As the magnificent golden Blimp of the Elven Prince enters the airspace of the city, it deploys two smaller cruisers as Winged Knights jump from the doors and fly with the helicopters circling the flying machines.

The aircraft was magnanimous in its appearance, a flying cathedral dedicated to the Elven Lineage whose bloodline traces back to the very ancient Angels sent down to protect Threa. It spared no inch from all its glamor and ornate display, the blimp itself outshining even the skyscrapers whose all four sides were glass.

Many of the onlookers below had to put on glasses just to look at the Royal airship as it halts right on top of the commercial district, deploying many of the Elite winged Elven warriors as they circled above the streets like eagles in flight.

Down on the ground level, they had to walk around to the South Side where the main gate was and there, a massive parade was set up. With the Secretary of State present, the Men of the Woods Honor Guard alongside a Representative of the United Nations Council of Guilds were at the side of the red carpet, standing still as on the stage were the current Heroes.

Press swarmed the entire area, they were even in the roofs and inside the buildings as cameras rolled at the entrance and many were doing live shows at the very moment.

Standing on a statue at its own balcony on the second floor of 8-Gon’s main entrance is the image of an extremely well built man, under his back is the weight of a planet with great but valiant distress on his face as his muscles were in full flex in maintaining his slouched position, from not getting crushed by the huge globe.

The Grand Prince with his companions, the Sword Saint and her own group alongside King Augustus of the Dragon Kingdom, and Gunther of Schon. The entire band was there and Jackson kept to the sidelines, residing on the corner with the three girls standing by his side.

A light then sparked below the shiny blimp, the beam then became so strong that it became unbearable to look. Jackson just stared as if he was embracing the light of nuclear fire as multiple steps were heard down below the main street. Soldiers with their heads down and in riot gear quickly rushed to contain the sidewalks, preventing the players from mobbing the guests.

Setting down on the main street was the Imperial Prince of the Elven Empire, in his lavish armor whose design takes from the many birds of Geraldia. Though Jackson is shocked that it's not anything bulky or heavy like what the Grand Prince has, but instead its light plate armor that could even be used for recon yet it’d be too shiny for such tasks. It’s so beautiful that even from the doors of the 8-Gon, the General could properly make out his armor.

With his magnificent long golden hair that goes below his waist and those piercing orange eyes that stood out even with all of the glamor and the pale skin of the Elf made him seem more ethereal than anything that’d walk amongst mortal men. The players watching couldn’t even utter a word at his beauty, the Elf’s presence was more than adequate to cure even blindness from how bright he was.

Behind him is the Pope of the Holy See with his Inquisitor Knight Guards and a Cardinal who is met with a familiar Archbishop. Walking side by side as they approached the gates of the 8-Gon. The Grand Prince waved at the Imperial Prince who just tilted his head at the expression as the sound of helicopters took his attention away as representatives of the UN went and bowed to the Elf. “We are pleased to have the honor of your visit in our Capital.”

Though he greeted the players with a smile, the two suited men from the Guild Government quickly got up and gestured for the 8-Gon and the empyrean began walking through the main street. Flanked by all available soldiers that could be sent, the road was well polished alongside the sidewalks as flags of the UN waved proudly at every corner.

“These structures, how many floors do they contain?” the UN official looked at his colleague to sprang into action. “About fifty to sixty, Your Royal Highness.” This made the Elf’s eyes glare at the amazing amount of glass there was. “Wow, and these flying objects of metal?” Pointing at the mixture of police and news helicopters circling them like vultures. “Oh, those are helicopters. There rotorcrafts if you will.”

The Imperial Prince then stopped and looked down at the road there walking on. “These are asphalt roads. Made from bitumen and aggregates." The Elven Prince was curious with everything about the modern Human city; if anything caught his eyes, he’d stop and point at it and it usually went from the mundane sewer ducts to the lamp posts and the bus stops.

Constantly looking at every window, noticing the immeasurable amount of glass and concrete with the players looking out of them with bewildering stares, the pale steel and gray colors and the Honor Guards of the Men of the Woods in there black jackets and blue pants with golden lining on the sides, there M1 Garand rifles standing at complete vertical of them as the State Secretary walked down the stage and walked to the gates of the 8-Gon where he reached out his arm.

Upon the Imperial Prince getting near enough for a handshake, the Elf reaches out his hand and then unfurls his lanky armored fingers but doesn't touch the palm of the suited politician. As if unsure about the contact there about to make. Jackson quickly rushed onto the sidelines and was on the verge of sweating bricks till the Pope gestured how to do it. “Merely reach out and grasp his hand firmly, but not enough to hurt and shake it.” and the two high ranking officials then shared a greeting.

Prince Dydares shakes the Secretary of State a bit too much, making the player’s head light from the up and down his entire body had to witness as the strength of the Elf was on an entirely different scale even for the high level Umberto and then there was silence till Jackson looked around and began clapping.

A crescendo of claps then came as the Grand Prince of James went down the stage and extended his arm. “Imperial Prince Dydares, I’ve only heard of you in Dragovh. I am pleased to meet you.” The Human with his mighty aura were at odds with the Elves' equally mighty presence, as if two beaming nuclear reactors were at each other, the players and even the Natives present couldn’t believe what they were witnessing at their very front.

“Ah, the Golden Human, Sigured of James. I am very much happy to meet you and see that you do not only surpass tell tales but further go beyond any expectations. You are bathed in divinity as so have I and…” he looks to the blonde woman next to him, the Sword Saint of the Holy See. “Her. I believe you are the Sword Saint? I find the lack of empathy in your soul disturbing but your courage and kindness is still be-fit of your title.”

Taken aback by his celestial looks, Elizadeath bows reluctantly and the Elven Prince immediately put his legs together, hands on thigh and performed a slow 45 Degree bow. “Those chosen by the Gods are chosen for the quality of their souls. The Heavenly Kings smile upon us for this unification.” and it is followed by his fist on the sigil of the Mother Tree on the center of his chestplate. “Human, Elf, Dragon, and even the Dwarves had come out of their holes to aid us.” He looks at the odd group of extremely powerful and influential people at the stage.

“This will be a momentous time for all of us and upon the order of my Father and Mother, I’ve come ready to lay my life for the future, not only of Elvenkind, but also of all of the Free Species of Lunaris.” King Augustus nodded as he stepped forth to the edge of the stage. “I have expected some may still call Threa by its original name. You’ve been taught well, Son of Dydares.”

The Imperial Prince once again performs his Holy Bow followed by the Imperial Salute by thumping on the sigil of the Mother Tree. “Thank you, King of Dragons. I apologize for the lack of gifts with me now as my deployment was done with much haste.” Augustus just smiled and returned to the side of the Sword Saint as the Grand Prince looked at Elizadeath who gestured to her with his eyes as an old man in white and blue robes came forth after greeting the many representatives of the UN and Men of the Woods.

Both the Grand Prince and Sword Saint then bow to the Pontiff of the Holy See who just smiles and waves at them. “Ahahaha, no need. I am just an old man now. Far outside the Grand Cathedral of Deus Vrax.” The olden but strong and stoic holy man then turned to the Elf. “I thank you for the ride. I believe the Outworlders will take it from here?” The State Secretary immediately gestured for one of the Generals to step forward who gave a quick salute.

“Yes, we have a Presidential Boeing ready to take you back to Dragovh. General Nguyen here will personally escort you and King James when he arrives. The Secret Service reports he is busy looking at a pawnshop right now." The 4-Star General salutes, tall and steady forward, befitting of a war hardened officer, he looks at the Pope and gives him a confident smile. “Do not worry about my skills. I’ve survived things you wouldn’t believe.”

The Imperial Prince notices one of the other Heroes, who was standing by the sidelines as if he was just a mere guest. “Forgive me for my trespass, but you are the Sir Benthal Arno of the meager Geraldian Village of Crownsley, correct?” the young teenager bowed all the way through and nodded. “Y-Yes! I am pleased to meet you, Imperial Prince Dydares!” The Elf just gave a harmonious smile, putting his hand on the kid's shoulder. “Just call me Garrond or Gar as the Thydis family refers to me behind closed doors.”

He then changes his direction to the sight of King Augustus. Walking upon the Dragon King on the stage as the Heroes exchanged small conversation, he knelt before the grand ancient warrior with reverie reserved for the Mother Tree. “King of the Dragons, God of Fire and Flames, I am under great blessing to meet you. The ecclesiarchy of the Dragon Kingdom had helped my ancestors long before and you were one of those. It's thanks to you, Goddess Forrus and the Mother Tree stands as it is." The Dragon King makes the Elf stand up and gives him a nod.

“That is in a time long before the shape of the continents even came to be. Long before the Dawn of Dwarf and Man. Though I thank you for your kindness and respect, I am a long exiled King. My beloved Queen Catherine awaits me to bring the head of the Demon God, to prove my worth as a Male and thus, before I can do that, treat me as another. An equal.” The Imperial Prince nods but doesn't leave before a bow and as he looks back out to the gates, where the Legion of Forrus has been fully deployed.

As he was about to chat to one of the two Dwarves present on the stage, he noticed them look behind and divide. “Oiii, Couz Desson. Is that who I think it is?” the small bearded man looks at his older cousin with a red beard. The mighty Warmaster Ormoc was far more luxurious in his outfit than his far bloodied relative within the Sword Saint’s party. “Ohhhh, it might be aye’.”

Looking at the parade of horses, the Grand Prince starts jogging towards the street as familiar banners were hoisted up, the logo of the halved ornate shield with a dragon on the left and a lion on the right holding a royal crown with a frame made of gold and jewelry are flying high up as they come near the 8-Gons main gates. “Tree of the Goddess! It’s King James! What is a Human King doing here?!” The Dwarf just crosses his arms and sighs. “Tree? Yer’ still using that sentence? Couz Des, you hear’ this long ear?”

The Elf just squints at the Dwarf. “Huh? I believe that idiom is still being said, right?” Warmaster instantly facepalms as he looks up to the skies. “Gods, you tell me these leaf lovers defeated my ancestors? Couz Ormoc, they're far more ancient than the hammers our fathers use!”

Leading the parade was King James in his bright blue and gold surcoat, with his great crown of gold and gemstones radiating his authority and power while just slightly behind him was Queen Vivian in her red silk gown and circle of sapphires and rubies. Stopping just before the sidewalk and servants deploys a staircase for Her Majesty while the King just got down and hugged his son. “My boy! Ahahaha!” With a tight bear hug while James' mother just rests her small hands on his pauldrons “Hans! Desmond! Come see your eldest brother!”

The two royals then come out from the line of Knights in silver armor and wearing the dark blue uniforms of the family, the first one to run towards his brother was the one with purple hair and is the shortest of the three brothers. “Hans! How have you been? Studying well? Are you passing or do you need me to help you again?” The young kid just smiles and lets his big brother ruffle his hair.

While the one who stood taller but not tall enough to make a match against James, fixing his uniform and round glasses just gave a warm smile. “Desmond! Come on! Don’t be like that! I missed all of you. Hans! Come here!” the King and Queen though just stood behind them as the three brothers were united with their eldest.

Jackson, who was sitting down on the curb of the park that surrounds the facility just smiles at the sight of them reuniting. “I miss Mom and Dad… haaaah… My Grandpa and ma must be worried so much… Oh man, I hope my lil bro is doing fine. Ugh.” His hands roll into a fist as he slouches at the warm sight before him. “Tsk. I hope they're okay.”

Bahamut just presses her hands into his shoulder as the two Vampires with their legs elegantly crossed watched in silence. “M’Lord, when are we going to talk to the Imperial Prince? We mustn’t waste time. Our enemies may be working there hardest now knowing what had just occurred.”

“Yes? How may I help you, Countess?”

The General jumps at the appearance of the Elven Prince who bows at Bahamut. “Goddess Bahamut. The Avatar of the Mother Tree wishes to tell you that the Gods are watching closely.” she just nods and goes back to pressing her weight into Jackson’s shoulders as he felt that the words weren’t coming out but the Elf were more than amused by the sight before him. “A Human with two Vampires and a Dragon? My, what an interesting group truly. Seeing it up close now, Lord Jackson, no wonder Sir Thydis had his interest piqued by you.”

Bowing to the General, Jackson had to stand up and salute which followed with a bow. “Knight General Paul Jackson of the Knights of Eldwood, Commander of Joint Forces! Our first meeting was me in my Vampire form… Well, this is who I truly am.” the Elf chuckled with how stoic he became as the Prince bowed. “I believe you had your reasons, General. I am Prince Garrond-Tai Dydares, Heir of the Throne of the Empire.” With a smile, the Elf reaches out his hand and Jackson accepts it. The two shaking their hands together.

He then leans down a bit to look at the Dragon. “May I ask, is Sir Jackson your first love? You seem to stare at him so lovingly.” Bahamut then raises her left hand out of nowhere and with a pointed finger, presses it on Jackson's cheek making him slowly lean away from her sharp nail which is still pushing into his skin. "Yes. Stupidly kind Master is my first love." Alana then raises her hand and pushes her nail into his other cheek, crushing the man between the two ladies' nails. "M'Lord is also my first love! Not even the high born Vampires of the Kingdom match up to him!" The Elven Prince then looks at Elizabeth who had a sneering look at her face.

"What? I am old. Don’t expect that from me, Your Imperial Highness. But do know that I am the Main Wife. Yes! Carmilla is Wife One, being the most mature!" Alana then turns around and smirks at her. "Your Maj-, Duchess, wouldn't that be me since I am the first who made and said the bows?" The Countess’ eye twitched a bit as she gave her best smile while Bahamut then leaned out to look at the two, her thin body overshadowed by the large back of Jackson.

"That would be me! I am the first one here! Master's religion also doesn't accept multiple wives. Right Master?" Jackson though was sweating bullets as some of the players whispered amongst each other. "G-g-girls. Let's focus on what's happening in front of us please. Your Imperial Highness, please forgive them." The Elf just shrugs his head and smiles warmly at the Human. “Please, I find your group to be the most interesting of them all. Such an odd mix of personalities and species. How does one make such a party work?”

Alana then perks up, remembering something. “Oh! Your Imperial Highness, M'Lord, wishes to know if you could tell us where the True Elves of the First Legion are buried.” This made the Elf cross his arms and tilt his head. “May I ask for your reasons, first? Their burial site is of great sacred value to the Empire. Tampering with it could be seen as blasphemy to all of us.”

“M’Lord, plans to revive them. As it stands, we do not have enough soldiers to fight against the Demon hordes and win.”

“Of the Tree’s Crown... That is an interesting plan.” he stands there for a few seconds, observing the group in silence. “C-Can you allow it? Bahamut will be the one to do it… somehow.”

“Of course! We’d be happy to see True Elves again! Oh, the knowledge and tactics they could teach us. Who are we to deny a Gods wish? Even more if it's meant to revive the Angelic Elves, sent down to this soil by Goddess Forrus herself!” Bahamut drops her body on Jackson, making him slouch forward a bit as she presses her chest onto the back of his neck and her chin resting on top of his head. “Though I still don’t know how it will be done. I need all my strength and power to help out, Master at the frontlines.”

Her arms then wrap around Jackson’s neck as she sighs. “I wonder, can you handle the Lantern… or maybe the Lamp?” The only Human of them all looks up to Bahamut who then looks down, making both of their eyes meet. “Are you sure it's a good idea to give them a summoning type item that can call upon whatever Eldritch horror that rests in the Void?” she shrugs as a kind voice came towards them.

“And here Father, Mother is Goddess Bahamut in the flesh! The one I’ve told you about who helped me in a dungeon in Schon that had an ancient Demon in it as I went to rescue the Sword Saint from Vitas!” The King is astounded by the sight of the three lustrous women and a familiar uniform. Jackson looks at them and blinks a few times before casting Morph once again and turning into a skeleton. “My Lord, they already saw your face.” and Bahamut undos the spell and rubs her chin into his well combed hair. Sniffing his scent along the way.

“Heh-heh… uhhhh we meet again, King James. It’s… been long, Your Royal Highness.” hearing the voice, and then the uniform, the graying haired Monarch’s eyes widened. “Holy Sword Cross upon my grave, you're that undead!” He then looks at the Queen and nods to himself. “Nice- I mean Queen Vivian. Her Majesty.”

Inside his head, all that was spinning were one sentence. “I want to commit a slight bit of desertion.” as the Grand Prince extends his hand to the General who takes it. “General Jackson, I believe you’ve met my brothers then.” he smiles at them and slowly waves his hands. “Hello. Hello. I uhhh… it's been a year and almost a half now. Things are getting dicey, finally, right? Eheheh… how was the clean up? We really did a number on your forces sadly.”

Silence was the reply of the three younger brothers as he swallowed his saliva. “So, uh, Bahamut!” The Dragon then forcibly moved his head to look up at her. “Yes, Master?” he points at the Grand Prince who was looking at her with such a powerful gaze. “Why not give the Lantern to him? He might be able to do it, right?” The King and Queen then looked at each other then to the Imperial Prince who bows at them. “My! The Son of the Emperor! I did not notice you there, I apologize! My wife and children! Come greet the Imperial Prince at once!”

As James’ family went and exchanged pleasantries with the Elf, James kept looking at Bahamut who raised an eyebrow. “Master, you know using that Lantern to revive things also means to cost you your divinity, right?” Jackson though just looks up once again to meet her gaze. “And? The Gods are behind the Grand Prince, I am sure they have more than enough to spare.”

King James then turns to Jackson who was sitting down at the edge of the park’s island which was full of oak trees. “Lord Jackson, did I hear this right? You plan on reviving the Angels of Geraldia?” The player stands up and nods and after a lengthy explanation which soon involved the Secretary of State who was watching behind the Royals.

The Sword Saint who kept a bit distance as she could feel the aire of the Vampires and Bahamut who seems to be on the verge of blasting an Ancient Fireball spell at her listened in with her own party while Grand and Imperial Prince both looked at each other first then to the 5-Star General who sighs and sat back down. “Sooo… uhhh… what do you think? Prince Dydares already said it's fine. Oh! And where are they buried?”

King and Queen present, they looked at the Secretary of State who then turned around to the Generals present and they all started discussing amongst each other till one nodded and the rest followed. King James sighs and nods. “Of course. I understand the weight put on your shoulders, Outworlders. I will be sure to erect statues and archive the heroics of our otherworldly guests. It would not be fair for you to set your lives on the line while my Son rests and waits for you to do the tasks that need to be done.”

Jackson quickly felt a large amount of weight taken off of his shoulders as Prince Dydares lifted his hand up and pointed to his right, back towards the Elf Empire.

“At Mount Harelm. That is where they are buried. A hundred laks below the soil.” Warmaster Ormoc instantly turns on the Elf. “Haaah?! You buried those ancient long ears at the place where hundreds of thousands of my kin died?!” though Hero Gunther got in between the two and smiled at them. “Please, let us calm down. Your Imperial Highness, please continue.”

“They were already buried there before the Dwarves of Harelm came, Warmaster. I recommend you hold judgment later. Their burial is a sacred temple whose entrance has been long been lost to the puzzling mountain cities of the Dwarves” This made Jackson flick his finger. “But this means you can get there without much problems then! It’s already inside your Empire and all.”

“Hmmm… this could still be a problem. As General Jackson, we have not touched that place since the Dwarves came long ago. I do not know what is hidden in that holy tomb. I believe it might even have ancient defenses but, we dare not venture in that ancient celestial resting place for the Angels of Goddess Forrus. I do not know if we can do this in a quick manner.”

“But can you do it?” He looks at the Elf and then at the Human. “I believe we can.”

“How long do you need?”

“Erm… I truly cannot speak of a timespan.”

“Just give me a rough idea.” Seeing the overflowing courage brimming within the eyes of the General, the Elf sighed and looked back at the direction to his Empire. “A week, I believe. Though we may need a few additional days after.”

“That will do!” He stands up, hitting the Dragons sharp chin. “OW!” As he screams in pain, Bahamut just readjust herself and sat straight up. “Dangit! But that’s the plan! I’ll hold off the Demon army while the Hero party goes and revives the True Elves using Bahamut’s lantern! Owww! My head!” Alana just raises both her hands and begins healing his cranium as Elizabeth just sighs and facepalms.

King James though rests his hand on the General’s shoulder. “You seem different from before. More… lively, and happy. Though you have the same voice, it has more vigor and positivity to it now.” This made Jackson stop and look up to the awe inspiring sight of the King. “Your eyes too, it's no longer dead and devoid of hope, I see no hatred but love instead.”

He then began patting his shoulder. “I wouldn’t be surprised if one day, a King’s sword were to lay in your hands. The Gods favor the bold, and only those who can love truly can be bold.” Elizabeth couldn’t help but scratch her nose as Desmond, with his round glasses, interrupts them. “Excuse me Father. But… may we think this through more? This is such a bandit plan that I do not know the efficacy of the result it may bear.” he nods and the State Secretary leads them inside the 8-Gon. “Please, let’s discuss this further inside where it may be safer.”

In the main lobby, where a bronze statue of their F-22 Raptor stood before the reception desk. The Secret Service and Internal Bureau were guarding their every direction as they entered the large glass elevator.

On the ride up, the Elf notices a poster for recruitment. One of each of the branches of the Military. With the Navy one catching his eye the most being the Montana Class Super Battleship. “Forrus Green. That cannot be a real naval vehicle. No modern nation would build something that large.” The Secretary of the State looks over to what it was and shrugs. “It’s real. We had two.”

Hearing this made the Elf just silent as Umberto leads them to the war room. The other elevators soon followed, its doors open with the Heroes companions and Royal Advisors and the Pope with his entourage filled the hallways. The upper floors became a fantasy movie set with all of the medieval looking people with magical instruments in the well modern and polished tiles as bullet holes were painted over.

Inside the cold war room, Jackson immediately plops a piece on Mount Harelm while he puts his pieces on Schon, on the Three Rivers City. “Alright, I’ll get to the gist of yesterday’s meeting. I’ll hold off the Horde with the other Generals, our objective will only be to delay. I’ll send cooks to the frontline if need be while you guys venture deep into that mountain and dig up the True Elves and hopefully, the Gods see we did our part and maybe open the portals and you guys save your world!”

Desmond though fixes his glasses and crosses his arms over his lanky body. “Sir Jackson, you seem awfully sure of this plan while you spout hope and maybe. We are dealing with the Heroes here, if they were to become surrounded at Mount Harelm, it would spell doom for our world.” Jackson rests his body on the leather chair and swivels it to his direction. “It’s the only plan that can show some form of a success. Iron Mountain’s entire plan was just to nuke the Demon Hordes after coming in, basically Spawn Camp them with the power of the Sun and holdout hoping for something to come out of nothing.”

He sighs as he turns his body forward to the many screens that’re off and showing only a black screen that’s reflecting him and the people in the war room. “But now, that plan is basically done. We only have a handful of Mana Nukes left and our heads of state aren’t really the brightest in the can. Still thinking Operation Army of the Damned can carry this mess, labeling it a success even though upon the lost of our Strategic Mana Bomb Arsenals, Army of the Damned would need to be tripled at the very least.”

Jackson’s eyes, though filled with an oppressive fear, also had a tingle of fire within the darkness inside his brown eyes, there was a forest fire inside his soul and it was rapidly increasing to a full blown hurricane of flame.

Standing up, he looks at King James and his family. “I know this seems like a suicide mission, but so is mine and I’d never forgive myself if something were to ever happen to my party members yet here I am risking it all.” Desmond lightly nods as he sighed. “And what do you plan if my Eldest Brother does revive the Angels of Forrus and the Portal does not open?”

“Fight.”

King James though looks to his back and there, a Wizard steps forward. Older than the Pope with a long gray beard, donning the white and blue robes of a high ranking Wizard. “Excuse my posture. I am Palatur, advisor to the Royal Court. A wizard second only to the ancient Mages of the first Humans. I’ve listened closely and I shall give my advice to everyone here.”

Jackson then gestures for everyone to sit down as the Wizard observes the map. “I do believe this plan can work. But General Jackson, may I ask what you can push yourself to? Can you accept losses that might break any sane army on this planet?” The General lifts his hands and nods. “General, a warrior that doesn’t admit his losses does not deserve to speak of his victories. You mustn’t buckle even if the Cosmic Gods were breathing on your armies with there creatures that exist beyond the plains of mortal life.”

Hearing such a line delivered with a heavy tone made his throat dry but then, he still nodded. “We are Humans. Give us a reason and we’ll hate them with an intensity that’s usually meant for love. Whatever you need, how many you need. Just say the word and I'll make it happen." the Secretary of the State lifts his hand. “I’ll also back you all up with the instant approval of the UN. Though talks are still ongoing, we have agreed to give our all to your cause. Even if the Mana Cores were to be shut down, General Jackson, you have me and my entire offices’ backing.”

Bahamut then opens a portal and coming out of it is a Lantern that emits a blue light. "Master, I’ll hand my Lantern of Irkalla to the Golden boy. I believe he can do it.”

She then reaches out her arm with the lantern to James who stops an inch from taking it but after a second, grabs the cold thing with his hands. “Just sway it forward thrice and it should awaken them." She then fully hands it to the Grand Prince who wasn’t affected by the whispers of the Void. "Hm. But I do find it harrowing that even the armies of a far more technologically advanced and magically stronger Human and Non Human world cannot hold the armies of the Underworld."

“We… We did meet the minimum requirements for the Phase Two of Operation of the Damned. But this plan was written up before we encountered the Armies of the Underworld… and the loss of our Mana Nuke carriers. We kinda put it on the typical Goblins that number in the millions with maybe some scary flying things and big bosses here and there…” He sighs and puts his back on the leather chair. “When the Battle of Zavalda took place, it was already too late to make changes and thus, we have to make do with what we have.”

Jackson just sighs as he puts his hands together, shrugging his head. “It’s also partly my fault anyways that you all just united now. Tightening the schedule to the point the Demons made the move first. We were just lucky they made a slight miscalculation.” his eyes then peel from looking down and then towards them. “But I don’t regret it. What is the worth of a man if he can’t protect his women?”

Standing up, the General swallows his saliva and bows his head which is followed by the two Vampires and soon, Bahamut. “I’ll take full responsibility for any casualties and mistakes.” Alana and Elizabeth both kick his feet. “Ow!- I mean WE, WE will take full responsibility.”

Hearing this made the King chuckle a bit as he rested his elbow on the table, looking more like a typical man than someone of higher stature. “I see… very well. What is a Human life without challenges? It is what makes us better and stronger people. General, I believe this is why you wish to have Goddess Bahamut with you?”

“Of course. I’ll have to break one of my biggest rules with her and have her unleash all she could.”

“Hm. You do have a peculiar group of companions like the Heroes. One advice though, General. When the time comes, you must cross continents. You shouldn’t make haste. With the Mana and the instability of the world, Livyatans are surely to awaken alongside many ancient Evils.” Jackson then replies with a small sentence. “I will.”

Looking at his Royal Advisor, the aged Wizard strokes his long beard a few times before nodding. “King James, I do believe this can be done. His fealty to his soul oddly reminds me of you when you were but a young troublesome urchin. He is worthy of a crown for such conviction.”

Pontiff Alexendreious steps forth and reaches his hand out to him. “Many can learn from you, General Jackson.” The Pope then closed his eyes as his fingers unwrapped, showing his palm. “Oh Deus Vrax, lay your hands on his Man, feel his strength, fealty, loyalty, love, and devotion to those around him. An exemplary leader who shows your exemplary teachings. A noble accord with a royal mission, praise be, praise be. May you guide him and provide his arduous dark path with lights to signal to him the right way to victory, in your name, the God of Man, I say this.”

Looking at the General, the Pope’s eyes were shining a powerful gold as his silhouette was brightened by a white aura. “May your hand guide this man’s battles, give his maidens all of the loyalty they may need to see through his battles, to believe in him when others cannot, to support him when others no longer do, to love him when others do not. I pray to you, Deus Vrax, the Man-Dragon who conquered against the Evils from afar. To the Sword Cross who took you to Godhood.”

Bahamut’s eyes then opened as she looked to the Pope. “Interesting.” He then took a step back and bowed his head. “Draw your victory, General Jackson. The road may be long and full of corpses, but with your soul, anything is possible.” Hans then looked at the man and shrugged his shoulders. “His soul doesn’t seem that different from the soldiers guarding the gates of our Kingdom though.”

Pope Alexendreious nods and smiles as he hugs his staff. “And that’s what makes him so special. It takes a certain someone to have such a fire lit up within their soul, you may not see it young Hans. But when you become older, you will notice the fire that burns in every person, a fiery passion that can burn through any sin.”

Hearing this, the old man leans on the leather chair, his hands enjoying the armrests as he looks around the well lit table and the long strip of light that goes around it. “So, Humans built this?” Jackson just nodded and the King showed a face of approval as he swiveled the leather chair to his wife. “W-Woah! Ahahaha! I need to get me one of these! My love, what do you think?” Queen Vivian, as strict as ever, just gave him a look which made the King turn the chair forward.

“I approve of it, My King. General Jackson, please make sure our Son returns home as you did again when we sent an army against you.” he just tips his visor down and nods. “Y-Yeah. I’ll be sure to do that.” Bahamut then looked into the West as Elizabeth goes out the war room. “If you have any questions or queries, please say it now. The Secretary of the State is here now and he has a direct line to the President and the United Nations.”

Umberto with his fountain pen out points its tip at the Sword Saint. “Miss Death, can you tell me what were you doing in Schon? Hell, why were you with their Army when we fought the robotic uprising within the first year of our stay here?” his eyes were locked on the blonde saint, with a heavy frown and a stoic mouth, the Streamer had to step into the limelight. “A vision. I traded information about you to the King of Vitas so that I may get near him and his daughter.”

The Generals and Politicians whispered amongst each other as she continued to speak. “It may sound insane, but I’ve given a part of my empathy to the Demon Daughter of the King.” Umberto’s grip on his pen falls as it loudly hits the table. “Yo.. you gave a Demon… Human Empathy?”

Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

Prince James’ nods. “Yes, that is how Bahamut found us in Schon. The Gods gave me a vision of her escape and… it was my duty to find her and bring her back to Geraldia.” Umberto just raises his hand up his forehead as he massages it carefully. “And here I thought Jackson’s plan was complete insanity.” He stands up, both hands planted on the table and leans to the map, pointing at the Capital of Vitas that’s neck deep in a dead land. “So what? Do you expect her to lead some sort of coup?”

“Sadly, the Gods did not tell us much after this. They’ve actually been quiet since then.” the players all just sigh and shrug, unable to grasp the entire situation as a silence falls on the room.

King James turns his attention to the player who sat opposite of him. “Will you leave any knowledge for us to use?” the Politician immediately shrugged his head. “I apologize. But we’ve unanimously decided that the transfer of technology will only be limited to small things. General Jackson had to pull a lot of strings to do what he did in the Vampire Kingdom.” he sighs as the Elf looked at Umberto who instantly felt his burning gaze. “Y-Yes, Prince Dydares, how may I help you?”

“Is the ship on the elevator actually real? May I purchase one for the Empire?”

“Yes, it’s real, your Imperial Highness. We have a third incomplete one in kiel right now but we have plans on scrapping it instead. Its armored belt will be used for the Portal Fortress.” He nods then proceeds to turn his attention to Jackson. "General Jackson, if I may have a word."

"Of course, Prince Dydares."

Standing in the corner, the Elf looks into the soul of Jackson. "Why are you going this far? To lead an army into an uncountable amount of Demons that requires only the strongest of wills to survive. I do not process the thinking of a normal Human to go to this length." This made the General chuckle as Elizabeth goes back in the room with a concerned face.

"I want to protect someone. This unification should've happened weeks earlier if I didn't choose to go a certain path and maybe things wouldn't be as tightly packed as it is now. I am doing this because this is my atonement for my selfish decision.” He sighs and leans his body forward unto the table. Staring at the Heroes, even at the Sword Saint who sat the farthest from them.

“I am no better man than the next but I do know of my duty. What is the worth of a man if he can't protect those whom he loves and cherishes? It is my primal duty to provide and hold, to defend and protect those behind me. If this is the consequence for that, I will drive a tank into the heart of Hell if I have to." he looks back at the Elf, still in the corner nodding. “I can see what my Father meant when he mentioned you.”

This made Jackson’s eyebrow lift in curiosity. “He talked about me?” Dydares nods happily as he walks out of the light. “Father usually doesn’t even speak of a person unless there is someone truly special. Sir Jackson, a good future awaits you, I am sure of this.”

Hearing this made the Grand Prince walk to him and pat his shoulders as he gave the mere Human a shining smile. "You say you are no better than the next but from what you've said, I believe you are truly an exemplary leader and warrior, General. You shouldn't look down on yourself for your choice. It’s meant for someone you care and love about, what is more Human than to fight for whom those you love? Someone like you could become a Legend in this world whose songs of your achievements will be brought to the future generations." Jackson smiles back and wipes his face. "To me, I think I just made a selfish choice that might end up with me and a lot of people dead. All because I cherish the companions that I've bonded with more than the duty I uphold to the state and my… my wish to return home."

The Secretary of the State just readjusts his position as he clears his throat. “I do not find your decision to be a horrible one, General. Maltese plan was far too explosive to my taste, hence why I let your charade to carry on. I cannot fathom roping the Native Kingdoms and Empire into an alliance through such a method. That’s like using a Super Weapon on nothing to scare the world to hold its hands together. It’s efficient, but that is no basis for an alliance.” He then looks at the General who stared at him as if a boatload of weight just flew off his shoulders and the politician broke the silence with a cough.

“What you’ve built here is an Alliance based on trust, mutual respect, and adoration for each other’s strengths and weaknesses. I cannot help but say I much prefer this than what Maltese had in store. That’s why I am willing to expend as much resources as I can to help you out.” He winked at the General who nodded back with my grin on his face. “Thank you, sir.”

The Imperial Prince then puts his fist at the center of his chest, knowing the gesture, Jackson returns it by doing the same and bowing his head. "I pray to Goddess Forrus to make your future one of bountiful harvests, eternal greenery and life without strife. I understand now, General. But you are aware this might mean you might be imprisoned here if it comes to it?"

"I know and that's probably why Bahamut is so disrespectful of your Gods. She probably knows they're using me to keep her and even Mars here. Two additional Dragon Gods for their worldly war. I don’t think they know just how much deeply Dragons have bonded with Humans."

"Master, I will be damned if Mars were to stay here! I'd rather fly to the cosmos than hear her nagging about Human fashion and make up to these Natives! She needs to return to Tur with us!" Jackson just reaches his hand out and grabs the Dragon's boney hands. "Ahahahaha, you truly formed a bond with her haven't you?" she immediately looks away from the Elf, hiding her face from him. “Hmph! Master is cool but… okay, I do love him.” As the room laughs at the cute human reaction of the Dragon God, Elizabeth leans into his ear and whispers.

“My Lord, one of my Knives has told me that an Archbishop has appeared in one of your Cathedrals.” He looks at her and tilts his head. “Is there service today? The True God has Saturday and Sunday services only for divine player buffs.” she shrugs her head as she looks at the giddy atmosphere of the place. “It’s an Archbishop of Hell.”

Driving towards the Cathedral of the True God, 5 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptors race through the busy streets that’s having an above average amount of traffic with the defensive structures being set up and the people curious about the Elves. “Copy, Dispatch. We’re currently enroute to Postal Code Six-Seven-Six. Code Five.”

Looking forward, the officer looks at the crowd gathering at the holy structure as they violently stop at the large sidewalk in front of it. “Woodstock Police Department! Clear the area now!” Rushing to their trunks and loading up their assault rifles and kevlar vests on, they race towards the front door. “Huh? Why is it closed? Did no one die today?” the other officer shrugs his head. “What? No. An hour ago five people died because they tried to make a Fireball spell that originates from your skin.”

The Sergeant walks to the knobs and prepares to open it as a large number of military vehicles congregate on the Cathedral. But the cops were far too busy with their job to notice the flooding of camouflage men and skeletons. “Three, two, one, WOODSTOCK POLICE DEPARTMENT!” and opening it, a tidal wave of blood crashes on them. Painting the players who were looking at the scene with red as the entire intersection in front of the sacred building gets a disgusting gash of fresh red liquid.

The responding soldiers from the National Guard all stopped on their feet as their skeletal squad members kept marching to the front gate. Some of the soldiers were visibly shaking as their assault rifles rattled loudly.

A rumble then began and walking out of the front door of the Cathedral was a skinned humanoid, with its eyeballs popping out from the lack of any fiber. The bloodied cops with their guns still down just looked in absolute fear of the being. It looked nothing like they’ve seen before as it donned robes of profane sigils and logos, the inhuman smile on its face causing trembles to those unfortunate enough to lock eyes with it.

Carrying its staff that had a crimson orb on it, donning red robes and vestments that had the details of innards and tendrils seeping in its corners with the most foul and demonized symbols on it, the vile creature lifts his arms and spreads it in joy.

“Outworlders! You shall all be enlightened! You shall be the first citizens of a new world! A new Lunaris! We have come to bring you Heaven! A world without pain or suffering! Where ranks and strength does not matter! Bow! Bow your head upon the visage of the Gods! The True Gods that helped so many find freedom! Love! Equality! Peace! Come under me, under the Gods who sowed people from the many species! Under one roof, living and thriving! Diverse and Equal! Come now! The Demon Army needs your powerful and heroic souls!”

In defiance of it all, one of the players even with his trembling hands, his eyes deep with fear and despair, his very soul rocking upon the insatiate and otherworldly aura of the demonic creature, racks his M4A1 rifle and points it at the Archbishop who instantly notices him. “Ah, a rare one. One braver than most. You shall die first.” He promptly explodes into a pile of gore, making his skeletons stop for a second as they attach themselves to the nearest squad leader.

The Police Sergeant who was down on his feet opens his palm and a fireball flies out of it and hits the skinned humanoid which does nothing. “Another one? My, a civilization of brave people! Ahahahaha! How beautiful! You shall all be equal to the cowards! D-I-E!” One by one, from the bloody streets, small flesh pillars rose as undead began to crawl from the liquid. The players though didn’t run away, merely fighting tooth and nail with the National Guard and the Police as the intersection becomes a bloodbath.

Walking away with the Cops unable to move an inch, following it was a malformed Ogre, carrying a Coffin of the True God that’s been shackled with crimson chains. No players were spawning from it as more and more soldiers were roped to the fight. “D-D-Dispatch… God save me.”

As firefights erupt throughout the city of Woodstock, Jackson inside a large convoy of Secret Service SUVs rode through the chaos as tanks rolled from that street to another, crushing car after car as zombies rose from blood pools on the roads, sidewalks, and alleys.

Riding in a Blackhawk, the Heroes were delivered straight to the Cathedral where the former small flesh pillars had grown to the height of the fourth floors, with eyes and mouths popping out from its skin. Speaking in a tongue unknown to mortals as tracer fire flew from every direction alongside balls of elemental magics.

Dropping down to the street, the Grand Prince looks at the Cathedral whose area has been completely overtaken by the undead. Their uniform looked akin to ancient Human armies as they rabidly ran and dashed to their victims, ripping them apart. “Sir Dydares!” The Elven Prince jumps atop a taxi as King Augustus turns into his red Dragon form behind him. “Sir James! The Archbishop is no longer here!”

“We’ve been fooled. That repulsive creature has long left this place. I can smell traces of its putrid aura flying far away from this city.” Stopping at the mainstreet, Jackson’s convoy of SUVs rams into a horde of undead as he exits out with an MP5K from one of the Agents.

He quickly dispatches the undead around him as he uses his Vampiric glass sword to finish off a large number that was on the curbs. “Bahamut on the radio said it has a portal on the outskirts! Two of you, get inside now! The rest will stay!” Dydares and James quickly board the vehicle while the rest of the Heroes stay. Though the Warmaster didn’t abide by the order.

Leaving his distant relative and jumping on top of the last SUV. “My cousin! We shall talk another time!” Leaving the Sword Saint with her and the Grand Prince’s party who now had a Cardinal. “Do not worry! I will cleanse this city of this infection! Saint Elizadeath! Protect me as I chant to these putrid pillars!”

Driving into the highway, Jackson was busy on the radio coordinating officers and troops as they drove past one military convoy after the other as they soon entered the interstate where it was mostly filled with buses full of players. The tall trees surrounding it limited the view of the vehicles on the road, the only thing most could see were the mountains that spanned far above the treetops. “Copy Lacrimosa, I have ten IFVs sent to your district, but I’ll need you to divert to Cathedral Street and back up the Heroes. Expedite your assault, over.”

Behind them, smokestacks began to rise from the streets as the fighting became more and more fierce. Though the two Heroes in the back were calm and collected. “How are you doing, Prince Dydares? Interesting first day in an Outworlder city, right?” the Elf nodded. “I am surprised at the resilience of your citizens. They're fighting back valiantly.” the General points at the buses leaving the Capital. “Those who don’t want to fight have mostly left. It’s just those who want to stay.”

“General Paul, may I ask.”

“Of course, James.”

“What had Goddess Bahamut said? Is this the beginning?”

“No. She usually detects it. She’d find Interlopers coming from the space between this and their world. All she found right now is a small rift somewhere.” This made the Grand Prince return back to his seat as he looked at the convoy of buses and military trucks carrying players in their fantasy medieval and modern outfits. “The use of having a Dragon who has stayed in the Void. She knows Space and Astrology magic as if she was the one who invented it! Ahahaha. Her feelings about portals have never failed me so far.”

As the convoy of SUVs drive on the fast lane, the Elven Prince notices a white dove flying away as they make a sharp turn into the exit where they entered a small rural road. The two lanes were completely empty of any vehicles and there, the tall trees seemed gigantic as the foreign Sun’s kiss constantly kept being hindered by the leaves and branches. “Lead vic, continue onwards till you reach Hill Eight-Seven-Five. There should also be an Artillery Battery in the area so beware of tracked equipment.”

Dust was then blown as the vehicle two cars in front of them violently veered off the expressway and to the forest asphalt where they then once again turned to a dirt road just big enough for the SUVs to drive into and the ride became bumpy. Though thanks to the suspension, Jackson just had to grab the passenger side handle as they turned on their police lights and followed each other through the dust.

One by one, red brake tail lights turn on and they find themselves driving through a tightly packed road. “We encountered the Battery.” They pass by the 5 axle HEMTT trucks loaded with nothing but 155mm shells. They were parked on the side of the dirt road, half of their cabs hugging the bushes as the convoy soon stopped at the M113 Command variant and a Captain saluted as he rolled down the tinted windows. “Sir! Captain BerpTerp of the Forty Ninth Field Artillery Battalion! Hammer of Thor!”

Looking at the front, it was just a long line of trucks from the supply section. With the skeleton drivers in their frozen state at the seats. “What’s the hold up? Aren’t you supposed to be at the hill?” the Captain immediately lowers his hand and brings out the map from the hands of his Lieutenant. “Sorry sir, we’ve run into a problem with the route. A bunch of civilians have barred us access to it and we’ve called for the Sheriff to clear them out.” the General once again looks to the front where the road curves inwards to the forest even more.

“Sir, have they arrived?” he only got a shrug as a reply and the man just sighs in relief. “Alright. I want the Field Battery Headquarters to send a squad with me from the Field Support Company to help out the Heroes.”

“Sir yes sir!” The Elf looks around him as the various support vehicles for the 9 Self Propelled Guns litter the road. “And you narrate to me and my Father you survived multiple years of this in a world without magic?” Jackson looks at the rear view mirror and then forward as they slowly squeeze their way into an old Western style settlement. “It’s not like the enemy had magic themselves, you know.”

The convoy then pushes on to the dirt road, the tight squeeze forced them to approach the target in a slow and deliberate manner as soldiers flunked their sides, guns out and ready for action and upon seeing the sight of the wooden fence and the gate, Jackson ordered them to stop immediately.

He exits out even before the Agents could open his door, the General looks at the young teenage player in front of him who stood with a magical staff in one hand and a double barrel on the other. “Vacate the premises. This is now an area under the control of the Field Artillery Battalion.” The player just spits on the path in front of Jackson as the passenger doors of the SUV opens and the two Heroes alongside a bunch of Agents walk out. Flanked by three squads of soldiers.

“Last warning.” The Elf stops and looks at the Wild West buildings, specifically the Mayor’s house at the very hand. “Sir Jackson, I smell blood.” The man immediately squinted his eyes as the Grand Prince looked around the dusty structures. “There’s multiple people… and.” He looks down on the ground. “There seems to be a place underneath.” Jackson looks at James and then Dyadres, his face in complete astonishment. “Dang, you two are something. You got a sonar too?” he looks at the player and casts a spell.

“Divine Intervention.” The disheveled player immediately starts burning up and soon turns into a flaming body, the person still manages to point his shotgun before getting gunned down by the Squad of soldiers as their squad leader looks down on the crispy corpse that’s slowly turned into divine dust. “Jesus! What was that?! The players here are far too low leveled to survive being on fire!”

“We’ll check it later. You guys go house to house. Heroes will lead the way.” The Sergeant quickly orders his platoon to follow his lead as they slowly and methodically move to the first buildings. The small open field which was the markings of tire tracks and a fallen sign of a car made the General feel uneasy as his eyes observed the treeline as James tapped the shoulder of the player. “Sergeant, may I recommend that your men take caution. In the first two buildings, each of them has five people. Two on the top, three below and the following ones have sporadic numbers. The noise of their uncontrolled breaths is a big giveaway.”

Jackson though looked left and right and has not found the Elven Prince anywhere. The young Elf had already left the formation as he got around the perimeter and observed a group of players going into a secret door inside the Mayor’s house and a cracking sound came from his back, making him draw his Bow.

With a squint of an eye he fires it and poof, a random bush turns into the Dwarven Warmaster Ormoc, proudly combing his red beard with his hands. “Ayyyy. Tis’ a bad day, ey?”

“What are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be in the city?” The Elf’s long sharp ears then twitch as he lunges down and one of the balconies, a hillbilly player exits out with a bolt action rifle. Running into the back of the last building and began climbing it.

Quick with his arrow, the Imperial Prince quickly shot the woman in the back, making her slender body plop to the dirt as he turned his attention back to the Dwarf. “Thee’ Sword Saint and that noggin’ Cardinal will finish it in no time. I’d rather be here to help the son of the Ancient King that helped me tribe.” The Dwarf then proceeds to exit the treeline and make a slow and painful dash to the Mayor’s building as the Platoon of soldiers begins their entrance to the first row.

Almost immediately, gunfire erupts again and the Elf notices the bullets were piercing the backs of the houses. Often bouncing into the forest as grenades were thrown into the second floors sending shrapnel into the neighboring buildings interiors.

He closes his eyes and looks through the vision of a nearby animal. A squirrel where he then draws a special arrow from his back and aims it upward. Looking at the inhabitants, he noticed one of them had bright red eyes who was crouching out of view from the window.

Switching to a nearby bird, he once again spots it, ducking under a desk. He began pulling strings as the soldiers reached the Mayor's building. The Grand Prince was the first in and he began punching people in the face while Jackson mostly kept his hands on his back. Observing the players' close quarter tactics.

Reaching the second floor, the Grand Prince starts opening doors and going into the Mayor’s personal office, the Elven Prince releases the string and the golden arrow flies directly up and then to the right where it then makes an angled downward spiral into the head of the player. Killing him as he stood up with a rifle in hand.

This made the Grand Prince recoil a bit at the aftermath as he looked at the hovering bird and smiled at it. “Job well done my Elven friend! A bit violent but a job done the same!” He then turns around and walks down to the staircase where the secret door left opened led to a well lit basement.

Jackson sneaked a peek into it and after some stares at the concrete basement flooring of the Mayor’s wooden building made him gesture for the Squad of players to go in first. “I have an itching feeling that I know what’s happening here.” He then follows the men down and the bottom floor was normal for the most part.

Though there were wooden ammo crates and some olden M1 rifles and carbines on top and some tables, there was nothing standing out as the three Heroes walked in. “Huh? Warmaster Ormoc? That’re you doing here?” not even getting a reply, the Dwarf walks towards a flat wall and smashes it with his hammer. A flash occurred as a spell was broken and the sound of glass being cracked and fully collapsing revealed a dugged out tunnel on the other side. “That Priest’ can’t stop quotin’ that Dragon Human God of his. It’s annoyin’ me.”

“H… How did you break that? What is that Hammer of yours made out of?” The Dwarf just gave the man a chuckle as he calmly stroked his beard, stepping aside to let the Grand Prince walk in. “Boys! Let’s head in, support the trio at all cost!” as his soldiers went in, trailing the Heroes closely while Jackson took the moment to observe the barrier.

Looking at the debris, the barrier was still in effect even after being shattered. Making him completely dazed at the aftermath. Picking it up and casting fire, the invisible barrier quickly reacted, showing its four layers of defenses and a main one on the concrete itself. “Huh.” He then hears someone walking to him and looking up, it's the Sergeant of the Squad. “Sir, you should see the sigil.” dropping the trash on his hand, the man quickly walks through the well made tunnel.

Though it lacks in any proper concreting, the metal floor matts served well enough to prevent his Oxford shoes from getting muddied and the supports that hang the electric cord for the lighting made the short journey pleasant to the eyes as he arrived to a room that had a octagonal shaped stone flooring. On it, the sigil was still sizzling as the General showed a frown. “Sergeant, call for your Battalion Commander and ask if any Players have respawned yet.” With the order, the man quickly got into the radio and an answer was given without much hassle. “Negative, sir.”

“Sir Jackson, what does this mean?” He looks at the Elf but the Dwarf quickly looks at the sigil on the ground and spits on it, the liquid instantly becoming steam. “It means these players are either inside the city or dead. That is also no magic circle. That’s a Sigil.” walking on the edge of the stone, the man got a bit of a shiver as he looked at the symbols on it. There were no stars or any of the basic types. It didn’t even respect the shaping as it had a broken circle that pierced through in the middle.

The eye in the middle, with the box that’s overlapping with an angled star made him shiver. “How can you taint something so innocent like Magic circles? Grand Prince, can you read this? No player knows this type of heresy.” the man sighs and knelt with one knee. “Hm. It’s an ancient Daemon Sigil. Something like this hasn’t been seen for at least a thousand years. It can be used to teleport and as a communicator through sects and other worlds.” Jackson breathed out and started wiping his lips with his fingers as he turned around and walked out. “Sergeant, I want an update on the city. How is the King and Queen and the Top Brass?”

Outside, the M109A6 Self Propelled Howitzers had begun to move. One by one, the convoy of mobile artillery passes by the old timey settlement being back to its original status of being abandoned. Though the bodies of the players had all turned into dust of gold, there was still nothing being reported to him concerning respawns. Jackson walks back to the center where the two Princes were at. “I’ll have us exfil back to the AO through helicopter, alright? The three of you stay put. I’ll arrange transport.” he immediately changes his attention to the radioman.

“Get me a Blackhawk and an update as to what the hell is happening in the city.” He then puts his attention to the Colonel. “When your SPHs are placed, I need you to transfer some of those sustainment bridges to the neighboring battery since you guys have an excess.” as if like clockwork, he shifts his attention again to the person he had previously conversed with. “Reports indicate the fighting has mostly died down, sir. Chalk One will also be coming here.” he nods. “Any reports of usual activity? The Mana Core?”

“Negative, sir. Apart from the small skirmishes that occurred, most of the situation had been neutralized and areas had been secured. Mana core is fluctuating as it's been doing since yesterday.” The Heroes suddenly looked at the direction of the city and then to the skies, this prompted Jackson to put his hand on his hat. “Tsk. Alright. I guess the Secretary of the State wants me back since a Respawn Point has been stolen?”

“... Uhhh, nothing on that front, sir.” he just pats the soldier and hears the Blackhawk approaching them. “Nevermind. You're all dismissed. Go back to your original CO.” With a salute, the player returns to his platoon as the Blackhawk arrives and the Secret Service Agents open the doors for them.

Flying back to the city, it was still intact aside from some high rises with obvious damages to its many glass windows.

Taken straight to the center of the 8-Gon, Jackson leads the Heroes back to the war room on the top floor where Bahamut jumps the General as Alana and Elizabeth just bowed elegantly. “Master!” He hugs her back, carrying the Dragon in his arms as he peeked inside where the King and Queen were alongside the State Secretary. “How was the fighting?” Alana then points towards the city center. “It’s been stopped, M’Lord.”

“Good work, both of you.” He then turns his attention to Bahamut. “And how was the guard duty?” She merely replies with a yawn as the Heroes went back inside after waving goodbye and the head honcho of the show in his usual dark colored suit greets him. “General. I hope it's good news.” He lowers the Dragon and salutes Umberto. “Sir. Situation has been resolved. Units are just clearing up remains and checking for any stragglers. The citizenry is aiding, the ones with Divine magic are searching the streets for any possible threat.”

“Mhm. And the Respawn Point?”

“Yes sir, it’s... It’s gone.” This made the Secretary of State to lay his forehead on top of his hands. “The moment we reached the location of escape, that thing had long disappeared. I believe they’ve been using the place since yesterday.” with a long hard sigh, he gets the red telephone out and dials 1. “Good afternoon, Mister President. We… We have a bad situation developing. It was a show of force. I recommend you get this discussion done. General Yamaoka is already enroute to Schon. We need to hassle and consolidate all forces within the UN and prepare for it.”

King James leaned in, as even far away, the voice of the President was audible. “Yes, Mister President. I’ll have General Jackson to finish the defenses of the city.” He looks at the man whose eyes widen. “And he’ll go to the Three Rivers Fortress City as planned? Yes, of course Mister President. The King and Queen are safe.” He then puts his hand on the microphone and raises his head to the General. “Finish up what you're doing, General. It’s the Twilight of the Gods and we’re here to fight the last battle. Do what you are willed to do. Dismissed.”

He gestures for him to shoo away, making the General salute once again and turns to the King and Queen. “Thank you for your patience. You should get back home as fast as possible. Your Son did very well, perfect even.” James smiled at the man, standing up and walking towards him. “Hm. You will win this battle, General Jackson. As cataclysmic as it may be, in times such as these do Heroes and Good Men rise to the challenge. Pave a way for a softer world, where men like us are no longer needed.” Reaching out his hand, the General takes it with a wide smile to him.

“Of course. I’ll do my best.” The King then looked at his waist and the scabbard that’s attached to his belt. “Hm. You Outworlders are an endless source of surprises. How does a King’s sword feel? Do you tire from the weight it puts on your shoulders?” Jackson blushes as he puts his jacket over the sword’s pommel. “O-Oh, I forgot to remove this. Ahahahaha.” the King though didn’t look away, staring at the man. “Ho-how did you know this is a King’s sword?”

“Crown Sword Chevalier De La Nuit. The meteor glass bladed rapier was meant to be gifted by Queen Elizabeth to King Charlesmagnes, yes? The Royal symbol of the House of Bartley is quite evident on its side. Hm, only Vampires would make such an elaborate glass sword a functional weapon. I won’t ask how you got this, I already have my judgments. The past is the past as they say. But how does it feel in your Human hands?”

“It felt… heavy at first. But now, I’ve gotten used to it. I don’t even use its powers since it requires the powerful blood of a Vampire Lord which I don’t have. Even with my Knight armor on, I could only bring out a fraction of its potential, so… I do think it's a bit wasted on me since I am not an overpowered Vampire King.”

“But this sword now lay in your hands, doesn't it? A sword whose wielder holds the fate of lives.” The King then rests his hand on his shoulders. “For that sword to land in your arms means you are worthy of the symbol and royalty it holds. Even if you can only draw a fraction of its capability, the person felt strong enough that you deserve such a thing. Do not fail this person, General.” Jackson quickly nodded and saluted. “Of course. I intend to carry this through to the very end. I won’t lose.”

The straightlaced face, unshaking and strong courage and faith that exudes from his eyes made the King grin. “You remind me a lot of someone. Carry on, General. In the very end, I will surely gift you a plot of land and title. I’ll have my Scribes to make sure all texts would have your name on it and each of these books made by the most extravagant Illuminators my Kingdom has to offer.” He just nodded in reply and saluted once again before swiftly turning around and walking away to the door with the three women tailing behind him. “The Gods and their ways.”

On the hallway as Bahamut rested her chin on his shoulder with her floating right behind him. He didn’t even jump from it as his eyes kept on looking forward. “What now, Master?” He pats her head as he starts walking to the elevator, hands in pocket now. “Elizabeth, he knows who you are.” He turns around to look at the inner courtyard of the 8-Gon. The uniformed players carrying stacks of players left and right as high ranking officers looked immensely stressed, some smoking cigarettes as they had heavy conversations. “Hm, My Lord. He is of a good eye. He knows your worth from top to bottom. Such is a King.”

“Master, when are we going?” He looks at Bahamut, and his eyes squint. “You're looking forward to this, aren’t you?” she immediately looked away, though Jackson saw the smile forming on her face before she could get away. “This is just my second planet shattering battle between Gods and their chosen peoples… and this time, I get to do it with someone I deeply adore. A Dragon fighting with someone they like is the pinnacle of honor for us!”

“Yeah, and Alana and Elizabeth here will be getting heart attacks everyday soon.” The elevator dings as they reach the main lobby. “M’Lord, do not say more. Hah, I am already stressed right now.” He then began to walk again, heading to the North Gate. “I think it's my primal urge, Master. This excitement is the same I get when I am headed to battle against a foe that could kill me.” Jackson’s eyes widened as he stopped and turned to her. “This rush, Master, I wanna dive head into them, eat, kill, swipe, crush, and control.”

The busy players just looked confused as they made wide births away from the Dragon God. “So… it’s true Dragons are adrenaline junkies, huh. Well, just be sure to keep that energy since you don’t have your Lantern with you now." She then reveals another Lantern, this one oozing a hot red fire, and rather than the rustic look of the other, this one was new and brimming with life. “I have this other one, Master! One that can summon souls I’ve defeated and collected.”

He swipes it away slowly as it disappears into a portal. “How about not summoning any of the crazies in Dark World’s history? We already have enough crazies here.” Looking at Elizabeth and then to the floating Bahamut, she inverts herself as Jackson continues walking to the gate. “I’m not crazy. Master, if anything, you're the crazy one here. A Human fighting the ruinous forces of Cosmic and possibly Eldritch Gods head on? This is why I love you so much, Master. You truly are something special.”

Shrugging his head, he looks at her with a smile on his face. "I was average in everything, even in Officer School. So don't put too much faith in me." As Jackson walks out to the street with his hands in his pockets, looking for the key fob. The Secretary of State pops out from the sidewalk and the three girls were shocked at the high ranking official’s sudden appearance.

"He's lying by the way." turning to him, the girls all had faces full of confusion as Umberto chuckled and shrugged his head. "He ranked Top in his Military Academy specializing in Mechanized Combat, graduated High school with two medals for Leadership, and he is also a Top Notcher at the Technical College he attended." Jackson though was too busy rummaging through his pockets where he was utterly confused where the key went. Unable to turn around and see the high ranking politician.

Alana, though in confusion still, leans forward and looks at him from shoe to hair. "May I ask how you know of this, Sir Umberto?" The State Secretary just looks back to the 8-Gon and then to her with the key fob on his fingers. "That guy is a famous CEO you know. Paul AB Jackson, one of the three owners of Pacific Heavy Industries. Didn't he tell you?"

The Countess then stands up properly, hands in front of her as she slowly shakes her head. "N-No. He only said he runs a business on Earth. None of us were aware of how large it is." the player just sighs as he looks at Jackson who was looking around the street. "Well, he is a very low key person. Probably the only Exec I know who knows how to use a transmission with a high and low gear and doesn’t like to brag about anything except his anime collection."

He then returns his gaze at the three girls, all amazed at what they are hearing. "Thank you, for being so kind to him. Even though none of you are Humans, you all equally love him the same." Elizabeth though tilts her head. "Sir Umberto, may I ask why you are saying this?"

"He... he puts his money where his mouth is. I came from a not so middle class Italian Immigrant family and it was his charity program that got my brother into college. Don't tell him this, but..." He looks sideways then leans out a bit to see Jackson on the phone at the street. "I am actually one of his employees, in his New York Plant. He runs a tight ship but it's fair."

Elizabeth continued her line of questioning, stepping nearer. "What is he like on Earth? Have you personally met him? What does he talk about?"

"Only once. I found him to be very genuine and kind. He once visited the plant I was working at since one of the assembly workers got into an accident. In a world full of automation, he still wants people. He pays well too." The girls all sigh and ghast at this, Bahamut though quickly butting in between them as she crosses her arms. "Of course. That's Master for you."

"And he usually just talks about meat if it's not about anime." Elizabeth looks at Bahamut who shrugs her head. "Ohhh but you should've seen him when he was still in the military. Our Director is from his unit and he showed us a picture of when he was deployed."

The Queen's eyes seemingly sparkled as she nudged him to continue. "He's tall, got a bit of a tan on his arms but he is fair skinned, broad shoulders and quite a handsome young man. Though now, he looks more like a typical fat CEO guy." The blonde woman then turns to Jackson who is looking curiously underneath the SUV.

He then looked at her and tilted his head since there was no one there but the three girls were seemingly observing him very closely, she on the other hand couldn't help but feel her heart beat faster as he returned to look for the keys. "He is also very low key. Sometimes, he arrives at the plant using the Downtown bus. He'd even help organize the parking of the delivery trucks while in employee uniform."

Umberto just chuckles at the sight of his Boss looking like a child as he looks for the keys inside the car. "Even here, he is still the same. That's why I blocked any further efforts for the UN to weaponize Bahamut or you, Queen Elizabeth. He deserves a good woman. It's not nice for a middle aged man to still be a bachelor. That's like a sin to his culture and even mine. Good thing I married my high school sweetheart." Nodding, Alana pushes into the center. "Yes! He has mentioned that. Is there a way for him to give us children?"

"Pfft. With how responsible he is? I doubt it. I am sure he is already pushing things by having three females to dote on him. I’m sure he’d rather not leave fatherless kids in another world." Umberto's phone then began to ring. "Looks like it's back to work." He then gave them a wink as he turned his back on them and Jackson suddenly found the key fob on his jacket. “HUH?! WHAT?!” With a click, the SUV didn’t make a sound as he just turned around and smiled at them. “I think they parked it below.”

His phone rings once again and after a short conversation he begins massaging his forehead. “Alana, Elizabeth, I need both of you go on ahead. We got new orders from 8-Gon.” they tilt their heads as the General gives them orders, the two opening their wings and flying away from the sidewalk. “Hah, we’re getting stretched thin again.”

After a bit of backtracking, they reached the 8-Gon once again where they walked to the lobby and into the elevator. “I hope they come back with good news.” Jackson though clicks his tongue as they begin their descent.

He then takes one last elevator, this one having access to the underground parking lot as he takes the key fob from his pocket, pointing it at the luxury SUV and the doors unlocked. “Master, it's hot.” He puts the keys on the center console and presses the start button and blasts the A/C to max as the radio was once again playing normal music.

As he sat in the driver's seat, with the air conditioner on full blast, he took out his smartphone and saw that none of the two Vampires had replied yet. “Did Elizabeth change her profile picture again?” tapping his feet, he sends a message to their group chat but both Alana and Elizabeth didn’t even leave him on seen. “Haaaah, looks like it's not looking good.” Putting it on drive, the General with Bahamut both leaves the underground parking lot and into the main street.

The journey wasn’t as long thanks to the proliferation of military checkpoints and the mass exodus of the player base from the city. Seeing the blacked out Secret Service SUV, no one batted at any stop let him through without even blocking him and before long, he had reached the Downtown Industrial heartland of Woodstock.

With rail yards and warehouses filled with semi trucks on every street, the rustbelt didn’t feel anymore welcoming as a contingent of military forces were placed on a large intersection. He then hits the brakes as he sees Elizabeth holding the Sword Saint by the neck and surrounded by her Black Knife’s. This prompted Jackson and Bahamut to get out and dashed towards the two.

Hearing the loud footsteps, the Queen looked to the right and saw her Lord. She had her usual seductive flare to her as she returned her attention to the player.

Reaching them, Jackson had to catch his breath as he lifts both his arms up. “Why?!”

“She had an ingenious idea of testing me, My Lord.” Jackson massages his eyebrows as he points his finger at the Streamer. “Hah? Miss Death, I am one hundred ten percent sure you are already aware of who she is. Is this due to the lack of empathy you have?”

“I know. I was just curious about her, since I did use my blood to raise her back to life.” Elizabeth’s grip then tightens as her head leans over the Saint. “I was never dead. What did the Gods tell you? Why me? Why him? What is their objective with giving a Demon the concept of Human Empathy? You know their age and views makes it useless.” the player just shrugs her head as the Queen’s blonde hair drapes over the golden armor of Breznick’s Royal Guards. “That is enough. Elizabeth. Let’s go. Where is Alana?”

“I can’t believe you actually joined the side of Humanity.” Elizabeth then began to tighten her grip even more. “I am not on the side of Man. I am on whatever side My Lord is on. Understand that clearly, harlot.” Suddenly, a hard palm rested on her arm. Making her hand loosen “Let’s go.” she sighs and lets go. Standing up, the woman walked towards the SUV. “The Countess is below the sewers with the soldiers, My Lord.”

Looking around, the manhole on the center of the intersection is opened. “You know, Miss Death. I have this odd feeling that whatever the Gods are making you do, all this insane shit you are foretold or even maybe subjected to perform without your consent might be out of your reach, but…” he turns to her, his eyes filled with rage. “Not once did I let a single fucker who tried to kill me to walk away unscathed. Since you are important right now, I suggest you disappear before I do something. The balls on your face to go toe to toe with Elizabeth.”

Jumping down the sewers, Jackson and Bahamut looked around, it was still untouched and the water had nothing off about it. “Do you smell or hear anything?” The Dragon then lifted its head up, its snout clearly smelling the air while her armored ears twitched.

“The bloodsucker is coming back to us. The area around is also clear, Master. I don’t smell an odd metallic scent like in Zavalda’s sewers.” he nods as the sploshing of water comes nearer and nearer. “Good. Looks like it truly hasn’t started yet.”

Walking back to the ladder, with the afternoon light illuminating the General with a Dragon on his shoulders. The Countess stops, her eyes admiring the beautiful view as he turns to her. The soldiers from the Men of the Woods saluting the General. “You're all good, men. Get back to the topside and help in building defenses." They gesture for the girl to go first as she reaches out her hand and he takes it. Letting her get up first as he followed afterwards.

Inside the SUV as they drove back to the hotel. The streets had become barren, the usual citizenry has been replaced with soldiers and Militia and only a handful number of civilian cars lay parked on the sides of the roads.

Their hotel had been taken over by the Guild Government, the staff now were uniformed people of the Men of the Woods. Taking the elevator to their room, the man took a good look at the bed and quickly removed his jacket and shoes. His belt coming off last as he hugged the soft feeling of the pillows. “Ahhhhhh… this might be the last one for the next few days.”

Elizabeth and Alana had already opened their wardrobes and had begun to fold their clothes and gowns. But he didn’t move, instead just putting the huge fluffy blanket over his body and seeping into a slumber. Bahamut crawls out of it and perks her head up. “I’ll go around the city and help the Chosen Ones. Master should rest well." She then turns into her Human form and opens the window. The two Vampires behind her.

“Hm? What? Go, now Dragon. We’ll be behind you.” Hearing the nonchalant voice of Elizabeth, she jumps off the window and unfurls her Dragon wings as the two follow afterward.

Inside the hotel room, Jackson had begun to loudly snore, now in his pajamas as his clothes were neatly folded on a table under the flatscreen TV.

As he slept peacefully, he soon woke up with Bahamut in front of him with his arms over her small stomach while from behind, Alana was hugging him and Elizabeth was on the floor, her golden hair scattered as if she was just murdered as she muttered words to herself.

It was already deep in the evening and rain was pouring hard at the window. Looking around the dark hotel room, their luggage has already been packed up, even his was prepared. Though the torrential hail seemed to be going down hard as he could hear the sound of the wind banging against the glass as the droplets tore down the peace and quiet he was enjoying.

Going to his pocket, he takes out his phone and sets up the clock to an alarm for 6 in the morning. The shine of the screen flashing Alana’s face. “Mm… M’Lord?” He immediately closes the phone and turns his head to the side, looking at the ceiling. “Oops... Did I wake you up?”

“I don’t mind it, M’Lord. I just wanna savor this as much as I can.”

“Oh. Yeah, I guess the time to go home nears, huh.”

“Mm. I’ll miss you alot, M’Lord. I don’t think a day will pass for the next century where I won’t remember you.”

Though her voice was weak and muffled a bit as her face was pressed against his back, Jackson could clearly hear her and it made him smile. “Don’t worry, I’m sure we’ll see each other again.” he then faces forward again, smelling Bahamut’s long black hair. The aroma makes him all giddy. “I hope so, M’Lord. I’ll be waiting for you. Me and Her Majesty.”

“Don’t wait for me, Alana. I’ll come when it's my time. Just live your life as is. Just remember me every now and then. That’s how you know I did my job as a Human… if I am remembered way past my time.” The Countess opens her right eye a bit, staring at Jackson’s wide and broad shoulders. “Because if a Human is remembered, then that means they helped someone enough, M’Lord?” She could see him nod slowly as he lightly yawned and went back to sleep.

As the next day came, there was still some light rain and the cloud was dark. But as he looked outside, the shiny blimp of the Elven Prince was gone and the skies were just dimmed with the dark rainy clouds. Bahamut and Alana were both already awake and fixing themselves up in the bathroom while Elizabeth was snuggling all up on him. “Hm? What time is it?” opening his phone, he noticed it was already 8 o clock which made his eyes open wide. “E-Eh?”

Coming out of the bathroom with a red toothbrush still in her mouth, Bahamut puts her hands on her hips. “It was about to make a noise, Master. So I turned it off. Sad though you weren’t there on the breakfast buffet. They had this corned beef that tasted so good!” All he could muster was a broken smile.

Looking at his back, Elizabeth’s face seems as if it was in a trance. She’s having the best sleep in her life, making it hard for him to tap her arms but the Dragon came into the aisle between the two beds and tapped her huge noggin. “Wake up. Master needs to shower and get dressed.” The Queen’s hand just swipes hers away but this just made her more bold.

Shaking her, the blonde woman instantly wakes up and her upper body leans straight up like an awakened undead. “By the Blood of the Ancients. Can you not?!” Jackson though tactically rolls out of the bed and walks towards luggage where he took a set of combat fatigues and into the bathroom where Alana was busy brushing her hair. He just sat down on the toilet and his feet tapped the tile. “What? I won’t mind, M’Lord.” he facepalms as an hour passes by and the group exits out the hotel room in hurry.

Closing the door, the General had a light smile on his face as they embarked on the reception area where he returned it to an empty desk. Waiting for them was a Mine resistant vehicle that soon drove them to the airport where a private jet awaited them.

Boarding, the two pilots greeted them and soon, they took off, heading back to Schon.