CHAPTER 11

“Party Crashers”

June 27th, 2040: The White Palace Garden, The Ruppriecht Kingdom

Taking a sip of the rather subpar wine in his glass, Aaron watched from the sidelines as the nobles mingled amongst themselves. The Garden had been transformed into a marvelous spectacle of lights and music with the night sky above contrasting beautifully.

“I hope your stay here was enjoyable sir Aaron.” Looking to his right Viscount Liutswind motioned to the garden and by extension, the palace.

“I sure did, back on Earth I’ve never experienced anything like this before. But duty calls for us all, President John wants me to return with the fleet as it’s nearing the end of its operations. I must give my thanks to King Heinrich before my departure for giving me those reports.” Aaron could still clearly remember the reactions he heard through the phone when he’d told Fleet Admiral Wilkins and the other officers.

“If you don’t mind me asking, just how many did you manage to rescue?” Liutswind questioned but quickly read Aaron's expression, who gave a sour look.

“Unfortunately, that is classified information, but I can say with utmost certainty that the only American troops in this kingdom are either here or in Händluf.” Aaron watched as Liutswind gave a simple nod, then Aaron remembered something rather important he was meant to discuss. “On the topic of Americans inside this kingdom, would it be possible for us to establish a permanent embassy here in the capital?”

“My apologies, but what is this ‘embassy’ you speak of?” Liuswind shook his head, leaving Aaron to try and think of a way to describe it.

“In simplified terms, the building acts as a place where two nations can communicate with one another. The unique part about an embassy is once you step inside, you are technically no longer in the host country and are now inside the home country, therefore you now have to follow the laws of the respective nation that embassy belongs to. Think of it as an extension of a country inside another.”

“Well I don’t see why his majesty would not allow this. Though how will this embassy communicate with your homeland?”

“Ah, well it communicates by…uhh…” Aaron trailed off, not sure if he was allowed to tell him or not. “What I can say is the way we communicate long distances is similar to how you use those giant mana crystals to send messages. Just that ours is magic…less--is that even a word?” Aaron watched Liutswind attempt to process this, making him raise his right hand to hold his forehead.

“To think the gods would abandon your realm. I can’t imagine what darkness plagued your world.” Aaron raised a curious eyebrow at the statement.

“Well, from my perspective, it seems the gods have halted your advance as a nation--no the whole world seems to be stagnant when it comes to technology. To us, you are in medieval times, an era that lasted around one thousand years. But from what I’ve been able to gather, yours has lasted for far longer with little to no advancement.” Aaron watched as Liutswind tried once again to process what he had just said, so Aaron spoke up. “There is this saying, ‘Competition breeds innovation’, this simple saying has rung true throughout our history. It seems that magic has caused a lack of competition in your society. Why innovate when you already have everything you need wrapped neatly in one package?” Liutswind pondered on Aaron’s question before his eyes widened.

“Because eventually, someone will destroy that package.”

“Exactly. Those in our history who didn't continue advancing were eventually forced to or were conquered by those who did move forward.”

Liutswind stood in awe at what Aaron had stated. Their two worlds seemed so similar but by simply removing magic and the guidance of the gods, they had managed to achieve more than what any scholar could have dreamed of. Now with their presence on this world, Liutswind couldn't help but think of the influence the United States could bring to the lands.

“Oh, one other thing I’ve been meaning to ask.” Liutswind shot his attention to Aaron who was taking a rectangular metal device out of his suit pocket. “On our way across the Atlantic Ocean, we came across what we would best describe as a dragon. Unfortunately, when our aircraft got near it this dragon attacked them, and more disappointingly, the body is now lost to the depths of the ocean.” Aaron opened the pictures on his phone and swiped to a clear picture of the white dragon. “I was hoping you could shed some light on what this creature truly is?” Showing the picture to Liutswind Aaron watched as his expression morphed into total shock then horror.

“You-you managed to defeat a wind dragon?” Liutswind practically shouted this, causing nearby nobles' and maids' heads to turn their way.

“Well, I guess we did. Is there something I’m not understanding here?”

“A wind dragon is one of the most powerful variants, and with scales this large, I would have to guess it was over a thousand years old. Just how did you defeat it?” Liutswind, seemingly with stars in his eyes stared at Aaron, who was rubbing the back of his head in slight embarrassment.

“I’m afraid that's classified information. Although we would be willing to exchange some of our knowledge for information on the species that inhabit this continent.” Aaron watched the disappointment flow through Liutswind who, deep down, was not surprised at the response.

But before Liutswind could respond, the crystal clear sound of the giant doors to the palace opening made everyone shift their attention. King Heinrich together with Queen Anna entered the Garden shortly followed by the First Princess Weiss and the younger second princess he had heard about. With the spotlight on the royal family, King Heinrich spoke up.

“My loyal subjects! Today we mark the first day of what we hope to be a prosperous relationship with the United States of America! May the gods bless both our nations!” He boomed, with some of the nobles turning their heads to Aaron who raised his glass in return.

“The United States will always be open to The Ruppriecht Kingdom. But above all, should The Autoriario Empire decide to come demanding at your door, we will be here to assist in any way we can--be it economically or militarily.” As expected, this got some reaction from the Nobles, and even Heinrich, who couldn't help but laugh.

“If you have the capability to defeat a wind dragon, I would expect no less. Now enough idle speeches, let the feast begin!”

With that, everyone dispersed to do what nobles do best, build connections. Almost immediately, Aaron was swarmed by nobles who either wanted to hear of the lands America inhabited, their victories or simply to purchase American-made goods to show off. Not until Princess Weiss, flanked by two royal guards stepped forward, making the crowd back away slightly.

“If I may ask, what was your occupation before coming to us?” She gave a slight smile while saying this. Being backed into a corner with this question, Aaron relented and spoke the truth.

“Well back on Earth, I was head of managing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. More simply known as NATO. It was an alliance of over thirty different countries, and I was in charge of making sure all the embassies in said countries were running smoothly.” Weiss tilted her head at the thought of so many countries joining a single alliance, and by the strange looks from the nobles they agreed.

“And why would so many countries join this alliance? Just what foe were you fighting?” Weiss questioned.

“NATO was first founded to have a united front against the Soviet Union and their alliance, the Warsaw Pact with its eight members. This was the start of what we call ‘The Cold War’. A war not about soldiers fighting against each other, but spying and espionage, all the while beating the other in scientific endeavours to show everyone who was the more advanced nation. The Soviets would launch the first man into space, so we became the first to land man on the moon. It wasn't until the collapse of the Soviet Union did the cold war officially end, lasting about forty-five years.”

Much like inside the throne room a few days prior everyone was silent. Even the princess who stared blankly at Aaron. Just how powerful was the United States? If a kingdom or even an Empire tried to boast these statements, they would be written off as propaganda. Yet with all that was going on and the ever-increasing lunacy of America's achievements, it was hard not to believe them.

“Then why did this NATO alliance still exist if your enemy was defeated?” One noble from the crowd spoke up.

“Because it was decided that we could achieve more by cooperating with each other, by sharing technologies and much more. Not to mention that when the Soviet Union fell it only took a few years after the political and economic turmoil for a new nation to emerge from its ashes, The Russian Federation; and around this time, The People's Republic of China started to become a larger threat to America. Some say this was when the three-way rivalry between the superpowers started.”

As all the times before, everyone stood in awe at the history lesson. For three superpowers not to wage conventional war was unheard of. Granted, Aaron left out the finer details about Earth's history but the main message was delivered. After that bombshell, the crowd slowly dispersed with the First Princess wanting to know more about America, but the conversation was interrupted when Aarons earpiece sprung to life.

“Overwatch to Angel, we have a situation developing. Our drone has spotted multiple unknown contacts north-east of your position and heading towards you, advising immediate pullout, how copy?” Aaron shifted his eyes to the rooftops around the garden causing Weiss to give Aaron a concerned look.

“Is something the matter?” She asked as Aaron stepped closer to her in response.

“You wouldn't by chance be expecting anyone else to show up tonight?” Aaron questioned in a whispering tone.

“What? No of course not! Why would you say that?” Weiss demanded but grew more concerned by Aaron's odd behavior as he scanned the rooftops again.

“Apologies in advance but my government wanted to take every precaution in ensuring my safety. As such, we have a combat drone flying over this castle and it has just spotted a group of unknowns heading this way.” Weiss backed away from Aaron with a look of disbelief on her face. Aaron placed his right hand on his ear. “Solid copy Overwatch, all units, crash castle.”

Not even five seconds after the order was called, two American soldiers jogged up to Aaron and Weiss with three more making their way to the King and Queen and the Second Princess.

“Sir, you need to get inside now.” One of the American soldiers said before turning to Weiss. “Ma’am, I’m going to need you to follow us for your safety.” Unsure how to react, Weiss turned to see what the rest of her family was doing. As expected they were being ushered away by both Americans and the royal guard with King Heinrich turning his head to meet Aaron; both giving an exaggerated head nod in a silent agreement. But just as Aaron was about to turn around, movement at the edge of his vision made him shoot his gaze upwards, spotting a shadowy mass on the crest of the roof. Aaron immediately grabbed Weiss and forced her to lower her head.

“Contact! Opposite rooftop!” The Americans immediately responded by pointing their rifles towards the shape with a few taking potshots, causing the figure to dive behind the crest. Screams and yelling rang out as Aaron put himself between Weiss and the figure before quickly moving towards the nearest door.

“We need to move now! Jenkins, suppress that roof!” The staff sergeant ordered before activating his radio. “Nutmeg to Overwatch we are engaged with unknown contacts, what the fuck are you looking at?”

“Overwatch to Nutmeg, what the hell are you talking about? We are still tracking this unknown group.” Aaron cursed under his breath, there was more than just one group.

Flanked by his protection detail, Aaron and Weiss moved through the palace halls. The sound of periodic gunfire made Aaron’s heart sink every time, praying that the rest of the royal family was safe.

“In here!” Weiss pointed to a side door. Not wanting to spend another moment exposed in the hallway Aaron followed. Inside it looked to be a simple study, a desk in the far corner and walls hidden by tall bookshelves. Aaron motioned to the staff sergeant for his radio.

“Angel to Pioneer, Castle is compromised. Requesting extract, over.” Tapping his right foot on the stone floor he waited for a reply while Weiss tried to find something amidst all the bookshelves.

“Pioneer to Angel solid copy, case plan Falcon is a go. ETA thirty minutes, over.”

“Solid copy Pioneer, Angel out. Angel to Ripley, status on Gemstones?” Aaron rubbed his forehead, sweat covering his fingers.

“Ripley to Angel, Gemstone one, two, four are secure. We have engaged multiple contacts, three tangos down. Be advised, magic is in play.”

“Solid copy, Gemstone three is secure and awaiting evac from Pioneer, Angel out.” Aaron passed the radio back to the staff sergeant but quickly sank to the floor as a violent explosion shook the ground.

“Seems like our eyes in the sky are finding targets.” One soldier commented.

“Either that or explosion magic exists.” Aaron added while brushing off his pants.

“Only an experienced mage could create an explosion that loud. Now where is that--ah here!” Weiss grabbed an old-looking book and before seemingly flipping to a random page, took out a cyan teardrop gem earring. She then proceeded to the far corner where a good chunk of the floor was showing. Holding the earring out in front of her she closed her eyes.

“Apertum.” Her voice seemed to gain a slight echo before the earring began glowing, swiftly followed by the floor dematerializing into a dark staircase. Leaving the Americans beyond surprised.

“Was that Latin?” A soldier questioned and Aaron rubbed his forehead in thought.

“English, German, Spanish, French now Latin. No, this is far too coincidental. To have so many languages developed to near copies on a different world like this…it’s impossible!” Aaron started to pace around, his mind trying and failing over and over again to think of a plausible explanation.

“It seems to me that the United States was summoned to this world by the gods. For what purpose I cannot say but I suggest you request an afternoon with the high priest. He might be able to shed some light on why you are here.” Weiss chimed in before presenting her left hand. “Illumino.” Shortly after uttering the words, a bright white ball manifested above her hand, floating. Turning to the Americans, some with mouths hanging open, she gave a smug look. “Shall we?”

Seeing no other option, the Americans followed Weiss down the stairs, which led to a long dark tunnel. As the last soldier entered the tunnel the floor rematerialized. As they journeyed down the tunnel walls and ceiling vibrated periodically as drone strikes landed above them. Eventually, the tunnel ended at a stone slab with a hole in the center, perfectly carved for an earring. Weiss placed it inside the stone slab and a bright, white light engulfed the slab before becoming millions of white orbs, floating away like dust.

Passing through the white dust cloud, they entered a small but grand room with similar stone slabs across the walls. Tables and bookshelves were dotted around and Weiss reached for one of the books.

“We shall wait here until my family arrives.” Weiss stated while sitting down on top of one of the tables. Aaron meanwhile was scanning over the books.

“If I may be forgiven for asking, how did you learn magic?” Aaron turned to face Weiss.

“Well I started quite young, around Leyna’s age. The High Priest taught me most of what I know and my mother gave me a few lessons. To learn magic is…something unique. Once you understand how to use it, it becomes part of you. Though I must say that everyone learns at their own pace, some take decades to fully understand its wonders.” Weiss demonstrated this by opening her palm and manifesting two small white orbs that danced around her hand.

“Sounds like algebra all over again.” One Soldier chuckled, getting a few in return from the others.

The laughter was broken when one of the stone slabs across the room began to shine. Immediately the Americans got into a firing position and Aaron backed up as far as he could as Weiss turned the white orbs in her hand a deep fiery orange.

“Flash!” One American yelled. Then silence filled the air as the stone slab neared its transformation.

“Thunder!” A very clear American accent answered through the white orbs, soon followed by hesitant American soldiers and royal guards stepping through.

“Boy am I glad to see your dumb faces again.” The staff sergeant grinned but soon turned serious again when the rest of the royal family stepped through. “Your majesty, I hope you--”

“Sister!” A blue flash darted past the staff sergeant as he turned around to see the second princess launching herself into her older sister's arms. Emerging from the corner Aaron cleared his throat.

“Your majesty, I have alerted our forces in Händluf and have sent reinforcements. I highly advise that you and the rest of the royal family join me there for the time being as it seems the White Palace has been compromised.” To his surprise, Heinrich shook his head.

“I cannot abandon the capital. Should it be found out we will be seen as weak.” Somewhat frustrated by this response Aaron turned his head to glance at the two sisters.

“What about next of kin? Should something indeed happen to you, we can make sure the continuity of government is still operating.” Hearing this, Weiss shot a glare at Aaron before marching towards them.

“Father, you cannot agree to this! This is also my fight!” Her voice was filled with emotion, leaving her father to give a simple smile while placing his hand on her shoulder.

“You always had a fire in your soul. But this is not your time, my beloved daughter. Go see the land from which the United States hails from. I will be waiting right here for the tales of your journey.”

The moment was interrupted by yet another ground-shaking explosion, causing Leyna to yelp in fear. Stabilizing himself on a nearby table Aaron looked around the room.

“Man, they sure aren't holding back.” One American commented. Before anyone could reply, Aaron's earpiece along with everyone's radios started spewing static.

“-----er -- A--el, do --- -op-, ---r?” While Aaron tried to understand what was just said, the staff sergeant tried to use his radio, only to be met with a similar garbled response.

“We need to get above ground, otherwise we can’t communicate with our fleet.” The staff sergeant stated, turning to Aaron who gave a nod of agreement.

“It seems this is where we part ways sir Aaron.” Heinrich gave a slight smile which Aaron returned.

“It appears so, though I must admit I wish it was under better circumstances. We will return in a few days or possibly weeks to talk more, though in all likelihood it won’t be me returning. Stay safe, your majesty.” Putting his right arm over his chest Aaron bowed.

“And may the gods guide you and your nation to prosperity.” With that, the Americans along with the first and second princess left through one of the passageways. What awaited them outside the white palace would spark a wave of culture shock the likes of which neither side had ever seen.