"To General Sherman. I am officially reporting that the 5th Rangers, 4th Ivy Battalion have successfully pulled back from the Hiplose forest. The Rangers and Minutemen under my command at Salva were able to provide cover.

The enemy had successfully reclaimed their old positions, closing in their containment around Salva. While it would have been ideal to maintain those positions, the enemy suddenly was reinforced by a Brigaton (Salva allies inform the Brigaton is called Versum, the name of the commander), overwhelming the 4th Battalion Brigade. This was expected as the offensive was a delayed operation to allow time to fortify our position at Salva.

My recon teams can confirm that the Verliance Aristocracy is preparing for a siege. This was expected. I have attached below the current status of Salva's manpower and defensive strength. Much of the eastern and southern walls were rebuilt. Construction of a northern keep protecting our blind spot is underway but will take additional time to complete.

The bright news is the successful negotiations with the Dwarf borrian (Vagahm), south of the city. They have agreed to release the prisoners, to which our Salva allies were thrilled. The proper agreement is being worked on and will attach it to you when it is complete, but the treaty has my full endorsement, and I think you should also endorse it to prevent hostilities. This is a significant victory for us as now we are not preparing for a new war within the region and can adequately focus on the matter at hand—the defense of Salva.

I am confident that we will be able to hold the City-State of Salva, but I do request additional damage control units as soon as possible. The Militia are hardened and motivated now that their families have returned and see the level of commitment that we have shown in the defense of their city. My overall point is that we are not rushing blindly into an unknown situation but are now ready to make a proper stand. We are prepared to withhold anything the Verliance Aristocracy or Unity throw at us." – Colonel Hackett

March, 19th, 2068 (Military Calendar)

Salva, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie

Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore

*****

Facing the wooden desk reappropriated from Salva palace, Mathew Ryder saw his superior, the Minuteman command, Colonel William Hackett, typing on his laptop, almost as if he were intentionally ignoring him. It had been this way since the Comanche Captain entered the room about five minutes ago, which he found odd as he was summoned.

After an additional few minutes of work, the Colonel finally leaned back into his chair, staring at the Captain.

"Good job," Hackett bluntly said. "You and the kid got the civilians back and prevented a third front from opening. For now, at least."

"You almost sound shocked, sir," Ryder commented.

"I do prefer to keep one Hail Mary pre-campaign. I am a little upset that I had to use it this early in our operation on Alagore; however, you two did a good job."

"To be fair. The solution was her idea. Staying there after the butch openings and figuring out what the dwarves truly wanted. All I did was help her rehearse before the meeting."

Hackett placed his hands together, but he didn't drop his stare at Ryder, which concerned the Captain. By now, the Colonel would have ordered him to be at ease for a casual conversation regarding the mission. That had not happened, so he knew something was going on.

"According to the girl-."

"Princess," Ryder corrected.

Hackett smirked before chuckling. "You are correct. She earned the title. It was her idea to stay behind and find a neutrality pack. It seemed she picked up a few things under her imprisonment. Natural born leader."

"Assiaya is tougher than she looks," Ryder said. "My question is, will the US honor the treaty?"

"Of course," Hackett said. "It wouldn't look good if we didn't. Besides, we agreed not to get involved with their affairs as long as our enemies agreed to do the same, with a bribe on top. As I said, the Princess did good. I think she will serve the United States well. Having her on the throne might solve many of these rejection problems that we have been having. Maybe it will convince other City-States to switch sides down the road."

"I understand that," Ryder said. "With your permission, I would like to know the status of the adoption paperwork."

When those words left Ryder's mouth, he noticed his mentor's mannerisms changed from upbeat to hesitant. The Captain was concerned that he would be sidelined from Assiaya life now that the civilian hostage crisis was over. With the people of Salva embracing their new leader, there would be no place for him, which was why he wanted to adopt her before all this.

Now, either Colonel Hackett was changing the details or, more likely, his superiors wanted to have a monopoly over a potential new puppet Princess. Ryder would not tolerate this, even if it forced him to relinquish his command.

"That is being worked on," Hackett said. "But remember what I said before; that will take time. And the present reality is more important."

Taking a frustrated breath, Ryder focused on summing the strength to speak against the man that he respected the most. But he would not abandon Assiaya now, regardless of his country's wishes. He promised to protect her in that cave while on the run, and he would not fail again.

"With all due respect, sir, that is not good enough," Ryder said.

"Be careful, Captain," Hackett said.

"I am, sir," Ryder responded. "I told you the truth under the impression that I would take her under my wing."

"I know, and I informed my superiors of that," Hackett said. "But it is not up to you."

"Excuse me?"

"Maintain discipline," Hackett boldly said. "Think practically. You are a Special Forces Captain of the United States Army, not an ambassador."

"Is that all, sir? My rank or the fact I am in the Army?"

"Both. Look, I understand what you are feeling, but this isn't the same thing with your wife. Whatever debt you think you owed the Princess now has been paid."

"What about afterward?" Ryder asked. "Am I supposed just to walk away? And what would I tell her? Nice knowing you now, scram? And you think she will be a nice puppet for the US government? I guess we will lose another war because of internal politics."

"Be careful, Captain."

"I am, sir. What you are asking me is a line too far. I said it last time: I didn't bring her here just to be abused by our side. I know it sounds sudden, but after we have been through, she is my kid."

"Be real, Captain. You are acting like we are going to toss her to the wolves. This world wants to play House, and we need someone with a legitimate bloodline to reach out to the other Houses of this world. You know how important this could be in securing American dominance in Nevali."

To Ryder's frustration, he noticed that his mentor continued using his rank, not his name. The Colonel's mannerisms were casual, and the man's voice was calm, even though they had a moral disagreement that could torpedo their relationship. For the Captain, it felt like Hackett was intentionally provoking him.

"The moment Assiaya told me who she was, I understood its gravity," Ryder said. "I made a promise not just to her but to God. I am not abandoning her. I do care what the government says. If I have to resign and live here in exile dishonorably, so be it. But you taught me never to leave anything half-baked. I am not."

Hackett leaned back into his chair, staring at the Captain. Ryder could feel sweat going down his neck as he felt terrified. He had a great deal of respect for this man, and the last thing the Comanche Captain wanted to do was torpedo that relationship by taking a breath. He accepted the fact that was a possible outcome and was willing to wall away to protect Assiaya.

On the other hand, Hackett remained silent, just holding his fingers together and staring at the Ryder. A moment later, he leaned forward, holding one finger up to warn his Captain to remain silent while he pressed a button on the laptop.

"Did you catch all that?" Hackett said, staring at his screen.

Ryder knew that Hackett wasn't talking to him as he was ordered to remain silent. That only meant the Colonel was speaking to someone else.

The Colonel turned the thick laptop around, and Ryder saw an African-American five-star General on the screen. It was no one the Captain recognized; however, the name displayed said it all: General Sherman. He was the new leader of all US operations on Alagore. If he had not been terrified before, which he was, he was now.

Sherman wasted no time and said, "Colonel Hackett spoke highly of you. What I want to know is, are you full of it, or do you understand the gravity of what you want? You are a Captain, but you are also punching so far north above your station that you will see stars at the end of the day."

Mathew Ryder didn't fully understand the reference at the end of what the General said; however, he understood the point. Getting what he wanted and protecting Assiaya will force him to be under the geopolitical spotlight, something he isn't thrilled about - only having the education the Army provided him regarding politics.

Knowing there wasn't a question in the General statement, Mathew Ryder remained silent.

"All right, Captain," Sherman said. "Did you mean everything you said?"

"Yes, sir."

"Speak frankly, Captain."

"I said yes, sir."

Sherman nodded before continuing, "This isn't going to be the typical picking the kid up at school thing. We are waging a physical and geopolitical war on a world we know nothing about. This will give us a much-needed edge."

"I understand, sir," Ryder said. "But at the end of the day, she is my responsibility."

"Agreed," Sherman quickly responded, which confused the Captain. "All right, Colonel. You convinced me he was the right choice. I accept your proposal. Captain Ryder, this is how this will work. I will grant your official adoption of Assiaya Balan-Ryder. You will have the authority to be her caretaker and properly recognize that responsibility among the military and political. You got what you wanted; however, you will also be playing House in return. I do not want to rely on the name Balan as it has proven to carry baggage, and I have no intention of honoring that legacy. We will forge a new path based on our ideals and objectives. Your House will be that symbolic figurehead in this world. But let me be clear: you are a Captain of the Minutemen and a Duke of your own House and city, hosting the leader of Salva. Do you understand?"

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"Yes, sir."

"Good. Colonel, we will talk later about logistics." The screen suddenly turned off, leaving the two officers alone.

Ryder sighed in relief but was confused about what had just happened. He looked toward his mentor, who had left his seat and walked around the desk before leaning against it. His posture was no longer official but casual, as if he were hanging out with friends.

"I told you to trust me, Matt," Hackett said.

Seeing that the Colonel used his first name, signing that the conversation had become casual. Ryder dropped into the wooden chair and looked at the ceiling in disbelief.

"I see that," Ryder said. "So, this is real?"

"Yes," Hackett said. "The General wanted to see how you responded. See how serious you were. So, I had to push you."

"Why didn't you warn me?"

"Because I trust you. I believe you meant what you said. The General wanted to hear about your convention before accepting my proposal and see how far you would go. You passed, so congratulations. You're a father and a duke of city politics now. We'll have to get a beer and aspirin when we return to Earth."

"Thank you," Ryder said. That was when he realized that Hackett had planned this from the beginning. The moment he stepped into this office regarding Assiaya. "The dwarf crisis was a test?"

"Yes," Hackett said. "More of an opportunity test. I was not kidding about that being my last diplomatic card, but I also wanted to see if you two working together would work. You two succeed. I had Captain Smith speak with the girl while she was serving drinks, inquiring about what happened at the borrian without the pressure of formality. The girl spoke highly of you. Separation would have been a mistake, and in the end, everyone got what they wanted."

Ryder nodded and absorbed everything that had been said. "Thank you. I should have trusted you from the beginning."

"You were right to be concerned," Hackett said. "However, your methods needed work. We all operate without a manual, so let's move on from this mess."

"Will I still be in command of Comanche?" Ryder asked.

"Of course," Hackett said. "But you will have additional responsibilities here when you are not on the field. We can work out those details later; for example, you may have to appear at public events. Greet and entertain ambassadors and such. And help your daughter with the population if needed."

"Okay. I hope I am getting hazard pay for civilian work. Anything else I need to know right now?"

"One last thing. It's time to make your daughter's position official. Let's go."

*****

Standing outside the Minutemen-occupied Palace, Natilite stared at the giant structure. Most cities had such structures, typically stylish, showing the cultural pride and cleanliness of the host city. All governing took place within those walls while the royal family took residents.

Some believe the visual quality of one's Palace represents the health of one's city. If broken and unmaintained, the sight could imply that the city was in decay. If clean and proper, it could mean that the city was experiencing a golden age. However, that is not always the case, as a flourishing Palace could result from greed and oppression of its citizenry—a sight the Templar had seen all too often.

When Natilite first arrived at this City-State, the Palace was in a middle state of proper and decay. The people and caretakers still had a sense of pride – proven by the fact that they were the only people to rebel against Kallem and his masters, The Unity. At the same time, she could tell the city had seen better days, turning into a backwater trading post.

Today, the Palace still showed signs of decay, especially the recent damage from the previous two sieges. However, she could see a renewed life. Broken walls were rebuilt, and defense was reinforced. However, the most sufficient change has been the signs of the Minutemen occupation: their flags along the walls, signs with military symbols, and guards everywhere.

While the Palace wasn't as beautiful as many would assume, the Templar came to a different conclusion. The Palace does not symbolize the Golden Age, but it has a roughness to the sight, showing that the building is alive. Something she believed represented Salva in modern times. Rough but alive.

Turning to the large crowds that had gathered in front of the palace, Natilite could feel the excitement of the general populace. The sense of depression, anxiety, and uncertainty that hovered over the city had vanished. For the first time in many months, the male Militia was with their families again and now celebrating. Large crowds played music, danced in the streets, and played games.

There were the except for the few, however. After months of battle, there were many casualties. Many wives, sisters, and daughters came home to discover that their husbands, brothers, and fathers were no longer among the living: all morning, those who had lost loved ones.

While regretful, Natilite was thrilled that spirits were high. Between fighting side by side and freeing their people, the people of Salva seemed ready to trust the Altaerrie, which is good. The only way they could survive the coming siege and win would be unity. Victory here would prove that the Americans could work with the locals despite cultural differences.

Glancing toward Captain Mathew Ryder, who was standing beside her, he had a strange, happy but uneasy smirk. "You seem very happy?"

Ryder turned and nodded. "Shouldn't I be? Things are finally going our way."

"Our way?" Natilite said. "You were taken for a week and nearly died multiple times. Your eye still shows a little bruise from the besting Kallem gave you."

Ryder shrugged casually, brushing off the statement. "It was worth it in the end."

She knew what he meant and was thrilled by it. The Valkyrie could tell that the Altaerrie man loved Assiaya deeply. Some might find their family relationship was sudden, but after what they endured, the only way they could have survived was to trust each other.

Before Natilite could continue, the Valkyrie noticed the Captain staring at her armor as if something had caught his eye. "Enjoying yourself?"

"Yeah," Ryder said. "Your armor is shinier than before. Did you polish it?"

Natilite gave him an annoyed glance as frustration consumed her. "We have been standing here for forty-five minutes, and you only just noticed?"

The Captain noticed the glance and quickly knew what the issue was. He looked away while uncomfortable, placing his hands on his hips. "Well..., at least it didn't take two weeks. I made that mistake."

"Oh..., this is progress for you," Natilite jokingly said. Seeing him roll his eyes but then chuckle, she could see the genuine, cheerful glow radiating from his body and personality. "You really are in a good mood," he said.

"Shouldn't I be?" Ryder asked. "My adoption papers are not just official but with teeth behind them. Assiaya is taking a brave step forward."

"And you are okay with that?" Natilite asked. "With Assiaya taking this step?"

"It is not what I would have wanted." Ryder then turned toward the crowds as the celebration continued. "I never expected this was how I would become a dad, and I will admit, I am terrified. When I brought her here, I was not expected to enter Great House politics or she would become the Princess of the Rebellion. It is not fair, though. She is just a kid. Growing up as a slave and now being thrust into geopolitics. I am not happy about the hand dealt, but I will say this: I am proud of the girl's courage."

"She is not alone," Natilite said. "You are a Duke now. You do have power."

"Power I do not want," Ryder quickly responded. "The only reason I accepted that was because it was part of the deal."

The Templar could see the resistance within the Captain's mannerisms. This surprised her as most would take the power, with good or bad intentions; everyone always took the power when presented. With this promotion only happening, she wondered if it was nerves catching up or if he lacked ambition. Either way, the religious warrior was happy that he was not fleeing the situation, even though he had yet to embrace it fully.

Natilite touched his shoulder and corrected, "You meant your daughter's courage. You should understand that the only reason she is doing this is because she knows you will protect her."

"I will do my best."

"Do not be so humble. When getting dressed, Assiaya couldn't stop talking about your two moments on the railing, staring down at the dwarf market. I think you will be a good Noble."

"Thank you for that," Ryder responded. "I am glad I left an impression, but that is where I draw the line. I am a Captain of the US Army and a father. I have no interest in being King."

"Because that is my name."

Hearing a new voice, Natilite turned and saw Rommel King appear with Fraeya. She had heard that Comanche had returned from the frontline but didn't know they were finished with their debriefing and processing.

Hearing the doors open, Natilite saw two Minutemen exiting before taking a position on the side after the soldiers, the High Priestess, the current ruler of the city Temple of Tekali, Brevia.

Behind her was Assiaya. She wore an elf-designed dress skirt with green sides and a brown middle and front section. The top section above the chest was white, with feather-like padding around the shoulders. The leggings were white with a green line design flowing down.

While it was elfish attire, the Valkyrie found the clothing adorable on her. However, the about-to-be-crowned Princess looked terrified. While doing her best to hide her fear, the wing woman could tell. The only source of comfort was her Father walking beside her.

Right behind Natilite was the soon-to-be Princess, and Colonel William Hackett. While not an official leader of Salva, he had become the accepted military commander throughout the city, which impressed the Templar. Accepting a change of leadership, especially foreigners, would be hard for any population to accept. However, the American officer focused solely on preparing the city for the enemy. Based on the crowd's energy, she knew following through on his promise of freeing their families helped.

As the group took the platform, Ryder approached after speaking with the Colonel. To her surprise, their conversation took longer than it should have before the Captain returned.

"The Colonel would like you to translate," Ryder said.

"Me?" Natilite replied. "Is that wise?"

"He said yes in advance for you," Ryder said. "You are a Templar, and it would be important to show unity during this power transfer."

"I..., I prefer not to take the public light."

"A mutual feeling right now." Ryder gently patted the Valkyrie on the upper arm and said, "You got this."

Natilite closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Okay. Tekali has rewarded my faith so far. If it is what I need to do, I shall."

The two headed toward the platform. When the Templar reached the Colonel's side, he thanked her before speaking to the crowd.

Colonel Hackett started with an introduction and a summary of recent events since the opening of the Bridge, reminding everyone of the brave sacrifices this City-State had endured to reach this point. The battles the Salva Militia and American soldiers fought together and how that led to reuniting one's families.

"When the crisis with the dwarves arrived, it had proven to be a troubling matter," Hackett said. "However, our faith in our beliefs provided a solution. I am here to introduce you to Princess Assiaya of the House of Ryder, daughter of the formal House of Balan; the previous government of these lands who came here during our hour of need."

The Colonel stepped aside, allowing the High Priestess to take center stage.

"To the people of Salva, as you know, our Temptress stood by our brave Militia during our darkest hour. She was taken by the Unity, who has waged war against our Mother. While I cannot replace our spiritual leader, I will take over the duties of the Temple of Brevia, unless a proper Temptress can be assigned. I, High Priestess Finnea will be honored to serve the people of Salva and the Altaerrie, bringing spiritual guidance. Now, let the crown be presented."

One of the Priestess approached Finnea while holding a red pillow with a gold rim. On top of the pillar was a small crown with tiny jewels up front. The frame was made from silver, which was polished clean.

The High Priestess then waved toward Assiaya to approach. The dual-eyed girl looked up at Ryder for approval, to which he nodded in agreement, assuring her that she could take the next step.

The Princess took a deep breath and walked toward the High Priestess. Once the girl was in front of the wood elf, Finnea said, "Is there anything you wish to say before being coronated?"

Assiaya looked toward the crowd and took another deep breath. "I am sorry for what happened to the ones who led your city in the recent battle against Kallem. This was their city, and I wish not to dishonor their legacy. They were the ones who took the first step, not me. The Vampire Lord killed my family and enslaved me for years until my new father saved me and brought me here."

The Princess's voice was filled with fear as she spoke, making Ryder approach and kneel beside her. Her Father wrapped his hand around her shoulder to comfort her and instill confidence. Natilite soon joined the duel-eyed girl, other side, showing she was not alone.

Assiaya took another deep breath and continued with a renewed spirit. "All I wanted was a family, but when I arrived, I saw that your families were separated. I swore never to let that happen again. I do not know if I can be a great leader, but I will do my best. Our Mother brought us together, and we will be one family. Kallem or The Unity will not take that away from us."

"Well said," Hackett interjected. "Together, under God, with Mother's blessing, indivisible; with liberty and justice for all."

The Templar glanced toward the Colonel, realizing that she had underestimated him. The Altaerrie officer better understood public relations and politics than she expected. Knowing exactly when to enter the light, fade into the background, and know what to say. It was clear to the Templar that she had underestimated the man, seeing that all of this was planned out when the elf workshop owner revealed Assiaya's identity to him. And the man had successfully created a unified culture between the Altaerrie and Alagore.

Natilite turned toward Ryder and whispered, "He is good at this."

High Priestess Finnea picked up the small crown from the red pillow and gently placed it on the newly crowned leader before returning to the crowd. "All hail our new leader; Princess Assiaya Balan of the House of Ryder."

The people of Salva took a knee in front of the now Princess of Salva, which made Assiaya turn bright red from embarrassment. She signaled for her now father to come over, and Ryder walked over and took her hand.

After a few minutes, with the crowd celebrating, Colonel Hackett retook the stage and gave a closing speech:

"This is a glorious day not just for Salva but for the future of this continent. Let this be the beginning, not the end. I cannot promise you that the road ahead will be easy, but this is proof that if we work together, we will not just survive but we will win.

I am here to inform you that I have a message from the President of the United States. We will stand with you. The City-State of Salva has become my country's number one priority. Your fate is our fate.

I will not lie to you. The enemy has beaten back our counteroffensive and is surrounding the city like before. The barbarians are at the Gate, but this time, we are ready. The Salva Milita is not fighting a rebellion but fighting as soldiers, supported by fifteen thousand American soldiers, aided by our USAM allies.

Together, we will hold this city. The enemy will push against rock under the belief that it can overpower us. Not this time. We will hold the line. Then we will beat them back. And one day, we will free Nevali from the Verliance Aristocracy. We will show The Unity that this world is only big enough for one superpower. I do not know when, but when it comes, we all will remember it started today."