Update in 10/08/20 - Major changes in this chapter.

Chapter 10: The Goth Apostle

October 27, 20XX

Dimension: Falmart

Back at the Grasslands, Dimitri and Chernov were on top of the Grassland City walls, holding a Russian SV-98 rifle in their hands. They watch as the Russian troops coming back with the purple-haired girl knight that they shot earlier. Dimitri still remembered that day after entering the Gate, the Russian Army begin their counter attack by unleashing their full weaponry against their invaders, something Dimitri would never forget in his life.

Not long after their counter-invasion, they took the city that appears to be an Elven architecture from Japanese video games and the Gate within the city square. Also, they used the ruins of the Elven castle as their temporary base until a new Russian building would be built.

After taking the former Elven kingdom hours after their invasion, the enemy, calling themselves the 'Sadera Empire', tried to launch their counter-attack. With the help of Russia's T-72 tanks and 9K22 Tunguska SPAAG, they succeeded repelled the enemy's advance, despite their massive numbers. With their superior's permission, they began their early offensive against the Empire. Along the way, they took several outposts and other few forts from the Elven province before invading on the locals called the 'Grassland Province'.

The Russian Army kept pushing onwards until they see a city on the horizon. The locals that the Russians liberated in a nearby town said that the city they called was 'Grassland City' and it was the home of their previous king until the imperials killed him and taking the city for themselves rather for the people. With the locals help, the GRU sneak into the city silently and took down many of imperial defenders as they could, including an imperial governor controlling the city.

Because of this, the Russian Army managed to take the city in just a day from imperial occupation. Also, the Grassland citizens that lived the city cheered for the Otherworlders as they paraded inside the city and started seeing them as saviors, much to the Russians surprise. The ones loyal to the Empire were quickly round up and imprisoned them underneath the castle's prisons. Hours later, they declared the entire province as Russian territory and the city itself would be turning into a Republic quite soon.

Weeks after taking the Grassland City and its province, GRU operatives reported that some knights from their capital city would be heading in this region in a couple of weeks. The Russian commander, in charge of the expedition force, decided to deceive their enemy by 'convincing' an imperial prisoner to betray the Empire in exchange for his freedom if he sends false news about their soldiers were holding the enemy.

Once the imperial succeeded in misleading their enemy, the same commander then later ordered the GRU operatives to shoot him in silence before he can tell to anyone else.

It was unethical, sure, but Dimitri wasn't surprised by it. He's been with the army for so long that he knew what kind of the Russian Army does its job, unlike the West. Much like Viktor, he too felt loss after losing her sister by the Chechen rebels in Volgodonsk. He wanted to pay those terrorists back for what they did to his only family, which is why he joined the Russian Army in the first place.

Several soldiers from the Russian Army returned after the two of them taking care of the enemy's scouting force, with only one female purple-haired young knight from the retreating scout taking as their prisoner. Dimitri could've swore this girl was a young one; a teenager and always wondered why the enemy uses young children in the battlefield.

If this scouting force was none other than newbies from their army, he theorized, then he had should….

But just as they were about to reach the gate with their new prisoner, he and Chernov were took back by surprise when the girl suddenly strike back by her captors by kicking one of them in the chin before starting recklessly fighting them with her legs, despite her hands been tied. She then kicked two of the soldiers in a chest and gave the other one a head-butt to the face.

Before she can plan to run away, she was shot though her legs as falls down to the ground, screaming in pain. He and Chernov looked below and saw Viktor pointing an APS pistol to her as the barrel from his gun was smoking.

"Crazy bitch…." Viktor commented. Two of the Russian soldiers behind Viktor helped their injured Russian brothers by restraining the girl hard as one young soldier begin tying her up. The young knight was now struggling furiously as she tried hopelessly to break free from her captors but to no avail as the Russian soldiers led her forcefully inside the city. Viktor blow the smoke from his barrel before putting it back into his holster as Dimitri and Chernov jump from the walls.

He notice this as he turns around and greets the both of them. "Good work Dimitri and Chernov! Nice shooting back there." Viktor congratulated the two of them.

"It wasn't hard Viktor." Dimitri replied as he put his rifle in his back. "Those imperial bastards know what's coming for them."

"Good for you Dimitri! I like that." Viktor said happily as he nodded. He then notice Chernov's uneasiness. "Comrade Chernov, you're not feeling well. Are you alright?"

"I'm fine comrade Viktor. It's just that… I'm fine killing those imperial bastards that attacked our motherland, I don't see why we have to kill one of these knights, especially when they are younger than our enemies."

But Viktor's eyes widen in surprise at Chernov's statement. "Did you forget about what they did to Russia? What they did to Russian men, women and children as they fought with their lives? No! Those who join the enemy who attacked OUR motherland and who holds the enemy flag, whether they are young or old, would be met with our unbridle rage as we march to their capital."

He then narrowed his eyes at Chernov. "In our eyes, they are the enemy now and they would be treated as such. Do you best to remember that Chernov."

Chernov nodded as he reluctantly agreed with him, even though he still felt unease about what he did. Dimitri gaze at him in pity. Although he is a loyal soldier of Russia, he knew that deep down that Chernov is not a heartless person and cared for the innocents, unlike his fellow compatriots that he met during his time. Viktor also knew this as well but somehow, he allowed Chernov to join his unit after its formation although he was sometimes annoyed with him that puts them in odds.

Despite their differences though, they work together to protect Russia from their enemies and would invade another country that threated them to war, which they did just weeks ago. Much like the Russian commander said back before the counter invasion of their enemy's lands, they kept their promise. Maybe it was the first time in battle or sickening, he wasn't sure but decided to keep his mouth shut.

Just then, a Russian soldier comes up behind them. "Comrades. Commander Dima ordered me to bring you all in the Command Post for next briefing."

"Very good soldier!" Viktor said. "Tell Commander Dima he would be expecting us shortly."

"Yes sir." Viktor and the soldier saluted each other before the latter went off somewhere. "Come mon brothers! Don't let our commander kept in waiting." Then the 3 of them are now heading towards the Northeastern side of the city where the former imperial barrack was now turned into a Forward Operating Base by the Russians for their military operations in the Special Region while installing a government in the city under Russian rule.

Along the way, they saw several Russian soldiers assisting the locals rebuilding houses that have been blown by their artilleries as housing supplies were sent from the Novinka Gate by the Russian government. Seeing this act makes Chernov smile. "Looks like our brothers are starting to connect with the people here. From what the locals told me, they were enslaved by the Empire after they won and took all of their belongings, including their freedom."

"Indeed Chernov." Viktor nodded. "These people know only slavery and nothing else. Without our help, they would suffered even more under their imperialistic rule."

"It's a good thing we liberated them from the Empire right?" Dimitri asked as he saw a Russian soldier helping an orc creature building a new store. "From what I heard, the Empire treated the kingdoms with little to no respect. Not to mention they treated the non-humans like they were nothing more than a product or just used as a toy for the disgusting imperial nobles." Then he spat into the ground. "At least the West is tolerant towards the other countries."

Viktor seems insulted at Dimitri's last statement. "Don't speak of the West, Dimitri. They claim to liberate other countries from tyranny and sought to spread their 'democracy'. But like all western governments, they only care about greed and suffering of other people lives, including their own. Thus, they are nothing more than an evil driven-capitalist. I remember our last president, promising freedom and welfare for our people. Instead, that man brought nothing more than bring misery and lives of Russian people."

Yes. He remembered that event very well. When he was in high school in 2000s, he learned that the Soviet Union was one of Superpower on Earth before its collapse in 1991. The first president of Russia was elected since the fall of Soviet Union, which is also the one who dissolved the Union, sought to install Democracy in its constitution and promised freedom and rights for all Russian people rather be ruled by an authoritarian rule.

It was a noble cause, sure, Dimitri was no doubt about that. What the first president didn't know, however, he was bringing chaos throughout Russia for nearly a decade. Their economy was in a complete freefall after the Russian government sold their properties to Russian influencers, which they later call themselves as Russia's oligarchs. Not to mention, they were terrorized by Russia's separatists who wanted to break up with Russia as a whole. What's even worse, is that the first president sold his entire political power to the same Oligarchs in his effort to stay in power.

As a result, Russians in that timeline faced immeasurable inequality and suffered mass corruptions everywhere in the state. If not for their successor, Russia would've been seen as a poorer country than in Africa or even in the Middle East. Dimitri was even glad that Russia avoid that fate. If it did, he would have never learn anything about Russia or its history.

No wonder Sergeant Viktor was pissed about this. "I understand Sergeant, I should've said anything about those Western governments. However, you must understand that there are some Americans that respected Russia and even hated their governments somewhat."

"That's true." Viktor agreed. He remembered he was sent to America by his superiors to learn more about America's politics under the guise of a transfer student. Much to his surprise, Viktor found some Americans enjoying the lifestyle of Russia and saw some American bikers in a nearby university drinking Vodka; one of Russia's finest alcohol. During his time in America, he met a particular young man whom he befriended after saving him from thugs.

Despite their difference in patriotism through their countries, however, it didn't stop their friendship and continue to hang out with each other until the end of their school year, which they go to their separate ways. Nonetheless, Viktor was no doubt excited to see that young man again but he needed to wait until their war with the Empire was over.

He wonder how that man was doing right now.

His though was stopped when the three of them arrived at the entrance of Russia's newly built FOB, guarded by two Russian soldiers at the entrance. Viktor coughed. "It looks like we're here. Come brothers, we must not let Commander Dima waiting for us for longer."

Dimitri and Chernov nodded in agreement as the three of them greeted the soldiers there in salute before heading inside the compound, with Viktor expecting a new mission giving to them that would make those invaders pay.

October 28, 20XX

"Hey man, wake up!"

"Must be those training sessions. Let me sleep…"

"Fuck that dude! There's some Gothic Lolita girl with an axe outside the gate!"

"Wait… a woman with an axe?" Itami groaned as he loudly yawn after he and his teammates were ordered for night shift as part of their punishment. Rubbing his eyes, he gets off from his bunk bed and faced Kurata, who is at the door. "What's this about an axe and a girl?" Itami asked.

"Come and see for yourself!" Before Itami can say something, his partner/friend quickly left the barracks and went outside.

"Figures…." Itami tiredly sighed as he grabs his army jacket and pants and quickly wear them. Once done, he went outside and looked around his surroundings until he saw several soldiers blocking the gate. At that point, he could've have sworn that he saw Joshua and his partner Marvin behind the gathering troops, he didn't see Torres or his other teammates though.

He then went towards the two and both of them were surprised when they noticed Itami was behind them. "What's going on?"

"There some girl blocking the US Marines and doesn't want to move." Confused by Joshua's answer, Itami decided to just push through the crowd of soldiers. When he finally got through, he immediately saw what his partner describe; a young woman was wearing a Gothic clothing and has a large halberd on her shoulders. Although a young woman, Itami wasn't dense that this girl wasn't a normal girl at all. Being in this world for a month doesn't surprise him if this world has some giant serpent or a flying pigs.

It looks like Kurata is right for once.

"Excuse me miss…." Itami shook his head as he saw two US Marine soldiers approaching the young girl with several backing them up. "Are you in trouble or something? Because you're in our way of our mission. Please move away right now."

However, the girl didn't gave a response. Only tapping her face for a few seconds before putting her hand down. Slowly getting on the nerves, the US Marine continued. "Miss, if you don't have problems, can you please move? We're trying to move our vehicles so if you just…." Before the soldier can finish his sentence, the girl slammed her axe into the ground, which causes the soldiers some tense as they equipped their weapons.

Knowing this would cause tensions between the groups, Itami decided to step in and tries to mediate. "Woah there, little girl. These soldiers want to move their supplies, that's all." Itami happily said as he spoke the Saderean language. "There's no need for…."

Without warning, the young girl pointed her halberd threateningly at Itami, who puts his hands in the air in response. Seeing a fellow soldier being threaten, US Marines reacted by pointing their weapons to the Gothic girl as they slowly surrounded the girl in a circle formation. The onlookers, meanwhile, started to join with the US troops, with some went up the walls and pointed their rifles and machine guns at the girl.

"Aw shit! Itami! "Joshua yelled as he pointed his own weapon as well, worrying about Itami's safety, as well as his partner. But he notice that, despite the tense and soldiers shouting at the background, Itami and that Golitic girl were looking in each other's eyes like they were observing each other, never blinking.

Before they could move in, the girl finally spoke, though not what Joshua and Marvin were expecting. "So he is right? Are we fated to each other?" she asked Itami as her lips started to smile.

"Eh?" Itami asked in confusion.

"Is that the Oracle?"

"It is! Let's go."

Joshua widened his eyes as look back, only to see several children passing him by and the other soldiers before heading towards the girl. They expected her to attack the children but it was proven to be false as the weird girl was currently having a conversation with them. Seeing the girl was no longer a threat for now, all of the soldiers present lowered their weapons though kept their guards at any time.

"Where are you children from?"

"We're from Coda Village!" The village boy answered optimistically.

"Did those soldiers did anything to you and the villagers?"

But this time, a village girl shook her head. "No Oracle! These people help us from danger and build homes for us!" She happily explained. "They even gave us this delicious food. They called it Cho-co-lat! Look!" The village girl quickly grab something out of her pocket and gives to the Oracle, showing of an unwrapped half-bite chocolate.

"Cho-co-lat?" The Oracle raised her eyebrow in confusion. Pleased that this child was offering some of the Otherworlder's food, she accepts the offer before biting a piece of it.

As soon as she chews the chocolate, her eyes greatly widened at what she described as delicious and savory food that she had tasted in her whole life. She had been on almost in every continent, eating every food and even attended one of the finest party in the imperial courts. But this food is way sweatier than all the sweets of Sadera.

Liking the food she was given by the young girl, the Oracle once again asked her. "Do you have some of this little one?"

"Actually, we do. But it only for the children and the other refugees as well." Instead of the little girl replying, it was the person who pointed her own axe at him. "But if you want some, please try to behave okay? We don't want to hurt anyone else, especially now there are children near you. We just want to help others, that's all."

The Oracle expression turned into a curiosity. She thought he was trying to trick her, but she could tell that this young man spoke with genuine truth and honesty. The only reason she was here in the Otherworlder's base was to observe, ever since she heard tells from a bartender and, later some of the survivors who defected from the Imperial Army. She initially thought the Otherworlders were a threat to this world after seeing the carnage against the Empire and even brought some of the villagers into their base, thinking they are now slaves to them.

Her fears were unfounded as she now witnessed seeing the children happy and the villagers feeling protected by the Otherworlder's themselves, she saw them as friendly. When she talked to the little girl before, she said to the oracle that they even provide houses and a town to live by themselves.

The Oracle was impressed at this. The Otherworlders even going so far building a town for them, compared to the Empire that they don't have enough funds for their citizens, much less support for demi-humans.

Also, seeing him smile makes her feeling a little frustrated about this young soldier, like she somewhat attached to him. Before she could dwell on her mind, she was taken aback when the young man stretched his hand to her. "Sorry for not introducing, I'm Itami. 2nd lieutenant of JGSDF and leader of the Third Recon."

The Oracle smiled before stretching her hand and shaking his. "I'm Rory, Rory Mercury. Apostle of Emroy and also a demigoddess."

"A Demigoddess huh?" Itami wondered.

Rory grinned at this soldier named Itami as taps her finger in her chin. This will be very enjoyable for her for a long time. "Yep! Now, since we are now very acquaintance each other. Can you show me the marvelous of your delicious sample of foods in your world?"

"Excuse me, here's some newspapers you all asked."

"Thank you soldier, you may leave." Lt. General Hazama grabbed the newspaper and saluting the Japanese officer before the latter exited the meeting room but not before giving the newspapers to the rest of the leaders of the AEF, with the exception of the UK commander Lt. General Albert, who is currently in another room contacted by the royal family back in the UK. A day after refugees settling in their town they have just built, they invited the two mages and so far, they got a new information that could help the collusion.

From what they gather from the mages, Rondel was located at the northwest of Alnus and used to be independent before the Empire took it over. Unlike the Allied Kingdoms from the South East, which they would be sending some special forces and drones soon for reconnaissance, they would operate in a semi-autonomous that while the mages there would still operate, the magical city would be obliged to follow their rules and customs. Thus, they were subject to the Empire's might and the reason mages were 'voluntary' enlisted in their army to increase their manpower.

The magical city is also near the border of Italica, which the commanders decided to act upon since their intelligence groups reported that an army of enemy soldiers are now headed to the city through the mountain pass. Initially though, they thought to be reinforcements as a response from their earlier raid.

At least, until several of their units captured an enemy scout and, much to their horror, the Empire send their forces not to help but rather completely destroy the city in an effort to deny them the statistic position since the mountains are the only way passage into their capital. Also, doing the scorched earth policy would be worthless since they could just transport their supplies by land or sea even if they succeeded in their goal.

Even so, they couldn't stand by and watch innocent people die, even they aligned with the enemy they now faced. The leaders of the AEF decided to take action by sending some troops in Italica and convince the rulers there that the Empire would destroy them. If successful getting their good side, they would visit the city and start the negotiations.

As the commanders plan their next move, Lt. General Jenkins was in the right side of the table as he silently reading the newspaper that was given by a Japanese officer not long ago. When he began reading the contents, it wouldn't surprise him at least after the news outlets created a narrative that the AEF is not working enough to avenge the fallen, some questioning the AEF's effectiveness and others even create conspiracy theories to misled the people, which led to protest in Japan and so forth.

He also wasn't surprised that China advocated in the UN yesterday that the Gate should be controlled by the UN and offer to send their own forces to assist with the collusion, with the support from their allies. To him, it was all bullshit and everybody knows that China has ulterior motive beyond 'assisting'. Thankfully, it didn't pass the UN Security Council but Jenkins knew China would find another way to gain access into the Special Region.

What surprised him the most was Russia wasn't responding the Gate Incident in Japan or advocating support for China. While he was pleased that the rogue state wouldn't be involving in their affairs anytime soon, he admit to himself that it was suspicious. Weeks during the construction of their new base in the Special Region, reports he received mentioned the Russian forces was mobilizing in Novinka for some reason.

What their purpose are, is currently unknown as Russian officials blocked international news media outlets from entering into the region. Whatever they're planning, he sure hope that the European leaders would solve this by themselves.

As he continues to read the newspaper, he was interrupted when Lt. General Albert finally entered the meeting room before greeting with the other AEF commanders inside. "Sorry about that gentlemen, I just got call from the royal family. They said that if there's any news about Princess Louise? Countess of Wessex has been heartbroken ever since the Gate Incident and Duke has been demanding status of their daughter."

But the French Commander Lt. General Curtis shook his head. "Negative, monsieur. Our raids so far been successful and, while successfully rescued most of the citizens in Earth and even some demi-humans here, we haven't located the princesse you seeking. We'll try our search harder next time."

Albert then rubs his eyebrows in frustration. "Darn. It's not enough. My government and the royal family want the princess back as soon as possible. My country is getting louder and louder by the minute and even some British news media say that the princess is dead, though UK's intelligence agency are now trying to prevent false information to spread further."

"If it makes you happy commander, then you're in luck." This time, it was the South Korean Lt. General Hye spoke. "We would be sending ours and Jenkin's drones to every direction of this area by tomorrow night. Frankly enough, one of our POW's told us that several kingdoms or, in this case, 'satellites states' of the Empire is located South East of here." Hye pointed at the map in the table, showing a huge circle. "As the mages told us, they called the 'Allied Kingdoms'. They were once controlled their own lands before the Empire took controlled all of their territory."

"Even they were controlled by the Empire, the descendants of those royal family kept some of their power, albeit with imperial supervision." Hye continued. "But… if we be able to convince those family that we only come here in good intentions, they would allow us to station not only our troops into their territories, but also build another FOB there for our future expedition at sea."

"Before we could do so, we need to tell them about why we are here." Lt. General Juan reminded the commanders. "If not, they would start asking questions and maybe grow to distrust us if we mess up. The only way to do so is to prove that we are not here to invade their lands and only here for the one that started the mess back in Earth, which of course is the Sadera Empire and their 'Emperor'."

"Indeed." Lt. General Jenkins nodded in agreement. "I'll send some drones with Hye tomorrow night before we send a negotiation party to those kingdoms. Meanwhile, we need a strike force in Italica to convince their leadership to change sides. If successful, our forces would contact reinforcements and eliminate our enemy. As we speak, enemy forces will descend onto Italica if we don't do something."

"Alright, then it's settled. We gather troops for this new operation as soon as possible." Hazama narrowed his eyes as he smiled. "And I know just the group we need."

Hours after the almost standoff with Rory, Third Recon and Joshua's group gathered together in a cafeteria, with the exception of Shino, Kurokawa and Torres, who they are currently busy helping with an elven daughter and father that they rescued days prior. Kurata tried to go after the girls to 'check' with the locals they saved. But he got dismayed when he got pulled back by Itami and was forced to sit down between him and Joshua. Today, they were now eating their breakfast, provided by their chefs from their respectful countries. While they were eating, Rory tried some of it and, while not the same taste as the chocolate, she admit it taste so good.

However, their breakfast was cut short when Yaginada arrived at the group before he ordered Itami and Joshua to meet up with their general at his office for their new assignment. Thus, the 3 of them left the cafeteria, leaving the rest alone enjoying their meal. Shortly afterwards, Lelei also entered the cafeteria for taking a look at the Otherworlder's structure, only to find the group she met a day ago were eating and decided to join with them.

"So how's the taste." Rory happily asked as Lelei tries the cup noodle that Marvin given her.

"Hot, but delicious." Lelei calmly answered as she takes a sip from it. "I didn't expect the Apostle of Emroy to come here."

"Hmm. I have my reasons…." Rory said as she ate the Bihon again and gave a delight expression. "I just can't get enough of this food! This is delicious!"

"Heh. See that?" Marvin nudged at Kurata, who was eating his Tamago Kake Gohan. "This girl likes it! Can't wait to see her expression when she heads into our world!"

Kurata rolled his eyes but too tired to retort back due to nightshift and continued eating his breakfast in silence. Meanwhile, Lelei and Rory were having a conversation about the Otherworlders. The mage told the apostle that the Otherworlders were here in Falmart that of their allied countries were attacked by the Empire and its allies retaliated by pushing them back.

Honestly, Rory wasn't surprised by this news. She knew the Empire's reason to invade is because the Emperor is running low on funds to support its growing army and having a ridiculous vision that they were destined to rule over all of Falmart, not satisfied ruling half of it. He should've just invest in his own people and construction of housing for the poor. But alas, they got too prideful and tried to launch an invasion, which led to their defeat.

Just then, Itami and Joshua came back but this time, they were equipped with their respectable weapons. "Hey Joshua, what's with the rifles?"

Joshua lean his rifle at his shoulder. "Stand up boys. We have a new mission given by our superiors. They tasked us to investigate Italica and arrange communications with their leaders."

"Italica?" Lelei looked at the two. "I been there with my master twice when we tried to get materials for my broken staff back then. The city is influential in trading and is ruled by the Formal Clan. They took care when it comes of trading and, if I read, one of the important city by the Empire since their goods comes in Italica."

"No wonder our superiors is so interested about it." Itami says. "Taking control of Italica would not only cut off their assets and resources the city provided to them but also a statistic position for us since we can resupply ourselves without having to go back and forth. It's like two birds with one stone."

"Before you people take it over, I'll remind you that while Italica swore loyalty to the Empire and the current Emperor, they have no love for the both of them." Rory told the group. "They have absolute hate towards them, ever since they took their city by force and killed most of their ancestors. I suspect that, after the failed attack, Italica will try to distance themselves and slowly split with the Empire."

"Then what our commanders says is true. The Empire will attack the city." Joshua said, shocking everyone. "They initially thought they would assist them and other kingdoms but when we knew the real plan through a captured enemy scout, we were legit surprised our enemy would decide to burn all crops, water and even civilians that they believe they would stop us."

"That Emperor must desperate right now that he could go so far." Rory deduced. "In that case, I would be very much happy if you let me assist in your journey."

"Excuse me?" Joshua asked as he raised his eyebrow in confusion.

"You heard me. I can't stay with the other refugees and allow them burn down the city." Rory said. "Besides, I made friends one of the Formal Clan. Bringing me with you would increase your chances of successful cooperation with them."

"Alright, alright. I get it." Joshua gave in. "But still, how can we convince them that we are on their side. They can't just quickly switch sides with us without any reasons."

"By offerings."

All of their eyes turned to the blue-haired mage, who had been calm since Joshua and Itami's arrival. "You could bring offerings to the Formal Clan to show your generosity. In fact, I saw thousands of dead dragons outside. Its scales is more than enough to get an audience with them. It would also benefit the refugees as well since those scales are worth more than expensive goods."

"Good idea." Joshua then pointed at the two. "Marvin, I want you to tell all of our groups to meet up near the gate in 1200 hours and explain the situation to them stat! In the meantime, Itami, Kurata, and I will have some skinning to do."

"Aw come mon! Let me go with Marvin's place instead!"

"No, you'll just freak our guest with your freakish fantasy." Joshua deadpanned. "Now then, time is wasting. Let's go!" He then comically grabbed Kurata by his collar, with the latter protesting as they exited the cafeteria in rush. The two native girls giggled seeing that young man just got dragged off before they went after the three.

Back at the command room, AEF commanders were currently sitting down and discussing about their future operations. Since the Italica Port Raid, they began construction of their naval base in the Special Region and sending more troops in case the enemy sought to try re-taking the port again. The slaves that they were rescued and were natives to this land, decided to reconstruct the port city and make it their home, with the help of their soldiers of course.

Shortly after the raid, several AEF soldiers reported that 5 Indian citizens were found after SAS forces identified them, alongside the people were supposed to be rescued. If reported by the higher ups, this would make India join the expedition force as a combat role rather than a humanitarian aid as they were originally petition for. Their army's standards would prove effective in a long run should their enemy tries to launch a full-scale invasion, even if they somehow equipped with a rifle.

However, during the said operation, they find out that one journalist secretly managed to enter the Special Region and stole classified documents before the leaking them into the internet. The result was an uproar around the world as many activists and critics have begun to questioned the AEF's method of winning the war, some accused them of violation of the Geneva Conventions while many news outlets have painted the AEF in a negative way.

It was this point that China finally succeeded to convince the UN Security Council to allow several of AEF's units and the refugees they rescued not long after to be interviewed at the General Assembly in UN Headquarters at USA, New York City. He wanted to protest about this decision as most of these people still not comfortable enough to go through the Gate. But he also knew that he and other commanders is powerless against the UN's decisions, doing so would only give the news outlets more reason to damage their credibility. Thus, they were silent for now.

That was not the only reason Jenkins that got his attention. When the newspaper talked about the leaks, it also mentioned how it compared to "The Night Baron Scandal" years ago when the entire world's secrets was heavily leaked into the internet, which broke not only the US but also the entire world as many of the governments were in chaos for years. It also included a 'certain novelist' involving in the Massive Incident many years ago.

The entire event died down for a few years but the damage left by the scandal cost the US their credibility as a world leader and soon after, distrust began to grow not only their other countries that have grudged against them but also to their allies in Europe and the Middle East.

They also questioned USA's effectiveness when a newly formed terrorist group called the Global Liberation Army after the fall of ISIS. They launched a surprise attack on the West Coast and the rest of European cities. They began to struck back against the terrorist organization and recapturing several of their bases in the Middle East. Initially, they have the upper hand after destroying their HQ in Somalia and was about to finish them off until the GLA strike back by sinking one of their powerful carriers and began invading much of Europe within weeks, forcing them to retreat.

The move was an embarrassment for the US and their European allies. Without hesitation, China and Russia took the spotlight after decapitating much of the GLA's leadership and ended their influence. In the aftermath, both were treated as heroes by much of the world and criticize the US for what they saw as abandonment in their efforts. Some even questioned if they lost their way as China slowly grows its strength and global influence prior to 2010.

He wondered that this is the America he remembered years ago before 9/11.

As he was inside his own thoughts, he was interrupted when he felt a something confrontable in his shoulders. He looked up and saw the Lt. General Curtis, who is standing beside him. "What's the matter American? The news bothering you much?" he asked.

Jenkins sighed as he throws the newspaper into the table. "My friend. Does it bother you that were still on the same side after our failure of disasters before?"

Curtis was confused. He wasn't sure what his counterpart had meant until he eyed on the newspaper he had been reading and realized what the Lt. General had meant. "Of course." Curtis answered. "Even in this troubled times, he can't afford to fight amongst ourselves. Although I'm somewhat disturbed by the revelation, it doesn't change our military bond together. Don't forget we aided each other in World War II and in War in Terror before."

"Those events is unrelated to the current we now faced." Jenkins pointed out. "This is worse than the Financial Crisis. We now facing distrust around the world, our military's strength is starting to question critics, and even our own politicians are fighting amongst themselves like the politicians before our Civil War. Even I started to question about my home country as well. Are we even ready for the future or just the same?"

"Which again it doesn't change our military bond." Curtis says. "Our politicians may be divided and bickering amongst themselves, even some of ours is leaning towards China, we must not forget our own duties. That shouldn't bother us."

"He's right." Hazama spoke out, finally decided to join the two, with several commanders joining in. "No matter what our politicians say or the news media spinning their tales about us, it should not stop our duties nor deter our objective. For all your flaws and mistakes, your country is the only thing we need right now, especially in this crisis."

"Right. In fact, that scandal shouldn't be our countries fault. It's those damn intelligence agencies." Hye pointed out. "Granted, it is necessary that many of our agencies kept their missions classified for the sake of our countries security and such. But after that scandal, I don't think I can unseen what I have already seen. Glad, that person was sentenced in prison for 60-70 years. But still, I can't believe part of their family was the one who started the Incident years ago."

"Good. That bastard deserved it all." Juan slammed his fist in the table. "That son of the bitch owe a lot of my people for what he did to that girl. She gave everything to our nation and almost married the love of her life, only to cost her life at the end as the result, thanks to his actions. I'll be damned seeing that person enters our country again and if see that bastard, I'll kill him myself if I had too."

"Unless that person fights or shoots back, you have no right to kill him since he is now imprisoned in American's federal prison." Curtis said before turning his eyes to the American commander. "The point is that, without the US to back us up, we would be in the mercy of those countries who want either see us bicker among ourselves or just annihiler us, though they may prefer to do the former before going with the latter."

Finally, Jenkins sighed in defeat as he raises his hands. "Alright, alright. You all got me. I'll do my best to lead us in this operation. Make sure you all do the same as well if we want prove to the world that we're still reliable. That Scandal may made countries against us and start to question our capabilities, we mustn't forget about each other and fight for our countries we swore to upheld."

"Yeah!" All of commanders cheered at the American commander. Even the world is against them at this point, they'll strive to prove that the world still needed them as their protectors. As they return to their seats, continuing discussing about their current operation, they didn't notice that there is a flying vulture outside of their window.

Meanwhile, in Elbe Hill where the GEF Command Center is located, alongside with the Elbe Gate. The two male CPU's; Luis and Andrei were in the command room alone where they using the same reconnaissance drone before to spy the expedition leaders, even though the drone itself is not equipped with recording. Thus, they don't know what the people are saying, much to their annoyance, even moving the drone near the glass window.

Following dismissal by Histoire, Andrei was filled with distrust of the small fairy and got to believe that she has more something to hide about his home world. He decided to take action, with the help of Luis after meeting him in his own room. But while Luis felt a similar distrust of Histoire, he is reluctant as he felt wrong about this what they are doing. It was when Andrei mentioned about the fate of his family that pushed him to aid his fellow CPU and he wanted to know about his family or how they were doing right now.

"Looks like they cheering, it must be they successful in their mission or something because that's the only reason to do so."

"Or maybe they were excited that they destroyed another city without consequences of the people living."

Luis looked at Andrei and frowned at him before sighing. "Why are you against the US for some reason? Wait, scratch that. Why are you also hateful towards the Western countries anyway? They done nothing but to help us in times of need, especially in my home country. Sure they made mistakes sometimes, but that doesn't mean you have to be…."

But Andrei interrupted him. "You know nothing about our hardship nor our struggles, Filipino. Our country was twice the size than your country and our population is the same that of US's. While our economic and military can't compare to the might of the USA, at least we Russians rely on each other as brothers and sisters like yours. And then some sympathetic western disguising as our savior turned our country upside down before turning it into a dump."

"I been saying you that for long time; the world that you remembered before is long gone and has changed since the end of Cold War. While I can't deny how many of your people were suffered during that time and I feel sorry for you and your family, I won't deny that the same country you defend had killed more than 20 million of innocent people for decades." Luis told him. "And don't even think about denying our hardships because I also experienced that as well."

"Ha!" Andrei shouted. "When we explained our own origins since the day we met, you yourself told me that you and your family belong to a middle-class people. You don't even feel our pain, aside for the heartbreak you felt in your school. My brother and I always hunt in the woods, just for our survival. We even have a little sister born after our parents died." Andrei sadly looks down. "Damn it… I wonder how she's doing."

Now Luis felt for sad for him. Although he disagrees about what he positively said anything about the Soviet Union, he can see Andrei missed his own family and, by extension, his too. If Histoire allowed the both to meet with the expedition force from Earth, they would allow us to see their family again. But he knew she is somewhat right in this situation and decided to trust her for now, especially in this times.

"By the way, did you do that I asked you for?" Andrei asked, focusing only on the hologram table.

But Luis shook his head. "None. As expected, that AI is way too strong for me to hack its shield, especially since Histoire updated its security following 'that incident' before and the Battle of Planeptune. I can't even bypass Histoire's password, too many encryptions and stuff." He then crossed his arms. "Whatever important secret she has, she has it kept locked tight and secured."

"Damn…." Andrei muttered as he moves the vulture drone, hoping to find a small opening so they could overhear their conversation but to no avail. "Argh! Figures!" Andrei slammed his fist into the table in frustration, much to Luis surprise. "This is pointless, I can't hear whatever they're saying. I should've just ask my love or Noire to install these drones recording devices the next time we release them for our next reconnaissance mission."

"Well… maybe we just tell Noire in secret if we told her that…." Before he could finish what he had to say, he saw the entire screen on the hologram table disappeared and replaced with a static. "What the hell?! What did you do?!"

"I don't know!" Andrei became panicked as he rashly clicked any of the floating buttons on the screen that are still functioned. After a while, he calms down as sighs in relief. "Phew! I thought I messed up the controls, your wife would kill me. Luckily, the controls seem functioning somewhat. The only problem is that something messed up the camera."

"Try going back online."

"Working on it."

"Yehaw! Got me some lucky turkey!"

"For the record American, that's a vulture not a turkey. First of all, turkeys can't fly. Second, you just alerted the entire base." The French soldier slapped his own forehead as they hear the alarm ringing with the base. Few moments earlier, the two of them were on standby at the Gate connecting to Earth when his American partner just shot a vulture flying near a window outside, especially on the Command Post. "You should've just ate a dragon. They are scattered all around outside the base."

"No way, Frenchie!" An American soldier responded. "My boys try that and they not even close to turkey meat. Besides, they filled with our shells, which makes them even grosser! Can't wait to eat me some lucky turkey!" He then runs off towards the vulture he shot at.

"Or can't wait to get us expelled in the military…." He muttered. The French soldier then followed him, so he could try to explain to their superiors about what happened. When he arrived at the back of the Command Post, he saw the American soldier just standing there. He yelled. "Hey! What's wrong?!"

After silent for a minute, the American soldier finally spoke. "Hey Frenchie! You better come and take a look of this…." His voice wasn't so excited at all, instead it was a serious one. Suspicious, he walks towards the soldier and stands next to him.

"What is it?"

"Look at it…." He pointed at the vulture, laying on the ground. Much of their surprise that, instead of blood oozing from the creature, only different color of wires were sticking out from the body as electricity inside the vulture begin spamming.

"What the name of…."

"Come mon already! Online!"

"Shouting won't work you know!"

"Oh shut up! Your engineering skills are worse than Nepgear's!" After clicking more than a few buttons, the statics on the screen began to fade away. "Aw finally! Looks like the camera is online but I can't move the… wait. Who are those two soldiers and why are they in the camera?!"

As the camera begin to clear out, they saw two soldiers with different clothing with one of them kneeling as he was eyeing the drone. Not for long, both of their expressions were turned horrified as realization hit them: one of their drone had been found out by them. Luis concluded that maybe this two shot the bird down, under the guise of a real bird, while it was flying and now they are now inspecting the drone. If they found out it is truly a drone, they would no doubt take it by their engineers.

This is not good….

"Andrei, set the self-destruct. NOW!" Luis shouted. Andrei nodded as he quickly opened a crystal lid in his left, containing the small red button. Without hesitation, he immediately pushed it.

"Is this a machine or something?"

"That's impossible. The reports told that no technology in this world existed. It must be a… wait, somethings happening!" Then all of the sudden, the mechanical vulture began to vibrate electricity from inside its body. It was then the French soldier realize what's happening. "Get back American!"

Without warning, the French officer grabbed the American soldier by the collar and push themselves out of harm's way. When they got in what they believe it's safe, they quickly turned their head around, only to witness the vulture now covered in a blue dome. In a split second, it exploded into a small explosion like an EMP. Then once the smoke clears out, the vulture that they saw in the ground is now completely gone, leaving only nothing but a small crater.

"I hear a gunshot outside! What's going on?!"

Turning their heads around, only to see Lt. General Jenkins and Lt. General Hye, with several units backing them up. "What happened?! Is there any intruder around here?!" Jenkins questioned as he looks around the surrounding area. "Speak up men!"

The two soldiers picked themselves up before saluting the two high-ranking officers. "Um, no sir. We were guarding the Gate with Frenchie here when I saw a vulture flying over that window there." The American soldier pointed towards the window up top. "I didn't get breakfast before so I thought shooting it down and cook it."

Jenkins scratched his chin. Why would a vulture flying over the window, especially in their meeting quarters? He knew in his school lessons that vultures only appeared when they spot dead person or animal. As he was thinking, the soldier spoke before continued "When we went here, we found out that instead of a live vulture, its insides are completely mechanical like a robot from movies."

"What…." Jenkins widened his eyes. That is impossible. No matter what these two said, no technology existed in the Special Region by recon forces. He could tell that the refugees were surprised or amazed when they first entered the fort and several soldiers reported that they are having trouble using the restroom and using electricity. He initially thought these two were drunk and yet, their expressions says otherwise and he could tell they are serious enough to tell the truth.

But still….

"It's true sir." This time, it was the French soldier spoke. "Before it exploded, I barely managed inspected the vulture and, in my years studying in engineering, I could tell that this one is a mechanical or maybe even a drone."

Jenkins started to think about this for a while before staring at the two in front of him. "Alright, our men will be investigating around here. In the meantime, the two of you go back to your barracks and get some rest. We'll handle the rest."

Although hesitant but not wanting to disobey high-ranking officer, they saluted the officers before heading in their way. As the two soldiers left, Jenkins walked towards the small crater and kneels down before inspecting it. Although he had some doubts about their claims, he felt a joint of electricity from a palm of his hand when he decided to touch the crater. As he inspected his hand, Hye stepped in. "Sir, what should we do? If those two told the truth then…."

"Commander Hye…" Jenkins interrupted him as he stands up and looks at South Korean commander. "I want you to send the drones early night as soon as possible."

"Wait now?"

Jenkins firmly nodded. "Yes. While I don't believe technology existed here in this world, I rather not take any chances and risk everything. I want all our drones inspect in all directions, including South East of here. I won't let some unknown group spy on us."

"That… that was close."

"Yeah… terribly close."

Back at the GEF Command Room, Luis and Andrei were sweating bullets right now and were pretty happy about it. The Reconnaissance Drones made by Lastation were always installed with a non-lethal EMP bomb that could destroy the drones in case they were spotted by enemies, provided they don't get too close at the explosion radius, else they would've have serious side effects.

But that didn't make the both of them at ease.

"What the hell now…." Andrei wondered. "Those two must've have found out about the drone. If that fairy or Noire knows what we done to the drone, we are so screwed."

Luis somehow doubt it. Even they were never able to inspect in time, only a person dumb enough that the drone was a drone all along. He was glad they were prepared for it, just in case. Nevertheless, getting caught Histoire or the other CPUs would get them in a lot of trouble. "Umm." Luis scratched his hair. "I think we should turn the table off and leave this room while we still can before they would…."

"Before they would what?"

Luis and Andrei stiffed as they recognize the female voice from behind. They slowly turned around, only to find Histoire with an angry expression and hands crossed. "I presume you two did something without my knowledge or the other CPUs. It would glad if you both explained the use of this room."

Both of the CPU slowly looked other with their faces drenched in sweat, wondering how the hell they would get out from this situation. As she is impatiently waiting for an answer, they only have two words to say to each other.

"Oh crap…."

A/N: The long awaited chapter is here folks! The Third-Recon and their Philippine allies are now heading to Italica to help the people living there. Meanwhile, the AEF leaders decided to send their drones early than planned thanks to those two boys. Oh, they are sooooooooooo in trouble now. :D

This is my first chapter that's not been released in a month, which I apologize for since I'm not in a mood for writing since the last chapter's release due to the heat, nor I have the energy to do so since I am currently lack the imagination. But after the heat died down and looking at my Story's Fav/Follows keep growing up despite my last update in March, I felt sorry to people who have been waiting. So, I decided I will continue this story on your behalf, of course, since most of us are now staying at our homes.

As for the scene where Itami and his group were about to depart from Alnus Fort were skipped intentionally. I just want to release this chapter as soon as possible, though it would be mention in the next chapter.

As you all know, the world is now in total lockdown and its economy is currently in halt but growing slowly. I can now go outside, only for a limited time. Previously, our government didn't let us out since the pandemic began and we only go out for essential goods and a permit. Without the latter, we would be penalized. I just hope this virus would stop spreading and continue our normal lives but I doubt we can go back the way it was before. Regardless, I want you all to be careful out here, and stay safe.

I also noticed that almost none of the users reply back (with the exception of Foxhound1998) since I updated this story. However, due to this circumstances today, you all might be busy right now thanks to Coronavirus spreading all around the world. At least, leave a review so I can give a reason to continue this story.

During writing chapter 10, I consider putting the Coronavirus or COVID-19 into this chapter to further improve my story. In fact, I might create a new story of Hyperdimension Neptunia based of this story but in a separate universe and different direction (also not a crossover btw). But since COVID-19 is still trending all around the world and a sensitive topic at this point, I decided not to and I will put this idea in my head when this crisis is cleared up.

Alright, let's see the reviews:

ChoyTheUSChamp (1): Haha! :D

Foxhound1998: Darn, I didn't know that you and other people at the UK were unemployed. Worse yet, I doubt any of you would get a stable jobs thanks to this COVID-19 pandemic and I don't know how long that will last. You can thank China for that though.

One question, what is your reaction when the UK Prime Minister offered the Hong Kong people citizenship to the UK after China passed a national security law they claimed to restore order in Hong Kong while critics claim it would use to rob of their rights and freedom?

Jackejsh: Thanks for the feedback! I always wanted to try different things in my story rather than following the same tone as the Gate canon. As for the names that I gave them, it was pure obvious I would write their names based in their nationality. Writing their names in a different nationality but living in a different country would misled the viewers of this story. The dialogue, of course, I will try my best to improve it, but no promises though. :)

ChoyTheUSChamp (2): You'll find out soon when they cross paths each other. :)

As always, please give feedback to my story and we'll see you all in the next chapter! :)

Trivia:

*SV-98 or Snaiperskaya Vintovka Model 1998 is a Russian bolt-action sniper rifle designed by Vladimir Stronskiy. The sniper rifle is based on the Record 300 m (328 yd) full bore sport shooting rifle series also made by Izhmash. The rifle has also been used in combat during the Second Chechen War.

*T-72 is a Soviet-designed main battle tank that entered production in 1971. It replaced the T-54/55 series as the workhorse of Soviet tank forces and still remain in service to this day even after the fall of the Soviet Union.

*The Stechkin automatic pistol (APS Pistol for short) is a selective fire machine pistol used by the Soviets and introduced into service in 1951 for to be used by the artillery and mortar crews, tank crews and aircraft personnel. The pistol was also being used in numerous wars; such as the Vietnam war, War in Donbass, and the Syrian Civil War. (Added in 10/08/20).

*9K22 Tunguska SPAAG is a Russian tracked self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon armed with a surface-to-air gun and missile system. It is designed to provide day and night protection for infantry and tank regiments against low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and cruise missiles in all weather conditions.

*GRU or Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation is the foreign military-intelligence agency of the Russian Federation. Unlike Russia's other security and intelligence agencies, whose heads report directly to the president of Russia, the director of the GRU is subordinate to the Russian military command, directly to the Minister of Defence and the Chief of the General Staff. They are also responsible of separate attacks on US and the UK.

*Soviet Union or also as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) was a federal socialist state in Northern Eurasia that existed from 1922 to 1991 and was the largest country in the world. It became a superpower after defeating Nazi Germany in WWII, with their victory concluded at the Battle of Berlin. Originally, they made allies with UK and the USA (which is now a superpower) in the fight against Hitler. But differences in beliefs and ideology with the US, caused the Cold War where both countries use other countries to gain influence for decades until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

*Oligarchs in Russian are business oligarchs that were formed after the fall of the Soviet Union in the 1990s and owned rapidly accumulated wealth during the era of Russian privatization. The first president of Russia sold the state-owned businesses in exchange for political power while he stayed in power. Their power ended when a new president won the elections in 1999 and purged several oligarchs, with the remaining stayed loyal.

*Sophie, Countess of Wessex is a member of the British royal family, alongside with her husband; Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, the youngest son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Earl and Countess have two children: James, Viscount Severn and Lady Louise Windsor, who was taken by the Sadera Empire during the Battle of Ginza in this story.

*Tamago Kake Gohan or "egg over rice" is a popular Japanese breakfast dish, which consists of hot steamed Japanese rice, topped with raw egg, and toppings.

*UN Security Council is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations (UN), charged with ensuring international peace and security, recommending the admission of new UN members to the General Assembly, and approving any changes to the UN Charter.

*UN General Assembly is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations (UN), serving as the main deliberative, policy-making, and representative organ of the UN.

*September 11 attacks or commonly known as 9/11 attacks is a series of airline hijackings and suicide attacks committed in 2001 by 19 militants associated with the Islamic extremist group al-Qaeda against targets in the United States, the deadliest terrorist attacks on American soil in U.S. history. Its attacks also had an immediate negative effect on the U.S. economy.

*Financial Crisis of 2007-2008 was a severe financial crisis that affected not only the US but also worldwide. It was the largest and most severe financial event since the Great Depression and reshaped the world of finance and investment banking. The effects are still being felt today, yet many people do not actually understand the causes or what took place.

*American Civil War is a four-year war in 1861 to 1865 and was fought between the United States and 11 Southern states that seceded to form the Confederate States of America. It arose out of disputes over slavery and states' rights. When antislavery candidate Abraham Lincoln was elected president (1860), the Southern states seceded from the Union. Thus, caused the Civil War to erupt. Although the war ended and slavery abolished, the Civil War remains the deadliest military conflict in American history, and accounted for more American military deaths than all other wars combined.