“Mr. Prime Minister Mohan Kalita, attached to this memo are the latest reports from the current American operation on Alagore, and what we know regarding the Bridge. As you expect, the Cowboys security on this alien technology is tight, preventing us from getting any agent near it. The only constant source of information has been soldiers traveling between worlds, but even the Space Force has installed emitters that block all digital services and signals outside the facility. There are some reports that they reinstalled analog computers to provide additional protection, but we cannot confirm whether this is true.

  The only highlights we can mention about what is going on, Alagore, what’s outside the American propaganda network, confirms what they had overall stated. The Unity is as bad as has been reported, and was nearly a complete global victory before USAM intervention. The speech was not a black flag operation, as many online conspiracies claimed. While some might find it delightful to see such an intelligence failure with the American Empire, RAW and other security agencies should increase their alert status. Our sources have confirmed that the aliens who attacked the summit were shapeshifters (detail documents attached below).

  As you know, this discovery has fractured the international community, with many criticizing the American refusal to allow other nations outside their network to study the portal device. The French and Turkish have been the most vocal against, but it is obvious they are using this situation to draw attention away from their Territory Wars on Mars and multiple asteroid groups. The Polish Bloc has declared support. The rest fall in between.

  For us, RAW continues to propose that the Ministry of External Affairs support the French position of destroying the alien portal. Of course, this is not our intentional goal, but applying this pressure has benefits for our objectives. We also believe that the package the American Covert Ops our Russian allies raided was transporting something related to the Bridge.

  One of our staff members has compared the American approach and sudden retreat from much of the global stage, which has benefited us. Last year, our Defense White Paper stated that war with the Cowboys was inevitable over control of the Amor Asteroid Group near the Martian orbital trajectory. With its stellar location for mining and refueling, it was a prime location for long-term operation, and all-out war was expected for whoever controlled this section of the Group.

  Last week, our forces secretly secured a foothold within the Amor Asteroid Group without incident. Our first mining group will begin operation by the end of the month, and our Corvettes will begin patrols of the region, giving us the intercept position. This has also allowed us to set up additional outposts in once-contested regions on the Martian surface that USAM nations were once eyeing and now have abandoned (strangely refocused toward the Olympus Mons region).

  One of our staff compared the sudden American realignment as Great Eye of Sauron suddenly turning to his volcano, realizing that his Ring was about to be destroyed. How they have reacted to this new war does give support to the metaphor, as their actions seemed more of panic over cold strategy, but we do know this will fade over time.” - Research and Analysis Wing White Paper

  June 4th, 2069 (Military Calendar)

  Salva, Velunara Protectorate

  Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore

  *****

  Captain Ryder stepped out of the LATT in front of the Salva diplomatic center, where the current negotiations with the City-State Herff are going on. Outside, American Military Police and Salva soldiers stood at the front, providing security.

  After he closed the vehicle door, he stared at the front entrance and watched the hostile city nobles pass. Wood Elf Nobleman Gaeleath stopped at the presence of the American Ambassador, Susin West, speaking about something. Most likely trying to sweet-talk, as the City-State knew the United States wanted those Aetherium gas fields and wanted to place artillery batteries to safely shell hostile cities, safely west of the Emsline River.

  If peace talks failed, a bloody battle would ensue, and his people would lose out on the benefits of the gas fields and the knowledge to use them effectively.

  The price of marrying a woman whom he cared nothing about. If he accepted, there would be peace and many military and economic benefits, as well as the integration of a powerful new ally into his daughter’s new country, the Velunara Protectorate. All with the price of his hand, and save hundreds, if not thousands, of lives.

  “How the hell did I get myself into this…,” Ryder mumbled. He then reached into his undershirt, pulled out his Christian cross necklace, and gave it a light kiss before praying. “Lord, please give me some wisdom. I know what I want to do, but is it the right thing to be that selfish?”

  “Does that work?”

  Ryder blinked as he was not expecting to hear a voice. He turned and noticed that Natilite was standing there. “How long have you been standing there?”

  The Valkyrie placed her hands behind her back, holding them together, smirking innocently. “An hour or two.”

  He glared at the winged woman because chuckling. “You spend too much time with Comanche. Especially with the Twins.”

  The Templar only giggled before standing by his side, looking at the diplomatic center. “You did not answer my question.”

  The Captain took a deep breath while holding his necklace cross. “I feel like it does. However, the response is never subtle. He does not like to be direct.”

  “Why would the Cosmic Father be that elusive? Mother provides guidance, wishing her children to thrive.”

  “Because he values free will. A part of that is figuring things out yourself, learning, growing from those experiences. It is experiencing the blessing in life… and the worst of it….”

  “I am sorry. I did not mean to make you think about your wife.”

  He felt a spiritual spear pierce next to his heart, where he kept his wife and wedding rings. Since bringing it back from Earth, he had no idea what to do with the object, yet at the same time had a powerful urge to do something with his ring. “I know what you meant. I guess that is the difference between my world and yours. When you need comfort, you look at Tekali and never feel alone. We have to stare up into the stars and hope we are heard.”

  There was a short silence between the two, which became slightly awkward as neither of them knew what to say next. After seeing Colonel Hackett enter the diplomatic center, Ryder decided it was time to begin the negotiations. “Well, Nat. I must get going. Stay dry, it is going to rain again today.”

  He took a few steps forward but heard the Valkyrie begin to speak.

  “Matt…, I wanted to come and say I apologize.”

  This caught Ryder off guard as he didn’t have the foggiest idea why she would. He turned to her, demanding answers. “Why?”

  “Yesterday, you said that I have been manipulating your life since your arrival. You are right, I have been.”

  A frustrating feeling filled the Captain, as this wasn’t what he wanted, nor did he wish for her to be this upset. “I was speaking out of frustration. And a little buzzed.”

  “Let me say it.” Natilite adjusted her position, as if she were nervous. Her mannerisms revealed that she had rehearsed this moment multiple times, yet she still struggled. “I encouraged you and Assiaya to be together after learning about her royalty. It was I who persuaded you to acquire Ceka, even though ownership is against your people's customs. It was I who kept pushing you to be this leader, even though you never wanted it. And now, you feel a responsibility to do things you do not wish for. If I didn’t, you wouldn’t be forced to surrender your love for peace.”

  Ryder carefully listened. When she was finished, he responded, “Everything I have done until now has been by my choice, not yours. I regretted nothing. Challenging, yes, but no regrets. And I am honored to have those around me being so supportive.”

  Natilite smiled before bowing. “Duke Ryder of the Altaerrie and Velunara. The reason I got involved was that when you first came to Salva, you were freeing people. You made it your mission to protect these people, even though you couldn't speak their tongue. You might not have known it yet, but I saw it wasn’t because it was your duty but because you cared. That is what all Salva sees. It is what General Sheran sees. It is what Colonel Hackett sees. We all believe you will make the right choice, whatever you believe it is.”

  The Angelic warrior flexed her wings before flying off.

  He watched her leave, disappearing behind the tall buildings. “I am never going to get used to that.”

  “I can see why you are struggling.”

  Ryder turned and saw Evrilla, the Duchess of Herff—the last Human noble of that City-State. She was standing in the rain, and her finely designed cotton dress was soaked. Seeing this, he felt obligated to remove his jacket to help protect the woman. She respectfully thanked him in return. He had to admit to himself that he was hesitant to accept the peace proposal and marry this woman. She was beautiful and feminine.

  “What do you mean?”

  “Nothing…. She is beautiful. Majestic even. And I can see you two are close.”

  “It is not like that.” He saw the same skeptical glare that he had seen from his wife many times. “Natilite is a good friend. We have been through a lot together. I respect her.”

  “If you say so,” Evrilla said. “Before you go inside and conduct talks, I wish to clarify. A marriage between us would not affect your relationship with her. A great man has his needs after all.”

  “Never ask me to cheat again.”

  Evrilla hesitated to respond, as if she wasn’t entirely sure how to proceed. She then walked around, standing by his side, where the Templar stood. “I did not mean to offend, Duke Ryder. I was only trying to state that it was common for nobles in your station to have concubines. They all do, and I would assume your elites also engage in such a tradition.”

  Ryder couldn’t help but pause. While it was not publicly stated, everyone knows many, if not all, of the American elites, such as politicians, celebrities, corporate leaders, and others in positions of power, have secret sex partners. History was full of examples, including those of the Asian, Ottoman, and Roman emperors. Even then, it was an open secret that modern leaders have their mistress or concubine alongside their marriage. However, the thought didn’t sit well with him.

  “I get what you are saying, but I consider myself a man of God. Man loves his wife, and she loves him. He protects and provides his home above his basic desires. It might sound old-fashioned, but that is what I believe in.”

  He noticed her becoming silent, staring up at the stars. She looked complex, as if the Lat Duchess was deep in thought. From her perspective, she grew up in a noble culture where it was customary for offspring, especially daughters, to be traded to secure power and position. It made him wonder if she was trying to understand why he didn’t leap after her beauty. Not because of politics or power, hoping to secure a better wife elsewhere, but because of principles.

  It made him wonder whether he had made an impression with his beliefs or was giving himself too much credit internally. The Captain looked away, staring at a giant plant hovering in the sky, wondering what to do.

  After what felt like a long silence, it was Evrilla who spoke first. “I have to admit, your people are strange,” she said.

  Ryder couldn’t help but chuckle. “I heard that and said that many times since arriving. And I would say it is more me being strange.”

  She placed her hand gently over her lips, giggling. “I can imagine. I am confused, though. If you have no desire or interest in negotiating, do you find me so hideous to the extent that war is preferable?”

  The statement shocked the American Duke, who struggled to find a quick response. “You are not hideous; you are very beautiful. There is no question about that.”

  “Then you seek glory? I know little of war, except that it is the Realm of Men. Seeking names, statues, and glory for themselves.”

  “It is not like that. I fight so that my daughter doesn't have to. I fight because it is my duty to serve my country, not for statues or station. While we all wish for a little glory in our lives, I will never follow a man whose sole purpose is to seek it. Those types only get their troops butchered.”

  “Then why do you oppose this? I promise to be a faithful wife, even to allow you to be with whom you love. This alliance could win over all Nevali for your House. That is what you Americans want?”

  “Americans?” Ryder asked, noticing the term.

  “Is that not what your people are called?”

  “It is. I am just used to being labeled as Altaerrie around these parts.”

  “I apologize. As you can see, I am not good at this.”

  “None needed. But you realize my people will never allow your city to practice the Katra. So, marrying you wouldn’t resolve that issue. War might happen regardless.”

  “We were under the impression your people value freedom. Your One Amendment I was told about states that freedom of religion and voice is above all other freedoms.”

  “The First Amendment, yes. We are a Christian nation, but we respect others' right to worship as they wish. Muslims, Catholics… Zodiac signs. However, the last time I checked, your Katra cuts off the heads of those who disagree on any minor detail. We are not stupid. Such extreme ideology does not deserve protection.”

  “Interesting. They were laughing at such freedoms, thinking it was so immature. However, it pleases me that there is wisdom behind the principle. Pure freedom only brings anarchy. Luckily, my people are not serious about the matter.”

  “What do you mean?”

  Evrilla glanced at Ryder with only a smile. “Did your people believe they were serious about maintaining the Katra? That they did not know your people would never accept full embracement of the enlightenment it provides?”

  “Well… yes.”

  She brushed some of her brown hair away, pondering the situation. “You really are a virgin to House politics. They were not serious.”

  If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

  “Excuse me?”

  “I apologize for my offense. I only mean your lack of political experience. It explains why you keep that Excetra Ambassador woman around.”

  The Duchess looked away, catching her breath. “I should not say this, but the truth is they know your people will never allow them to preach the Katra.”

  “Then why are they….” It suddenly hit Ryder what the Duchess meant. It was part of the deal: proposed something so outrageous that the compromise looked better. Memories of his conversation with Ceka, the Head Miad, expressing concern that there was a deeper meaning behind these strange negotiations. It seemed that they were playing hardball to secure this position with the Velunara Protectorate. “I see. But they still want me to marry you.”

  “Yes. That is the compromise they seek. They are concerned about a repeat of what happened last time. Also, they are afraid that Salva is gaining too much influence within the region.”

  “And they are hoping you by my side, it would maintain a balance between the City-States.”

  “For a virgin in politics, you catch on.”

  The Captain couldn’t disagree with her points, as the Ambassador made similar ones. Based on this world's House politics, it would elevate Assiaya and Ryder House, solidifying their credibility. More importantly, it would put the Unity and Aristocracy on the defensive permanently or outright remove them from the region. It would prevent many unnecessary sieges and battles, saving hundreds or thousands of lives on both sides. “Thanks… I think.”

  As he mentally weighed the gravity of the situation, he found it increasingly difficult to reject the proposal. However, he did not want to declare his final opinion yet. One thing he learned from Hackett was not to dive into a decision under pressure from others.

  “I believe it is time to continue the negotiations.”

  “I assumed so,” Evrilla stated. “As I am not allowed in the negotiations, I will ask Mother for the best outcome.”

  “Good day, Madam.” Ryder then turned, but after taking a few steps, he heard her speak again.

  “Before you go, I wish to say, it is warming to see someone take their Patar familus status seriously. It is a rare feat, with most only seeing it as a chore.”

  Mathew Ryder stopped, turned toward the Duchess. “Yes, I do.”

  “Then the rumors about you are untrue. You are no false Duke, and I am glad to hear. Regardless of what happens during the negotiations, I hope I can earn your trust, and maybe we can bring our people together through love, not war.”

  “That would be ideal.” Before Ryder headed toward the diplomatic center, the Duchess approached, gently grabbed his arm, leaned into him, lifted herself onto her toes, and kissed his cheek.

  When Evrilla stepped away, her cheeks glowed bright red before bowing. “It was a good evening, Duke Ryder of the Americans and Velunara.”

  Ryder was stunned by the Duchess’s directness. He couldn’t help but blush, being a long time a woman kissed him. However, he attempted to recompose himself. “Ma’am.” He then walked away without saying another word.

  *****

  Walking through the halls of the Minutemen-occupied Palace, Ryder saw dozens of his staff navigating around the multiple rooms, corridors, and hallways. Conducting business as usual. The once-royal hall is now filled with desks and digital tables for operations and other administrative functions to manage a war.

  The Salva Palace is still considered the capital of the city and the Velunara Protectorate. Still, because of the war and the facility's security, he agreed to let the Minutemen continue operating from it. The command center remained underneath in the dungeons, with the offices still taking up the main floor. However, trusted Palace staff, under the authority of Head Maid Ceka, were given authorization to work within the facility.

  Some of these maids and civil servants – all wearing red and white theme clothing - were given much-needed facility support, such as janitor work, and others assisting with paperwork, such as translating the local writing system to English. Others assisted with civil affairs or provided beverages during working hours, a tradition that began during Princess Assiaya's early days here.

  Only the most trusted of Ceka staff members were allowed into this Minutemen-occupied facility. Typically, this would never be allowed on Earth, as it was a military facility, and Colonel Hackett was concerned that if the capital were occupied solely by foreign soldiers, it would send the wrong message and limit governmental functions. Allowing the royal staff to continue their work has helped maintain the trust of the Salvaish people, who currently view the Minutemen as folk heroes.

  As Mathew Ryder looked down from the second floor, he watched Ceka introduce one of the palace civil staff to what was termed a tourist group – typically politicians, contractors, or other high-profile visitors from Earth - and give them a tour of the city. Based on the arm patches and flag pins on their uniforms, they were from the United Kingdom.

  That was not the only detail he noticed. His feline Head Maid had been managing the Palace staff, starting with the maids. Following the tradition Assiaya started, many of them serve the Minutemen and other Special Forces units from allied nations here with drinks during their time. It wasn’t just serving; it was facility maintenance and some logistics.

  Until now, he didn’t fully understand how many staff he had under his House. Of course, a critical difference was that everyone working in the Palace was an employee, as his daughter explained the arrangement at Kallems Palace. Only the most trusted and elite station can be a motuia.

  “She really is on top of things,” Hackett said.

  “Yes, she is,” Ryder replied. “You might want to hire her into the Minutemen. She would keep everything in shape.”

  “I'd rather not have a riot on my hands.”

  The two officers laugh as they watch the group follow their guide outside. The neko female then heads off, managing the other staff throughout the palace.

  When the Captain first acquired Ceka from Lord Folen Elstina, he didn’t fully understand what it meant. He just assumed a Head Maid kept the house clean and dinner ready. No, this position covers all House affairs, including staff, budget, management, and so on.

  One of the Palace staff approached the Captain, a young Yalate, stating that the Colonel was ready for him. Knowing what the conversation would be about and his final decision regarding the negotiations, he took a deep breath and followed the servant.

  When he entered the office, Ryder was surprised to see a case of beer bottles on the desk. The Colonel opened one of the glasses and handed it to him.

  “I think we have had enough formalities today,” Hackett said.

  The Captain grabbed it and took a much-needed drink. “I agree, sir.”

  The Colonel grabbed another bottle, and the two officers made their way to the balcony. The view wasn’t as glorious as the roofs, but it offered a decent view of the rear wall. Where construction crews were rebuilding the wall after the Aristocracy breached it during the final days of the Siege. In addition, this elevation also showed the extension of housing further south to support the growing population.

  “You know me,” Hackett said. “I prefer to rip the band-aid off. Have you made your decision yet?”

  Ryder grabbed his beer from the cooler and took a sip. “I have not.”

  “Talk to me. What is the hang-up?”

  “I don’t want to marry her. But the Ambassador and that Duchess are correct. If it could lead to peace, save a thousand lives, and shift the war in our favor, it would be worth it. Isn’t this why we are doing this?”

  “I thought you wanted to do this to protect, Assiaya?”

  “Well…, yeah. That is the big reason why I don’t want to do this. I don’t want her to feel like her worth is being married off to some random nobleman because she is a girl. I want her to find someone she loves when she gets older, but if I do this, I will only reinforce this world’s example of arranged marriage.”

  “And….”

  “And…, how can I be that selfish? This agreement could save thousands of American and Velunara lives. Not just assaulting the city, but future battles. All because I didn’t want to swallow my pride and marry this lady? And what about the other City-States we are trying to court? Accepting this proposal would signal to the other Houses that we are legitimate. Rejecting means we oppose their way of life. And the entire point of doing this is getting these cities to rally behind my daughter without needing a gun to their head.”

  The Colonel took a sip from his beer, staring out at the beautiful city. “I have to admit, Matt. This one has been a pickle. I was expecting this situation, but not this soon.”

  “I guess we have left an impression…., what should I do?”

  Hackett rubbed his trimmed beard, carefully staring at the city in deep thought. “Those are valid points. No man should ever marry a woman he doesn’t love, and the same applies in reverse. People think being a Pater familias means you are a tyrant. No, it is setting a positive example for the children so that they can be proper, moral citizens in society. However, that line can be gray at times. You are correct not to set a negative example like this for your daughter, especially one who is highly influenced. You are also correct to ponder how many lives that decision will cost you.”

  “Which one is right?”

  “You might be a Captain, Matt, but you are entering a new level of leadership. These are decisions we all must make. This will be a test that you will have to make yourself.”

  Ryder took a frustrated breath, but, staring into his mentor's eyes, he could tell there was something else at work in that military mind of his. And the response only supported that.

  “I know my responses have not been clear. As you already know, that is intentional. The truth is, this situation is too big for any of us. This is the problem of being an outsider. Because these noble politics are the way of the land, it does not mean they are always literal or straightforward. Politics rarely is. Once you understand the game, you can see the blur between the lines.”

  “Well, I will admit. I feel more like an outsider now than I have since we arrived. To be clear, I accepted this post, and I will follow through as a Duke to the best of my abilities. I didn’t think it would become this complicated this quickly.”

  “As I said, I cannot decide for you. But I can guide you. Most of the time, your superior, military or politician, knows little of what is happening. Of course, we want as much information as possible, but at the end of the day, you must rely on your gut instincts and sometimes, moral code.”

  Ryder took a drink, frustrated by the lack of a clear answer. “Easier said than done.”

  “I agree. That is why I asked for help.”

  “Help? What do you mean?”

  That was when the Captain heard the office door open with Ceka entering. She announced that the Colonel’s guests had arrived and wished her master luck. After the Minuteman leader thanked the Head Maid, she left. He then reached into the cooler, grabbed two fresh bottles, and handed them to Matt. “You are going to need a second one.”

  Within moments, Ryder heard yelling coming from the Palace hallways. One had a soft tone, using elevated vocabulary to deliver insults, while the other had a deep voice and was crude rather than polished. Ceka entered again, announcing their guest. Lord Folen Elstina and Lord Girnick Elkkur of Vagahm.

  The Dwarf Lord pushed forward, laughing. “See that, pointy ears, the Neko addressed me with my city. You are only a Lord.”

  “Her name is Ceka, and she only stated your filthy city was because everyone forgets what hole you came out of.”

  Seeing that the two fantasy species were on the verge of declaring war, Ryder permitted his Head Maid to flee, go to the Palace infirmary, and prepare aspirin for later. He then looked at the two. “Why are you two already at each other's throats?”

  “Because you invited the lower class of a runt into our city,” Folen said.

  “You are only cranky about the gift I provided you,” Elkkur said. He then turned to the American Duke. “I wish you humans to understand, he did not bring me anything.”

  Folen gripped his hands. “You gave me nail polish.”

  “I thought you were the Duchess. Maybe if you grew a beard, I could tell the differences between you males and females.”

  As the two developed into an argument, Ryder glanced toward his mentor and only saw him silently laughing. That was when he realized that this was going to be a long night. On any other day, he would enjoy eating popcorn in the elf-dwarven spat between the two races, but he wasn’t in the mood. “Why are you two here?”

  The Vagahm Lord laughed before walking toward the cooler. He then grabbed two beers, ripped off the caps, and took a long drink. “I was informed that you are having woman problems and need an expert perspective to solve your dilemma.”

  “I would not put it like that, but correct,” Folen said. He then reached into the cooler and pulled out a wine carton. “In the name of assisting our leader, I will tolerate being around this infested flea bag.”

  “Of course, you grab wine,” Elkkur said. He then slammed his fist into his chest with great pride. “You need a good brew so that you can grow male chest hair.”

  “Once you die, I will put your body next to my other animal rugs.” Folen took a sip from his wine. “No one will know the difference.”

  “Okay, okay, cease fire, you two,” Hackett ordered. It took a moment for the group to settle, as the two found it difficult to stop insulting each other. When they were done, he continued, “You already know the problem we are facing.”

  “I understand,” Folen said. “I still do not understand why this is an issue. You are the American Duke.”

  “I had a feeling you were going to say that,” Ryder said, believing that he understood the context of what the Woof Elf noble was implying. “You believe I should take the offer?”

  Folen Elstina walked to the edge of the balcony, staring out at the city. “My family has lived here for many elvish generations. My father built our workshop here, coming from nothing, but he built his House. It required many compromises and the forging of alliances. Working with those who were considered unethical and, more importantly, making enemies.”

  “Let us not forget when we first met,” Elkkur said. “I was using your people as leverage for a better deal. I know many of your kind believed I was harsh, but when the survival of your people is at stake, I believe you, Ryder, are understanding the gravity of such decisions. We do not have the luxury to be ethical when everything is on the line.”

  “I am learning that, indeed,” Ryder said. “Is it true that this world trades hands of marriage for diplomacy and alliance building?”

  “That is correct,” Folen said. “My wife was arranged with another noble with the old regime in securing arms contracts.”

  Elkkur released a loud burp before chuckling. “Do I look like someone who engages in proper society?”

  “And that is why you rot in a hole,” Folen responded.

  “And why my city saved yours twice this year,” Elkkur commented.

  Ryder shook his head before drinking half of his bottle. “Regardless of that, Elkkur, I see what both of you are saying. If I am going to be this Duke of these lands, I guess I should engage in this land’s politics. If it means it benefits us.”

  “If that is what you desire, my Lord,” Folen said.

  Elkkur pushed his Elf comrade before grunting. “What my pointy ear Duchess means is that was not what he meant.”

  The Captain was stunned by the dwarf's attitude, but the lack of response by the elf. He glanced toward his Colonel and saw him leaning against the balcony railing, watching the show quality with a giant smirk, enjoying the sight. That was when he realized his mentor had planned all of this. But what was the end goal?

  “It is rare that I agree with a dwarf,” Folen said. “But he is correct here.”

  “Then I will bite,” Ryder said. “What are you trying to say? I should not go along with this proposal?”

  “It is not our place to tell a Duke, father of the Princess of our country,” Elkkur said. “As the Head of your House, you must make the final decision based on what you believe is best for us.”

  “No pressure,” Ryder mumbled.

  “What the Colonel requested from us was to provide insight,” Folen said. “…. Mathew…., do you remember when we first met?”

  It took a moment for Ryder to recall the exact moment. After he and his now daughter escaped from Kallem's grasp and regrouped with Comanche, they launched a raid against an Airship port inside Mount Orlatus to save the captured Americans and Salva leadership. Although they arrived in time, Comanche was able to save only about half of the prisoners, including Lord Folen. Since then, the Wood Elf had been a critical ally in establishing Assiaya's throne and Salva-American relations.

  “I do,” Ryder said.

  “It feels like a lifetime,” Folen said. “As an Elf, we see time differently than other races, so let that statement settle.”

  “Get to the point, elf, before we fall asleep,” Elkkur stated while doing a fake yawn.

  Folen glared at his dwarven friend before reforming his posture. “You came for us, regardless of your wounded state. We had never met. No loyalty, kinship, or culture, and yet, you and Assiaya came for us.”

  “I actually did not do much because of my wounds,” Ryder responded. “The team deserves the credit. And Assiaya just happened to remember Kallem ordering your people to the Mountain Port.”

  “How many people would have given the order to raid with only a child’s word? None of your Minutemen would have advocated the attempt. It was not about politics; it was honor.”

  When Ryder was unable to respond, he realized the Wood Elf point. It made him uncomfortable that the conversation focused so heavily on him, so he drank his beer to calm his nerves. That was when he felt a mighty slap on his back from the dwarf, making him cough multiple times.

  “Oh, Captain. Remember when we first met?”

  “I remember the migraine and having to wash my clothing three times to get the ash off.”

  The Wood Elf commented on how filthy Vagahm forges were, which only made the Dwarf Lord laugh out of spit, stating that it breeds character. The short man then looked toward the city, calming himself.

  “I have never informed you why I changed my mind,” Elkkur said.

  “No, you did not,” Ryder responded. “With how much hardball you gave Assiaya and me during those negotiations, I didn’t expect you to send aid. Not at least until we won.”

  “Altaerrie humor,” Elkkur said, remaining calm this time. “I had no intention to assist as I got what I wanted. What happened at Salva was a perfect example of why none of us should resist the Unity and Aristocracy. Even with your people's intervention, you would have lost, but I guaranteed my people's safety.”

  “Then what changed?”

  “I could not forget our interaction. I have dealt with nobles and powerful Houses during my entire lordship, such as with Harff. Assiaya chose to retake her throne not to reclaim lost power, but for people she had never met. Was that because she was a slave or because of her childlike nature, I do not know.”

  Elkkur then looked at the American Duke. “And for you, I saw this low-ranking man entering into higher politics on behalf of people he had never met. Do not get me wrong, all good Lords value their people's well-being, but our meeting was different. Because of that, I risk everything. If Salva fell and my engineers were discovered, everyone in my city would have been executed.”

  “That does not include taking a Dukeship not for power, but defense of your adopted daughter,” Folen said. “Few would do such a thing. We understand how many of your kin look down on you for adapting to our ways. A price few would dare embrace.”

  “They point they are making, Matt,” Hackett interjected, as if he understood what the Captain was thinking. “No one here is following you because of your military or political title. It is because of your character and your daughter's good heart. I know how that sounds, but it does bring inspiration to others.”

  “The Colonel is correct,” Folen said. “Assiaya's formal family ruled over these lands. Back by Hispana, tracing his noble lineage for generations. Very few would embrace that House as their lordship. But she is not their Princess, she is yours.”

  “We have placed everything on you, Altaerrie,” Elkkur said. “Not because you came here. Many will be hateful of you for not being like them, but many old ways will not survive this war. As your daughter said, her Protectorate is not about preserving the old but building a new one. A new people, a new country.”

  Mathew Ryder leaned against the balcony railing, absorbing the conversation and the openness everyone had. He had no idea he had left such an impression—at least enough for two well-established and influential Noblemen. One issue, though, was that he didn’t know how to take this insight regarding Harff's proposed marriage alliance.

  “Thank you all,” Ryder said. “This did give me much to think about.”

  “Good,” Hackett said. “I could see that you were hung up on trying to adapt to this world's way of politics. You felt like you were stuck in a box. I wanted to remind you that some people didn’t place your title in the same high regard. It is the man behind it.”

  “Are you saying I should reject their offer?” Ryder asked.

  “That will be your decision,” Hackett said. “Whatever you decide, you will have my full support. I wanted you to have the full picture before you decide.”