Gate: War Of Two Worlds

--- Earth, United States, White House ---

It is currently the middle of the night when President Emily Pots found out what happened in Sadera. She was one of the early supporters of the peace process when she found out about it.

Her goals were to prevent another dragged out war. After twenty years of endless wars throughout the Middle East and Africa, the American people are tired. The nation is tired and most of the Western world is tired.

That does not include the current Cold War building up against the Chinese. With their colonization activities in Africa and the occupation of northern Afghanistan for their belt road initiative, it is taking everything the United States can to counter and contain their influence and protect our allies. After what happened with Hong Kong a few years ago, everyone is nervous in the Far East.

Most of our allies only sent a token force to the Special Region, to claim they are our alliance. However. the only real force has been the Canadians, the British, France and most surprising to everyone is the Japanese.

They all wanted to aid with their separate reason though. Canada close by relatively compare to other nations and feel a threaten whatever happens with the Gate could spill over to them. The English want to maintain our 'Special Relationship' and show the world that there, not a paper tiger after Brexit. Same with the French after the fall of the European Union, wanting to prove they still have a strong-arm force. Besides, the three want to be in the loop when any economic development happens in this strange new world.

The Japanese are a confusing one. They want to show the world that they are back and that China can't bully them. The emerging 'Special Relationship' between the United States and Japan as the Earth Geopolitical balances shift from Europe to Asia and they want to solidify it. They also have one of the most advances militaries on the planet however they are untested. A good way to train and test their toys for a war against Imperial China then fighting some barbarians.

The rest of the International Community, especially the United Nations are very interested in having a role in exploring their new world. That cannot happen as long as the Empire remains a throne in the side of the United States. While inferior compare to even some of the weakest states on Earth, as long as they continue to wage war against us, they are tying up economic and military resources that are needed here on Earth.

After getting dress in a dark blue business suit and skirt, Emily enters her office and then sits down at her desk.

A lot of Presidents sat at this very desk, faced massive hurdles. Faced many challenges that seem impossible to tackle and somehow pushed through them.

She then picks up the phone that's on her desk. A line was set up so Stanford can quickly call her if there is an emergency. "Lieutenant General Stanford."

"Good morning Madam President," Stanford says, realizing how late it is. "I am sorry to request your presence at this hour however we have a situation here."

Emily rubs her face, forcing herself to wake up. She leans back in her chair. "My adviser updated me briefly. So, the Peace Process failed?"

"Yes, mam," Stanford responds.

"What happened?" Emily asks.

She begins to wonder if it was Ambassador Harland Willington. While he did great work in Eastern Africa, he wasn't the most liked in the State Department. They claimed he is to off the books for their liking. So, Secretary of State Bobby Gates said.

"There is no easy way to explain this but-," Stanford says.

"Just spit it out General," Emily says.

"There was a firefight at the capital throne room. No casualties on our end." Stanford says.

Emily jumps from her seat, eyes open looking straight ahead. "WHAT THE F.U.C.K! Who was the idiot who decided to shoot up a royal palace during a meeting of peace!?"

Stanford just remains calm over the phone. He agreed with what Major Sharpe and Ambassador Willington had done. Maybe not in such extreme conduct however rescuing one of our own was worth the cost of peace.

Pots did three tours in Afghanistan and one in Iraq as a Major in the Army. She understands what happens when a war drags out with no end in sight.

"They better have a damn good reason for this. How the hell am I supposed to tell the American people about this." Emily says, beginning to think about the fallout. If she wasn't awake before, she is now.

"I believe there is Madam President. The Crown Prince of the Empire had one of our civilians as a s.e.x slave, a sixteen-year-old girl. She and others were taken through the Gate during the Battle of Philadelphia."

Emily looks down at her desk, not believing what she is hearing. "What…? A s.e.x slave? God Damnit."

She takes a deep breath, calming herself down. "Well, I guess that is a good reason. There is no way the Senate would ever approve a treaty when they are raping our people. Let alone the public."

"I fully agree, mam," Stanford says.

That is when the door opens and Secretary of State Bobby Gates walks in.

Emily holds up her hand, singling him to be quiet as he enters. She then points to a chair to sit down.

"Bobby just walked in. I am switching to speaker General." Emily says and then switches to the speaker.

"Hello, General. This is Bob. What the f.u.c.k happened?" Bobby asks.

Emily looks to him. "I just asked that. They have some of our people as slaves."

"That is correct," Stanford confirms. "I do not have all the details yet; the team is almost back to base now. From what Major Sharpe reported to me, a teenage girl name Noriko Mochizuki was taken and was turned into the Crown Prince's slave. They freed her instantly when they saw. That lead to a confrontation with the Prince and his guards which spiraled into a firefight."

"Good god," Bobby says, realizing the gravity of the situation. "Are there others?"

"Apparently," Emily says and looks to the speaker.

There is a short delay before Stanford spoke again. "The girl stated that they are two others alive within the city. One American and the other believe to be a Brazilian national. Both are not confirmed yet."

"Is that it? Two more?" Bobby asks.

"I do not know but I doubt it." Responds Emily. "For all, we know they could have hundreds of our people."

"She did mention that others were brought over but split early one. Mainly on gender grounds." Stanford added.

That is when both General Donald Grant and head of the Director of the CIA Brent Quintin.

"About time you two got here," Bobby says, looking behind him.

"What happened," Grant asks, closing the door and walking in.

President Emily begins getting both men up to speed of the situation.

She notices both of their faces, a sign of disbelief of the situation. She doesn't blame them; she is having a hard time believing it herself.

Truth is that they all should have known they taken some of our people and enslaved them. The writing was on the wall. Hell, this was common through all cultures up until very recently. How the hell did no one think about this?

Probably because of the shock of this new strange world. Being attacked, monsters, beasts, elves, the fact there's even life out there. Gods and demi-gods. God knows what else we don't know. Everything hit so fast and so much we thought was real was tossed upside down. A simple but massive overlook.

"Lieutenant General Stanford, how come you didn't figure this out beforehand?" Bobby asks him.

"Hold on, you can just blame him for this. What was he supposed to do, walk up to them and ask?" Grant says back to Bobby.

"He is the man on the ground. Didn't he have people in direct talks with the Princess?" Bobby points out. He begins snapping his fingers. "What was her name, Pina. Princess Pina. Perfect opportunity to at least ask, gone."

"Wow," Quintin says, getting defensive. "There has been no evidence that they had our people. We only just got agents in some of the outer cities."

"Not like the CIA had anything useful," Grant says, glancing at him. He is implying that the CIA has been pretty much useless. Going through this history of botch operations throughout their history.

"What does that mean General Grant," Quintin asks.

"Want me to go down the list from this century or would you like me to start from the last century?" Grant says, looking directly at him. He is referencing all the screw up the CIA has under its belt.

Emily is standing there thinking, watching as the three starts arguing who should get the blame. Standard politics is to find someone to blame and move on quickly. She doesn't blame them, once the people find out, the Internet is going to blow up. It is not like the good old days where the government could just bride a cable network.

She then looks down at her desk and thought just appeared.

"The buck." Emily mumbles.

"I am sorry Madam President?" Bobby asks her, hearing her say something. He is currently the closest to her.

She looks up and moves her burnet hair out of her face. She then stands fully up, adjusting her glasses. "The buck stops here."

A quote from President Harry S. Truman. Anytime something went wrong, it is the person who is in charge of fault. In this case, that is the President.

Before anyone says anything, she continues what's on her mind. "I am the one at fault here. I did not properly provide a strategy for this new world. I did not give clear enough instructions to our boys on the ground. Most importantly, I did not ask the right questions which allowed this situation to happen."

"Madam President, you cannot take the blame for this screwup. The independent media will eat you alive." Bobby says. He has been her loyal friend for a long time. Sticking with her during good and bad times.

"Yes, I can and I will. And let them, I can handle the Media." Emily says and then sits down in her chair. "Now unless you three want to continue fighting like schoolgirls, this is what we are going to do."

She then thinks very carefully about what she is going to say next. On the understanding that the policies she creates will have far-reaching consequences, good and bad.

"Lieutenant General Stanford. We cannot have peace if it is going to result in selling off our people. I am authorizing you to do what you need to get all of our people back. Americans or other nationalities. After that, I want you to bring the Empire to their knees. Whatever you need, you get." Emily says with a newfound confident tone.

"Mam, there is no way the American people going to like a prolong war." Bobby points out.

"They will be fine. As long as we do not make the same mistakes as last time." Emily says.

"And that is?" Quintin asks.

"Leaders caring more about their long-term political careers than the current task at hand. I will address the nation after General Stanford completes his rescue mission." Emily says as she looks to Grant. "Grant, work with Stanford. I want a plan on my desk ASAP. Give him what he needs."

She then looks to Quintin. She personally doesn't like him. Apparently, he is good at his job and that is the problem. Secrets after secrets. A pure politician at heart. "Have your people find our citizens. Get that information as soon as possible."

Quintin seems frustrated. "Madam President, I don't think they will be able to get that information in time for the operation. Maybe if we have more time."

"Any more time our hostages will be nailed to a cross," Grant says to him.

"You had months to get your people in position. You either provide the information or I expect your resignation by the end of the week." Emily says, staring right at him.

Quintin about to say something but realize it wasn't worth putting his job at risk. He nods his head and agrees to get all the information he can.

Emily now sees everyone on the same page. "Alright. If we can't protect our people from barbarians. How are we supposed to stop the Chinese, the Russians? Help the revolutions in Hong Kong and Africa. Or even protect our pacific allies?"

"Our nation was founded on a set of principles. Those principles allowed us to grow and expand. Challenge the status quo that has been dominant throughout world history. They have been tested many times throughout history gentlemen, we are not going to toss them out because it is the easy option here. We are going to do what we should have done last year."

***

--- Fort Alnus, Uros (Special Region) ---

Ambassador Harland Willington is currently walking to the Army hospital. He was only able to get a few hours' sleep until one of his bosses, Secretary of State Bobby Gates wants some good news to give to the President for some upcoming speech. Since the peace process blew up in our faces, he didn't blame his boss for wanting something.

For the last few months, Willington has been talking to their other prisoner of war, King Duran of the Elbe Fiefdom.

He helped lead a coalition of vassal states against our forces in the Second Battle of Alnus Hill. Unlike most other nobles and kings who fought in that battle, he was the only one who seems to survive. We found him laying on the ground badly wounded. Lost a leg, his right eye couldn't be saved and other issues.

It took months just to get him back on his feet. During that time, he has been saying at the Army Hospital. Currently, he is in the last stages of recovery.

During that time, he was recovering, some of our diplomatic staff has been working with him in ending hostilities. A cease-fire was agreed to, which he honestly didn't have a choice since his army was annihilated.

When the opportunity to end the war came with the Empire, everything else had to be put on hold. That means further discussions were placed on hold with King Duran, until now.

Willington walks into the hospital plaza. The plaza seems to be only half full today. From the reports he read about the early days of our invasion, this place was full of wounded from the attacks against Alnus Hill. Now, it is very peaceful with the remaining people that are still recovering from their wounds. Now, this facility mainly tends to refugees, any of our troops and the locals from the Alnus Community.

Willington walks through the plaza as he looks for Duran. The female elf assistant at the front office told him he should be here. It is interesting how fast the local Alnus population has integrated with the base.

That's when he hears someone yelling his occupation Ambassador.

He looks around and sees Duran, sitting in this armchair. Finally finding him, he walks over, adjusting the folders between his arms.

"Why hello Mister Ambassador. What can I do for you today? It has been a while since we last had our talk." Duran says as he puts down some kind of nutritional smoothie.

"Yes, it has. I see you are enjoying the benefits of Western civilization." Willington says as he takes a seat next to Duran. At first, he was against trying our food and drinks, believing we were just trying to bribe him.

"Western?" Duran asks, not fully understand the context of the direction.

Willington lightly shakes his head, having his hands not to worry about it. "Will explain later."

Duran chuckles and crosses his arms. He's an old man, his manner tells a story that he has seen much in his life and that he had endured much. Even with all that, his attitude also shows that life hasn't pushed him down. "So, I hear your special trip with the Empire went well Ambassador."

If he already heard what happen, that pretty much means everyone has. "So, you have heard," Willingdon says, still forcing himself to wake up.

"I could have told you this before talks even began," Duran says, speaking with experience.

This would upset Willington somewhat. "If you knew this was going to fail, why didn't you say that? If I recall, you seemed supportive once I told you I am meeting with Princess Pina."

Duran nods his head, knowing he was supportive of the talks. "Pina is young but naïve. Good intentions however she wants to prove herself and has no idea how to achieve that. Trusting her was doomed to start. But not for the reasons you are thinking. She never was ready to handle a task like this. Not as long as her family still influences her. The rest of them would never agree to any terms that makes them weak."

"Again, they why didn't you say anything. All this could have been avoided. Maybe we could have rescued our people from the Empire earlier. If you knew they had our people, you should have told me." Willington says in an angry but controlled tone.

"I did not know about the girl or was involved with any others that were taken," Duran says and then looks to the Ambassador. "I quickly learned that your people are far stronger than anyone on this land. However, I also learned you are very naïve people."

"You do not understand the day to day life here. If you can't understand our world, you will fail. Your advance weapons and tasty smoothies will not endure here." Duran says, trying to share wisdom with the Ambassador. He then holds up one figure from his current good arm. "Dealing with the Empire results in nothing good. If it wasn't the girl, it would be something else sooner or later. It is better now you learn then later. When the cost would be far higher."

Willington was going to protest what Duran said but notice he was making a point. He couldn't disagree with what he is saying, not in a debate. It still didn't settle well though. "We have a saying for that. If you give a man a fish he eats for a day, if you teach a man how to fish, he eats for a lifetime."

Duran nods his head, resting his arm. "That is a very good saying. Our is more related to a sword but still wise."

"Still," Willington says, now wanting to make his point. "That lesson did not have to involve an innocent girl. You should have told me, so we went in prepared."

"The world isn't going to conform to you because you wish it. You must see it to understand it. You fight far away, never seeing your enemy in the eyes. You use words and ideas to counter your enemy. That might be enough in your world but not here." Duran leans back and then takes a sip from his smoothie. He then puts it down relaxing. "If you truly want peace, you must learn and earn it. Only then this world will conform to your will."

Willington sits there, really annoyed. It is true, he thought he would compete for his mission from his desk, talking to the royal family. His ignorance prevented him from seeing the truth.

Duran, seeing that the American accept his point. "Now next time you won't make this mistake again. Now you won't forget to think about your people." He then looks and sees a folder in his arms. "I take it this wasn't a social visit?"

"No, I came to finish our last discussions. Officially ending the war between our two States and begin trade." Willington says. He takes the folders and places it on the small stand between them both.

"I see. Last time we talked you said your people were interested in minerals." Duran says, recalling their past conversation. "However, I want more."

"More?" Willington says confused. They haven't had much time to talk about details. The big problem he has faced so far in this world is the information and resources we take for granted they have yet to discover. So much has to be explained and taught.

"I have been reading up on some of your people's history and economics. You are an Empire; you can name it whatever you like but this is a fact of life. Your Empire is based on… what is that word? Its another word for trade."

"Commerce?" Willington says, assuming that is what he's talking about.

"Yes. Interestingly, you created an Empire based around commerce and not continue expansion. Excluding the early parts of your history." Duran says and then smirks. "Interesting thought, it seems all great powers were built on expansion on others in some manner."

"You can't change the past but only learn and improve so you don't make the same mistake in the future. That is what we value." Willington says, feeling defensive. That's probably because of how little sleep he has gotten. That and Washington is breathing down his neck for results.

"Don't take it personally. I fully agree. And that is why I want more than a trade agreement for our food and resources." Says Duran.

"Wait, what?" Willington says and then thinks. We have a large NATO and other nation's presence here. He has probably talked to them and gain another perspective on how we maintain our hegemony on Earth. "You want our security guarantees."

"Yes. My army was destroyed by your forces. That was not your fault but the Empire tricking me to fight an already lost battle. I want nothing to do with the Empire anymore." Says Duran. He has thought about what he wanted. "You need an ally in this world that understand these lands and understand the world. It is fine that you have those people in that Alnus town, but their diplomatic and economic usefulness is limited right now."

Willington nods in agreement to what he's saying. Honestly, he was going to bring something like this up down the road. After more trust was built and a better understanding of how the nations of their world work. He is pleased there talking about a treaty with real subtense however he can tell he wanted to start this topic, so he controlled the narrative of the negotiations.

"I believe the Senate will agree to provide security guarantees but there are strings attached that we need to clear up," Willington replies.

He can tell from his face that Duran was expecting this. "We're going to need to establish a NATO facility there for our aircraft and troops. We act independently and move in and out without needed prior permission. On top of that, we will not aid in any internal dispute your Kingdom might have. This guarantee only applies to external threats like the Empire."

Duran was surprised by that part, not aiding during civil disputes. Usually when an ally kingdom station troops, they help out during a civil crisis.

"If we are attacked, you will aid us?" Duran asks, just making sure he understands.

"Yes," Willington replies. "In addition, your people are responsible for our people safe. That includes citizens from Alnus Community. We can't have a trade if our traders are under attack."

"hmm. I understand. I demand the same treatment though." Duran says. He sees the Ambassador nod his head in the mutual agreement. Already getting what he wanted from the Americans, he nods his head agreeing to the terms.

"How for economics." Duran happily says. Since being here he has seen so many things he never could have imagined. Even in their picture booklets, more amazing items like tools and nonflammable light. That's not even including the tasty food.

"It is always about the money," Willington smirks after saying that.

"Yes, it is. Last time we talked it was related to agriculture. Since then I have noticed all your supplies come through the Gate. Is that still true?" Duran asks, already knowing what the Ambassador going to say.

Already seeing where this is going, Willington nods his head yes. "Of course. When the Gate opened, it became a third boarder for our nation."

"Supplying this many troops and those civilians must be taxing on your supply wagons." Duran points out. "The Gate is still like a bridge, you can only bring in so much at a time."

"We have managed however we are a nation of business. One of our primary goals for this world is to establish trade relations. Resources and knowledge." Willington already knows where this is going.

Duran sees were the winds are blowing and wants to capitalize on all of it. If he can, the Kingdom of Elbe could become a very wealthy country. This can also help justify the cost for the next stage of Alnus expansion down the road.

Duran continues, wanting to say what he wants to say first. "Selling your foodstuff will require more work for my people. In exchange for food, I want technology and knowledge on how to better our yearly yield."

"That can work. Just a reminder, we can't give our advance technology to you. It is not because we don't want to share it, you don't have the short-term logistics and infostructure to handle it." Wellington says, wanting to make sure he understands they are not trying to screw him down the road.

Duran nods his head, already expecting something like that to be said. "I understand. As your saying went from before, I fully intended not to be a vassal again. My people need to learn how to use and master gifts. Only then we can be truly free."

Willington smile. "Alright. I agree. Now for my side. If we had this conversation before the throne incident, the Senate might have agreed to a trade agreement. Now, they won't if the labor comes from slave labor. Anyone who sells to Alnus Hill must give some of their profits to their slaves, as compensation for their work. Your Kingdom will figure out how to do this but failed to enforce it will result in sanctions and fines."

Duran looks at him. He clearly miscalculated on that. A lot of his nobles will be upset sharing some of their wealth with slaves. However, though, this isn't a hill worth dying on. What he said before about what happened in the Throne room was true but there was a second reason. He wanted to see how far these people are willing to go, and he got his answer. "It won't be easy, but it has my support."

Ending slavery has always been easier said than done. Even today there are areas in failed states that still conduct the practice. We only ended the war against ISIS five years ago who was trying to reestablish the Islamic Slave Trade, it has deep roots. However though, if we can change the incentives and make them compensate for their labor, that should end the institution in time. Hopefully without a bloody civil war like we had.

"Since we are on the topic. If you have any of our people or find any of our people. You are responsible to provide safety and protection until we can come and get them. No harm can be given to any of our people. That includes the Alnus population." Willington says in a serious voice. Making it clear this isn't up for negotiation. "Anyone who breaks your laws will be returned to Alnus for punishment. We are not going to accept this world version of punishment."

"How am I supposed to know they are from Alnus?" Duran asks quickly.

That question trumps Willington. That is a very good question, how do we prevent anyone from claiming they are from here. That can lead to trouble down the road. "I am going to have to get back to you. We are still setting up Alnus."

"We can continue on that part later, but I think we will figure it out," Duran says, confident they will work it out.

Duran, seeing no way around that issue without displeasing the Americans. He nods again agreeing to the terms. "I think we have some understanding. Now, what about those minerals you were talking about last time?"

"Yes, we get exploration right on your territory. Anything we find that you can use we get with compensation. Anything we find that your people also want and need, we can work out a joint project to share the resource." Willington says, now wanting to take the narrative. "We are happy to employ people form your kingdom and provide technical training. Again though, slave and forced labor will be banned on all joint projects.

Duran wonders what kind of resources the Ambassador might be talking about. They have a far more understanding of science then this world does. That is the knowledge he wants to acquire.

Finally, he nods in agreement. "I believe we have a treaty, Ambassador Willington."

Willington stands up, happy to get this issue mostly off his to-do list. "Alright, once the treaty is signed, we are happy to establish an Embassy at your capital and a NATO base."

Willington holds out his hand and then Duran grabs it.

"I do have one more thing," Duran says. Seeing the Ambassador confusion, he pulls out a picture from his clothes and shows him.

Willington takes the picture and smirks. The picture is a big red Ram Dodge truck.

"I would like one of those as part of the treaty," Duran says.

Willington hands him the picture and nods. "I will see what I can do."

***

--- Fort Alnus, Uros (Special Region) ---

It has been a few hours since Vanguard-7 arrived back to base. They had to do a short stop at Itálica to pick up the girls. When they arrived, the base was buzzing with activity, everyone getting ready for a big operation.

The girl Noriko was sent to the Army Hospital to give her proper treatment. What a tragedy for someone so young to have to go through something like that. However, though, anyone who went through that has a strong spirit. Hopefully, with some time she can pull out of it.

Sharpe ordered the team to get some rest, the drive to Sadera and back has been tiring. He wants everyone in good shape for the mission, whatever it will be. Afterward, to get ready to be deployed.

Sharpe is in the office with his commanding officer, Colonel John Yang. He is shorter than him, a thin black mustache.

Yang is sitting at his desk, reading the makeshift report that Sharpe wrote up. "No reason why you have Lieutenant Rose doing all your paperwork. Your spelling sucks, your grammar worse. I don't even know what that word is."

Sharpe is sitting in the chair across the desk. "I am sorry sir. I was in a rush to get it done in the vehicle. Information and speed is the key here."

"True to that," Yang says as he puts the file down.

"Is there a problem sir?" Sharpe asks, sensing something is off. This wouldn't be the first time he been the other end of the official office.

"Honestly no. You did your duty. The Lieutenant General and the President seems to agree with your handling with the situation. Not thrilled but you got one of our people back from that hell hole." Yang says, leaning back in his chair staring at Sharpe.

Sharpe sits there staring at him, saying nothing.

"You might have jumped the gun in the throne room but that's semantics. My issue is with tomorrow." Yang says.

Sharpe understands where he is going with this. This isn't the first time he heard this topic.

"I can see you know what I am going to say," Yang says, thinking what he wants to say. "Look, I was not thrilled about how you were transferred into my unit. But you have proven yourself enough for me to let that go. I don't know what kind of bad luck you have but you seem to be in the right spot at the right time."

"I notice that to sir." Sharpe finally says something.

"Here is the thing." Yang then leans forward on his desk. "You are to involve. That girl, her name is Selina correct. Everyone likes her, even me. Don't take this the wrong way at all but can you do that five hundred times?"

"I know I can't sir," Sharpe says. What he is talking about is the rule of five hundred. It is a business rule that explains that if you have an idea, multiply it by five hundred. If you can't do it then don't do it. Find a different way. A person can't do everything, the rule is meant to keep something from overstretching. "I understand, I can separate the meanings from the emotions."

"Maybe too well Major," Yang says. "Look, I am not trying to be a prick or put you on the spot. This is been a conversation I been needing to have for a while. I have a friend in SOCOM to, I know some of the classified stuff. I just need you to understand you need to have a line."

"I understand sir," Sharpe says.

"Do you? From my seat, it doesn't seem you do. You know but your actions always lean the other way." Colonel Yang says, trying to make a point to Sharpe. "If this was anyone else, I wouldn't be having this conversation. I just don't want a bunch of Rangers or innocent people dying for some moral crusade."

Sharpe takes a deep breath. He knows what the Colonel is saying is correct. He likes to keep things to the c.h.e.s.t, doesn't like to lose anyone. If he can do it, he usually will. That's not the job of a leader. "I understand."

"I know you like movies. Remember Saving Private Ryan. Helping people can lead your unit to their deaths." Yang says. "Like with the Flame Dragon. You got lucky you had Rory and Lelei with you. If they didn't intervene, a lot more people would have died, including your team."

Then Sharpe stands up, sensing the conversation is about to end.

"Sharpe. After everything that's been said, keep doing what you are doing. I want more allies like Rory and your magic friend Lelei." Yang says as he stands up. He holds out his hand. "Just make sure you be responsible when your act."

Sharpe shakes his Colonel's hand. "Roger that sir."

After that Sharpe walks out of the Colonel's office and head outside of the building. That was a bit frustrating for him. Back at the Throne room he wanted to kill Pina for using him. But more strongly kill the Prince, whatever his name is.

Sharpe knows the Colonel had every right to talk to him, probably his Logistic Officer Sarah told him what she saw. He doesn't blame her; it is her duty and it was the right thing to do. If she didn't come back right when she didn't, he knows deep down inside he would have put two bullets in the prince's head.

After taking a deep breath he is heading to his team barracks. To give his team briefing and would need to hand it to First Lieutenant Sarah. It is related to the upcoming attack on Sadera.

Normally he would do the briefing, like being hands-on as much as possible however he has to go with Charles, Randy, and the other officers and head Non-Commission Officers or NCOs to the main briefing. Four Vanguard teams are going in and a Navy Seal team. When they still don't know.

It seems Stanford is not holding back. It seems he is fully intending to make an example out of this crisis.

When his team was on their way back from Italica, they saw an armored convoy heading to Sadera. Both American and Japanese. What was strange is they were transporting three Apache attack helicopters.

As he heads to his barracks, Rory appears right next to him. It was like she was waiting for him.

"Why hello boss," Rory says as she grabs his arm and then rubs her head against his arm.

He did not expect her to be there so that startled him.

"Wow, I scared you." She giggled.

"Yeah. Not an easy task." Sharpe says as he catches his breath. "What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be getting sleep?"

"Na, I don't need sleep. Well, I do but not that much. Only when I want to be around someone is when I get tired." Rory says, flirting with him a little.

Sharpe begins feeling a little awkward by that. Being flirted with by a nine-hundred-year-old girl with the body that's thirteen. There's no rule book on how to understand that.

As they both begin walking, Rory looks up at him.

"I heard what happen. I want to say I am sorry that I was not there." Rory says. "I promised I was going to help your people, but I was selfish."

"You have nothing to be sorry about Rory. It wasn't your fault." Sharpe says back to her. "Besides you were right. You said in Italica that we relied on you too much. I know you were joking but it is true."

Rory knew he would say that first part. It might be technically true, but that still didn't make her feel it was true. She forgot that she said that, was just poking fun at them.

"When you picked us up, I don't think I ever saw you that angry before," Rory says to him.

"You haven't seen anything Rory." Sharpe quickly says back to her, saying from experience. "You will know when I get angry."

Well, Emroy going to love you that day." She says chuckling. "Still, I know your people hate that topic. I also know your people love your people. At least compared to nations of this world. But why did you take it so personally? Did you know the girl?"

Sharpe wouldn't respond. He would take his cap off, not enjoying where the topic is going. He's stressed, there is a lot of work to do in preparing for the upcoming op. Trying to think of every situation that can happen when we attack and what he doesn't think of is what will probably happen.

Ge waves her off with his hand. Basically, warning her to knock it off.

"You can tell me, or I beat it out of you," Rory says to him, grabbing his shoulder again.

Sharpe thinks about her question. He already knows his answer. Well, he thinks he does.

"Major…?" Rory asks again, wanting him to open up.

"It's because I f.u.c.k.e.d up Rory. I messed up big." Sharpe says to her.

Now she didn't expect him to say that. Seeing that this was going to be a far bigger conversation, she stops him. "Let us just hang out here. It is a beautiful sunset. Flare is blessing us tonight."

He takes a deep breath and stops. He then leans against a building realizing that he couldn't say no to a woman. Especially one that can snap him in half like a twig. "I don't want to talk about its Rory. I have a lot of work to do."

Rory smiles at him and then leans her back against him. "Well fine then. I have something to say."

Sharpe feels a bit uncomfortable with her there. In combat he's ok being close to people because it is combat, there is context. Privately though, he's grown to prefers to have personal space. She and everyone else knows that but she seems to not care about that preference.

She glances up and gives him a wink. "We had fun in Italica. The three of us had an interesting conversation while we were walking through the market."

Sharpe glances down at her wondering what this is going.

"We saw a slave auction happening. In all my time alive, all those hundreds of years. It was the first time I thought about it. I was disgusted by what I saw." Rory says, taking a breath. "Lelei said the same thing. I felt pretty bad for the people I saw. I felt worse afterward because all the years I been alive, I only started thinking about it now. Towards the end of my physical form."

"Well… I am proud of you. All three of you." Sharpe says, not knowing what to say.

Rory then looks back up. "What I am saying is that I am glad you and everyone else came to this world. I don't know why the Gate was activated but I am really happy." She says in a soft warning voice.

Sharpe smiles and rubs her head. "Well, Rory. I am happy I meant you and the others. Honestly, you have been a massive help. You have earned a massive amount of respect with my people. From me. I'm glad your on the team."

"I do need to get going. Big Op coming." Sharpe says and then tries to leave. To his confusion, Rory won't move. That normally wouldn't be a problem with a thirteen-year-old girl body but this is Rory after all.

Rory is leaning against him, not wanting him to leave yet. She can sense a feeling within him. She always has felt this since they first meant but right now its presence is growing, feeding.

She first notices Palapon, the God of Revenge's influence within him when they first meant at that village. But the presence was the only minor. What attracted her to him is how strong Emroy presence within him. There are hundreds of reasons why Man fights wars but very few fights with love, the true darkness that births life in the world. Most don't understand that about the Emroy, most only see it as death and war. You can't have either without love, good or bad.

Rory didn't understand why there's that deep d.e.s.i.r.e for revenge, but she has no intention of letting Palapon take him away from her.

After thinking about that, she looks back up to him. "Sharpe, why do you care so much."

Sharpe looks down wondering what's going on through her head. "Well, it's wrong. You can't put a-"

What an idiot she thinks. Always thinking with his head. "No, why did you care."

She knows he understands what she is referring to. The refugees from the village, helping Lelei and Selina. Italica and many others. However though, if he's that thick-headed, there's going to be a big red hard mark over his face.

There is a short pause as he thinks about his answer. He could have easily answered that question not too long ago.

"Because it could have been my sister. Could have been someone I knew." Sharpe says, still trying to avoid answering the question.

Taking a deep breather, he leans his head back against the wall. "I wasn't really popular when I was young. Pretty much as an outcast for most of it, just getting by."

Rory smiles seeing she's finally cracking that outer shell. Then she runs against him a bit getting cozy.

Sharpe lets her since Rory always does what she likes. "I got a lot of my morals from films and books. My personal favorite is We Were Soldiers. The film and book. He says, being more candid now. "Then Colonel Hal Moore. Read all his books. I don't know how true he was but he was the one that made me think about how important character is. Cared about his men, didn't care about outer differences. Always being prepared. He made me love the military when I was a kid."

There's another shot pause as Sharpe thinks. "I don't really know. There's a lot of people I looked up to growing up. Most of them came from everyday life and I respected that. They could have just accepted things, accepted the world the way it was but chose not to." Sharpe says, speaking more freely now.

Rory then giggles after hearing all that. "Aren't you forget someone? Your Optimus leader figure."

"He's not real," Sharpe says. "That is there just for fun."

Hearing that Rory rolls her eyes. "He is real to you. Why else do you have that figure? I see you staring at it when you're thinking." She is serious but in a joyful tone. Trying to keep the good mood going.

Realizing there is no point resisting since she still has him pinned. "I have it because I highly respect him, the idea of him. It is there as a visual reminder when I face something I don't know how to tackle. He's a great leader, cares about his people. When he makes a mistake, he owns up to it. Most importantly, he does the right thing because it's the right thing. No BS behind it."

He thinks for a moment and takes a light breath. "I have it to remind me to keep my feet on the ground, what's important."

Right then he thinks. It can be crazy that something fictional can be an example. But, there's plenty of that. Going from Star Wars, Star Trek, comics like DC and others.

"To answer your first question, Rory. I care because someone has to. I care because it is the right thing. Always staying true to yourself." Sharpe mentions, thinking more deeply about why he first enlisted and pushed so hard.

"Because life is important, you never know who going to make a difference in the world. Like the people, I read in my books like Moore. While I think life is important and be great, there are people out there in the world. People who bully and do harm to others just because they can." Sharpe says, more convicted now

He then looks down and smiles. "The reason I do what I do, why I give a damn is because someone has. Because I can. It is not for wealth or glory. Not to be remembered in the history books but just because it is my duty. It's because I can do something, so I have to do something."

Rory looks up and him, smiling at him. She can see some purpose and life in his eyes. When a man goes into battle, it is important to know why what god he's going to serve. Are you going to fight because you are full of hate and revenge or because of war and love?

When they first meant, she assumed he was just the generic soldier who took orders and fought battles. But saving Selina and then helping the people the deep truth. Since meeting him, her belief in him has been proven truer. She will not allow another god to take him, especially Palapon. Not again.

Feeling Emroy warmth get stronger and satisfied by her plan worked, she takes a step toward and turn around. That's when her arm forms a salute towards him. "I am ready to go to battle Major. Just tell me what to do."

Sharpe chuckles at her and gives her a salute back. He is always surprised by her and the others. Never a dull day in the Special Region. "First, I need to get to my office. Be ready to go when we're called. It can happen anytime in the next forty-eight hours."

***

--- Akusho, Uros (Special Region) ---

It has been three weeks since we arrived in Sadera. This place is a dump, even by my standards. There is barely any sanitation in this part of the city, no security or police. Mugged, kidnapped and **** daily, in full view of everyone. No one care, I am in pure shock that Akusho hasn't descended into pure anarchy.

That's probably because the only real form of governance is the crime lords. Five families who control this city.

Eight years in the Central Intelligence Agency as an undercover agent. Doing the dirty tasks so the Defense Department can look clean for the public.

"James Garcia. I have new orders from Fort Alnus." Sean says. He is one of two agents that came with me to this rat filled city.

"What, another situation report? We haven't had any orders to do anything of substance." James says with some frustration in his voice.

He talks over and takes the radio from Sean.

When they first arrived in this city, they had no idea where to even go. Back on Earth, we have information on every country, agents everywhere. Our satellites and our cyber division allowed us to see and hear people from any corner on the world if needed.

For the first time in agency history, we are completely clueless about what to do. We have no infrastructure, no data, no pre-intelligence on the enemy. Hell, we had more information on Afghanistan before we invaded, and that information was based on two-hundred-year-old information.

Our job is the fix that, come here and gather as much information we can. How their society works, important culture, even the food they eat. Sounds easy but when we don't even know the people lingo, it is hard to fit in. Easier said than done.

There only been two good things that happen so far on this mission. One is that this cat-person allowed us to use her home as a safe house. I think she wanted us as security, to prevent someone from breaking to do god knows what. Either way, she helped us get up to speed quickly.

The other is making connections with the Crime Lords.

In the five years I worked in the Middle East, you had to work on a tribal level. Find what the tribe wants and provide it. In return, they help you. In a wired way, the CIA is like a utility company to some of those tribes. The only major difference is that if we screw up, there is a bullet in our head.

"Fort Alnus, this is team lead. What can I do for you?" James asks.

The conversation was far more serious then he expected. He heard about the shootout at the capital but didn't have orders to come out of hiding. He asked command what happens, but no information was given, until now.

They informed him of the situation and gave a new order. As he listens, he snaps his fingers, telling the other two to come over.

"Roger that sir. We will get it done." James says over the radio.

Once he puts the radio down, he looks over to his team. "Listen up, it is worse than we thought. Apparently, the Ranger team found one of our civilians as a s.e.x slave. They had to shoot their way out to save her."

"Really? They just found out? We could have told them that. Why didn't they assume they had our people." Tycen Taylor says in a c.o.c.ky no shit black southern tone. He is being a bit hyperbolic but still, the powers in be should have figured that out a long time ago.

"No shit. I think our Director didn't want to get too involved in the fight." Sean responds.

"Agreed. But now it's on the front page, that is our mission. The girl that was rescued said they are at least two left in the city. Maybe more throughout the Empire." James says, explaining his new order. "Our job is to find their location so a strike team can liberate them."

"How the hell are we supposed to do that?" Sean asks, gathering some supplies.

"What is the time frame?" Tycen asks to.

"We have thirty-six hours." James answers.

Both of them stop and look at him.

"Your f.u.c.k.i.n.g kidding me," Sean says, annoyed by the timeframe.

"We can go to crime lords. They might be able to buy some information." Tycen throws out an idea.

"At what price." James thinks about the idea. Not seeing a more efficient idea, they should ask two million people in Sadera.

That is when the cat-person walks in with some tea. Her name is Nelisia, she looks more human than the other Leonoids. She has orange short hair and has a high spirit of life. From what he knows, she has been alone for a long time.

She owns a business inside her home. She fixes clothing and other textile. Not a lot of money, however, it has kept a roof over her head.

"Be careful in dealing with the Crime Lords. They are only interested in expanding their power and wealth. Especially the Bessara family." Nelisia says to them, trying her best to help.

James sits down on this homemade wooden chair and thinks about her advice. "Thanks for the tip."

"What's the plan blondie?" Sean asks his boss.

Sean is referring to James has his darker blondish hair. That includes his beard. All three of them have beards in some way. All intended to blend in more.

That's when James snaps his fingers with an idea. "We play hardball."

"That a good idea sir? Our job is to be undercover. Not be the Army." Tycen says.

James nodding his head as he listens. "Doesn't really matter. The minute we walk into the Crime Lords building, we will have a target on our back."

That's when they all hear Nelisia say something. "Everyone in Akusho already knows you're here. So, I wouldn't worry too much about that."

That wouldn't be the first time she said something like that. However, though it is completely true. It is easy to tell they are not from around here. No one seems to care.

Since they first got here, they rarely have seen the Empire presence here. The only time they have seen an official soldier or politician is when there doing something shady or buying some p.r.o.s.t.i.t.u.t.e. It has been interesting spying g on these elites on what they do in the shadows.

"So let us make a presence. Seal tells command we will need a need to establish a safe house here." James says.

Tycen raises a point. "Didn't we see some warehouse last week? The one with the drugs."

"That warehouse is owned by the Bessara family," Nelisia says, picking up the teacups.

James looks to Nelisia. "Thank you. We can take that from them if they don't want to work with us." He then looks to his team. "Alright, we're going in and see where the cards land. At least one of the families will work with us, under the table."

James then looks at Sean. "Tell command those Marines that are on standby, send them in. I need them to take the warehouse and everything inside. If they have any SFs they can spare, I will be happy to take them. We will go to the family and force their hand."

"Do we have an understanding?" James asks and looks around.

Everyone nods their head. He got the idea from the Dark Knight film. They are crime lords, they only care about one thing, money, and power. We quickly push them and back them into a corner. Give them a choice, give us what we want or die and lose everything. See who breaks and cooperate with us and then eliminate everyone else who doesn't.

Special Thanks to fresh_nigga_in_pants, Tomrishman, EmptyDesgin for helping me resolve, fix and explore some character and plot points.