"Counselor Robert Murry, I must express my concern with the Pentagon's solution to the diplomatic situation on Alagore and how we have been sidelined in decision-making. Installing a child as our chief diplomat is highly irregular and unprofessional, and I request the President reverse his support for this House of Ryder nonsense.
The idea of having a child representing us on the world's stage, including elevating a mere Captain (which is no insult to the Officer for his service) into a similar role without any formal education or standing, is unacceptable. On top of that, allowing the Officer to adopt the Princess and placing legal protections to limit our influence on this girl is also intolerable.
This is the United States. We abolished nobility three hundred years ago, and the Military invented one out of thin air. This is highly unAmerican. When this situation in Alagore becomes known to the world, the public will not tolerate such an insult.
Multiple candidates are experts in medieval history but, more importantly, would work with our agenda. If not an expert in the field, I assume the CIA would have a qualified candidate that could conduct a similar role?" – Secretary of State Frank Atkinson
April 6th, 2068 (military calendar)
Salva, the former Confederacy of Daru'uie
Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore
*****
As the group fired, Ryder carefully studied the recruits. Most were Wood Elves, the majority of the city's fifteen thousand population when you exclude the American presence. To his surprise, many other species were within the ranks: six nagals, two lats, two luperca, and a kiriyaks.
Hearing the firing cease, Ryder watched his senior NCO, Sergeant First Class Gregory Barrett, walk along the line behind the Militiamen, lecturing them about their progress. The idea was to train the best candidates for more senior roles, the beginning process of building the city defenders into a professional force.
"Not good enough," Barrett said. "You are not some raggy tag, peace-loving hippies anymore. You have fought well over the past few months; however, that is no longer enough."
The Sergeant First Class then stopped at one of the Wood Elves, staring directly into the elf's eyes. "A standard circiletum holds nine flechettes. You missed eight of them."
"Elen síne," the wood elf said, apologizing for the unsatisfactory results.
"Never apologize," Barrett said. "The only response is, yes, Sergeant. Now give me twenty."
Another Minutemen Sergeant from Viking approached the Wood Elf and began counting the push-ups, allowing Barrett to continue walking the line.
"Let me make this clear," Barrett said. "The days of the Militia are over. You are now Citizen Soldiers. Answering the call of duty. As you already experienced, Salva is not a forgotten post at the far end of this moon anymore, but the center of the universe. Not just to survive but to expand the ideas of liberty. You will be trained in the arts of professional warfare. Now…, again!"
The recruits were given new flechette clips and began firing at their targets.
Watching from a distance, Ryder focused on the elf his NCO yelled at, seeing him struggle. "Are you sure these are the best?"
"I believe so," Natilite said.
"But, he can barely aim," Ryder stated.
"Hackett asked me who I thought would be the best," Natilite replied. "During the first siege, he was not the best soldier but showed bravery."
Turning to the Templar, Ryder turned to his commanding Officer, William Hackett. "Are you sure?"
"I asked her to provide me a list of potential recruits to elevate," Hackett said. "Skill can be trained, but guts are a good foundation to start with."
"That was what I was thinking," Natilite said. "I am glad you approve."
The Comanche Captain continued to watch the new recruits train in soldiering. Lieutenant General Sherman wanted to start building the Salva Militia into a proper military force that could work alongside the American Army. The idea was to train a select few and prepare them for appropriate NCO roles so they could pass that knowledge on to the other Militia—the building blocks of a proper professional Salva Brigade.
While other units were defending the city, William Hackett and his Minutemen, given that the Colonel and his Minutemen had become folk heroes among the populous, freed their families, saved many of their leadership, and were the first to liberate the city defenders. Most importantly, Hackett invested in the city's defense and domestic affairs.
Ryder was impressed by his mentor. In a short period, the man went from a foreigner to a legitimate military commander. In the eyes of the city, he had become one of them.
As Ryder studied the NCO recruits, one of the Nagals looked familiar. It took a minute; however, he remembered the Neanderthal was the same man who fought with Comanche against the Unity during the air on the Mountain Airbase.
"Is that…, Bigfoot?" Ryder asked.
"Yes," Natilite replied. "He was one of the first people I asked. His name is Ordlina, part of the Wuruk."
"I am glad he stuck around," Ryder said. "He fought hard."
"From what he told me," Natilite said. "His clan has always lived in the slums, part of the labor caste. Like everyone else, he joined the Militia to rebel against Kallem. He was going to return to the shop, but when your kind here offers military commissions, he is excited to do more."
The Templar continued explaining the details of everyone she had chosen to become senior staff within the Militia. One caught Ryder's attention: an elf named Eldrain Imtorlia. The same elf created the energy barrier during the Comanche retreat from the Unity mountain port, saving everyone until Ivy arrived.
While watching Barrett properly train these future Salva Noncommission Officers, the Captain noticed a new group entering the compound. It was Lord Folen Elstina, the owner of the weapons workshop. Since the Captain had rescued him from the Orlatus, the elf had become a valuable ally in the city's inner politics, supplying the Militia and the wall with weapons.
To Ryder's confusion, he noticed a few women within his company, one of whom was an elf and another a neko.
"Ah," Hackett said. "They finally arrived."
"Arrived?" Ryder asked. "I didn't know we were expecting company."
"Folen was supposed to be here an hour ago," Hackett said.
It took Ryder a moment to recall the name. The elf was also one of the individuals rescued from Unity, which turned out to be a powerful family in Salva, owning an armory workshop and warehouses. The man also disclosed Hackett Assiaya's true identity because of her blue and gold eye color. He started this royalty nonsense he now has to pretend to enjoy.
"That is an elf for you," Natilite said. "Time is always on their side."
"Regardless," Hackett said. "Matt, have you met his wife?"
Understand the Templar point about elf time. Ryder struggled to understand this mindset. Being human, time was everything. Living multiple centuries rather than decades, he realized that some people were older than his country.
"No, I have not," Ryder said.
"Her name is Thalia," Natilite said. "When I first arrived, she was a critical ally for supporting rebelling against the Aristocracy."
When Folen approached, he said, "My greetings, Duke of Salva and Colonel of the Minutemen. And let's not forget my lady, Templar Natilite."
"Thank you, my Lord," Natilite said. "I am honored by your presence."
"Greetings," Hackett said. "Thank you for coming. I see you brought your better half."
"Please do not flatter," Thalia said. "I am humble for those who saved my husband from certain death."
"And my wife and children," Folen added.
Noticing that everyone was staring at him, waiting to tell the story. "Thank you for your flattery, but it was a collective effort. Captain Webster led the charge into the mountain port that freed him."
As the Captain finished speaking, Natilite said, "He is being modest."
The Valkyrie continued to tell the story of how Ryder made the brave call to assault the port, ignoring the wounds he suffered from being Kallem's captive and protecting their Princess in the wild. He was clearly telling the story to boost his Duke status—something he doesn't understand why.
Before he could intervene, Hackett politely dismissed them and grabbed the Captain's arm, pulling him away.
Once isolated, Hackett demanded, "What are you doing?"
"I don't understand what you mean?" Ryder replied. "I was not part of the assault. I was too wounded to-."
"That is not why you said that," Hackett said. "You could have given credit to your command while not dismissing yourself. You are now a political leader within city politics now."
"I am sorry," Ryder said. "I was not trying to undermine anyone. It felt wrong to claim credit when I was not fighting."
"Not the point," Hackett said. "They want to hear you acting like a heroic leader. You don't have to steal other people's deeds, but you must act like a politician. They want to hear stories of bravery to justify their support to us. You are also a Duke now. Act like it."
Mathew Ryder took a deep, frustrated breath as he felt the gravity of the situation. He knew moments like this would happen when adapting his daughter and ascending to the throne, but he didn't expect them to be this hard. He recalled his time as an NCO and preferred being among the troops over being over them.
"Okay, okay," Ryder said. "When in Rome."
"It will get easier," Hackett said. "Be happy a war is going on, and you're busy fighting for freedom. Now, let's get back to work."
The two returned to the group, overhearing the Templar telling tales of other engagements against the Unity. How bravely the Captain spoke against the enemy.
When Ryder rejoined the conversation, he noticed a female Neko behind them for the first time. She was well dressed and groomed, wearing the standard red and white maid outfit. The fur on her shoulders was light brown with black spots on her shoulder and upper arm, blending in with her tan skin. The feline eyes were mixed with yellow. He could only assume that she was one of Folen House's servants.
"Elen síne," Ryder said, apologizing in elvish.
"Welcome back," Thalia said. "I must say, in a short period, it seems your team has had a grand adventure. We want to thank you for everything you have done for our people."
"I greatly say," Folen said. "You do have our support. You can tell Princess Assiaya that you can rely on my House for assistance."
"Hanta-tyë," Ryder said, thanking them in elvish.
"Now that introductions are complete," Hackett said. "Now for the matter at hand."
"Of course," Folen said. "My workshop will be able to meet the expected delivery of the first batch of circiletums."
"That was quick," Ryder said.
"It is a small batch," Folen said. "Enough for senior recruits. The materials the Colonel provided were a great aid in restarting forging."
"Will you be able to build more ballistae?" Ryder asked.
"Two are in production for the northern Keep that is under construction," Folen said.
"That will not be enough," Natilite said. "The city had dozens along the walls."
"Most are destroyed," Folensaid. "The issue is, I do not have the materials to create batteries for the ballista. This will become a problem for future batches of circiletums and elecprobus."
"We should be able to cover that," Ryder said.
"No disrespect," Folen said. "I have seen your batteries. While fascinated, they do not have the endurance needed. This includes the size. Your machinicide warrior pack is too bulky for a ballista's or infantry weapon."
"We will have to find a way to make it work," Hackett said. "You tell me what you need, and you will get it. With your help, maybe DARPA could design a new battery for your needs and specs."
"Hanta-tyë, my Lords," Folen said.
"Now that business has been completed," Thalia said. "Now for the purpose at hand. Duke Ryder, Captain of the Altaerrie. I have a gift for the Princess and you."
The comment surprised Ryder. He turned to Natilite, who shrugged but with her typical angelic joy. She was most likely excited to see what was about to happen. The Captain then faced his mentor, who seemed confused but was nudged to accept the gift.
Turning back to the wife, he said, "Alright."
Thalia Elstina bowed and then stepped aside, hands toward the well-dressed Neko. "This is Ceka. She has been part of our House for five years and has become an excellent servant."
Staring at the wife, Mathew Ryder took a moment to accept what was happening. He fully understood what was happening and was unprepared for this conversation. Clearly, the Elstina family was offering one of their motuias to him.
The Captain's first reaction was outright rejection, but he didn't want to be rude. This was a sensitive subject for his people, but he also understood there were many cultural differences. While relations had improved since their first encounter, he knew a slight disagreement could torpedo that friendship.
"I am honored by the offer," Ryder said. "But I cannot accept."
Folen held his hand lightly up to gain the Captain's attention. "How come? Have you accepted another Head Maid for your House already?"
"Head Maid?" Ryder asked, confused by the different titles. Natilite then explained the role's meaning and recalled the gray Kitsune that saved him and assisted their escape from Forlace.
"I assure you, my Lord," Thalia said. "Ceka is an efficient servant. I am sad to see her go; however, her contract expires in the coming months, and I no longer need her skillset. I would hate to release her without a proper home. I swear on my loyalty and oath that Ceka will serve you and Assiaya to great Head Maid for your House."
Mathew Ryder was very uncomfortable, but not in the manner that he had expected. He understood that motuia was an indentured contract system used for education, guaranteeing work for shelter or apprenticeship for advancement. For Neko, he could see how this would be an advance in her—from a senior maid to the head of a powerful House, not to mention being the first to hold the title.
"Gracias," Ryder said. "But I still have to-."
Before Ryder could finish his sentence, the Templar dragged him away. This was the second time he had been pulled away from this conversation, which frustrated him.
"What is wrong with you?" Natilite asked. "Why are you being rude?"
Before responding, Ryder noticed Hackett joining the conversation. "I agreed to do all this to protect Assiaya, not to own another person."
"He is right," Hackett said. "Under constitutional Law, a person legally owns another in the form of slavery and involuntary servitude."
Natilite placed her right hand on her head in frustration. "You people are very sensitive about these things? Do you not have servants in your world? Do you not have contract workers? I thought all of you signed up for the Military. Don't they own you?"
"I see where you are going with that," Hackett said. "We do that type of contract work, but it is not the same as involuntary or indentured servitude. The hang-up is bring marked and forced to do labor."
"You guys are taking such a minor element in this," Natilite frustratedly said, placing her hand on her forehead. "You people speak as if there are no differences between these institutions. Yes, you legally own the motuia but are also responsible for them. I know you people like to give everything for free, but we believe in earning what you are given."
"I understand your point, but it is not that simple," Hackett said. "There's politics involved."
"Exactly why I am a wanderer?" Natilite responded.
"We are obviously here to help," Hackett said. "But even you know we have our interests and values that we will enforce. And yes, we are not on Earth, but we have laws that we must obey."
Ryder only became frustrated with the cultural differences as he listened to the debate. Most of it was about terminology, perspectives about a word, and the execution of the concept. How could they, guests to this world, begin moral policing about institutions, something that people on Earth have done for thousands of years but at the same time not compromise on American ideals? Where were the red lines, and what hill was worth dying on? If this was an issue now with simple city-states, what about the other Empires the US wished to ally with to fight for Unity?
Finally having enough, Ryder stated, "I will take her."
Hackett turned to the Comanche Captain with a surprised look. "Matt?"
"As you said, sir," Ryder said. "I am the Duke of Salva, father of the Princess. My House is supposed to represent us to all of Alagore; to do that, I must engage with some of their beliefs. I might not fully agree with certain elements, but Natilite is correct. We will have to pick our moral battles when moral policing, or we should pack up our bags and go home."
"Besides," Ryder continued. "I need someone to watch Assiaya when I am on a mission. I am not going to trust a bunch of military dudes or politicians to watch my daughter."
Hackett took a deep breath and placed his hands on his hips from the frustrated topic. "Alright, Matt, it is your call, but there will be drama upstairs. The Ambassador will be arriving in a few days, and I have been warned that she has a chip on her shoulder by this assignment."
"What does that mean?" Natilite asked. "Chip shoulder?"
"It means we are on friendlier terms with the Unity," Ryder commented. "If the diplomat has an issue, you can blame it on me if anything goes wrong. I am just a Captain, after all. But if I know anything about politics, it depends on how we frame it."
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"That is true," Hackett said. "Maybe we can find a compromise or reform it to modern standards while keeping the intention behind the institution. Matt, can you get the Council to write up a formal draft of this institution so I can go through it in detail."
Ryder nodded. "I will have Varitan Yeldan look into it. I think he likes this political stuff."
"When you get a draft," Hackett said. "I will send it to the General, but warning, I am going to be honest; if we honor your customs, it will be on our terms."
Mathew Ryder and the rest walked back toward the elvish noble family. The husband and wife spoke among themselves before noticing their return, probably commenting on their conversation. This made him wonder what the people of this world thought about American culture and were having the same debates and discussions.
"Welcome back," Thalia said. "Before you continue, I want to assure you of your concerns. Please allow Ceka to speak."
The Neko approached the Captain. She stood at attention, showing professionalism and years of discipline, before bowing gracefully. While not as rigid as Routh and gentler, this woman took pride in her work.
"My Lord," Ceka said. "I understand your hesitance. Please allow me to assure you that I would be honored to serve your House. This is my choice and desire. It is the least I could do for the saviors of our people."
Ryder felt awkward, as he was not used to being addressed in such a manner. He took a deep breath, swallowing his insecurities. "I can see that. Let me be clear: This is not some involuntary deal where you are forced. I am doing this to bridge your and my people's values and work through these disagreements."
"I see you are very formal and direct," Ceka said.
"I try not to be," Ryder said. "Folen, Thalia. Thank you. Ceka, welcome to the House of Ryder. I entrust you to oversee my daughter when I am away."
"It will be an honor," Ceka said.
"Okay then," Ryder mumbled before touching his hips. "Now…, how does this work?
"Later today," Folen said. "We will meet at the Redvale Guild. From there, we can make the legal transfer."
The two elf nobles acknowledged the appointment and left the military compound. Ryder stood there, absorbing the moment as he finally understood how things were.
*****
Walking along the city streets of Salva, the Comanche Captain and now Duke Mathew Ryder watched as his daughter walked in front of him as if she were the guide, all joyful as usual. He had no idea what her personality was like while Kallem was a slave. Still, she has been cheerful and determined since arriving in the city.
As he continued to watch his now daughter interact with the townsfolk, many showed their respect. They thanked her for freeing them from Vagaham. Many did show appreciation toward him, now the Lord of this city. Assisting his daughter in the negotiations and adapting her, Hackett ensured his name was attached to the Princess's achievement. However, he still struggled to accept all this new attention, especially as a Special Forces officer; being popular wasn't normal.
A group of civilians passed them, all women and children. The mothers stopped their children and demanded they bow to their new royal leaders. Ryder felt uncomfortable but saw his daughter addressing the Elf and Kitsune. The dual-eyed girl performed different gestures with each species, thanking them for their culture. It was clear to him that while she was a slave under Kallem, his daughter learned much.
Because of the lack of options, his daughter was still wearing the red-and-white maid dress, which he found humbling. The Palace servants removed much detail to make the uniform look less like servants. He did propose that she wear her elvish clothing, but she refused. While she didn't state her reason, he could tell she didn't feel uncomfortable wearing such a statue's clothing. They were both still growing into their new responsibilities.
Ryder awkwardly raised his hand in an attempt to thank the townsfolk, saying te'son in elvish. When they passed, he took a breath, glad they were gone. But then he saw his daughter staring at him with confusion.
"Damn, Boss," Barrett said. "You look more stressed than during a bombardment."
"You really should embrace their gratitude," Natilite said.
Turning toward the Valkyrie, Ryder responded, "I am trying. It is not easy entering public life."
Feeling the stress of his new responsibilities, the Captain watched his daughter thank some patrolling American soldiers. He was surprised by her genuine willingness to praise everyone, regardless of what world they belong to. It was as if she was trying to prove something. This reminded him why he was going through with this scheme. He promised God and his wife that he would protect Assaiya, and if this was what he had to do, so be it, even though he was reluctant.
As the group headed toward the marketplace, the city's early warning system started blurring, warning that an enemy artillery barrage was inbound.
Dozens of people looked up toward the cloudy sky. A dozen long-range rockets flew from an M6089 Shok air defense battery close to Indolass. The US-Japan-developed missile platform-guided rocket flew past the city limits and entered the dense gray clouds.
Unable to see the explosions from the distance and cloud cover, the explosive echoes were impossible to miss. For a moment, Ryder believed that the rocket battery defeated the incoming artillery shells and shrouds; however, the two 20mm Bolas came to life, and a string of tracer rounds sprayed the sky. A bright red beam lanced through the sky from the Tawa laser battery. Knowing that this meant that the rockets failed to stop the enemy bombardment, and the last layer of defense was activated. Most likely, the city would be stricken.
The Captain knew what this meant, as did everyone around him. The civilians went into a panic, knowing what was about to happen, while the soldiers attempted to guide them inside any nearby buildings. The Captain felt a sudden strong primal urge that he first felt when fighting the Akuma: to protect his daughter.
Without thinking, Ryder rushed toward his daughter, who was rushing back to him in fear of the sudden attack. He grabbed his daughter and ran into an abandoned store, where he saw other civilians, eleven wood elves, three nagel, and Kitsune with their children. Two 4th ID Infantry soldiers and King, Barrett, Forest, and Natilite were among the civilians, ensuring everyone stayed away from the windows.
He rested Assiaya under a wooden table. As she looked around, the newfound father saw the terror in her blue and golden eyes. The Captain wanted to assure her, but the building suddenly shook violently from the enemy shells impacting nearby, making her grab him tightly out of reaction.
As the bombardment continued, Ryder saw Natilite kneeling beside the table, looking at Assiaya, and assured her that it would be over soon.
Moments later, the early warning alarm stopped. An American woman spoke through the recently installed city-wide intercom, stated that the enemy bombardment was complete, and warned civilians to remain in cover so emergency services could respond to the impact zone.
Seeing that the situation had passed, Ryder turned to his daughter and said, "It is okay. We are safe."
"That was scary," Assiaya said.
"Nonsense," Ryder replied. "In my early days, I had far closer calls than this."
Seeing that his daughter was calm, he requested Natilite keep an eye on her. After the Templar agreed to his request, he approached his team. "Status?"
"We were not in the target zone," Barrett said. "The shell impacted a few blocks away."
"That was not the only one," King said. "Another one landed closer to the Keep construction site. I think it was an energy blast."
"That could have been their target," Barrett said.
"See that mist?" Forest said. "The one nearby, I think it is one of those iceberg enchantment shells."
"We should get going," Ryder said. "I have to be culturally diplomatic today."
When continuing their journey, they had to go through a couple of detours thanks to the attack. Damage control teams were rushing through the stone streets while Military Police were managing crowd and casualty control.
When they arrived, Ryder found the marketplace primarily empty. Only a couple of people were shopping or passing through, and most shops and booths were empty or closed. The fountain at the center of the plaza wasn't working. Some had formal owners fixing their establishments, while others took inventory of what was not stolen and fired the Aristocracy occupation.
However, a large crowd was on the other side of the marketplace, waiting to be given their food rations. This has been commonplace since the blockade began. To prevent starvation, and because the United States Army was unable to import resources from most villages and Cities, it was forced to ship in MREs for nearly fifty thousand people.
To Ryder's surprise, the townsfolk were orderly, as the MPs seemed bored. There was no ruckus among the crowd. At first glance, that would seem strange; however, the Captain realized that anyone would be hardened after what they had been through over the past few months.
That was when he saw what the Military Police were protecting. Ivy soldiers occupied a third of the plaza at the other end of the market. Behind the barriers were two M988 stationary mortar systems, large 120-mm smoothbore recoiling mortars typically seen at FOBs and outposts. The giant mortar automatically rotated from its position. It fired three shells from its robotic arm autoloader, most likely responding to the recent attack.
Uplinked with the DEFNET, each system has programmable intelligence to respond quicker to attacks. While the giant mortars typically relied on GPS on Earth for precision fire, the platform had an alternative mode for these situations. The PI relied on pre-established digital markers set up in advance to calculate coordinates and determine their fire mission. While not perfect by modern standards, it got the job done.
Based on the level of weapons fire, the Comanche Captain concluded that it was another probing mission from the enemy, either valuing a damage report for their artillery or seeking pop shots against the American and Salva troops guarding the wall.
"That is amazing," Assiaya said, staring at the two machines of death.
Mathew Ryder chuckled at the child's excitement about the military hardware. It reminded him of when he was on a basis with his sister, watching the Military conduct their daily business.
Hearing Natilite comment that she found the guild, he turned and saw their destination—the Redvale Guild.
The Captain stared at the guild sigh. He felt a knot in his gut, and Duke took a deep breath and mumbled, "Let's do it."
Ryder took his daughter's hands as they headed toward the guild. Unlike some buildings they had passed, this structure was in an intact section of the city, except for a few cracks in the stone section. This structure was one of the few that was spared. However, it was smaller than he expected. The Altaerrie man had no idea why he assumed the building would be more prominent. Transferring another person seemed like a big deal, but he recalled that the recruiting office was much smaller.
Looking inside, he saw almost no one. Only a female kitsune cleans up the place after being absent for an extended period. This was a sight he had become accustomed to with the kitsune race, being more of a matriarchy ruled the business.
"Look who has arrived," Natilte said. "I see Lord Folen."
Ryder saw the Nobleman, Folen Elstina, approaching. Alongside him were two children and an older male. All were dressed professionally in this city attire: green-white colors with buffed sections around the shoulders. The males wore pants, while the girls wore skirts. Among them was the female neko, Ceka. She was wearing the same red-white dress as Assiaya. Only now did he realize it might not have been a good idea to allow her Princess daughter to wear a maid outfit in public.
"My Lord Duke," Folen said. "I apologize for my tardiness. My children saw your people's mortar machines, and curiosity got the better of them."
Ryder chuckled, imagining the site. "Your kids have good taste. Besides, we just got here, so no biggie. Assiaya?"
Assiaya looked toward him but then at the wood elves. She stepped forward and curtseyed with her traveling dress. "Thank you for your presence. I hope to get to know you all in the days ahead."
The elf girl standing next to Folen stepped forward, taking Assiaya's right hand. "It is an honor to meet you. Thank you for freeing me, my mother, and my brothers from the filthy dwarves and Unity. Once we remove this binding mark, I would be honored if you visited my home. I might be able to provide high-standard clothing for your station."
“Rosanhi,” Folen said. "Please be respectful."
"I meant no disrespect, Father," Rosanhi said. "The markets are light in options, and I only wanted to provide aid and respect."
"She was not disrespectful, my Lord," Assiaya said. "I understand her meaning. I do not mind my clothing, as it is what I am used to. I have dressed like this for most of my life, and it has become natural to me. If it is okay, I would like to befriend you."
Rosanhi smiled and bowed. "I am honored."
"Please, no honors," Assiaya said with embarrassed eyes.
Ryder should his shoulders. "It will be good for them. With everything that has happened to them, a little girl's time to distress will be healthy. Kids should be kids."
"I suppose so." Folen pointed toward his children and prepared introductions. "As you already know, this is my daughter, Rosanhi. This is my middle son, Itham, who is training to take over my estate in the coming years. And here is my eldest, Taegon."
"I mean no offense," Ryder said. "Is it normal for the middle child to inherit a House estate?"
"I can explain," Taegon said. "Before the war, I was learning the family business, but now, I wish to serve in the Militia until we are free."
"My son decided to serve alongside the Americans," Elstina said. "His mother wished him to continue his studies, but my House is honored."
"I understand," Ryder said. "Thank you for putting aside your interests for your City. I promise we will find you a place for you."
"Do not allow my status to keep me from battle," Taegon said.
To Ryder, the Elstina's seemed like a lovely family. Rosanhi seemed eager to befriend his daughter. Itham approached Barrett, amazed by how different the Altaerrie were. Taegon inquired King about where he could best serve within the Militia.
The Captain saw his team making introductions and answering Itham's questions about Earth and what it was like to be Altaerrie—their clothing and the kind of entertainment. The boy displaced interest in the differences between the Saipan types of humans.
"With all the introductions," Ryder said. "I believe we should go inside."
"I recommend them staying out here for the moment," Folen said. "This might take a while, so they can enjoy once the alchemy begins."
"That is fine, boss," Forest said. "I don't mind giving them a crash course on what Earth is like."
"I do wish Fraeya was here," Natilite said. "She would be the best to explain how this process works."
"We need to get her a watch," King said.
"I don't think that will help," Barrett commented. "Besides, I think that is her."
Ryder turned around and saw a female elf rushing through the street, panicking while frantically waving her right hand. The elf girl stopped before him, placing her hands on her knees as she caught her breath.
"Where have you been?" Natilite asked.
"Sorry!" Fraeya said. "I was helping the gardeners fix the plants around the city and lost track of time."
"Didn't you start doing that nine hours ago?" Forest asked.
"That is an elf for you," Folen said. "Time can be an afterthought for us. Now, shall we get to business?"
Folen Elstina nodded and brought forth his senior servant, Ceka, who bowed at the Captain's presence. Besides the children and senior Comanche members, everyone else went inside the guild. The typical bell rang once the door opened, warning the front desk that customers had arrived.
The female Kitsune looked toward the red fur with black spots. Her frown was replaced with a glow, and then the vixen put her hands together and bowed. "Lord Elstina, I am amazed that you have arrived on time."
"Greetings, Kaka," Folen said. "I hope you are ready."
"All the arrangements have been completed," Kaka said. "I was not expecting to engage with any of these bindings for a while with the state of the economy."
"One additional thing," Ryder said.
"Oh?" Kaka said, staring confusedly at the Altaerrie man. "Who is your friend? He looks familiar."
"He is my Father," Assiaya said.
"And you are?" Kaka asked.
"I will handle this," Folen said. "This is Duke Ryder of Salva, Captain of the American Minutemen. This is Princess Assiaya, leader of Daru'uie."
The Kitsune's eyes widened, and she realized her mistake. She knelt and begged, "Please forgive my rudeness."
"All good," Ryder replied. "I am still shocked myself."
Folen Elstina leaned toward the Captain and whispered, "I understand your hesitancy, and this life is new to you; however, you must not joke about your station in front of the commoners. It is not being above them but instilling the proper respect."
While Ryder hated to admit it, the Elf Noblemen were correct, as the Army had a similar philosophy. Everyone looks up to an officer for guidance and command authority. When that standard is undermined, it is almost impossible to repair. He wouldn't want to do the same as Duke.
"I am sorry," Ryder said before adjusting himself. "The other reason we are here is to remove the binding mark off my daughter's hand."
Kaka turned toward the Princess with a surprised look as if she had not expected royalty to have such a mark. "Is the previous owner here to agree with the removal? Or a representative from the guild who bound her?"
"No," Ryder said. Feeling his daughter's discomfort and noticing that she was covering her marked hand shamefully, he placed his hand on her shoulder to comfort her.
"I see," Kaka said. "It will be tricky and expensive, but it can be done."
"The price will not be an issue," Folen said.
The Kitsune's ears perked as she clapped her hands. "Then we shall proceed. Let us start with the transfer, as that will be easy enough. Oroak!"
A large male Nagal exited the back room, pushing a cart with a few books and unrecognizable tools. The man wore mage-like clothing, with puffy shoulders and a long rob. On the cart was an orb-infused glove like what Fraeya uses, but also a small staff. The mage had crazy white long hair and a long-mixed color of white and brown beard. He had dark skin, and his eyes were dark red.
"He is an alchemist," Fraeya said. "A specialized sage that deals with codex and enchantments."
"I have no idea what any of that means," Ryder said.
"I am glad I arrived then," Fraeya said. "And that is okay as this is complex information. But I will do my best to explain."
The Nagal mage went to a fireplace in the back of the room and started a fire in the fire pit. It wasn't the standard red-orange fire you usually see but dark fire. Ryder recalled seeing this during his travels in the wild at the orc family home. He also remembered that this was also used for travelers because of its low heat compared to other fire types.
Fraeya continued explaining the process, stating that the Nagal used dark fire to burn the codex resting on the cart. Sages use thaum ink to write in wax books, allowing the spell to take effect when burnt.
Inside the codex, every detail in the contract was included, such as payment, the laws, agreements, the motive for such a binding to prevent malpractice, the amount of payment, punishment, the length of the contract, and so on.
Most codex are pre-written to save time and money, with only critical sections for the clients and adjustments left blank. In this case, the previous owner acknowledged the transfer. It was surprising for the Altaerrie Captain to realize how legalese these people were for a feudal society.
The next stage would be to use the dark fire and the proper spell casting to ignite the codex. During this chant, Ceka approached. Then, the directions written within the codex would be imprinted, removed, or infused on the person's hand, completing the process.
Oroak took some time to prepare the station and codex, which brought the others inside to see the process. This being the Americans' first time seeing alchemy, there was much excitement in the room. No one spoke, focusing on watching. Kurt Forest pulled out his phone to record the alien sight.
The Nagal mage called Ryder and Elstina to the table, and they received a thaum fountain pen. "Sign in these spots."
Ryder went through the codex the best he could, trusting Fraeya, who provided context and translation as the writing was in elvish. Regarding the duties, it was simple for him to agree, stating that Ceka would be the Head Maid of his House, taking care of the domestic needs. To his surprise, there were many areas of authority he could grant Ceka, including fiancés, home inventory, management responsibilities, and so on. Regarding payment, he already spoke with Hackett about the best amount and went with an above average with a potential bonus or raises if she met expectations. However, all this would come from his salary.
The main issue for him was the punishment section. Already researching in advance, he learned the type of punishment that was coming in such a contract. There wasn't as much physical torture as he expected, realizing that his biases from his country's history blinded him. However, there were choices that he considered outrageous, such as solitary confinement and physical punishment from a baton – reminding him of stories of teachers who used to use rulers to discipline students. Knowing that he wouldn't select most of these options for obvious reasons, he stuck with garnishing wages, removing her status of Head Maid, and termination.
From what Ryder understood, Hackett and Sherman wanted to see how this played out. They will most likely be removed after future reforms to Americanize the institution. If this cultural experiment fails, they want to know now. In addition, if the institution was a core component of the Alagore economy, they also want to know how it worked.
There was a section for the owner that outlined what would happen if a breach of contract occurred. This fell between unjust abuse, forcing the motuia to work outside the approved agreement and more. Selling such a contract outside the guild or enslavement of the motuia outside a criminal trial was illegal – which was no longer an issue as the US and Assiaya forced the Council to outlaw that institution. In addition, the Guild was authorized to conduct inspections if they learned of any breaches and fees for violations. The last line explains that all responsibility, including debts, health, education, housing, and all other needs, must be cared for.
Navigating the code and establishing the legal framework that made joining the military look easy took two and a half hours, but they finally completed the process. Ryder felt exhausted. He could see a lawyer-industrial complex making a fortune in this world.
"Stand back," Oroak said.
Once everyone stepped aside, the Oroak placed the codex on a metal grilling tray above the firepit. He began chanting, and the staff started glowing bright yellow, hovering the orb over the dark fire. The flames grew massively to the extent that they passed the grilling tray and began to scorch the codex.
The nagal mage quickly placed his gloved hand on a clear crystal beside the fire-bit. The small orb on the glove glowed, triggering the crystal to glow and causing mana particles to float around the mage. He pressed his mana-charged glove onto the codex and began chanting a spell.
"Who is the one getting bound?" Oroak asked.
"The Neko," Folen said.
Ceka approached the mage and placed her hand on the codex. The Nagal put his hand on hers, with the orb glowing brightly. The waxed book melted from the dark fire flames and mana, and the information stored in it was transferred into the Neko's hand.
Once the transfer was complete, Oroak guided the neko servant toward a significant antikythera mechanism against the wall. It had a screen made from crystal besides being a pictorial or textual monitor.
Ceka placed her bound hand on a small platform on the analog computer. Oroak turned dials and flipped switches on the mechanism until the orb above her hand activated, scanning the magical binding markings—the information stored on her hand was displayed on the liquid-crystal screen.
"It was a successful transfer," Oroak said.
There was joy in the room, mainly from the native members. For Ryder, this felt strange because it was not typical of his people. One critical perspective his mentor gave him was to see this as if you were buying and selling a player on a sports team. Everyone was there to do a job and be part of a team. The difference was that this mindset was applied to the rest of the economy.
"So," Barrett said. "That is how those computers work."
"You are being loose with the word, computer," Forest commented.
That was when he noticed Ceka approaching him.
"Master Ryder. I understand this was abnormal for your kindness, but I appreciate your allowing me to serve you. I promise that you will not regret this."
"I trust in your abilities," Ryder said. "I am doing this because I need someone to help look after my daughter while deployed."
"A noble motive," Ceka commented.
"Now, let's get rid of that mark," Ryder said.
"Get rid of what mark?" Oroak asked.
Kaka approached her employee and said, "The Princess has a binding mark on her hand that they want removed. Will you be able to do it?"
"Why is there a thing on royalty?" Oroak blurted before the Kitsune smacked his arm. "All right. My lady, please place your hand under the orb so I can see its quality of it."
Excitement consumed the dual-eyed Princess as she started jumping. She then turned to her father before rushing toward the Antikythera mechanism.
"Do you think you can remove it?" Assiaya asked, placing her hand under the small orb.
"I believe so," Oroak said. "It all depends on the quality of the enchantment. It might take a while and be expensive, but it is not the first time I have been able to remove one of these. There was this one person I had to use three codex's and a week of casting."
As the Nagal mage spoke, the human activated the Antikythera like before. He went silent when the liquid-crystal screen displaced the information stored in the binding mark.
Noticing the sudden change of mannerisms, Assiaya asked, "What is wrong?"
Ryder saw the fear in the other human-type eyes, already knowing that this would not work. Regardless, he asked, "Can you remove it?"
The Kitsune got between them with a nervous smile. "Of course, Oroak can. Just give him a moment."
"I cannot," Oroak said. "I have never seen this quality of a spell before."
"Forget the sales pitch," Ryder said. "Tell me how much you want, and I will pay for it. Just get that marking off my daughter."
Only when the Nagal turned toward the Captain did Ryder know it was hopeless? The mage continued to explain the insane level of detail and magecraft that went into this binding mark, but that was not what occupied his mind.
This only helped confirm to Ryder that the vampire knew of Assiaya's origins; however, this only confused him. Even if his daughter was a trophy of conquest, why place an impossible bind on her hand when a standard one would be adequate?
"Are you saying you cannot remove this?" Assisaya asked.
She stared directly at Oroak with big eyes, horrific that she was technically still a slave. Ryder slowly walked over before kneeling next to her, placing his arm around her, and she quickly hugged him, softly crying.
"It is okay," Ryder said. "We will figure this out."
He then stood and stared at the guild owner and continued, "Thank you for trying, Kaka. We will be taking our leave."
"I promise to research a method to remove the binding mark," Kaka said. Thank you for your business."
Ryder watched Folen Elstina pay the Kitsune a mix of Salva currency and American banknotes before heading out. When everyone left the room, Natilite, Fraeya, and, to his surprise, the noble elf daughter Rosanhi, were comforting Assiaya. Ceka stood at attention behind them, waiting for an appropriate moment to intervene.
"Well," King said. "That was a real bummer."
"Yeah," Ryder said. "But this isn't going to stop us. If this is how the dice will roll, so be it."
The truth was that Mathew Ryder had no idea what to do, feeling a gut punch. However, he knew they could do nothing right now, and the only option was to go forward.