"With the upcoming delegation from Uros, many corporations are lining up to bid and sign contracts and agreements with many local governments on Falmart. The Falmart Economic Trade Agreement (FETA) will integrate many native economies, provide standard regulations, working conditions, knowledge transfer, professional training, and different kinds of responsibility and liability the corporations have. Because of the limitations of the Gate, many facilities would need to be refined or manufactured there, the percentage depending on the country.

Many companies have seen this as a new frontier for economic growth, a new and fresh market to sell to. An agreement was made with other nations who are part of the US Coalition have been granted bidding rights for contacts. Part of the agreement forging companies only pay the one-time tariff for exports to Uros and shipments back to home countries.

There is an expectation of a bloodbath between energy giants. Shell, ExxonMobil, BP, and others are expecting aggressively big exploration rights on Falmart. Many believe there are many large oil reserves and natural gas under the ground in Elies and Elbe.

Big oils are not the only energy companies who are interested. Renewable energies are interested in the new market. Renewables require Rare Earth minerals to be manufactured and are hoping to get a new supplyline. Because of how little infrastructure there is on Falmart, renewable companies also see a chance to sell their products to help provide local towns.

Another major bidding war that is expected is from the auto industry. Ford, Tesla, Toyota, Land Rover, and others are expected to compete. All these companies have been developing new automobile models that could not only be highly affordable, but also be driven easily by the native population, be able to operate with the current limited energy supply, and lack familiarity with technology while keeping the vehicle affordable of a Classical Era civilization.

Pharmaceuticals companies are eager to expand their research stations. Unlike other companies, they are looking to create research clinics to research plant life. Many are hopeful with alien plant life that they will discover cures for many Earth diseases. With the genetic diversity, they are hoping to do research on alien life.

Many other companies and associations are bidding for the expansion of entertainment rights, medical field, mining rights, and so on. While most don't believe major developments won't happen until the war ends, following President Potts’ policy of military needs first, she is open to establishing manufacturer supply to Falmart to aid in the war effort." – Caspian Report

***

--- Earth, United States, Air Force 2 ---

Date: April 18th, 2026

"This is the captain speaking, we will be landing in seventeen minutes," the pilot says, "preparing descent."

Sharpe looks around and sees the Girls looking around and everyone else. They are looking out the windows, shocked by the experience. They have been in military helicopters before on missions, but this is the first time they have ever been on a plane.

Everyone is dressed in professional clothing, the men in a suit or military suits. The women are in skirt suits or military skirt suits.

He looks over to the Rose Knights, Pina, Grey, Hamilton, Panache, and Ginebra. Hamilton is holding on to Andrew's arm, scared of the plane. Pina and Ginebra are looking at the windows, mumbling to each other. Panache is laying back in the comfortable chair, enjoying being served on.

He told them they cannot wear their noble robs to the capital. While they might be considered professional by their people standards, it would leave a bad impression and show disrespect to Congress.

He sees Tyuule and Deliah nearly having a panic attack. They buckled up in her seat as she looked around. They wonder if all her senses are going haywire because they are on a plane.

Most of the delegation will be meeting the President and then Congress. Many Senators have questions for the US new allies. While the war is waging on many see victory on the horizon and many want to figure out how the US will handle the natives after the war.

"Is flying like this normal daddy?" Selina asks.

"You have seen planes take off from our home all the time," he replies.

"I know," Selina says as she looks out the window, "I just never been so high before. Everything looks small."

He chuckles hearing that, "This is very low for a plane. The distance between Philadelphia and Washington D.C. is short. Only about thirty minutes of flight time. For long flights, planes like this can go ten kilometers or higher."

"Wow," Selina says, "so everything should be smaller."

"Would be smaller Selina," he corrects.

"Would… sorry," Selina says. She then stands on the seats and looks at her father. "Hey, dad. I just had a thought."

He glances up at her. "Is it about the Eskimos? If not, go take a number?"

Sharpe looks at his daughter and sees this confused look. He smirks.

"I don't know what an Eskimo(1) is so… yeah," Selina says, "I want to ask daddy, you have parents. Do they like Washington too?"

He is hesitant to respond to that question. "No. They live on the other side of the country."

"Oh…," Selina mumbles, "I was wondering if they like me or not?"

He grabs her and brings her close. "I don't think anyone could ever not like you sweetheart. Even if you try."

"I am confused about something about Sharpe," Tuka asks, "if the flight time is so short why are we flying."

"This is a diplomatic mission," he replies, "the President is rolling the red carpet out for all of you. Plus, the traffic sucks down there."

As he watches everyone, Sarah sits down next to him. Just like him, she is in her military dress uniform.

"That was fun," Sarah comments, "watching the Vice President talking to the delegations. I hate politics."

In another section of Air Force 2 is the leadership delegation. Duran, Myui, Gallus, and others arrived to sign the Falmart Economic Trade Agreement (FETA) and the many different defense treaties, the main one being the NATO-Elbe Defense Agreement and the US-Elbe Defense Treaty. This treat will increase trade and relations. The adventurers who caused trouble at the strip club the other days are also on board the plane as Wellington has plans for them when he surprisingly releases them and invites them to Earth.

"It is a big moment for the two," he says, "this is laying down the future right here. Hopefully, it works."

"Well," Sarah says, "it sounds like some of the City-States want to merge. I don't know the details but many seem to want to become a state of some kind."

"That doesn't make any sense," he replies, "They fought for their freedom and how they want to give it up?"

"It makes sense," Lelei says, "Right now these City-States are very important and profitable but that is only because of the war. After the war, their importance and trade power will drop. It might take decades but at some point the City-States like Italica and Valtris will become second-rate powers that will fall into the shadows of bigger nations. That was why your thirteen colonies united into one republic. Better protection, better economy, better representation on the foreign scene, and more."

He stares at Lelei, always surprised by her knowledge, "You're grounded."

Lelei blinks, "what? Why?"

"Because you are too smart," he says, "No more watching School of Rock. Ten hours of American Dad(2) a week. I want an essay about the grey alien name Roger and his philosophy in life."

"I know that show," Lelei says, "fine, I accept your challenge. But I want to watch The Cosmos(3) by Neil deGrasse Tyson with you…. Alone…” She blushes slightly at that last part.

“Deal,” he replies.

Sharpe watches Lelei walk away. He then looks over at Sarah and wink.

"That was cruel," Sarah says, “and cute at the same time. You two need to spend more time alone.”

"She needs to learn," he says, "If she doesn't learn street smart the world will eat her alive."

"Come on sir," Sarah replies.

"Lelei still hasn't figured out the age-old question," he says, "Is the bird equal to or greater than the word."

Sarah wanted to respond but couldn't. She thinks about the manner, "alright, I see your point. I am just happy you two don't hate each other. But you two should do a study club together."

He laughs and thinks about Sarah's idea, "she is hard to find time for. Everything is always a philosophy or intellectual conversation. I will."

"Does it matter if I know?" Selina asks.

Sharpe can see Selina's sweet smile. She understands the games he likes to play. They are dumb, jokes and tricks he picked up from adult cartoons. However, both have bonded over them a lot. "It is our little secret."

Selina giggles, "I have another question daddy!"

Sharpe is impressed by the excitement coming from Selina. He wonders if she is excited to see the President again. President Potts has taken an interest just like with the other Girls and he wonders if it is because Selina is royalty, the heir of a kingdom, a future leader. "What is it?"

"Because we are no longer in Philadelphia, am I going to meet your parents?" Selina asks.

That question froze him. He has been avoiding his parent's questions since he adopted Selina. "No. They are on the other side of the country. They won't 't be able to come."

Selina is upset after hearing that. "Oh. Maybe next time? I like to meet what you call grandparents."

"Maybe next time Selina," he says, "Go pick on Tuka."

He watches Selina go to Tuka.

"Why were you acting like a dick?" Sarah asks, "It is a fair question, we had enough time to make arrangements for your folks to come out here."

"It is personal Sarah," he replies, "drop it."

"Wait," Sarah says, "Don't tell me you haven't told them about her yet? I know you can be distant how that's messed up."

He looks at Sarah. He can see in her eyes that she will not let this go. "Yes. It is hard to tell someone if you haven't spoken to them in four years."

"Four years?" Sarah says shocked. "I get jumpy when I don't speak with my folks at least once a month. I never pass on the opportunity to call home."

"Home is the Army," he states, looking directly at Sarah. "The Army has been my home."

"Holy shit," Sarah says. "I thought you were just exaggerating like always. I knew Harper took you in and helped you, but I never thought it was that literal. I cannot believe you haven't told them about your daughter."

Sharpe is hesitant to say anything. "I just don't want Selina to be weighed down by them. While I love my parents, I also hate them. Being screamed at in the middle of the night because she was drunk. Being constantly told you are not good enough, telling a teenage boy that it was the only purpose is to make her happy."

Sarah shakes her head, not believing it. "So, you think your mother will hate her because she is an alien girl?

"She is the insane person I ever met but no," he continues, "she probably would like Selina. She likes kids."

"She likes kids but tormented you?" Sarah asks.

"She babysits my ex-girlfriend that cheated on me with my best friend's kids," he says, "They have wine dates. Every time I called; she had to bring up my ex every time on how sad it was that I couldn’t get past the affair. Makes sense, I am pretty sure mom cheated on dad so..."

Sarah waits a moment to collect her thoughts. She looks directly at Sharpe. "So, you haven't told them about us?"

"You're a baby killer," he quickly replies.

Sarah's eyes widen. "Pardon me?"

"You're a soldier," he says, "She considers soldiers baby killers because we fight wars. I don't need to call her to know she is against this war because she believes in peace, love, happiness. When I left for West Point, she called me a baby killer."

He holds up a figure to make a point. "You know what is really messed up, she votes forever war hawk politicians. She ignores all the wars her political party does but still calls the troops killers. She is the most unprincipled person I ever met. So no, I won't tell her about you because she will hate you. You are strong, principled, beautiful, intelligent, wise, and motherly. That is what Selina and the Girls need, not grandma. Selina must learn principles, that her word means something."

Sarah takes a deep breath and smiles, "well, thank you. Glad you think of me so highly. But even as a drunk, I am struggling to believe this. Wasn't your father a soldier? I always assumed he helped inspire you to enlist."

"I didn't learn that he was in the Army until junior year of high school," he replies, "he had little input on my career choice. He had little impact on any choice I made. You have to be there to have an impact."

"I see that your mom is a bitch," Sarah says, "What about your dad."

"He let it all happen because it was the easier option," he replies, "there. Now you have the life story and why I have no intentions to include my parents in this. I'm happy, the Girls are happy, things are finally going right. Not going to botch it."

Sarah takes a stressful breath but then smiles. She places her arm around Sharpe and holds him close. "Well, I think I can top that. I knew this guy, a jackass by the way. He appeared one day. He was cold, distant, rude – failed to do any paperwork. The definition of a prick."

Sharpe smirks at what Sarah is saying. As she makes fun of him by telling the story of when they first meant, he then looks at her ribbons and medals. Not as many as him however he sees one that he doesn't, the Prisoner of War medal. She received it after she was taken by Krysist(4) and even though it was only a day, she was officially a prisoner.

"See something you like sir?" Sarah asks, noticing him looking at her chest area.

"Just checking out your metals," he replies.

"Right," Sarah replies. "Jealous or just taking an interest?"

He thinks for a moment and smirks. "Let's say both."

Sarah rolls her eyes and then smirks. She looks at Sharpe. "Are you ok? You look a little nervous."

He thinks about Sarah's question, not wanting to answer. "Last time I was in D.C. I nearly was court-martialed."

"I see," Sarah says, "everything will be fine." She then takes his hand.

---

As Pina looks out the window, she cannot believe how high she is or how fast they are moving. Before coming to Philadelphia, she and the rest of her knights were extremely curious and full of excitement to see and experience what Earth is truly like compared to Saderan and other kingdoms in Falmart. While she and her knights had heard a lot about the marvelous cities and extraordinary level of civilization development from the words of Tyuule, Rory, Lelei, and Deliah, who previously visited Earth or even seeing some pictures of Earth cities, it was still difficult for her and her knights to comprehend the essence of the highly advanced realm of Earth.

When she, her knights, and other native delegates as well as the adventurers for the first time were driven through the other side of the Gate, she and all of them had their jaws fall off and became utterly shocked beyond awe and amazement as their sense of wonder overwhelmed all their minds and souls.

Philadelphia is like a city built by gods with tall steel buildings that can easily laugh at any significant structures built in Uros, and the most shocking fact is that they are full of glass, showing the immense advancement of Earth in making the most luxurious thing in Uros to become incredibly cheap. Overall, for her and the Uros delegates as well as the adventurers, it was like stepping on the heaven realm itself.

"Do you see how marvelous and extraordinary Earth civilization is?" Ginebra says with extreme excitement, "they have tall buildings everywhere, not even the best architect and dwarven engineers can ever hope to build and glass and steel are so abundant that not even one-hundred years worth treasury of the entire Saderan Empire can afford a tiny fraction of it. Not to mention cars, which we often seen as luxury goods that are so affordable that even common people can afford."

“I know!” she states, “Tyuule was right when she said compared to Philadelphia, Saderan Capital looked insignificant, tiny and pathetic, and more like a rundown village in a countryside than a city! Heck, even now I see that the Ticaret capital city looked like a giant slum than a glamorous city as even the most impressive palace in Falmart is unable to match an average tall building on Earth. Seeing with my own eyes really enlightening me a lot.”

"This war was doomed from the start. The Empire never stood a chance," Grey comments, "their military only represents what is normal to them. Zorzal ploy to unit all of Falmart against them will only delay the inevitable."

Pina thinks about that as she thought back at the large towers and the impressive infrastructure. She thought Philadelphia was terrific, thinking that it was a crown jewel of America. She now knows most cities on Earth are like that, and more of them are even more impressive than Philadelphia, like the capital city Washington DC, New York City, Tokyo, London, or Beijing.

"I guess everything they said is true," she states, "I wonder if we will ever develop like this."

"Not in the lifetime with the current social-economic, the political and ideological state in Falmart," Grey answers.

"Because of my brother," she mumbles.

"No," Grey corrects, "the Empire already saw this and rejected it, which clearly showed from those nobles that released back from the ill-fated attack on Philadelphia when they keep regarding the Earth people as savages despite witnessing a far superior and godly civilization with their own eyes. The Empire had become inflexible, stick-in-the-mud and resistant to change long before your family took the throne in which it blindly and ignorantly sees everything different from them a slightest as inferior and uncivilized. Your father and brother were only able to gain power because of how the Empire is structured now. We will need to be rebuilt from the ground up."

At first, Pina struggled to agree with Grey. She always blamed her brother and father for the problems of the Empire. She never considered it was the Empire itself or even the entire stagnant, underdeveloped and backward state of Uros.

"I think I understand," she replies.

"It looks like the buildings are getting closer," Ginebra says, "I wonder how many leagues we have traveled in this."

She looks towards Hamilton, "you are missing everything Hamilton! Come and see."

"No!" Hamilton yells, "I am still not getting used to flight even with the helicopter.”

"It is ok Hamilton," Andrew says, "we do this all the time."

Pina laughs at Hamilton's innocents. Even though she is pregnant, Sharpe allowed her to come, being Pina's servant after all and this isn't a combat mission.

She sees Panache relaxing, enjoying being served on by the Stewards. She finds it humorous that Panache has been the biggest critic of American culture but is now loving it.

"This is the pilot," the pilot says, "we will be landing in three minutes."

--- Washington D.C., The White House ---

Pina stands there with Hamilton, both of them looking around at the White House lobby.

"Pretty," Hamilton says.

She sees beautiful marble, clean white pillars scattered around. Beautiful paintings in the highest of detail she has ever seen. Pictures and statues of men and women. She wonders what their stories are.

She sees Sharpe talking to three Secret Service agents. Sharpe is introducing the Girls to them. Based on how they are talking, they seem like they are war friends.

What surprised her is how similar the White House is with some of the designs - installing this grand feeling, just like the Imperial Hall. At the same time, this home feeling. She doesn't feel threatened but welcome like she is walking among the greats.

"You must have come here a lot, Sharpe," she asks.

"This is my first time Princess," Sharpe says, "When we met, I was a Major, a low-level officer. Not just anyone is invited to the White House. Even as a Lieutenant Colonel, unless I was stationed here I wouldn’t be allowed here. Only reason I am is because I am escorting you all."

One of the senior Secret Service agents walks up and starts escorting them.

As they walk, she sees more paintings.

"Sharpe," she says, "How does the government work in your country.? I know you are a democracy."

"We are not a democracy," Sharpe replies, "there are no democracies on Earth."

She looks at Sharpe, confused, "but your people call yourself that all the time?"

"I know," Sharpe replies, "most western governments have democratic-like elements in their institutions, but no one is a pure democracy."

"How come?" Lelei asks, "I thought your people value the will of the people?"

"To an extent," Sharpe replies, "but direct democracy always ends up into mob rule, which ends up into a system of oppression by the majority. This system always ends up in a dictatorship. A government should be ruled by the people; however, you need to make sure the minority gets represented."

"I don't get it," Panache says, "If the people have spoken, who cares?"

Lelei looks at Panache with an annoyed look, "Tell that to all the non-humans on Falmart. You don't have the right to oppress someone else's right, even though the majority think it is right, regardless of who they are and what they believe in. Is that correct, Colonel?"

Sharpe is hesitant to reply, "That is correct, Lelei. Every soul has unalienable Rights by its creator - no one is allowed to infringe on your rights. That is why we are a Constitutional Republic."

She noticed the tension between Sharpe and Lelei in that exchange. She wonders what is going on but decides to stay out of it, "The Empire was once a republic, ruled by nobles."

"We call that plutocracy(5)," Sarah says.

"How is your country structured then?" she asks, "from what I understand, you are one of the biggest."

"The official name of our country is the United States of American – focus on the United States part," Sharpe says, "We have fifty-two semi-independent nations that are part of a federalized union. Each State sends elected representatives to Congress, like your senate. They create laws for the nation, allowing each State and the people in those States to add impute. That is the democratic part, each state electing representative for a set amount of terms."

"That sounds similar to what we used to have," Panache says, "Who is that?"

"That is Teddy Roosevelt – our twenty-sixth President," Sarah replies, "He was one of our wildest presidents."

"He was a high-ranking politician, but when we went to war with the Spain Empire, he stepped down and joined the war," Sharpe says, "they nicknamed him the Bull Moose. He took on the massive corporation, watched out for the people, brought pride and spirit into the country. He created the philosophy of peace through strength. If he was alive today, he would have gone through the Gate and loved it. He took our Pioneer spirit and dialed it to eleven."

"As I said, we had a system like this before," Panache says, "However, we installed an Emperor so the Empire could respond quickly to a crisis. I don't see why you people spend so much time in diversifying your power structure."

"I have to agree with Panache," she says, "why don't you just give the power to your federal government. You would solve problems quicker."

Sharpe looks at Panache – impressed. He then points to a picture. "This is Andrew Jackson and one of my favorites. He was the seventh president and was a hero. Before he became president, he saved the nation in 1812 in the Battle of New Orleans. He then expanded voting rights, pushed for more power to the States, and was one of the first to break the political elite."

"However," Sharpe continues, "He is also the perfect example of when there is too much power in a central system. The Trail of Tears, the removal of natives from their lands for white settlers. No one was able to stop his order, forcing sixty thousand people from their lands."

Sharpe then points to another painting. "That man right there was our thirty-second, President Franklin D. Roosevelt. You all know of World War Two, he moved all power to the federal government he could to wage the largest war in Human History."

Pina saw history videos of World War Two, and to this day, she still cannot believe in the scale of the war. While she understands where Sharpe is coming from about consolidating power into one government branch, what he said about Franklin Roosevelt seems like a good counter.

"It seems like this Franklin man proves why you should have a strong central power," she says, "We had a great struggle, and we had to install an Emperor. It seems like your country wouldn't have won the war if you didn't do the same."

"Tell that to the one hundred thousand Japanese-American citizens who were forced from their homes and into camps because of fear," Sharpe replies.

Pina was shocked to hear that. Before meeting Sharpe, hearing that wouldn't be a second thought but expected. The Empire has done that many times and she knows, nations of Earth have done similar things. She is surprised by how much her world view has changed in such a short period.

"Once you give the government power, it could take decades to take that power back," Sharpe continues, "everyone loves it when a strong centralized government does what they want. The Indian's lands were taken away for someone else to settle. The West Coast felt safer by removing citizens from how they look. That is why all power must be spread out as much as possible. A strong federal government for the tasks it needs to do, to represent and protect the fifty-two states and let more local powers to improve the people's lives. Each one balancing each power structure out so neither can become tyrannical. Both the majority and minority are represented while the balance of power is maintained. If one side does something wrong or unethical, the other stops them. All without needed war."

Pina was about to reply but stopped herself. She thought about the Empire and remembers how the war started – her father began a deadly war for himself. Many groups are oppressed for the sake of being persecuted.

What is bothering her the most is how similar the United States and the Empire history is, however, how different it is two. Both nations have a remarkably diverse population, a history of oppressing people, expansion wars, great crisis, and such. Empire history is three times longer than the United States; however, the Americans have accomplished far more in a short period. The Empire could have made changes like this, and she begins to wonder if the Empire did, maybe they would be far greater than they are today.

Their escort then leads them to the Oval Office of the White House.

Inside she sees President Emily Potts, Vice President Christopher Gardner, Ambassador Harland Willington, Secretary of State Bobby Gates, and some aides.

"Hello everyone," Potts says, "you finally made it here. This took too long. Welcome. Please have a seat."

Hamilton walks over to her, "What a pretty room."

"I agree," she says, "I can feel the history in here."

While she was not expecting a throne, she is surprised how homey the office is. She sees the Girls talking with the Administration officials. She sees more paintings and head statues on the shelves – books everywhere on the walls.

The Potts is moving around, saying hello to the Girls. She can see that they respect each other. After the formalities are finished, Potts asks everyone to sit down.

"Thank you all for showing up," Potts says, "let me explain what will be happening for the next few days. After our little meeting here, you will be heading to the President's Guest House. Tomorrow you will be going to Capitol Hill and address many congressional hearings, mainly the Senate. They have questions for you all."

"Questions?" Rory asks, "What do you mean questions? Are we in trouble for something?"

"Not at all," Gardner replies, "Most of these hearings are going to be photo ops. Expect basic questions; however, some Senators and Congress Representatives will have more direct questions. Many of them want to see your motives and what the future might be like."

"You must understand this will be the first public appearance from anyone from your world," Potts adds, "While the people understand the situation, they are still uncertain."

"The rest of the time you will be allowed to explore Washington D.C.," Gates says, "We already secured the area with more security; however you are not allowed to leave the White House or President's Guest House without a Secret Service escort."

"What should we expect in the hearings?" she asks.

Potts adjusts her glasses. "Each one of you is a leader in your areas. Lelei in magic, Rory with Apostles and the supernatural, Tuka and Tyuule will be representing the people who are oppressed, Pina, you and your Knights will be talking about the Empire and your rebellion against them."

"My rebellion?" she asks. "What rebellion? I oppose my brother, but…"

"That is a rebellion," Potts says, "The Senate wants to know more about the Empire and what will end up replacing it once this war ends. We need to have a plan for when the war ends."

"I understand," she says, "Speaking about the future, I want to know what your people are planning for our world? We both know, ma'am President that your people are not fighting this war only for the good of Mankind. You spend too many resources and blood, and from the impression I got from Lieutenant Colonel Sharpe, you don't like to lose, and you like to be on top."

Potts chuckled. "That is true. Because of the Gate, it has opened new opportunities for knowledge, discovery, science, economics, and more. I think Lieutenant Colonel Sharpe has shown you that the term American isn't just a place or a group of people; there is a meaning behind it. We have all come from different places, different cultures, and creeds. By our nature, we are explorers and pioneers."

"This summit is also about bridging our two peoples together," Gates says, "we want economic opportunities on your world, and since we have a presence on Alnus, the trade will be profitable for both sides. We have technologies and knowledge your people want; you have the resources we need. Many of the City-States and nations that are allied with us are going to be signing a treaty this week."

"We also want to expand our understanding of our knowledge of the universe," Gardner says, "up until last year, we thought we were the only species in the universe. Now we know we are not alone, and that galaxy is far stranger than we expected. Because of new resources and magic in your world, we are hoping to innovate."

"Is that why you created the Department of Research and Development," Lelei says, "You are looking to find uses for what is on Falmart."

"That is a partly correct young lady," Gardner says, "We are also going to form a Department of Magic as a sub agency under the Department of Research and Development. There is a lot to learn from your world with many great promises."

"Like what?" Selina asks.

"We already made progress on new forms of ventilation," Gates says, "After taking Legrath, we discovered this type of magical moss(6). They were using it as a ventilation system at the fortress with amazing properties, at least that is what the biologistic say. They say it could radically transform ventilation systems, mainly in the heavy industries and space. NASA is already testing a prototype version of the upcoming habitat module on the International Space Station. One of our mining companies in Brazil is already using a prototype version to help in mining operations."

"As you already know about the different types of ores we discovered like Adamantinum ore," Willington says, "We recently discovered another called Carmot."

"Carmot?" Lelei says, "that is an alchemical ore we use at Rondel to help with manufacturing orbs and staff."

"That is what we assumed," Willington says, "once we understand how magic works we are hoping to use that to help increase efficiency and safety with nuclear energy."

"Nuclear energy?" Lelei asks, "I heard this before at Alnus. You people have something called a small modular reactor there."

"That is correct," Willington says, "Alnus is powered by four NuScale Power modular reactors while the TerraPower Natrium™ sodium fast reactor is being built. We are hoping to restart a Nuclear age, cheap and clean energy."

Nothing they said made sense to Pina. All she can tell is that whatever they are saying is important to them. "I take it this is important."

"Very important," Willington says, “our world is controlled by energy. What you have seen so far requires much energy resources. That is why your world is so important to us.”

Potts crosses her arm, "I know this was a lot and in time it will make more sense. But you did ask about motives and I do think that is the most important. After the Revolutionary War, our country was in a situation that we call the great experiment. After the Civil War we refined what it meant to be free and who god loved. Then after World War Two, we took the mandate to lead and protect the free world from tyranny and oppression. In every global event since our birth, we had to step up. Just like in World War Two where we had to refine our place in the world, we now have to redefine our place among the stars. The Gate is more than just a gateway to your world but maybe to other worlds. What role will we place, how will we do it? Besides all the economic opportunities, this is the biggest prize, which will be our soul."

She smiles after hearing that. She only met the President once before and she liked her. Now she has gained a great amount of respect for the President, feeling like she can trust her.

"What you said sounds deeper than a philosophy question," Rory points out, "that sounded more real." When everyone looks at her, she smiles. "I have been around politicians for almost a thousand years."

"Smart girl," Potts says, "please don't ask the science question because none of us in here will be able to explain it. Gardner, please tell them Project Bridge."

"Are you sure?" Gardner asks.

Potts nods.

Gardner looks at everyone, "Sense the Gate first appeared we have been researching it. We have been hoping to find clues on Falmart but it seems you knew as much as we did."

"Rondel would be your best bet," Lelei says.

"And Stanford and Sharpe agree with you," Willington says, "that is a reason why we haven't bombed Rondel. Our agents believe there could be ancient knowledge there that might be useful. However, Rondel is still the enemy, so we cannot just go there."

"I am sorry," Lelei says, "please continue."

"It is ok," Gardner says, "In short, Project Bridge is developing how to artificially make our version of the Gate. We concluded that the Gate is a natural phenomenon, and sooner or later, it will close."

"How did you conclude that?" she asks.

"The fact you are Human implies the Gate appeared on Earth once before," Gardner answers, "if not, it is clear on your world that the Gate appeared on Alnus Hill dozens of times throughout history. Anything natural can be artificially recreated."

"If the project works, then that means we can explore the galaxy and beyond," Potts says.

"Wait," Rory says, "You are telling me that you can create your own Gate?" Rory then points at Sharpe, "And you didn't tell us?"

"The Colonel didn't know," Potts says, "and yes, we are developing our own Gate system using the principle of Einstein Rosen Bridge, also known as the wormhole. My scienests are telling me it might be that. They already identified the new type of radiation the Gate emits."

Pina cannot believe that. She knew these people were powerful. They have strange weapons, impressive power units, the ability to go to their moon, and if they can control the Gate to their will, she wonders if that will make them more powerful than the Gods.

"Will you share this?" she asks.

"Yes," Potts says.

"Really?" Panache says, "You would be that nice to share something like that?"

"It's good for a PR stunt," Gates says, "assuming we do develop this technology, there is no way the world would let us keep it. Besides, the French, British, and Japanese know about this project. It will be like our space programs – we own the project; we work without allies with it, and in return, they get to use it for their national interests too."

"I think that is enough for now," Potts says, "for the next week, we can go into more details about this. How about you join me for dinner."

--- 2 hours later ---

Pina puts down her fork, not believing the taste of the meal. Growing up at Sadera she always had the best cooks however this top anything she has ever eaten before. And the diversity of the meals was also impressive.

“The meal was excellent, Madam President,” Duran exclaims, “The dish called Fillet Mignon was delicious. The meat just melted right in my mouth. Not even my royal chef can cook this good.”

“I also cannot believe I just ate raw fishes. How can the Japanese make uncooked fish that tastes this good!” Myuui marvelous at the sushi dishes, “How do you make raw fish edible? We always had to cook our fish from the Row Stream.”

Potts laughs, “I don't know myself but I think we can share that secret.”

A maid walks over and refills her glass of wine. While she misses Sadera wine, she notices how refined American wine is.

“The wine actually from France,” Potts replies, “they make good wine.”

“I feel useless,” Hamilton whispers.

Hamilton has been her faithful servant all her life. She has always been the one who got Pina food, drinks, clothes, everything that comes with a servant.

She chuckles from that.

“This so-called curry is also exquisite. I wish to import this spice into my city,” Gallus exclaims as he just finished his curry rice dishes.

Lelei sets her wine glass down and looks at Sharpe, “by the way Sharpe, can you tell me more about nuclear energy? I heard this world many times on Alnus Radio and your military reports. I saw the word over the Internet. I know you told me not to research it but it seems something very important to your people. If it was a secretary most of your population wouldn’t know about it or you would do a better job of hiding it.”

Potts giggles, “you are a smart one Lelei. I think it is time.” She then nods at Sharpe.

“Nuclear energy works by either splitting atoms or fusing atoms together to generate a massive amount of energy for practical use in both civilians and military purposes,” Sharpe answers.

“What is an atom?” Hamilton asks.

“An atom is what makes everything around you,” Sharpe explains, “You know how small sand is and scattered everywhere? It is just like that but a million times smaller than sand.”

She finds herself struggling to follow the conversation. She learned a long time ago she learned she won’t understand everything. Sometimes she wonders if Sharpe understands all these concepts and just knows how to explain it. For example she thought sand was the smallest object in the world however it is clear she was wrong.

“So how is nuclear energy being used for military purposes? I don’t see any military equipment with nuclear energy in it,” Lelei, curious.”This is clearly important to you people.”

Sharpe looks at the President again looking for approval. Once he gets approval he looks at Lelei. “Nukes is considered one of the big three weapons of mass destruction or WMDs”

“Weapon of Mass Destruction?” Pina asks dreadfully.

“I don’t want to ruin everyone's appetite or terrify you all, but I think you must know the fact that the military power you witnessed in Uros so far only represents forty present of the entire military power of the US. You have yet to face our most powerful weapons and technologies, the full might of the Air Force and if you count the lack of naval force, which represent twenty present of our arm forces. The rest is our arsenal of WMDs, in particular, the nuclear bomb,” Sharpe states.

“For this, I will answer why Itami and I were reluctant to reveal why Japan lost WW2 earlier because it involved the use of the nuclear weapon(7),” Sharpe states.

“Interesting,” Rory asks with a chuckle, “It is like some of your big bombs that blow things off. Like the MOAB?”

“Similar to that, but it is more terrifying than that. I will show all of you. Words of warning, what you are about to see can be too shocking and disturbing to all you,” Emily says. She then asks for the TV in the room to be turned on.

The aid turns on the TV and turns on Rumble(7) to a history channel.

The screen shows the delegation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombing and the full details of the radiation effect.

“What you saw was an atomic bomb,” Sharpe explains, “what we use today are nuclear, which are three thousand times stronger. Show them.”

The delegates, knights, adventurers, and the girls are terrified beyond belief at what they witnessed. The big mushroom cloud that vaporizes the two cities and everything in it in a blink of an eye. That is not even worse enough as they realized the aftermath of radiation from the weapons that rendered the landscapes completely uninhabitable for decades or even centuries.

“I cannot believe this,” she says, “We never stood a chance? Do all you people have these weapons?”

“No,” Potts says, “We and the Russians have the most from the Cold War. Both of us combine equals around three thousand active nukes. The Chinese, British, and the French have hundreds of bombs. There are other countries who developed them like Israel however most countries agreed not to develop them. We have created international laws to prevent the spread of the militarization of nuclear energy.”

“The only time in history these weapons were used in combat was during WW2,” Sharpe adds, “While dropping the two bombs ended the war two years early and saved about three to five million lives, the devastation showed these weapons shouldn’t be treated like the ones you have seen. Basically, they are considered an end game weapon.”

Pina couldn’t believe how strong Earth nations are. She knew they were more advanced however she struggled to believe how powerful they are. When she believes she finally figured out these Other Worlders something like this appears and shows how little she knows.

She then feels Hamilton and Ginebra grab her hands for comfort. She can see both of them are scared by what they saw, struggling to wrap their minds around how destructive the weapons are.

She looks around and sees others in the delegation with the same reactions. Myui holding Gallus hand, Gallus sits there frozen. Tyuule and Delilah holding each other arms, ears bent over. Panache nearly had a panic attack and Beefeater tried to comfort her.

She looks at the Girls and sees Lelei staring at the screen. Tuka and Yao's ears are down as they talk to each other, scared. To her shock Rory is just quiet, staring at the screen. Selina just hugs Sharpe side. The only person who doesn't seem to have a negative reaction is King Duran for some reason.

“I...I...I never thought you people have the power to destroy the entire world! That something only the gods can do,” Rory fearfully tries her best to give out some words while shaking heavily as even she, an Apostle of War, unable to handle and comprehend the sheer destruction of the nuclear blast.

“Now i just realize while you people can create marvelous wonders, you can also be able to destroy all it's as easy as flicking a finger tip. Luckily, you people refrain from using them freely or else, the result would be apocalyptic!” Lelei holds her heavy breath from the horror she just witnessed.

“Now you know why I never wanted you to see this Lelei,” Sharpe says, “I don’t want you to try and turn this into a magical spell somehow. However, you can do a small scale version of spells based on nuclear reaction as long as it doesn’t cause widespread destruction”

“Not going to happen,” Lelei replies, “I promise after watching this, i will make sure my new spells will never generate anything like the mushroom cloud”

“You people…..you people have been holding back the entire time! If you were ruthless enough to unleash your full power on Falmart. Nothing… Nothing! Would Ever Survive! Everything would become nothing but dust and wasteland!,” she says as she tried her best to control her tidal wave of dread and fear as she covered her face with both her hands while her eyes tearfully flowed with tears.

She then looks at Duran who is just sitting there, “And how can you just sit there like you saw nothing?”

“The moving images are impressive,” Duran states, “however did you all really believe you saw their full might? You only use the weapons you need against your enemy and against weaker people like us, they don’t need to use their mightiest weapons. I assumed long ago there were powerful weapons they wish not to use.”

“Well, actually it is not just nuclear weapons we can use to cause widespread destruction, we also have chemical and biological weapons that have the same level of calamity like nuclear weapons but i think it is enough since i don’t want to terrify all of you further”, Emily states.

“Lucky none of you have nothing to fear,” Gates says, “Because of how destructive these weapons are they have little use for frontline combat. They are either a first strike weapon because your opponent used such weapons themselves or defensive. Even the Russian and Chinese consider the weapons as defensive like us. Trust me, no one wants to use these weapons unless they have no choice.”

“Thank you madam President. We really do not want to know further”, Duran empty his glass of wine to calm himself down, showing that deep down he is terrified to the core, despite showing a bland face.

Emily giggles, “Thank you all. Now for dessert. We're gonna have Tiramisu!”