"A new defense industry has emerged over the past four months, with the need to resupply Native allies with better and new equipment - equipment like swords, armor, bows, and miniature crossbows. To save time, the military wants off-the-shelf options.

Three leading companies have emerged to meet this new demand, Sword Amerigo, a new subsidiary of Colt and a new company called TenDefense, a subsidiary of TenPoint, and an Independent company Whitney Armory. Each of these companies is covering critical manufacturing and development for these ancient weapons.

What these companies bring to the table is taking these weapons and modernizing them with modern materials like lightweight composites and refine and high-quality steel. This allows native Knights to have their Knight armor, however, 3x lighter than what they currently wear.

While no modern military uses swords and bows, many of the Native allies do. There was a debate at Capitol Hill and the Pentagon on equipping M4A1 Carbines and other infantry equipment. However, both decided that there was no time or resources to retrain our allies on modern weapons and tactics.

When asked by Task & Purpose, the Pentagon said that based on their experience training the Afghanistan and Iraq Army and King Duran rejecting the Army's weapons package. After twenty years, the military said that teaching third world nations has been difficult; training a classical-era military would be far more complex. It would push the already strained logistical networked past its limits.

King Duran said that he did not want to prioritize retraining his Army on how to use firearms at this time. To do so he would have to pull the bulk of his Army and spend at least a year retraining them in a completely different weapon system, which is entirely foreign to them, and he sees that as unacceptable. He prefers to focus on modernization on logistics and support equipment like the current Light Transport Competition and the Light Tactical Aircraft Competition - which an outcome is expected within the coming days to weeks. The Elbe Fiefdom won't have to pull as many soldiers from the frontlines to be trained on these programs and boost capacity. After the war, Duran said he then would consider other modernization efforts.

Many of the other City-States and the Kingdom of Alguna expect to announce some modernization winners soon. While smaller equipment like radio vests, first aid, and other small scale equipment for the Knights have been placed. Many of these cities are expected to name a winner of the Light Terrain Vehicle Competition (LTVC) in the next few days to weeks also. The goal of the LTVC is to provide logistics for each city for city security and military support.

Most of these sales are going through the foreign military sales (FMS) program to help fund sales to smaller economies on Falmart. ” - Task & Purpose

***

--- Marketplace, Valtris, Alcatris ---

Date: June 9th, 2026

"How long are we going to be stuck here?" Alicia complains.

"For the last time, we will be allowed to cross in two days," Andrew frustratedly replied.

"Yeah, yeah," Alicia replied.

After a two-day hard drive from Alnus Hill, Vanguard-7 got stuck at Valtris behind a considerable backlog. The massive kilometer bridge was destroyed by Moon Elves and is currently being reconstructed. This has caused a gigantic logistical backlog as alternative routes cannot keep up with demand.

Now, Vanguard-7 is waiting for their turn to use the portable ferry bridge as the improved ribbon bridge is strictly used for constant logistics to Elies.

"At least we don't have to wait the five days," Elison said.

"True. But it is still two full days."

Right now, Lieutenant Colonel Sharpe is addressing the issue to the man in charge, Army Engineer Colonel Aoife Coulson. Because of the backlog - on average, the wait is five to eight days before being allowed to cross the Row Stream into Elies. Because of the importance of the mission, Vanguard-7 was able to bypass the traffic. Because of the wait, some of Vanguard-7 and the Rose Knight team wanted to go around the city for the first time.

As the group moves around the marketplace, they see Valtris Knights, NATO soldiers everywhere. Civilians of multiple races moving walking around, acting like there never was a war to begin with.

To Alicia's surprise, this city is nothing like Italica. People everywhere, cramped, more of city life than a small-town America feeling. The last time she was here was when they passed to explore the Elies Forest. The city was half devastated by the assault and they bypassed the city.

"Check this out," Frost said.

Looking over, Alicia sees a large booth full of televisions in the heart of the marketplace. On the screens are lines of market goods, cost, price, bids, towns, and more. It reminded her of air flights at an airport, telling people when a plane is arriving and departing.

There is a man from Starlink who is managing the station, explaining how the station works. They are all connected to the Internet, provided by SpaceX. The man calls them Internet Market Hubs or IMH. Each IMH is connected to another IMH in other towns. A textile or farmer can come here and see where they can sell their goods without needing to travel there.

"It is just like that Internet Café we passed before," Panache points out.

"I am shocked SpaceX already got their Starlink satellites up and running," Frost said.

"How else would they get their Internet?" Andrew said. "Only way to get the Internet is through a satellite in this primitive world. It is too expensive right now to go cable. Maybe in two or three decades, but right now, no."

"And don't forget it helps the military," Alicia adds. "Lets face it, if it helps the military then that's why they get priority installing their satellites. Capitalism at its best."

Sofia crosses her arms and rolls her eyes, annoyed. "Cool, now we are giving them our stuff. Why don't we just give them everything."

Alicia ambushes Sofia and wraps her arm around her, annoying her. "You need to get laid, Sofia, get rid of that bitchy attitude.”

After Sofia shakes Alicia off, she and Frost head to a booth, Alicia looks over at Panache. "Panache, you always seem educated. What is the story of this place? Why are all the building designs different compared to Sadera and Italica?"

"Simple, because Valtris is older than Sadera and Italica," Panache said. "It was built by the elves and dwarves because of its strategic position on the Row Stream. Unlike most towns where the main economy is based on textile, blacksmithing, and agriculture, Valtris has had a large luxury manufacturing sector. Because of the stream, they were able to export their goods throughout the Empire with ease. However, when you people invaded, and the Empire placed its embargo, it devastated the economy worse than any other town."

As Panache explains the history of Valtris, Alicia looks around. While NATO took the city in May 2025(1), reconstruction has been slow. While some of the buildings have been rebuilt, many buildings still have holes in their roofs, a creator here and there, and collapsed buildings scattered throughout the city. The only thing that has been cleared is the streets from the rubble.

To her surprise, the city has adapted well to their changing world. There are trade shops, merchant shops, lots of clothing stores, and a hardware store that's being sponsored by Home Depot selling essential Earth goods like hammers, rulers, pencils, and other cheap handheld tools. She even saw what looked like a blacksmith that modernized his business with an affordable Markforged Metal 3D printer to her shock.

The more Alicia thought about it the more it made sense. A cheap 3D printer can cost around three hundred dollars. To these people, that is like getting a loan for a car. After that, all he must do is buy the batteries and material blocks and make cheap handcraft goods. While not an economist, she can see that technology becoming standard in a world like this, not needing large factories for their basic goods.

Based on the educational videos she was required to watch relating to fantasy and classical era she learned that most peasants were semi self-employed. It makes sense as everyone had to make their own goods to survive so a tool like that would help maintain that lifestyle but more efficiently and giving them more options. All they had to do is sell their goods on the Internet Market Hub. Then use wagons sponsored by UPS, DHL, and FedEx have their goods transport to the appropriate town. With the Army protecting the highways, trade was never safer, so their little risk.

Jalin Tu Fendro points to some of the wagons. “Take a look. Are those your mercenaries?”

Looking over Alicia sees four Triple Canopy Private Military Contractors (PMC) and two employed Adventurers that are working with the PMCs. She heard how PMCs are hiring adventurers for their knowledge of this world. “Looks like it. Military doesn't want to babysit all this commerce. Looks like it is working out.”

They have heard that corporations are trying to get a foothold in the region. Because military priorities are first with the Gate many companies are making contractors or sponsoring businesses and contractors. All trying to gain some kind of foothold in the region. It is believed whoever becomes first in their market will become the dominant business. If that means a local store has a sign that says ‘Supplied by Home Depot’ and a wagon that says ‘supported by UPS’ so be it.

"I have to admit; these people are badasses," Alicia comments.

"What do you mean?" Andrew asked.

Alicia points to a few shops. “Take a look, they all adopted quickly. And look how hard they are working. Thank god we are not fighting them.”

“This is something I noticed about you people, you rarely have to fight for survival,” Elison said. “I don’t mean that as an insult. Trust me, that is an impressive feat but you people as a society are living in a world with less risk of starvation, death coming around every corner, and void of the fear of being conquered. By the gods, a lot of your homeless and poorest of people are fat. Here, if you fail, you are going to starve and die.”

“I know you people hate slavery but some were not forced into the institution,” Panache added. “Many people volunteered just to seek food and shelter. I guess you could say it was our version of a safety net. Don’t get me wrong, it has to go but I am just saying, if your policies don’t work then a lot of people will have no place to go.”

“I understand that,” Alicia said. “All I can say is that we did it. If these people want it, they can have it. If they don’t then they are fucked. Part of being free is making your own life choices, the good and the bad. I guess we will see if all this was worth it.”

Looking around, Alicia notices they enter the clothing section of the market. She sees some ragged clothing but she also sees some beautiful silk clothing. The selection is quite large with robes, tunic, toga slippers, stola's. “Those are nice clothes.”

“As you know these robes are worn by the nobility because of their high quality,” Panache said. “But for everyday use people wear tunics. People wear toga if they want to wear something nice that day.”

As Alicia looks, she hears Andrew commend on how colorful many of the clothing are. She admits, she is impressed that ancient people are able to do fashion design so well. While not as good as Earth’s fashion level of detail due to being done by hand, she is impressed.

“Some of you should get some when you get a chance you should buy some,” Panache said. “I can easily help with picking out the best for you all.”

“Why would we want to buy a toga?” Alicia asked.

“Your world may have fancier clothings than ours but our fashion still has a look of uniqueness of this world that your world does not have,” Elison said.

Panache pulls off this colorful with silver lace tunic. “LIke this one. I think a Toga is too fancy for you but this looks like a higher-class tunic. The cloth is high quality and the designs are stitched perfectly. I think this brings out your eyes. It will make you look ladylike.”

“I don’t do the lady thing.”

The men in the group laugh, finding that funny. Jalin elbows Andrew. “I knew she was not brave enough. All talk, no balls.”

As everyone pressures Alica to get it and feeling challenged, she finally snaps and agrees to buy it. She walks into a changing booth and walks out. The Rangers and Knights look at her and laugh. "Hey!"

"You look so cute," Panache said.

"I don't do cute."

"Come on; it looks good on you," Andrew said. He walks over and grabs Alicia's uniform. "I think you should walk around with it for the rest of the day. That is an order."

"I hate you all so much." Alicia sees Jalin smirking. “And what are you looking at, big man? I still can beat you in arm wrestling.”

“Only because it would be wrong for a nobleman like to let a lady lose,” Jalin said in a cocky tone.

"Calm down, we all saw your teddy bear in your room, Alicia," Andrew said. He then goes to Panache looking for clothing tips for Hamilton.

Glad that Panache is leaving her alone now about clothing; she cannot but look at herself in the large fashion mirror. While she will never tell the men, she does like it exotically. She decides to buy it and get another for her sister. Use some of that war profiteering money she has collected.

"Getaway, furball! And put a bra on!"

Hearing Sofia's annoying voice, Alicia looks over. She sees two women, a Neko and a human naked except for a cheap silk skirt. Both are dancing, flirting with Sofia and Frost. This is not the first time she has seen something like this today; sex workers are all over the place. Most of the sex workers are slaves, paid slaves with working rights but slaves, nonetheless.

Seeing this, Alicia marches over and gets in the face of both women. "Hey, go whore somewhere else!"

The two whores look at each other and dash off, annoyed.

"Be careful, Alicia," Panache said. "Didn't you see that brand on their back? They belong to the Paramount Crime Family. They were a major crime organization in Akusho before the purge. It looks like they set up shop here and taking over the sex industry here."

"Never heard of them," Sofia asked, confused. "How do you know about them?"

Panache crosses her arms. "I grew up in Sadera, remember. My family was one of the most elite nobility in the Empire. Trust me, we all knew about the Crime Lords. My late father, all of our fathers have done business with them." She then looks at a strip club with a neon-sign. "I do wonder why and how they got here?"

"Rumor has it that the CIA made a pact with them since they have valuable connections, intel and access to back-door politics across Falmart," Alicia said. "I overheard some Marines(2) that they had to save them while we saved the pro-peace nobles as they are useful for the war efforts and future utilization. Fucking bastards. This is just like our government’s collaboration with the Cosa Nostra during World War Two to help root out Axis spies and enable a smooth offensive against Fascist Italy, as some Italian crime bosses have critical intels about the locations for troop landing."

“Well, to be fair, the only reason your first attack on Sadera was a success was because they helped you find your slaves – I mean prisoners within the city,” Panache points out. “You never would have found your people without them so I guess it was returning the favor.”

As the group conversation is cut short as a truck drives by.

“Let’s drop it,” Andrew said. “It is not our problem. Let’s just go check out that theater center.”

“Oh yeah, sure,” Alicia remembers why they were going down this way, to go to the outdoor theater. The old anthem theater was destroyed when NATO attacked the city however a clever noble used most of his wealth and turned it into an outdoor movie theater.

“You guys go on ahead, I want to head back,” Sofia said.

“What? Did the titties scare you?” Frost asked. He then blocks a punch.

Andrew breaks up the fight. “Calm down, both of you.” He then looks towards Sofia. “The Sergeant Major doesn't want us to separate. This might be a friendly city but there still risks. Plus, we need to be ready to respond if we leave early.”

“I know Sarge,” Sofia said. “I just want to catch some air.”

“Alright, no fooling around,” Andrew said. “Let’s go, everyone.”

Sofia leaves as everyone else begins leaving the market. Alicia glances at Andrew, finding it humorous that he is acting more like a leader than that nerd.

As Sofia leaves, Alicia shakes her head. She then looks at Jalin, confused. “What?”

“You should try the lady thing more,” Jalin said. “It looks good on you. You don’t have to be strong all the time.”

Alicia heard this before from her mother and other high school girls. “If I am not who else would swing at the jerks?” She couldn’t help not notice Jalin comments.

As they leave the market Alicia looks back. She sees Sofia go into the Paramount club besides having to go back to camp. “Poor bastard. She really needs to figure this out and get over herself.”

--- The Puppet Bounce Club ---

As Sofia expects, the strip club is just like any other one she visited in Philadelphia. She went into them once while with friends, usually to do drugs. That was before her uncle whipped her into shape.

While outside the club is still having the old Valtris elven design. However, it looks just like Earth’s building on the inside. The only exception is all the natives and stone walls and pillars—three elves playing soothing music on a stage to the left. There three main dance show floors, all full. The main one has a Neko dancing; the other two have a bunny and a female human.

The club looks half full, primarily full of natives from the city. There are some NATO soldiers here – off duty and looking for a distraction from the war.

"Can I help you miss?"

Hearing a soft female voice, Sofia looks over and sees a well-robed brown siren woman standing there. "Excuse me?"

"Forgive me, you looked confused; I am the receptionist here," the receptionist said.

Hearing that confused Sofia. "Receptionist? At a dump like this?"

The receptionist is offended by Sofia's remark. "Excuse me; this is not some usual backside dump. We fully comply with all of the FETA regulations and are fully modernized by Earth standards. Everyone here is licensed, at a proper age, and our slaves are paid."

"Slaves?" Sofia asked, catching that last part.

"On paper, yes, I am required to disclose that," the receptionist said. "I will say, you people like everything upfront with your rules, but yes. Most of our employees are still considered slaves until the next five years when the abolishment is fully completed and recognized so they can be fully paid workers. But still, they are paid and possess benefits because of how profitable our industry, housing and basic comforts are provided for us. The FETA has stringent rules against enslavement and we strive to be the gold standard for the FETA. I know that is a sensitive topic for you people; however, we are leading the way in abolishing it compared to other industries. Because of the flow of wealth, it is a relic at this point."

Sofia blinks, trying to catch up. "You prepared for that, didn't you. All that is bullshit."

"We are just here to serve the troops the best we can," the receptionist said, staying calm. "We understand you came all this away, from your homes, your families, stopping your lives to free us. If a little relaxation."

"For the low lives desperate guys," Sofia replied.

"If it was just guys, then why are you here?"

That question silenced Sofia as she did not have an answer. She knows why she showed up here. Going on a mission with the Knights, besides blowing up Rondel into rubble, they are going there, risking their lives for a graduation, for a blue hair alien girl. That is just this mission – recently going on a suicide mission to Sadera(4) to save the people who ordered the attack on Philadelphia.

The worst part is that there is this growing pain inside Sofia. For the past few weeks, she has been struggling with this pain, and she has no idea what it is. It is not medical, and the truth is she enjoyed her time at Malrtis(5). Her fellow Rangers and the Knights are lying in the sun bullshitting. Some strange emotions are going on, and I am looking for some distractions.

"Look, bird-lady, I just want a distraction," Sofia said. "A good lay, and I was told you might have some drugs to ease the tension. I want to forget everything I am feeling and feel good for once."

The brown siren blinks and then smiles. "Right this way."

She was watching the siren receptionist go into the back rooms. After taking a deep, stressful breath, Sofia follows the siren.

Going through the back hallway, she hears a noise coming from private rooms and booths. Just like upfront, everything looks clear and high-class.

This human man walks up, holding a tray. On it is this cup, paper, and this bag full of purple stuff inside it. The siren looks at her as she opens the door. "This room is yours, and here you go."

As the bag is handed to Sofia, she looks at it, confused. "What is it?"

"It is like your cannabis drugs on Earth," the siren receptionist said. "We got the idea to chop it up like this so you can smoke it. It is not poison or anything bad. We know you people are worried about after-effects, and it is not wise to poison customers. You asked for a good time to distract you. Your eyes say you have some troubles you are trying to hide from. This shall help."

As the siren walks away, Sofia looks at the purple drug. It seems like the paper is to roll the purple stuff up to smoke it. She then looks inside and sees a Human male inside, sitting on the bed.

Sofia walks in and locks the door. As the man speaks, she holds up her hand. "I didn't give permission to speak native. Just do what I tell you."

--- Count Palace ---

Sharpe is surprised by the wealth inside Valtris Palace. He has seen Myui palace and while it showed that she is a humble noble. This palace screams wealth and power. The decorative pools, the hanging plants. The marble pillars with gold around them, the works.

Most importantly, the large 360-degree decks with a view of all the city.

“What a lovely place this is. It reminds me of the fabled Babylon Hanging Garden,” Soredin comments, looking around.

“Yes it is,” Gorgan Hansen replied.

Sharpe glances at the two tagalongs on his mission. Soredin, the leader of the Wiccan Cove, a Earth Mage institution. Because Vanguard-7 is going to Rondel, which is the heart of magic on Falmart, the brass thought it would be a good idea to bring their own mage.

While Soredin deals with the magic front, as a US diplomat, Gorgan Hansen will represent the US while Pina represents the Revolutionary forces to try convincing Rondel to switch sides. Or convince as many of them to leave Rondel to Alnus.

“This place is huge,” Selina said, sitting on the stone railing, on the edge of the desk. She has a clip-on on her vest, keeping her attached to a Sharpe vest, just in case.

“Yes, it is Selina,” Sharpe replied.

As Vanguard-7 waited for their turn to use the ferry, Sharpe was hoping to cut through the line however that goal has been fruitless so far. Inside the Count's throne room, he saw some signs from when the city was assaulted. While most of the damage within the palace has been fixed, he saw bullet holes and scars.

Gallus Dun Gerardus, Count of Valtris tells the story of British SAS Captain Albert Nelson who led the assault on this palace, taking the city. Gerardus himself surrendered to Albert after a tense battle. He is standing beside him, wearing a green with gold laced robe but outfitted with a fine Italian suit he bought from Earth.

“Tell me, Count Gerardus, what was it like staring down the barrel?” Pina asked.

Gerardus laughs. “I want to say I was scared but I was not. When your Special Forces came into my throne room and defeated our elite warriors, I was shocked more than scared. The General who was defending my city gave him ‘I shall never surrender speech’, then Captain Albert killed him easily.”

Gerardus laughs again. “I was right here the General was killed. Right then everything became clear. That is when I told that British soldier ‘the General does not speak for me’. Everyone in the room laughs.”

“You always love telling that story my dear,” Gerardus' wife said.

“That is what I call a diplomatic solution Count,” Hansen said.

The nobles, servants, and the Girls laugh Sharpe sees Pina with a hesitant expression. Hansen seems to fit in well, from what he learned from Ambassador Willington it is hier job to fit in. He understands, it is not easy to hear insults against your people, regardless of the current political situation. He gives a reassuring pat on her shoulder.

“It sounds like you had an interesting experience,” Hansen said. “While I am new to this world I heard many stories regarding Vanguard-7. I hope we are ready for whatever we will see in Rondel.”

“Do not worry sir, while I don’t know what will face my unit is prepared for anything,” Sharpe said. “After everything we've been through, I am not worried.”

Tuka laughs. “Really? Anything?” As she lays on the expensive rich ornamented couch, she waves over one of the background entertainment dancing girls over. She then makes-out with the dancer with lots of passion. Once done, she looks over at Sharpe, giggling. “Did you expect that big boy?”

Sharpe stands there frustrated and angry. Lelei looks at Tuka confused. Rory and Yao are giggling, even Selina is giggling. There are times he wonders if these Girls will be the death of him by pushing his limits.

“I did not know you like girls,” Yao said.

“I like both men and women,” Tuka said as she eats a grape. “Remember, my people are free spirited. And I just wanted to tease Mr. I am ready for anything.”

“While funny, you will never find me eating out,” Rory said. “I prefer the wrestling match. The feeling and roughness of the men-.”

“Rory!” Sharpe yells. He then nods to Selina as his hands covering her ears, reminding her to ‘shut the fuck up’. He watches as Rory blows him off and laughs.

The diplomat loses his collar. “Well, this world is different.”

Soredin walks up. “So, this is your team outside of combat. They totally own you.”

Sharpe glares at Soredin.

Selina raises her hand. “I have a question. If this is your throne room then where is your chair?”

“He threw it over the side little one,” Gerardus' wife, Gotha said.

“True story,” Gerardus said. “Years ago I got sick and tired of sitting on that damn thing, listening to everyone complain about their problems. I decided if I was going to listen to people whine about nothing then I wanted to do it while walking around, enjoy my beautiful view, and so on. I feel like seeing the city helps bring context and what is important.”

Sharpe looks back out and sees why Gerardus did that. It is an amazing sight.

Even though the city is still in reconstruction, the city looks alive. Out in the distance, he sees the NATO military camps outside the city walls, military vehicles moving through the city. Helicopters on patrol. Excluding the bridge area, most of the ridge is a long harbor. To his confusion, there are hundreds of wooden ships anchored at the harbor with only a few boats sailing with the Navy patrol boats.

“Why are there so few ships sailing? I was told this was a major trading port.”

Gerardus walks up, looking out into the harbor. “Those ships have nowhere to trade so they sit there.”

“Are you telling me they've been sitting there for a year?” Sharpe asked, shocked.

“Well yes, what did you expect Lieutenant Colonel?” Gerardus said. “We were a midway port. Our goods would go east, deep into Falmart. They would send goods down the Row Stream to us. Then we shipped it to Mudwan to be loaded onto Galleons for sea travel.”

“That is right Lieutenant Colonel Sharpe,” Colonel Coulson said, standing by Sharpe. “I learned a lot on my tour in this city. As long as the Imperial Embargo is in place we have to prop up everyone's economy. Hopefully that will end in the near future.”

Colonel Aoife Coulson, US Army Engineer. When the Valtris Bridge was destroyed by an enemy Covert Ops team he was assigned to build a new one as soon as possible(3). While NATO can still fly and ferry troops across the Row Stream and supply Elies, having a bridge is still the cheapest and most efficient method.

Sharpe uses his digital binoculars to get a good view of the city. He sees the construction of the new bridge, almost complete. A kilometer-long bridge. It is impressive how quickly the bridge was built. Normally an engineer a project like this would take years of planning and construction. However, this bridge is vital for the war effort so no time for red tape.

Seeing the backlog of military hardware and personnel, all waiting to go to Elies Region, Sharpe wonders if the Empire realizes how big of a victory that operation was. While you can count the Empire’s real victories on one hand, it is usually because of overwhelming numbers or superior tactical position, all of those were setbacks. This hurted because the Elies front has ground to a halt.

“How many people died when the bridge fell?”

“The original causality count was twenty, but we revised it to twenty-six,” Coulson replied. “Two tanks and a transport truck. We also found more missing guards the Moon Elves killed,” He stops as he takes a deep breath. “Honestly, we were lucky. If the bridge fell during the day, it would have been close to a hundred who could have died. Plus, triple the military hardware would have been lost.”

“After the bridge fell the Empire launched a strike from the north, hoping to capitalize on the situation,” Coulson said. “The Italians did not let them get close though. I wish I got to see cavalry charging into a line of IFVs.”

“Is there any way we can skip ahead?” Sharpe asked, not wanting to wait two days in line. “Our mission is urgent.”

“Look Colonel, I just cannot squeeze you in, two days is the earliest,” Coulson said. “I know you have direct orders from the brass but Major General Walter Garcia from 1st Armor and Colonel Harold Kurt from 1st Cav needs these supplies ASAP. We cannot overload the ribbon ferries. Two days is the best I can do without breaking safety protocols”

Rumor has it that Colonel Kurt from came up with an idea how to defeat the League forces in one swoop in Elies. Major General Garcia from 1st Armored has been playing a cat and mouse with the enemy leader Legatus Fabius Aulus. Fabius has refused to fight NATO directly which has frustrated Garcia. Whatever they are planning is being kept a tight lip. Only reason Sharpe knows that much is because of his SOCOM connections.

Hearing that, Sharpe looks to the ferry dock. Two military ribbon ferries are filling the gap, carrying troops and supplies. These ferries are a flat surface, capable of moving tanks.

“We nearby had two accidents last month because of overloading them,” Coulson continued. “Another soldier almost drowned because of that. I know the bridge is important and we need to get these supplies over there ASAP but not worth lives because of sloppiness.”

Seeing no point in pushing the matter Sharpe decides to drop the topic. “I understand Colonel. Thank you for your help.”

“In the meantime, you guys can stay at my palace,” Gerardus said, all cheerful. “Countess Myui Formal talks about your unit all the time. I wanted to meet your team for myself to see if she is full of air.”

“Funny, she never mentions you,” Sharpe sarcastically said. “And besides it wouldn’t be appropriate. We need to be ready to leave-.”

As Sharpe spoke he heard a loud breaking sound behind him. He turns around and sees Tuka laying on a richly ornamented couch, with a large bowl of fruit, splattered on the ground with the broken bowl.

Tuka glances up with the ‘I am in trouble’ look. “Sorry.”

“It is ok, this is life,” Rory said.

Looking at Rory, Sharpe sighs.

Rory is laying on the same type of couch, bowls of fruit and candies around her. A servant massaging her feet and hands. She lets out a loud yawn as she stretches. “I cannot remember the last time I was treated like this.”

"Last week," Lelei said, sitting properly on a chair. "And you went to the manicure the week before that. And the month before that, you went to a beauty salon for your hair."

“Shut up you geek!”

Sharpe shakes his head as the girls all giggles, not approving how much the Girls are being pampered. “Girls, what did I say?” To his shock, Rory, Tuka, and Yao ignore him, too busy enjoying being pampered.

“Please don’t be mad,” Gerardus joyfully said. “This is a great honor to be serving Rory the Reaper. The truth is I should be holding a parade for her.”

“No one is stopping you,” Rory shouts.

“No parade Rory!” Sharpe orders, looking directly at her.

“Can I help you?”

Hearing Lelei's voice, Sharpe looks over. He notices a Valtris Knight standing there. It looks like he is taking an interest in Lelei orb staff.

Shrugging it off, Pina leans in. “Sir, that Knight is acting funny.”

“He is just flirting with Lelei,” Sharpe replied. “I will kill him later.”

“Not what I mean,” Pina said. “We are getting the royal treatment. I know some older customs are being ignored but no respectable Knight would ever approach someone like that, especially if that person a woman. They would wait to be addressed before speaking and approaching.”

It took a moment for Pina’s comment to register but now that Sharpe is thinking about it, he has never seena Knight act socially without permission. He looks back at Lelei and sees Lelei lecturing about gravity, using a fruit as a example. That is when he sees something shiny in the Knight's hand.

In pure reaction, Sharpe pulls out his M1911 and aims at that knight. “Do not move.” He loudly but calmly said.

The room freezes as everyone looks at Sharpe, confused, scared. The other Knights in the room pull out their swords, the Colonel's two guards pull out their pistols. The nobles and servants freak out and back away.

The Colonel begins ordering him to lower his weapon but none of that matters to Sharpe. He aims, seeing the fear in the Knight's eyes.

The Knight blinks first and pulls out his knife and swings it at Lelei. With some reflex, Lelei uses the spell similar to Force Push from Star Wars to push the Knight away. She backs away, getting off the couch. Seeing a clear opening Sharpe fires two shots at the knight, killing him.

The Knight hits the floor as Lelei sits there shocked. The moment the Knight hits the floor the man inside the armor transforms into a Darr.

Gerardus looks shocked. “What is that? A Darr? In my palace?”

Lelei gets up and walks over by Sharpe’s side, looking at the body - ready to cast another spell if needed. Rory standing fully up in warrior mode. Two Knights rush to the dead body, making sure it is dead.

Rory standing fully up in warrior mod. Two Knights rush to the dead body, making sure it is dead.

“Apparently so,” Sharpe said. While one eye remains on the body the other is on full alert.

“This was a assassination attempt on Lelei,” Rory said.

The situation is clear to Sharpe, Rory is right, this was a target assassination against Lelei. He just does not understand how the Empire knew she was up here. He did not plan to come up here.

“It is known that the Frumentarii Corps has a cell here, it is how they took out the bridge without us knowing,” Coulson said. “I guess they saw their chance to take out your friend. Damn! Looks like there are still some of their agents here, I thought we took all of them out a month ago.”

As the body is dragged away Sharpe puts away his pistol and wraps his arm around Lelei. “Don’t take it personal Lelei.”

“I didn’t even see it coming,” Lelei said. “If it was not for all those battles we were in and training, I would be dead.” As Lelei states that, the seriousness of this mission rings loud and clear.

“Jesus Christ,” Henson said, shocked by the situation. “You people really are fighting demons. The news doesn't do justice on what you are fighting.”

“You are right, ambassador,” Soredin said. “It is hard to fight an enemy you do not understand. I have seen many strange things in my life but seeing a Dar in plain sight is fascinating.”

The body is then dragged away.

Sharpe knew this was going to be a risky operation and that elements in Rondel hate Lelei for what she has accomplished. He did not expect an assassination attempt, especially within NATO territory.

“Good job Pina, good eye,” Sharpe said.

“Sharpe, I will figure out a way to get you over the river sooner,” Coulson said. “Earliest is six to eight hours.”

“Thank you, Colonel,” Sharpe said.

***

--- Row Stream, Etlia-Valtris Ferry ---

Date: June 9th, 2026

At 22:43, Vanguard-7 was able to sneak onto the ferry. They all heard about the assassination attempt against Lelei. What began as a fun, relaxing afternoon turned into full alert.

“Fuck, it is cold,” Alicia mumbles as she walks between the M1083 trucks.

She never realized cold the river emitted the air.

The only way to get moved up is to split the unit up, squeezing on three ferry runs. While Sharpe hated splitting up the unit, he did not want to stay in Valtris for a second assassination attempt.

After getting a breather, Alicia heads to the second JLTV on this ferry. She goes to the window, sneaking up on Sofia. “Wake up. We need to have a girl talk.” She then looks at Chapman and warns him to get out, which he does.

“What do you want?” Sofia asked.

Even though it is dark, Alicia can see the bags under Sofia's eyes, the reddish eyes. “What were you doing at the club.”

“Oh for fuck sakes, it is none of your business,” Sofia said, adjusting her helmet. “Not like anyone gives a shit.”

“You look like shit and that is why I am here,” Alicia said. “The Sergeant Major came up to me asking me questions about you. He knows you were high. Your eyes give it away.” That scared Sofia and she should be. This is not the 1960s and 70s, which will not be tolerated.

“Look, just say what is going on ok?” Alicia said.

Sofia leans into Alicia. “What do you want from me? I am here? I do my job. My job is to kill these bastards. We were going to be here for two days so I wanted a fuck. It was your idea.”

Alicia glares at her, realizing her role in this mess.. “I was fucking joking. Besides, I was hoping it would loosen you up because you keep acting like a bitch and we are all sick of it.”

“And I am sick of your guy's attitude,” Sofia said. “You guys keep asking me to forgive this world for destroying my home. When this war ends you all go home and go live your lives but for me? I have nothing. I am not the one who is fucking the XO, the others knocking up the natives and making families. Or having a family to go home to.” She then takes a painful breath, forcing herself not to cry. “You all have a happy ending coming but I won’t. So, just leave me the fuck alone.”

The truth is, Alicia had no idea how to respond. The wedding was a nice moment, representing a future. But what about the people who don’t see one like Sofia? “You can go around and fuck what you want but the next time you take drugs I will report you.”

Alicia then walks away.

---

Sofia watches Specialist Alicia Moore head back to the command vehicle. “Fucking bitch… she just doesn’t understand.” She leans back in her seat crying a bit.

All she wanted was to lose some stress and relax. She wanted to get rid of this growing emotion deep inside and forget about her losses. Maybe find something enjoyable for once.

However, Sofia regrets taking the cannabis. She got what she wanted, forgetting everything, and felt good. But afterward, she only felt worse.

The only thing Sofia knows is that she feels lost. When she got into the Rangers she knew what she wanted, revenge. While she still wants payback, the word does not sound right anymore.

Then there is a bang on her door.

Sofia leans through the window and looks down. To her surprise, it is the little Princess brat who somehow is always in trouble. “What do you want? Can you go annoy someone else?”

“In just a minute,” Selina said. “I overheard you and Alicia arguing.”

Hearing that Sofia takes an annoying breath. “Just go before an elf tries to kill you.”

In pure reaction, Selina looks around. “Looks safe right now.” She then reaches into her purse and holds it up. “This is for you.”

In Selina's hand is a small box with a cute bow on it. The box has little ducks around it.

Sofia grabs the box, looking at it. “I don’t get it.”

“When I was shot by the Wood Elves, you came to the hospital and gave me a present, an angel figurine(6),” Selina said. “I wanted to wait for your day of birth.”

Confused, Sofia sets down the gift. “Why?”

“Because I know how you feel,” Selina said. “Everyone I knew and loved died but then I got a new family. New Friends. New sisters.” She then grabs her Polaris necklace and holds it tight. “I still miss my old mommy and my baby brother. He used to chase me around the palace and was a dear friend.” She said, upset but the memory of her dead family.

“Selina!” Yao yells. “Where are you?”

“Over here Yao,” Selina replied.

Yao walks over. “You know better than to walk around alone.” She reaches her hand out. “Come on. We are getting close and you should get some sleep.”

“You start to become her nanny!” Sofia teases.

“I am her nanny and big sister! I cannot be the Colonel’s wife and bear his child so the only way for me to repay him is to become the nanny for Selina here and his unborn child,” Yao replies as she takes Selina’s hand and leaves.

Shortly after Sharpe and Sarah announced their marriage in Maltris and Sarah agreed to have Rory to be the baby godmother, Yao did make a private conversation with Sharpe and Sarah only to avoid Rory’s fury about wanting to be his second wife and giving him children. As expected Sharpe and Sarah denied her request but Sharpe made a deal with her so she is able to repay her gratitude to him by becoming Selina and his unborn child’s nanny, judging how she is proficient with handling children. She then accepted his proposal and looked after Selina ever since.

Once alone, Sofia shakes her head. “What a strange and crazy girl.”

Seeing the small duck box, she opens it and finds a bracelet with the note said: this is a bracelet of soothing soul given to Selina by Doldo at her request as the strong devotee of Miritha to give it to Sofia. This charm soothes the emotional pain of a woman.

“How this trinket gonna soothe my pain,” Sofia scoffs but she tries it on herself.

---

"Oh right, Lelei! Since you are a target of assassination even when in NATO-controlled territories, your chance of getting killed is about as high as eighty to ninty precent in Rondel, the maw of the enemy. Therefore, I will now teach you several spells that will help you protect yourself against assassins since your comrades are never enough to protect you", Soredin lectures.

Soredin moves her index figure around as she explains. “These spells i am going to show are combinations of combat and practical spells that will be helpful to protect you against assassination attempts.”

"First types of spells will be sensory enhancement spells, these spells temporarily enhance your senses to inhuman levels, but they will drain your mana over time. The second type of spell is dodging spells, which enables you to flexibly dodge enemy attacks with minimal mana spending without the need of raising your shield. The third type of spells are aggressive defense spells; usually these spells are used in combat for both protecting the caster and at the same time harming or disrupting the attacker , thus its also useful against assasination attempts," Soredin add-on.

"The sensory enhancement spell I am about to show you is ‘Harming Detection’, this spell allows you to sense the hidden killing or harming intent of an individual, which enables you to prepare for an attack. To conjure the spell, you must concentrate a huge mana level in your eyes and concentrate your thought of someone might try to harm you," Soredin eyes glow with mana energy.

Lelei then mimic her teacher and glows her eyes with mana energy

"Now I will attempt to smack you in the head, and you will see the effect of the spells," Soredin comes at her and tries to put a knuckle sandwich on Lelei's head.

"I sense an unpleasant aura from you," Lelei states

"Good, you are sensing my intention to harm you," Soredin states. “Over time this spell will become more natural for you so you won’t have to put this much focus on it. Right now we are just doing the basics.”

"Now for the dodging spells, the spell I'm gonna show is straightforward and is called ‘Ground Dash’. You concentrate your mana into your feet to create a mana field and tap your feet into the ground to quickly dash from an attack. Tuka, I want you to try to punch me," Soredin states.

Tuka tries to punch Soredin, but she quickly dashes backward two feet away to dodge the punch with lightning speed while never moving her feet to jump or run backward.

"Whoa, such speed, never seen someone dodge that fast before," Rory praises.

"Now for the aggressive defense spell, it will be the ‘elemental barriers’. Unlike the normal magic barriers mages use to protect themselves from attacks, the elemental barriers can serve as both offense and defense by adding elements in nature into the mix. Rory can use this pin knife and tries to stab me in the arm. I will be fine," Soredin asks.

"Ok, since you ask politely," Rory takes the knife and tries to stab Soredin in her arms, but she is mildly shocked by an invisible lightning barrier before she can reach Soredin arms.

"That amazing teacher! Magic barriers that can both defense and harm the enemy," Lelei enthusiastically states.

"Now start practicing Harming Detection first. Rory and Tuka, try to make a draw of who will hit her in secret so she can practice detecting the attackers," Soredin states.

"I am gonna smack you, good nerd," Rory evilly states.

"In your dream, you subatomic Loli!" Lelei spat backs.

"You gonna regret that," Rory childishly roars.

"Girls! Please be serious. This is not a time for childish squabbling. After practicing three basic spells, Lelei still has to learn the more advanced spells,” Soredin reminds them as the practice starts while the ferry is still ferrying the group to the shore on the other side.