The realms of the unfamiliar and the very existence of this exquisite landscape failed to convey the awe that countless elves experienced upon beholding this remarkable vista of an uncharted world. Open fields stretched out, adorned with a lush carpet of grass, while distant birds added their melodies to the scene. In the midst of this, an aged man with weathered features indulged in a rolled joint, exhaling wisps of smoke. Beside him, a procession of waggons moved steadily, carrying peasants and third-class citizens alike, journeying southward towards the uncharted continent. Meanwhile, in the north, the once tranquil regions had descended into a chaotic battleground as the enigmatic nation initiated its invasion of the beloved land.
The less fortunate members of the population had little recourse but to flee, a course of action undertaken by many as the elderly man guided the convoy along a rough dirt path that bore little resemblance to a well-trodden route.
Gazing across the horizon, his attention was captured by an unfamiliar wagon. Its resounding roar reached his ears, even from this considerable distance. The waggon, a tan hue concealed beneath an olive camouflage net, advanced on its own. This unexpected sight left the elderly man momentarily bewildered, prompting him to bring the entire convoy to an abrupt stop. As the convoy's occupants felt the sudden halt, a figure emerged from within the wagon—the commanding chief who led the way.
"What the bloody hell is happening? Why have you brought the damn column to a halt?" the chief demanded.
"Chief, have a look over there; those things are heading towards us," came the reply. The chief turned his gaze in the direction the speaker was facing. The appearance of an object or entity that demanded his reverence became apparent shortly after the tan contraption and its kin surged into swift motion. The foremost armoured vehicle veered towards their position.
An unsettling fear gripped the elderly chief. They lacked the means to defend themselves—no weapons, no soldiers. The convoy consisted solely of refugees and the ailing and was carried in forty waggons. This procession was composed of those fleeing the war-ravaged villages and cities to the north.
"What course of action should we take?" the villager exclaimed, his realisation dawning that a discussion might be more reasonable than immediate flight.
As the vehicles drew nearer, the earth trembled beneath the weight of their engines. The words, "What is this?" slipped from the chief's lips, a mix of incredulity and recognition. He had either heard of or seen these entities before, and now they were right on their intended path, looming larger as they approached. A four-by-four armoured vehicle, adorned in olive-green camouflage that concealed its tan base, came into view. Its windows held an observer, and a weapon was manned atop it, a sight that sent a shiver down the old chief's spine. He swallowed hard as the vehicle came to a halt beside him.
The driver's side of the Humvee revealed a figure waving towards the chief. Atop the vehicle, a young man adorned in a distinctive form of armour could be discerned. He projected his voice towards the chief and the onlookers.
"Which road leads to the capital of Elijah?" he shouted down towards the chief.
Without hesitation, the chief responded, "Follow this road and head north!" His voice trembled slightly, reflecting his continued anxiety and fear.
Loud and distinct, the soldier atop the Humvee appeared satisfied with the response. Meeting the chief's gaze, the soldier offered a nod of acknowledgement, acknowledging the instruction with a simple bow. The radio emitted a burst of static as the soldier communicated, and soon after, the vehicles resumed their pace, passing by the Humvee while keeping a watchful eye on their rear and the landscape beyond the hill.
As they advanced along the road, the chief found himself repeatedly glancing back at the driver. "Very well, it appears that we have a clear understanding," the driver affirmed.
Following these instructions, the column gradually resumed its journey, moving at a measured pace. This allowed the chief to cast his gaze behind them, observing the vehicles traversing the plains with remarkable swiftness. This experience provided him with a heightened awareness of the situation and a greater understanding of the enigmatic entities they were compelled to engage with. Never before in his life had he encountered something so surreal.
Does the impression arise that these individuals weren't native to the local terrain, but rather potential invaders or colonisers? What exactly is unfolding? The state of affairs in Elijah seems to be anything but optimistic; the sentiment of patriotism has waned among its people. Even the chiefs recognize the predicament wherein the northern nation's incursion into the southern lands is a direct result of the faltering system imposed by the government on its populace. In this context, the choice to embrace the status of refugees over becoming combatants appears to be the more appealing path.
The horses became agitated, their movements becoming restless and difficult for the driver to manage. The chief found himself perplexed by the unease displayed by the lead horses. Meanwhile, the distant reverberations of rotor machinery echoed through the air. "What's that?" the driver shouted, his voice reflecting a mix of curiosity and concern. This was an unfamiliar sound, something he had never heard before.
In an instant, the source of the noise became apparent as they soared above the column—grey flying machines with a resemblance to wyverns. Their thunderous presence overshadowed any creature he had ever encountered. The CH-56 King Stallions passed overhead, prompting the horses to startle and jump as the fleet soared past.
"Great heavens!"
A formation of CH-56K King Stallions glided over the extensive 15-kilometre convoy, predominantly comprising transport and lightly armoured vehicles of the USMC. He bore witness to an unparalleled spectacle as these aircraft weaved through the column. "My word," he muttered under his breath. The scene felt akin to a foreign nation invading its own. A glance over the hill revealed the presence of a division-sized unit formation making its way towards Elijah's capital. An extensive procession of USMC military trucks streamed past the smaller waggons responsible for ferrying supplies and equipment. This inadvertently resulted in the congestion of fleeing refugees from the city, who were compelled to halt their progress whenever a convoy approached.
And so, the uncharted realm beyond the borders stirred with the arrival of a novel nation and its vast military force numbering in the millions—an entity that extended beyond the once-mythical gates, a nation poised to stand resolute in the presence of peril. This was the United States of America and its indomitable Marines awakening to leave their imprint on the world.
* • • • • •
Kingdom of Elijah, Diamond Beach, 13th Marine Expedition
The swift movement of the US ground forces left the representatives of Elijah in a state of bewilderment. They had not anticipated that the complete force would arrive within the span of a mere 24 hours. Carrying the emblem of the US Expedition, Colonel Theodore Ross orchestrated a meeting within a modest tent. Alongside his officers and individuals in direct communication with Washington, they gathered around a table. Guards stationed outside the tent added a layer of security. The palpable tension arising from encountering these individuals from a different realm was enough to leave the male courier in shock.
Captain Valerie and a delegation from the Elijah Parliament occupied seats within a spacious tent, centred around an expansive open table. Across from them were members of the USMC and the United States as a whole, led by Lt. Colonel Theodore Ross. Accompanying him were several officers from his unit. The purpose of their assembly was to establish preliminary agreements before Theodore's operation commenced.
As they beheld this scene for the first time, the representatives from the Elijah Parliament experienced a sense of intimidation. The uniforms worn by the Americans were unlike anything they had ever encountered before. The design surpassed even the bounds of contemporary fashion, leaving an indelible impression on the observers.
The uniforms exhibited a distinctive hue reminiscent of green, accentuated by subtle digital patterns in both black and shades of brown. These elements were complemented by lighter shades of brown and black. Straying from the concept of heavily armoured attire, the ensemble was characterised by its simplicity. The colonel sported a modest hat adorned with peculiar decorations situated on his left chest. Rather than exuding the aura of noble knights or resplendent soldiers, their appearance bore a resemblance to that of ordinary peasant farmers.
This initial representation of a renowned and legendary force took the opposing party by surprise. Their expectations for a more impressive display were met with disappointment, evoking a reconsideration of the endeavour's value. Doubts emerged, casting a shadow over whether this venture was truly worthwhile.
Both Captain Valerie and Colonel Ross shared an equitable regard for each other. Their experiences of witnessing the brutality of warfare had led them to the understanding that matters of politics were best handled by those in positions of power, while the grim realities of conflict were left to the soldiers on the frontlines.
In this atmosphere of quiet anticipation, Captain Valerie embarked on the summit by initiating the conversation. She reintroduced herself in a composed manner, highlighting her position as the captain of the first royal guard regiment and the personal commander of the Queen. Addressing Colonel Ross and his assembled officers, as well as the representatives from Parliament, she expressed the purpose of their presence:
"As I mentioned earlier, Colonel Ross, I am Captain Valerie. I lead the first royal guard regiment and serve as the personal commander of the Queen. Accompanied by representatives from our Parliament, we have convened here to establish arrangements before your forces proceed with their movement to the northern region. We intend to propose certain terms."
Theodore Ross responded with a deliberate nod. "I was under the impression that the mage who came from Franciso had already finalised the arrangements; why, then, has the timing shifted for us to consider your request?"
Captain Valerie's tone conveyed regret as she explained, "There was a misunderstanding. The grand mage who arrived in your nation was not an official emissary, and her actions led to numerous errors. I apologise for any confusion caused. Moreover, your ambassador had not engaged in discussions concerning the actions the US should undertake upon your forces' arrival at Diamond Beach."
The news was met with a sense of disappointment on Colonel Ross's part. Not only did he need to draft an extensive report, but he also had to communicate to Washington the significant development that the advancement couldn't proceed as initially planned. However, he acknowledged the possibility of a final decision being reached in the future.
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He responded, "Understood. While we stand as representatives of the United States military expedition, we are open to considering your proposition and any similar matters that may arise."
Valerie smiled, mirroring the sentiment of the parliamentarians. Without delay, one of the elves, showing signs of balding, produced a list containing their demands and requests. The contents were swiftly reviewed by Captain Valerie and her team.
"The forces of the United States are strictly prohibited from engaging with our civilian population or any related matters within the boundaries of the Kingdom of Elijah. You, as the commanding general of the entire unit, must communicate to your soldiers that any actions against Elven women that pose a threat to our people will result in severe consequences. Moreover, all military operations must be carried out under Elijah's command. We will assign Elijah's commanders to oversee US forces to maintain order, given that the majority of our forces are seasoned and wholeheartedly committed to the regions beyond. Colonel Ross, your role will be to ensure the discipline of your troops. While suggestions can be considered, sole authority in combat will not be granted to anyone other than Elijah's commanders. Should any issues arise, all parties should be informed and discuss the matter," Valerie succinctly conveyed.
As the parliament official started to voice his sentence, Valerie's attention shifted to Colonel Theodore Ross and his officers. Unexpectedly, their response was marked by scoffs and eventually laughter, leaving Captain Valerie perplexed. She directed her gaze back to the parliament official, her confusion evident. Turning to Colonel Ross, she inquired, "May I ask what is amusing?"
The response from Colonel Ross and his officers was far from what Captain Valerie had anticipated. Their laughter was followed by incredulous disbelief.
"Are you fucking serious?" The colonel's tone dripped with incredulity.
Valerie's confusion was palpable as she echoed, "What?"
"Are you people serious?" The colonel's tone was laced with exasperation.
The colonel's reaction was marked by visible agitation, seemingly provoked by the nature of the request. To him, it appeared that the proposal insinuated a subservient role, one that he found untenable. Colonel Ross, despite his age, carried a wealth of experience, having served since the age of 16. He seemed incensed by what he perceived as audacious demands, particularly considering the context of the nation's past actions.
"I must express my concern that if these demands were to reach the White House, the House of Representatives would probably reject these propositions. Placing the US expeditionary forces under the direct command of those who aim to present themselves as a dominant force, despite emerging from under a bridge, would likely result in an operation that ends up costing at least 53 American lives and would subsequently be labelled a ‘mistake.' While we acknowledge your request, regrettably, we are unable to accept it. I have a strong intuition that higher-ranking officials would view this proposal with considerable disfavour," Colonel Ross responded candidly.
The conversation took on a serious tone, and while Captain Valerie wished to counter Colonel Ross's passive-aggressive manner, she recognised that doing so might worsen the situation. It was a delicate balance to strike, considering the potential ramifications of her words. Observing the state of the Parliament representatives, Valerie noted their evident frustration that their demands weren't being received with the expected seriousness.
Understanding the need for diplomacy, she decided to steer the conversation in a more productive direction. Addressing Colonel Ross, she inquired, "Colonel, I gather that you may wish to present an alternative arrangement that could better align with both parties' interests. Could you share your nation's proposed terms?"
Capitalising on the opportunity, Colonel Ross moved closer to the parliament officials, aiming to address their concerns directly.
He articulated his counterproposal with directness: "In essence, I suggest we do away with these specified demands entirely. The unique circumstances of this particular region are not unprecedented in our world's history. Our primary objective is to offer swift and effective assistance in this conflict and to contribute to the initiatives already set in motion by representatives in Washington."
He continued, "In essence, it's quite straightforward: refrain from trying to place your generals in command over my troops and abstain from treating my soldiers as if they were inferior. Let's engage on equal footing. Any unwarranted actions by my personnel against your populace will be subject to court-martial proceedings. Barring such incidents, the proposition is indeed that straightforward."
The terms presented by Colonel Ross boiled down to three basic principles: equality, sound decision-making, or facing the dire consequences of their nation being overrun without any means of resistance. Captain Valerie grasped the gravity of the situation and the significance of these terms. She turned her attention to the parliament officials, observing their hushed discussions marked by a mix of caution and trepidation. The palpable tension extended across the divide, with the emotions and concerns of both sides sensed by each party. The weight of the decision hung heavy in the air.
"What's your take on this, Colonel?" queried the young NCO. Observing the deliberations, Colonel Ross placed his hands between his lips, leaning back in his chair. He indulged in drag from his cigarette, a hint of ash fluttering down and a puff of smoke escaping between his lips.
"They're in the process of weighing the potential of accepting the terms we've presented," he responded, exhaling another breath of smoke. "For them, this is a substantial risk. They're aware that we're a newly recognised nation, having only been on the scene for two months. Proposing equal terms while sending a modest expeditionary force is bound to raise concerns. At this juncture, we can only await their response."
"What if they decline?" inquired the NCO.
The colonel let out a chuckle. "In that case, there's little we can do. If they refuse, our options will be to claim certain regions and continue our historical American expansion. The conflict itself wouldn't hold much significance for us. If we were to take control of Elijah, negotiations for an arrangement with this nation would likely follow. As for their intentions to attack us, well," he chuckled again, "my ass will be swarmed by the media and the Pentagon, all questioning why I'm entrenched in this area."
Colonel Theodore Ross comprehended the deliberative nature of their counterparts' responses. The United States had navigated similar scenarios numerous times, and patience was a valuable trait in such situations. However, he noticed that Captain Valerie and the rest of the Elijah Parliament seemed to be concluding their stance.
Returning his attention to the parliament and Captain Valerie, Colonel Ross anticipated their final remarks and was prepared for whatever decision they were about to convey.
"As the conflict with the northern nation escalates, we will agree to these terms and convey the procedures to the parliament in the capital," Captain Valerie stated, accepting the conditions presented by Colonel Theodore Ross.
Although they accepted the terms, their expressions betrayed a sense of dissatisfaction, and some even appeared disgusted, as if they had suffered a defeat. Colonel Ross wore a satisfied smile at their response and turned his gaze towards Captain Valerie, acknowledging the agreement they had reached.
"Thank you for this brief discussion," Colonel Theodore Ross acknowledged. "I'll be forwarding the report to Washington. We intend to establish an operational base for our forces to mobilise in and out of this beach."
With that, both parties promptly rose from their seats. The USMC officials saluted the parliamentarians, and Captain Valerie reciprocated by bowing to the USMC officers. Subsequently, they exited the tents.
Captain Valerie was fully aware of the impending challenges and the need to submit an official report to the capital regarding the terms agreed upon with the US officials. She understood that neither party was entirely satisfied with the arrangement of humans being treated similarly to their Elven counterparts. However, given the circumstances of a battle against a different human faction, enlisting the assistance of another race seemed to be the preferred course of action, even if it meant playing by their rules.
* • • • • •
Kingdom of Elijah, Capital City of Helmgrad,
St. Ahemiera House,
3:12 PM,
13:00 Hours before the arrival of the 13th Marine Expedition
The presence of nearly ten thousand soldiers resonated as an omen of upheaval, and as the ground trembled beneath their feet, the Elijah Empire's nobility gathered in St. Ahemiera House. From the balcony, a scene unfolded where the aristocracy revelled as if they had already emerged victorious.
The strains of their most accomplished musician filled the air, capturing the essence of their grandeur, while a banquet laid out with the finest culinary offerings satisfied the hunger of the privileged elite. In this paradoxical tableau of luxury amidst the chaos, the nobility of Elijah continued to celebrate, seemingly untouched by the looming storm on the horizon.
For the young female noble, this situation felt profoundly wrong. How could the Queen simply wait for reinforcements from the United States to arrive and bail them out? With the northern enemies encircling them on all fronts, preventing their populace from escaping, the south and its allies had crumbled in the face of the enemy's advance. Their kingdom's armies were rendered helpless, watching the adversary draw nearer.
Despite the circumstances, the banquet carried on in splendour. The hall buzzed with conversation among nobles, esteemed officers, and renowned generals. It was an Elijah Elite Party of the Nobility, an oasis of opulence amidst the war-torn landscape. Even as the country was embroiled in conflict, many royal guards maintained their posts as elite representatives. Food and drinks flowed freely among the attendees, albeit in a manner reminiscent of rations. It unfolded as if this were the elite's last supper, a moment to savour before the impending storm.
"Are you enjoying yourself, my lady?" inquired Freidick, attempting to distract the princess from the pressing matters at hand.
"As if, Lord Freidick," she replied with a sigh, her frustration evident. "The situation is grim. Mother Galadriel hasn't postponed any of the events for the first class. It's growing increasingly dire! The enemy is invading the empire, right on our doorstep, and yet my mother seems hesitant to take any action." Her voice conveyed a mix of concern and exasperation.
If Princess Hermione did not ascend to the throne, the male elf known as "Freidick Himgrad" would be the next in line for the throne of the House of Hemlgard. Princess Hermione Loi, the sole child of Queen Galadriel, held a pivotal role in the succession. Rumour had it that the king's frailty had led to her being conceived, making her vital to the future of Elijah.
Recognising the princess's stress, Freidick swiftly turned to the butler at her side and procured a fruity beverage, which he presented to the princess with a reassuring smile. As she accepted the drink, her gaze shifted between Freidick and her mother, Queen Galadriel, her thoughts undoubtedly heavy with the weight of her royal lineage and the uncertain future of the kingdom.
"Please, if you would, my lady," Freidick encouraged as he offered her a glass of the fruity beverage.
Princess Hermione regarded Freidick Himgrad thoughtfully. His sharp features and striking looks had the potential to capture the heart of any noblewoman. However, the princess remained somewhat aloof, not entirely swayed by such charms. She held a certain scepticism regarding men's nature as seducers. Yet there was something specific that had been occupying her thoughts lately. In a hushed tone, she made an inquiry about Freidick Himgrad among the nobility, seeking to learn more about him and his reputation.
"Have you been following the recent developments in Diamond Beach?" she inquired further.
"Yes," he responded, his voice lowering. "I'm aware that Captain Valerie has taken on the responsibility of representing our kingdom to these Americans. However, I must admit that I haven't entirely comprehended the implications of their presence and what they might signify for us." There was a hint of uncertainty in his tone as he spoke about the unfolding situation in Diamond Beach.
The Princess couldn't help but feel shaken by her mother's decision to request a mage to assist with supplies and utilise an ancient Gate to bring aid from another world into their ongoing war. The choice appeared fraught with uncertainty, and she knew there must be underlying reasons that could only be addressed through a personal conversation with her mother about her motivations.
Freidick Himgrad maintained his attentive demeanour as he listened to the princess, his expression reflecting a sense of disappointment. It was clear that he had concerns and questions about the situation at hand.
"I appreciate your perspective, Lord Freidick," Hermione replied with a nod. "It's true that the actions of the mage could potentially upset the balance of our continent. We must ensure that these Americans understand the value of their assistance."
She continued, "However, the challenge lies in convincing my mother of the gravity of the situation. She remains resolute in her belief that entrusting the mage was the right course of action. Rumours have circulated that, during the opening of the gate in the city, many locals lost their lives, leading to delays and difficulties in reaching an agreement."
Hermione sighed, her concern evident. "It's a complex situation, and I fear that it may have dire consequences for our kingdom."
Hermione harboured a concern that the United States might exploit the unfortunate deaths of locals during the gate opening as a potential justification for imperialistic ambitions in the future. Her apprehension was not without reason, but amidst the ongoing crisis, she found herself uncertain about the true extent of what could be achieved through collaboration between the Elijah Kingdom and the United States. Despite gaining a better understanding of the situation, it seemed that little had significantly changed after the arrival of their American representative. The future remained shrouded in uncertainty, and the stakes for their kingdom were high.
Both Hermione and Freidick Himgrad held a sense of wariness towards the United States. As they awaited news of the negotiations between the Elijah representative and the American delegation, they recognised that the outcome would have significant implications. In a situation like this, where various factors must be carefully weighed to secure their kingdom's interests, it seemed prudent to advocate for equal treatment of the Americans.
Moreover, the unsettling information that the people from beyond the Gate bore a resemblance to the northern enemy added another layer of complexity to the situation. As they navigated these uncertain waters, they understood that only time would reveal the true nature of their relationship with the United States and the impact it would have on their kingdom.
The presence of humans in the Elijah Kingdom's realm was a complex matter. While they were known to the various races within the kingdom, the fact that the enemy they faced was also human added an element of confusion to the situation. It was a point that Queen Galadriel should have understood better, yet the population and even the nobility remained unaware of the Upper Kingdom's true plans. Only those closest to the inner workings of the kingdom had insight into these matters.
Recognising the need for fairness and balance, Hermione was prepared to make the necessary adjustments when the Americans arrived, ready to draw upon her diplomatic knowledge and skills.