Elliot asked, making everyone in the room laugh.

"Yeah, yeah laugh it up. At least respect the classics. Get me a connection to East point."

"Right away agent.", answered a purple fairy. Fairies have become a new asset to the spy network. With their knowledge of the area they planted glass eyes, bugs, motion trackers and field rendering sensors across the slums. In exchange, the CIA is freeing them from slavery. For years, fairies have been taken from their gardens and kept as pets by the elves, which the fairies didn't like at all. "Here you go.", the fairy said as she handed Garcia a small radio. The fairies are between four and six inches tall, so they are perfect for these kinds of tasks.

"Thank you, Violet. East point this is South point, how copy?"

"South point this is East point, we read you loud and clear.", said a voice in the radio.

"East point, how's it coming along with the setup?"

"Slight drawbacks due to there being no electricity. We are thirty percent done. I made contact with West point and they are about the same."

"What about North point?"

"Negative. No news as of yet."

"Very well. Inform me once preparations are complete. We cannot begin operation Central point before we have a net on the other points. Understood?"

"Rodger that South point. Will keep in mind. East point out."

The radio goes silent and Violet spoke, "It's still amazing."

"What?", Garcia asked.

"How you can talk to each other leagues away. It's incredible. I only thought mages could even attempt that."

"We developed ways over the cycles and then we improved upon them. The army has the raw strength, but knowledge is power and coordination is key. Without us, they wouldn't know where to go. We all depend on each other."

Violet smiled, "Just like us. We fairies are all different colors and individually we are beautiful in our ways. But when we come together, we create a sea of colors that fills the earth, water and air, bringing life. You should see the Full moon dance, it is the most beautiful sight imaginable.". She ends with a saddened smile and lands on a desk.

Garcia walked over to her and sat on a chair in front of her, "Don't worry. We'll save your friends and you'll dance again. I promise you."

Violet sniffed and nodded. She knew she could trust him. After all, he was the one who saved her.

---

(Two days later)

Kingdom of Alston

The time has come. The sun was at its highest and flags were risen high. Tents for soldiers were placed, separated from each other to know which is which. The largest tent was in the middle and it wore four flags.

First was the flag of Alston, a purple shield with a red background. Second was the flag of Zirith, a black horse. Third was the flag of Dothen, a griffon. Lastly, the flag of Elarith, a ship. King Thavok and the dukes gathered in the tent and patiently waited. Each came with an honor guard of two hundred soldiers, just in case. To say they were anxious would be an understatement. All of them were introduced to the humans and their machines, and all of them knew that this meeting is the best choice.

"How much longer, king Thavok?", asked duke Vizoz of Zirith. His tone suggested he was tired of waiting.

"Settle down, duke Vizoz.", Thavok spoke, "We still await for king Ostontul and the American ambassador."

"Do you truly believe these Americans will honor their word?", Asked duke Corbin of Elarith, "This could all be an elaborate trap. Perhaps that... moving picture of your son was an illusion."

"No. I know that was my son. I just know it."

"I do agree with you on one thing, king Thavok.", said duke Tavion of Dothen, "If we are to survive this war, we must pick a side. And after witnessing their power, I think we can all agree which side that is to be."

"We are not taking their side. This is a non-aggression pact."

"We leave the war and stop contributing to the empire in exchange for help from the Americans, yes?", Tavion asked, "This sounds like we're joining them."

"We are not directly helping them in fighting this war.", Thavok said.

"I still think they're fools.", Vizoz spoke, "Fighting against the elves is impossible. Either they kill their enemy or they outlive it. They have the numbers and magic. I don't need to remind you of what happened to our fathers."

The leaders lowered their heads. That day was beyond tragic and will be remembered until the end of days. But now was not the time to look back to the past. It was time to prepare for the future.

"No, you don't.", Thavok spoke, "Because I was there. I watched as our own men were forced to kill each other. As my own father was executed. And all I have of him is this!", he yelled as he took his flask from his pocket. It was made of brass and steel and it wore the Zorgen family seal, a hawk rising in the sky, inside a shield. It was the only thing he could save from his father's ashed remains. Every morning and every night he would check to see if it was full or not. And he wasn't ashamed to admit that he enjoyed wine a bit too much.

"So you don't have to remind me.", he continued, "I know you've lost much. But so have I and so have we all. If you don't want to lose more, I suggest you sit and be patient."

Vizoz did not reply. His vision turned to to rectangular table in front of him and his mind drifted elsewhere.

A few moments later a soldier of the Alston honor guard walked into the tent, "Apologiese for the intrusion, my lords. King Ostontul has arrived."

All heads turned to the soldier and Corbin was the first to speak, "At last. The great wolf joins us. Tell all the men to properly greet him."

"Of course, duke Hagot.", replied the soldier before he left.

"I'm quite curious about this.", said Tavion, "Ostontul is not one to easily agree to negotiations. Opherin is quite proud."

The Opherin kingdom is located in the south-west and it borders not only with the Empire of light, but also with the monster-infested wastelands. For generations soldiers of Opherin have defended the kingdom from invaders and even waged many wars. It is said that they contributed the most in the south rebellion, taking all the areas around Fort Godo with lighting fast raids and pure power. Some theorize that if the VIII army reinforcements didn't arrive, Fort Godo might have been lost.

"Ostontul is a smart man.", Thavok said, "A force that is able to decimate two Imperial armies and just as many axilliaries should not be attacked blindly. Now let us greet him."

Thavok and the dukes stepped out of the tent and waited at their end of the path. On the opposite side, they saw two hundred soldiers of the Opherin honor guard. Men marching in perfect unison with determination in their faces, clad in red and purple armor and carrying their proud flag, a sword piercing a dead skull. The carriage that was carrying Ostontul was more boxy and thick than the others. He was a soldier first after all and always looked at things from a practical perspective first.

The captain of the honor guard signaled the men into action and with a slight moment's delay they placed themselves on the two sides of the path. "Presenting!", the captain spoke with an authoritarian voice, "The king of Opherin, supreme commander of the purple army, the Great wolf warrior, King General Ostontul Wolfash!"

As if on cue, Ostontul attempted to walk out, but required help. Luckily, Lieutenant Pallius Blazewing was there and he assisted the elderly man. His age was not what slowed him down tho. Even though he was nearly fifty-five cycles old, he claims he has the spirit and body of a man half his age. The real problem were his injuries. He was the youngest king and leader during the south rebellion, as well as the only one who survived. But considering how he came out of the battle, he wished to have died on that cursed field.

It was the first year of the rebellion and Opherin had seized the area around Fort Godo and had prepared for a siege. However, one night, a surprise attack came on the northern camp. A large force of ferals attacked and killed thousands. While the army did fight the off, the real attack came. The infantry legions of the VIII army appeared and had begone their battle began. The northern camps were cut off and after a gruesome battle they fell. Ostontul was here personally. He fought harder than any soldier that day, but an orc got past his guard and sunk its teeth deep into Ostontul's left thigh, biting off a mouthful of flesh and muscle. Ostontul took its head as compensation, but he needed to be quickly dragged out before he was killed. The last of his forces pulled back and Ostontul begrudgingly retreated. His physicians couldn't save the leg, so they amputed it and removed everything from below the half of the thigh.

Soon after, the V and X army showed up and defeated the rebels. The king of Alston and the dukes were executed, but Ostontul was left alive as the only witness of the rebellion. But the elves weren't so merciful as to just let him go, and the general of the VIII army, Iolas Erdan, cut of Ostontul's right hand, so that he may never pick up a sword against the empire.

To this day he remembers everything flawlessly. Now he was ready to make peace, a word not spoken in a long time. Pallius helped him out of the vagon and gave him his crutch. His guard stood with great pride and vigilance as he walked to king Thavok and the dukes.

King Thavok greeted him with a traditional rosian bow with his right fist on his left shoulder, "Hail, king Ostontul. It is an honor to have you here."

Ostontul bowed slightly, "The honor is my, king Thavok. Apologies for my late arrival."

"No need my friend, we are all aware of the distance you needed to cross. It would appear however, that our most awated guests are the ones who are running late."

"What say you, king Ostontul?", Tavion asked, "Could this be an ambush or a trap?"

Ostontul shook his head, "If it was they would have already killed us. Besides, an army that powerful must have a good reason to negotiate. After all, two armies is not something to scoff at."

The dukes acknowledged this. It was just as Thavok said. Still, the reason for their absence eluded them. It was not until Matheo walked over to them and attempted to ease the tension.

"My lords.", he spoke, "The Americans are about to arrive.". Pointing his finger into the air he gestured the kings and dukes to set their gaze at the dots appearing in the sky. As they got nearer, the dots became more and more clear. Everyone stared at them, as if they were hypnotized.

There were five of them, large and metallic, carried not by wings, but by rotating metal. They truly looked like otherworldly creatures. As they landed, the soldiers near them moved back with their shields lifted from fright. The iron legs of the carriages stretched out and slightly sunk into the ground bellow them. The carriages opened up slowly and what everyone assumed were American soldiers ran out.

Different would be one of the words used to describe them as their whole body was covered head to toe with fabrick and armor. Their chest armor looked scaled and had small pouches. The gloves and boots looked thick but they weren't made of bronze. Even their faces were covered with a mask over their mouth and some sort of glass over their eyes. It was a miracle how they could even see.

As the green and brown soldiers knelt into a circle, pointing their black boomsticks in all directions, several smaller carriages on wheels left two of the flying machines. And out of the middle one came out three more people.

The first was obviously a soldier and by the looks of it, the leader of these troops. The second was a slightly older gentleman who wore a black piece of clothing, which the kings assumed were their royal garments. The appearance of the third individual however, had the biggest impact. King Thavok started hastily walking towards the machines, even running soon after. He pushed the rosian soldiers out of the way, a few tumbled on the ground from the force.

"Bodin!", Thavok yelled as tears ran down his cheeks. Several of the American soldiers raised their weapons, but their leader ordered them to stand down. Bodin walked to his father, allowing him to embrace him in his arms. As Thavok embraced his son, moans of pure awe and joy escaped his lips. In that moment, no one saw a king or a leader. No. They saw a father, happy beyond words.

"Father.", Bodin spoke in a soothing voice, letting out several tears of his own, "I thought I'd never see you again."

"My son.", Thavok said, "You have no idea how much I have prayed to the spirits for your return."

"Come father.", Bodin said as he broke free from father's embrace, "I want you to meet someone.". He gestured at the man in the black garments, "Father, this is Lord Anderson, the American ambassador."

With a few seconds of delay, Thavok walked over to Anderson and took a bow with his hand on his shoulder. "Lord Anderson, I am in your debt. You have spared my son, no words can express my gratitude.", he spoke in Rosian, forgetting that these people speak the Imperial tounge. But what came next, surprised him.

"I accept your gratitude, King Thavok. There is no need for you to bow.", the man spoke in Rosian. There was an accent to it and some words weren't pronounced properly, but there was no mistaking it, "If you do not mind, I would like to continue in the Impreial tounge."

Thavok nodded his head, "Yes, of course, Lord Anderson. Come, let me introduce you to the others.". He led Anderson through the sea of soldiers, who cleared a path for them and their warriors. As they approached the tent, the dukes saluted and greeted the American ambassador.

"Lord Anderson.", Thavok spoke, "Allow me to introduce Duke Vizoz Gran of Zirith, Duke Tavion Dergoz of Dothen and Duke Corbin Hagot of Elarith. And this man, is King Ostontul Wolfash of Opherin."

Anderson took a moment to look at the king of Opherin. Words of his lieutenant did not do him justice. The man looked like he fought in a thousand battles, earning a scar from each one.

With a bow, Anderson spoke in Rosian, "It is a great honor to meet you, esteemed leaders of the Rosian people. On behalf of the United States of America, I greet you."

The dukes looked at the man and his soldiers. They were all so very different from them. By their attitude, they could already tell that they were not like the Elves. Either that or they were really good at hiding it.

"The honor is ours, Lord Anderson.", Ostontul spoke, "It is a privilege to be in the presence of such a formidable force."

Anderson smiles and lets outs a soft chuckle, "I assure you, King Ostontul, that we are more than just-"

"Tell me something.", Vizoz cut him off, "My son, Iaw. What has happened to him?"

Looking over to his soldiers and Bodin, Anderson cleared his throat before answering, "According to the reports I have received from the National guard, I believe tha-"

"He died.", Bodin said, "He died to protect me as well as my soldiers. He let a fierce charge against the Americans, but ultimately fell. I swear to you, Duke Vizoz, he did not die a coward. On that day, he was the bravest man alive."

Clenching his fist and letting a single tear with his head lowered, Vizoz spoke, "I wish he still was alive. You took him from me!". Vizoz tried to rush to Anderson but was stopped by Opherin soldiers. He yelled as he squirmed, cussing is Rosian and throwing insults.

"You cannot blame these men for the death of your son, Vizoz.", said Ostontul, "This is war. Men die. They too have lost many and yet they do not lash out at us like children."

"Do not patronize me, Ostontul! I very well know what war is!"

"Then act like it. Do not let your emotions cloud your judgement."

Letting out a frustrated sigh, Vizoz calmed his nerves and the soldiers released him. "I apologize for my outburst. Please, forgive me."

"There is nothing to forgive, Duke Vizoz.", Anderson said, "I have a daughter. What you feel is what I would feel. No offence was taken.". As the atmosphere cooled down, everyone present stood mesmerized. Some sniffed the air and wondered what the aroma could be. Looking over to the flying machines, they could the Americans preparing meals using metal boxes.

"The scent you smell.", said Anderson, "Those are the cooks at work. I took the liberty of organizing a banquet. If you don't mind of course."

The dukes and kings looked at each other and shook their heads. "Of course not.", spoke Tavion, "We would be delighted."

"Indeed.", Corbin said.

"Why not.", Ostontul said through a chuckle, "The journey has been long."

"Good to hear.", Anderson replied as he turned to the officer near him, "Captain, tell the men to make the necessary preparations and continue with your duties."

"Yes, ambassador.", the captain replied and started ordering the men. Things are starting to take a turn for the better.

---

(Later)

The atmosphere was calm and soothing. The Rosian soldiers enjoyed the meals and drinks provided to them by the Americans and most even begged for seconds. It was a good thing Anderson brought as much as he did with him. Some of the Rosians even engaged in conversations with the Americans. Most Rosians knew the basics of the Imperial tongue, so talks weren't much of a problem. Some Americans learned basic Rosian phrases, as they said that the Rosian language resembled both old Germanic and Frankish.

The dukes and kings enjoyed the same luxury, complimenting the fine cuisines and expressing their wishes for tutors so that their own cooks could be this good.

Taking a long sip from his glass, Thavok spoke, "This is amazing. How do you call it?"

"Whiskey.", Anderson replied, "It is quite a common drink in my country. Your son explained how you enjoy partaking in such delights."

Giving his son a stern look, Thavok sighed before answering, "It is a habit difficult to get rid of, I'm afraid."

"Please, don't worry yourself. My father was the same. Sometimes worse even."

"I know I keep repeating myself, like some southern green-beaked bird.", Tavion said, "But this is quite remarkable. You must share this with us."

Anderson chuckled, "Of course. I'll have cooks sent with ingredients and instructions as soon as the negotiations are over."

"Speaking of which.", Vizoz spoke, "We should begin. Not that I do not appreciate or respect this kind gesture of yours, but it is not what we came here for."

The kings and dukes looked at him, some with a mouth full of meat, others with wine, but all with dread in their eyes. Some were so relaxed that they had forgotten about their predicament. But the time has come.

"Of course, Duke Vizoz.", Anderson said as he lifted his black box on the table. Everyone present stared with focused eyes as he opened it and pulled out several pieces of white parchment. Standing up, he slowly walked around them, placing a single parchment in front of each one before pulling out a dozen more interesting items.

The first five were familiar to the Rosians, candles. These were pure white and fresh, no signs of use. The other five, while not familiar, were far more appealing. Five small pieces of metal, smooth, gray and shaped like a rod. They seemed to have a cover, which made duke Tavion curious as he tried to unsheeth it, but was stopped by ambassador Anderson, who just finished lighting the candles.

"Now then.", Anderson began, drawing all eyes towards himself, "Let us begin. In front of you are official treaties created by my government. Feel free to take as much time as you need to read through them, but I will summarize. Firstly, the Rosian territories will stop supporting the Empire of Light in any and every militaristic way. You will not send troops, weapons nor offer their armies refuge. Secondly, you will not attempt any attacks on United States territories. This will count as a crime and we will retaliate."

This, did shake the Rosians present. Knowing what they did to the elves, they certainly do not want that on their own land.

"Lastly, we will accept trade with all Rosian territories and as the war progresses we will contribute in your advancement. However, we will not accept any form of military support not shall we provide any, but should the Empire attack you, we will send aid."

To say the kings and dukes were at a shock would be a great understatement. These terms were, unorthodox, unheard of even. Such a power asking for neutrality and peace. Furthermore, they offer trade and even advancement. It was too good to be true.

The Rosians read through the treaty, which was written in both Rosian and Imperial tounge, several times before glancing over at each other, as if they were having a silent conversation in their heads.

"Can you tell us the purpose of the candle and this piece of metal?", asked duke Corbin.

"Please remove the cover from the metal.", Anderson replied. The Rosians slowly did so and were slightly confused at what they saw. A small, sharp tip on a flat piece of metal.

"This is a quill.", said king Thavok.

"Yes.", said Anderson, "In front of you are two choices. If you find the terms acceptable, sign your name or signature on the designated line at the bottom of the treaty. If not, burn the parchment over the candle. They choice is yours."

They hesitated. Of course they did. What were they to do? All of this seemed too good to be true. What if the elves found out and chose to attack? Would the humans really come to their aid? A possibility of this being an elaborate scheme floated in their minds. Sweat poured down their foreheads as some tapped the quills on the table. A silence engulfed the tent, until one man made a move.

King Ostontul slowly poured water into his cup. Those present could hear every drop falling in. After filling it he put the bottle down and grabbed the candle. With a flick of motion, Ostontul dumped the candle into the water and left it there.

"To hell with the elves.", he said as he signed the treaty, "And to hell with Canus."

Shortly after, Thavok signed the treaty, then Corbin, Tavion and finally Vizoz. Anderson smiled as he watched them blow out the candles. 'A good choice', he thought to himself. He stood up and opened his mouth to speak, but was interrupted by someone calling out to him.

"Ambassador Anderson.", said a human soldier as he entered the tent, "Colonel Johnston has reached Meilume and begon negotiations with the elven senators. He requests a link-up."

After slight hesitation, Anderson answered, "Very well, prepare the link-up."

The soldier left and got to work. King Thavok walked over to Anderson, "Lord Anderson, might I ask, what did that soldier mean by negotiations with elven senators."

"Soon enough, King Thavok. You'll have your answer. From the elves themselves."

Thavok looked at the other delegates and his son before replying, "Pardon me?"

End of chapter 11