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Chapter Text

Full Name: Maverick Lee Kuribayashi

Age: 30

Nicknames: Mav, MLK, Jap Jarhead, MK & LA.

Date of Birth: July 4, 1993

Height: 6'4"

Location of where he was born: Los Angeles County+USC Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, United States of America.

What makes him Japanese-American?: His Father being Japanese and his Mother being American. One crazy college party night led to his father and mother having a one-night stand. Which led to a positive pregnancy later. Father was already in Japan when gotten the news. And Nine painful months later, Maverick Lee Kuribayashi was born. The mother added his father's last name to his birth certificate.

When did he enlisted?: At 17 after graduating high school, in 2010. At 18 he went to University of California, Los Angeles for 4 years and graduated with a bachelor's degree in mathematics. At 23 he went to a 10-week commissioning program in Quantico, VA interested in earning the title as a United States Marine Officer. Upon his completion, he is now a newly commissioned Marine Officer and will begin active duty at The Basic School (TBS) as a Second Lieutenant.

What was his job in the Marines?: Logistics Officer. He did rank up to First Lieutenant.

Military History?: 2 Tours to Afghanistan.

Is he in the Special Forces?: [CLASSIFIED]

Looks: On leave.

Looks: Dress Blues.

Looks: Combat.

Main Weapon: M27

Side Arm: M17

Knife: Bowie Knife.

Chapter Text

Date:  August, 2023

Maverick's Pov

Me: Finally I made it.

I was walking the streets of Tokyo in the Ginza district. Thou, it took me about an hour just to get here.

I got a little lost and thought to ask a local police officer for directions to the Imperial Palace where I'll meet my half siblings.

Me: Excuse me, officer?

Cop: Hmm? Yes?

Me: I'm a little lost here and I was wondering if you give me directions to the Imperial Palace?

Cop: Oh sure. It's about-

Both the officer and I see something slowly manifest in the middle of the street to what looks like a Ancient Roman Gate.

Me: Uhh..*to the Cop*You saw that too, right?

Cop:*grabbing his radio* Uh-huh.*to his radio* This is Officer Tanaka Shinso. I'm going to need-

Before the Officer Shinso can finish, we hear what sounds like a very large group coming from inside the Gate. Thinking fast I use my Galaxy S20 Tactical Edition smartphone to call someone. I heard the dial tone then I get an answer.

Someone: This is Colonel Jackson Baker, to whom am I speaking to?

Me: This is 1stLt. Kuribayashi part of the 4th Marine Regiment. We got a situation here in the Ginza District in Tokyo. Send whoever is available. This is not a drill nor a set up.

Col. Jackson: Roger that, Mav.*hangs up*

Me:*to the Officer Shinso* Hey, I just called for-

Before I get to speak a Dragon or Wyvern flies out of the gate. And after that a Roman like army also comes out of the gate. I'm going be honest......I'm scared. But I need to try save as many civvies as I possibly can.

Me:*sighs* So much for a vacation.*to the civilians* IF WANT TO LIVE!! NOW'S NOT THE TIME TO STARE AND RUN FOR SAFETY!!!! MOVE IT!!!!!

My outburst seemed to get people moving some even grabbed others so they don't get left behind. That's part one down. Now part two.

Me:*to the Cop* Oui, is backup coming?!

Officer Shinso:*scared* Y-y-yeah, but they won't be here in ten minutes.

Me: Okay.*looks at his gun* Do you know how to properly use that under pressure?

Officer Shinso:*scared* I-I don't know.

Me: Well I do.*with his hand out* Do mind?

Officer Shinso unhooks his gun and hands it to me as check if it's loaded. Which it is. And aimed at the six men in the front column. Judging by their attire they may be commanders, generals,  lords, counts or nobles.

Guy with scroll: Homines terrae huius! Hic es by-(People of this land! You are here by-)

*GUNSHOT*

I shoot the guy with the scroll ending his speech.

Me: One batch.

Then I shoot the two between the first guy.

Me: Two batch.

Finally I shoot the two next to the second and third guy. I keep the last round in just in case.

Me: Penny and Dime.

Officer Shinso:*amazed* Whoa..

Me: Thanks. Now let's haul ass!*starts running*

Officer Shinso:*also starts running* Right.

As we ran I see some people and families also running. I guess they stayed and watch. I they looked back as I see archers preparing to release their bows.

Me: Shit! Everyone find cover! Their launching arrows!

Myself and Shinso ducked under a parked car as the arrow volley was launched and hit the car and some poor civvies that didn't get to cover on time.

Officer Shinso:*shocked* Oh God...

Me: What?*looks* Oh...

We both saw what appears to be the parents of a little girl that killed by the arrows while protecting the girl. Shit.

Me: Shinso, you get the girl and I'll cover you!

Shinso: Right!

Both of us crawled out and ran to the shocked little girl. Shinso picked her up and carried her while checked the parents bodies for identification.

Shinso: What are you-

Me:*holding up IDs* Found them!

Shinso: Found what?

Me: The parents IDs. That way you can find if the girl has any family left.

Shinso: I see.

Me: Less talking.*to everyone else* Let's keep moving people!

Timeskip

We make our way few blocks away from where we were and I see another police officer about to attacked by another hostile I was about to aim and fire the gun when someone grabbed him and threw him on the ground.

Me: Holy shit..

He then had him in a headlock and grabbed his knife and stabbed him in the neck killing him I rush over to help the man who is now covered with blood.

Me:*offers hand* You broken?

Man:*grabs his hand* I'm good.*sees the amount of civvies* They following you?

Me:*pulling him up* A leader's got to be brave and guide people to safety.*to the cop and woman* You two okay?

Cop: Ye-yeah.

The woman just nods as see she's scared.

Shinso:*to the Cop* Is the Imperial Palace still safe?

Cop: Yes. That's where we escorting any civilians in the area.

Me: Neat.*to everyone* To Imperial Palace everyone! That's our safe haven!

Man:*also to everyone* Follow the leader!

Timeskip

We're arrive at the Imperial Palace there is huge line of panicked civvies trying to get inside I pull though the security as the man I met earlier is getting the police captain to open the palace gates to let the civilians inside as riot police start arriving. I then hear my phone ring and I answer it.

Me: Hello?

Col. Jackson: Be advised, Mav. We are assisting the JSDF. We are also getting reports that they are heading to the Imperial Palace.

Me: Copy that. I just finished escorting a large quantity of civilians here at the IP. It's only riot cops here, so bring in the bois.

Col. Jackson: Roger that, Mav.*hangs up*

Riot Police Captain: Those things were about to overrun the government district, but the military from both the JSDF and Americans stopped it. Sakuradamon is still holding and reinforcements are coming in.

Man: Where's the enemy forces now?

Me: Probably on their way here as we speak.

Riot Cop: Contact ahead!!

The enemy is 100 meters away from a police line. They police fire tear gas or smoke at the enemy while I and the Man grab a MP5, a vest, some ammo and take up position near the main gate with the other Riot officers.

Me:*to the Man* You a cop, military or security?

Man: Military. You?

Me: Same. After this wanna grab a beer?

Man: As long if it's good beer.

Riot Cop:*to Riot Police Captain* So who's coming first, sir?

Riot Police Captain: Both attack and transport helicopters from Nerima and Okinawa.

Cop 2: 1st Division is responding as well.

We then hear helicopters in the distance then I see Cobra and Viper attack helicopters and Venom and Huey helicopters.

AH-1 Cobra

AH-1Z Viper

UH-1 Huey

UH-1Y Venom

The attack helicopters began attacking the dragons and wyverns bringing them down, as ground forces arrive and engage the the enemy's main line. I watch in absolute excitement as the enemy line is cut down in droves and routed before superior firepower. I can see why Shino joined. Though I would say this is Japan's first actual battle since the end of WW2.

Man: The enemy is falling back!

Me:*yelling* (in English)GET SOME, BABY!! GET SOME!!

As the JSDF, Marines and police begin a counter-attack part of me really wanted to go with them, but I was almost out of ammo and would only get in the way. I return the MP5, vest, ammo and pistol to the police and start mingling with the other civilians. The ones I saved thanked me and the Shinso as well. Some even gave me a hug saying how thankful and brave I was.

It was then I ran to that Man from earlier who was helping Shinso with the little girl.

Me: Hey, I think we should introduced ourselves. My name is First Lieutenant Maverick Kuribayashi of the United States Marine Corps.*offers hand for a handshake* You?

Man:*shakes his hand* Second Lieutenant Yoji Itami Japan Ground Self Defense Force.

We shook our hands as we looked at both the people and the sky.

Me: So...know any bars that might be open?

Itami: Probably the ones that not near Tokyo.

Shinso: Can I come too?

Me: Sure!

Timeskip

Two and half weeks have past since the "Ginza Incident" occurred. An accommodation ceremony is held in Tokyo for myself and Itami. He was accredited with saving over 100 civilians and I was accredited with saving about 178 civilians, 5 confirmed kills and a police officer. An American and Japanese flag are on the wall side by side. Marines from my battalion and soldiers from Itami's JGSDF battalion are present and applauding for our accomplishments. I look at Itami and has a sad look on his face.

Me:*whispering* Hey Itami, why the look? Did someone you know died?

Itami:*whispering* No. It's just that that a comic convention I was going to go got shut down that day.

Me:

Itami:*whispering* Wut?

Me:*whispering* You're more concerned about a fucking convection than your country being attacked or people being killed?

Itami:*whispering* Hey! I only joined to have a job to support my hobby okay.

Jackass. But to each their own, we were both presented accommodations. Itami was promoted to First Lieutenant. And I was promoted to Captain. Now the question on my mind is what's going to happen next?

Timeskip to Three Months

Both the Japan and America have put together an expeditionary force to invade the "Special Region" Col. Jackson has been assigned as the official military attache, advisor, and US observer. In fact I volunteered for combat experience and both of our governments believed it was good PR. In that time, myself and the 4th Marine Regiment trained with JGSDF, learned their Rank and File, and gotten to know Itami better he's still a hopeless jackass but he's alright. The JGSDF soldiers and US Marines are standing at attention just outside the gate along with myself in full gear as the Japanese Prime Minister gives a his speech.

JGSDF

USMC

Prime Minister Motoi: Thanks to the efforts of former Prime Minister Hojo and much multi-partisan support. This action is finally authorized and ready to begin. You carry all the hopes and dreams of both our people and American people with you. Members of the Defense Force serve us with distinction we shall except nothing less of you. We would like to express our graduate toward our friend and ally the United States for attaching a Marine Regiment and as our official military attache, Colonel Jackson. On behalf of the people of Japan I thank you both for your heroism and service to our cause.

Col. Jackson nods as the PM finished his speech. The Japanese General gives his briefing.

Japanese General: I am Lieutenant General Hazama, several missions have scouted the Region over the last 4 weeks. So far, all of them have returned safely, but we still don't know what we're facing. Therefore, I suggest you all get ready for the possibility of a fire-fight the moment you reach the other side. We're moving out shortly stand by.

Itami and I look to our left and see the little girl from three months ago with I guess her aunt at a memorial for those who died during the attack. The aunt crying and the girl standing with no emotion on her face. I lock and load my M27 as the JGSDF lock and load their Type 89 rifles, Marines lock and load their M16A3 rifles, Type 74 Tanks, LAV-25s and vehicles begin revving up as infantry board the transports.

General Hazama salutes back at us as I board the same transport as Itami and another marine as the large doors covering the gate begin to open and the order is given to move out. The tanks go first followed by mobile artillery, then the LAVs and infantry transports everyone is quiet except for Itami and a Sergeant named Takeo Kurata.

Kurata:*to Itami* Hey you got a sec I hear there are catgirls and stuff over there you think it's true?

Itami: Yeah! Why wouldn't there be?

Marine:*to Me* Hey sir? Do think there might be lamia or harpies there too?

Me:

Marine: Sir?

Me: Alright cut the chatter and listen up.

Everyone shut up and listened.

Me: You all heard what the General said, scouts have been coming back just fine. But we don't know what we'll be waiting for us when we get there. So I want everyone stocked, rocked and ready for contact the moment we hit the other side. This is what we've been training for boys and girls and I'm proud to fight alongside each and every one of you. NOW GET YOUR GAME FACES ON!!

JSDF & Marines: SIR!!!/OORAH!!

As we crossed to the other end of the gate, the vehicles spread out and stop on a hill. On the radio a LAV gunner spots a large force about 500 to 600 meters out.

LAV Gunner:*though the radio* All callsigns, we got enemy contact half a klick due north of our position.

I kick open the doors of my transport and literally jump out of it onto the field.

Me:*to the troops* LET'S GO PEOPLE!!

Infantry begin disembarking from their transports as either sergeants or other officers gave out orders to troops.

A Marine Sergeant: SPREAD OUT INTO FIRE TEAMS!

Me: 3 METER SPREAD! COVER YOUR SECTORS!

Itami: LET'S GO!!

JSDF and Marine infantry begin taking position on the hill with their rifles pointed downrange, Tanks are arming their main guns and LAVs readying their autocannon. Both are ready to engage the enemy. I see what look like several hundred torches down the hill ahead of us.

Marine:*to Me* So what did you do before coming here?

Me: Mostly logistics, but I had my fair share of combat in Afghanistan.

Marine: Cool.

Me:*to everyone around him* Stand by!

My rifle is downrange toward the enemy as the sun rises behind us giving us another advantage I then hear horns blaring in the distance after hearing that I give the order.

Me: FIRE NOW!!!

Chapter Text

Date: November, 2023

Maverick's Pov

Morning at Alnus Hill

Yesterday, scouts and drones spotted large concentration of hostiles gathering south of the hill. It looks like their going to make move on taking the hill the question is when? I was checking on one of the lookouts when one JSDF soldiers nearly salutes me.

JSDF Pvt:*salutes me* Oh, morning Capt. Kuribayashi!

The Marine PFC next to him gives him a look of "What are you doing?"

Me: As you were Pvt. and don't salute me here you'll only make me a target.

Marine: He's right you know.

JSDF Pvt:*drops salute* Oh um....sorry sir.

Me: Don't be sorry, however it's Japan's first actual combat deployment since WW2 so you guys wouldn't know when and where to salute a senior officer. So my best advice, don't do it by lookouts and watchtowers. It'll get said officer killed. Is that understood, Pvt?

JSDF Pvt: Yes sir. It won't happen again.

Me: Good. Don't want to hear either Gen. Hazama or Col. Jackson KIA due to a private giving them a salute. So what's the the news?

Marine: None at all, sir.

JSDF Pvt: He's right, it's been quiet all morning.

Marine:*spots something* Hold that thought.

Me: What's wrong?

Marine:*hands me his Binos* South of here.

I take his Binos and look to the South and spot a large number of hostiles crossing the exclusion line.

JSDF Pvt: What do you see?

Me: From the looks of it a entire division derived by humans and non-humans.

The marine hands me a radio. I grabbed it and called for both an Artillery Strike.

Me: Big Bang and Thunder this is Yankee-Sama do you copy, over?

Thunder:*on radio* This is Thunder, go ahead Yankee-Sama, over.

Big Bang:*on radio* This is Big Bang, we read you Capt, over.

Me: I got eyes on a division sized force coming from the South and crossing into phase line Alpha, break.... Requesting fire mission on phase line Alpha fire for effect, over.

Thunder:*radio* Copy that fire mission received artillery strike in bound, over.

Big Bang:*on radio* Copy that, firing for effect, over.

I look ahead as I hear booms and bangs of both Japanese and American howitzers. I also spot one of them not far from where I'm standing.

Me: And........Boom.

Me:*on radio* Excellent hits Big Bang and Thunder. Targets neutralized, over and out.*gives radio back to the Marine*

JSDF Pvt:*horrified* Good Lord....

Me: It's what we signed up for. Coffee anyone?

Marine: If it's Black Rifle, then yes.

Timeskip

Afternoon at Alnus Hill

I sitting in a M1161 Growler eating one of new MREs that Washington sent to us. Including about 1,500 Marines.

M1161 Growler

One of the marines that road with us during the travel through the GATE tunnel. Who's name I now know is Lance-Corporal Dewayne Thomas is joking with some Marines and JSDF guys.

Dewayne Thomas

Thomas: Okay, here's something that I'm pretty sure you guys never hear. "PT? Sweet! I hope I run with full gear!"

We're all laughing at that, when I see another large hostile force coming toward the hill supported by wyvern riders. I take out my Binos to confirm the size of the force. The force seems to consist of one or three entire divisions, Jesus.

Me: Dammit all.*gets up from Growler and whistles loudly* GET EVERYBODY UP NOW! WE GOT HOSTILES MOVING IN FROM THE SOUTH!*slaps Type 74 Tank* GET THESES TANKS FIRING! AND HAVE THE AAA GUNS TARGETING EITHER BOTH AIRBORNE OR GROUND TARGETS!

JSDF Tank Commander: Yes, sir!*to his crew* Driver! Get us to position! Loader! Have an HEP loaded! Gunner! Wait on my command to fire! Remember Loader, we're not in a Type 90 or 10 so be quick!

Soldiers and Marines began taking up firing positions. I take cover and get my Binos out begin observing the enemy's movement as tanks, LAVs and Type 87s begin raining hell on their line of advance I see wyverns riders fast approaching.

I turn my Binos skyward to see the wyverns being cut to pieces by Triple A fire.

I look on as flying beast fall right out the sky and as scores of men being blown away by tank, gun, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, and artillery fire. I see their bodies either broken or mangled on the  field. I can hear the screams all the way from up here and I don't feel any sympathy for them at all.

Well I do feel sympathy  for them. Because that's what makes me human. Unlike the bastards that sent these men to their death.

They wanted this fight and they're now getting it. But apparently killing thousands of them this morning wasn't a big enough message. As I could see no more movement myself and other officers order a cease fire. The guns die down, the screaming dies down, and all that's left is death.

Shit that's a good quote.

Timeskip

Night at Alnus Hill

It had been a long day I'm out on the line about 500 meters from the wire. I'm inspecting the machine gun bunkers to see if everyone on watch is awake and alert even though we killed a lot of them today.

Me: Make sure keep alert, there's no moon tonight so they could try and use the darkness to their advantage. Also to the ones with NVGs or Thermal, please don't use them as we going to be using flares.

JSDF Soldiers & US Marines: Yes, sir.

Marine:*taking off her NVG* And I just got these.

I stand on an vantage point overlooking the wire with my Binos out as some flares burst out over the night sky and I see large formation of hostiles trying to rush the hill.

Me: Fuck! ENEMY RAID!! GET UP!! AND GET READY!!!

The gun teams man their machine guns and wait for right moment as the flare fall on the wire I see group of enemies forming a shield wall just past the wire.

Me: Contacts over the wire! LIGHT THEM UP!!

I also see some LAV-25s firing too. Including the machine gunner on top.

The machine guns begin laying down a barrage of lead towards the wire, I go up and down the line directing fire.

Me: Short bursts! No full-auto! 3 second trigger hold for each burst!

I observe through my Binos again as all the hostiles over the wire were dropping like flies and explosions go off all around them. I see what appears to be single silhouette in the distance as he seem to be readying a bow and arrow and looses toward our position. Wait what?

Me: Dafuq?

I finally see an arrow coming down and it hits right on a Marine's NVG. Missing both her head and face by inches.

Marine: Oh Goddammit!!

I observe the silhouette once more as he appears to be standing still and disappears before an explosion.

Me: Sorry buddy. CEASEFIRE! I REPEAT, CEASEFIRE!

The machine guns fire halts and the explosions begin to stop and all that's left is utter silence. I make my way back to my tent for some much needed R&R I look back to the men and women.

Me: Excellent job today everyone! If you need the to get some rest, do it. As tomorrow is a BDA, good luck and good night.

JSDF Soldiers & US Marines: Yes, sir. Thank you, sir.

I smile as I turn to my tent for the next day.

Timeskip

Next Morning at Alnus Hill

Me: Fuck me.....

I'm outside the perimeter with Itami, Thomas and Kurata conducting a BDA(Battle Damage Assessment) impact craters, discarded weapons, and human remains are scattered everywhere. Birds are circling over us to scavenge what's left of the dead. Itami picks up a broken bow while I pick up a flag inspect it.

Kurata: So did you hear the report?

Thomas:*slightly kicking a helmet* What report?

Kurata: Intel says they lost about sixty thousand.

Itami: Plus the forty-sixty thousand that attacked Ginza.

Thomas: So that's......two or three army corps right?

Me:*putting down the flag* Right.

Kurata: Don't tell me you guys are worried about them.

Me: The ones that attacked Ginza, last two week and yesterday. No I don't. Their families......maybe. Depends on the family.

Itami: A hundred and twenty thousand people, why would they send so many? What kind a country are we fighting?!*throws the bow*

Thomas: The Soviet Union, but medieval.

Me: Or the Roman Empire in the Punic War.

Kurata: What do you mean?

Me: Think about it, see all these different banners and flags scattered around here. I also kept seeing different uniforms every time they came at us.

Itami: So in other words...

Me: These were probably vassal or allied countries, so whoever sent them here knew they would be annihilated. Most likely to keep their own positions secure, I mean we crushed an entire army's worth our first two in half weeks here.

Thomas: So what, politics?

Me: More like how Stalin got in power if you catch my meaning. Anyway, let's back. The smell is starting to kick in now.

We started heading back to base to report and receive new orders.

Timeskip

The White House Oval Office in Washington DC, United States

The US President Dirrell discussing with his advisors on the gate situation in Japan.

Dirrell: Are marines sent to the Special Region deploy yet?

Advisor: Yes, Mr. President. A Marine Expeditionary Brigade of about 4,000–16,000 Marines. This includes the ones already there.

Advisor 2: It also says that during the joint-USMC/JGSDF. Their first mission was regarding this has been purely to evaluate politics. Both sides are only interested in controlling certain areas.

Dirrell:*laughs* Oh my god. Well they're missing out aren't they? We've stumbled upon a gold mine of untouched resources! And we're just gonna let it sit there? That does nobody any good. What about this? We've got armor ready to sent in Okinawa, just send them in.

Advisor: That may not be a good idea, sir. As the other leaders are hoping to allow both Japan and the US to uh... just to drop the ball on this. The thought is to let either Japan or us to simply fail on our own this time.

Dirrell: We don't want to get pulled down with them. What about our guy on the ground now, Col. Jackson was it? Have we had any reports from him yet?

Advisor 2: More like Brigadier General(BGen) Jackson as he promoted last week. And not yet sir, no communication haven't been made yet. BGen. Jackson was ordered to make a report as soon as he is able to.

Dirrell: Well then, let me know as soon as the first report comes in.

Advisor: Yes, Mr. President.

Chapter Text

Date: November, 2023

Alnus Hill, 7th Combat Squad HQ

Maverick's Pov

Itami and I are standing front of Major Osamu Higaki as he's giving us new marching orders.

Higaki: We need intelligence to decide future policy. Investigating their political base, religious faith, and what kind of industries are most prevalent in this world are at the top of our upcoming fact finding missions.

Me: So basically Hearts and Minds, but with extra steps.

Higaki: Precisely, Capt. Kuribayashi.

Itami: Well that sounds like a great idea. Best of luck to whatever grunt gets that job.

Higaki: Congratulations, "Grunt" it's all yours.

Itami eyes widen and I nearly chuckle and just roll my eyes at that remark.

Itami: Huh!?......Please not me.

Higaki: What?

Me:*rubbing my temples* Oh my Lord.....

Itami: I can't do something like that myself.

How did you even pass OCS is it Japan's fault for not getting better DIs.

Higaki: Relax Grunt, we wouldn't entrust it to just you. We've already organized the twelve deep recon and surveillance units we need. You and Captain Kuribayashi will command one of them. Your mission is to make contact with inhabitants inside the disputed areas Captain Kuribayashi will be your Commanding Officer and you will be his second in command.

Me: I'd say we already made contact with the inhabitants and killed a lot of them. Yes, sir.

Higaki: And if you don't get your ass shot off, start a friendly relationship with them.

Me: Will do, sir. Right, 1sLt. Itami?

Itami: Ahh.......Yes, sir.

Higaki: And much as it's pains me to say this. Mostly to you, Captain. You are officially in Command of the Fifth Deep Recon and Surveillance unit with this idiot. It is comprised of both SDF and USMC.

Me: If I may, can I have a list of the names that I'll be incharge with? Weapons and vehicles too?

Higaki: Sure.*hands me the list* By the way, US took any advance weapons like the M27s, M17s & M18s, M16A4s, FGM-148 Javelins, FGM-172 SRAW and the M45A1.

Me:..........Why?

Higaki: Because they said and I quote "Don't want to much pay if the stuff is easy to replace quickly."

Me:.........Oh.....

Fucking. US. Marine Corps. Logistics.

Higaki: Your both dismissed.

We leave command tent and head toward the assembly area.

Itami: Why'd I get paired up with you again?

Me: Because you are an idiot and the JSDF realized you need a Marine to stop you from doing something stupid. Or because both our politicians thought it would be good for the press to have well documented "Heroes" as a buddy team. Or maybe because someone else would "accidentally" knock your motherfucking teeth out. Shall I go on?

Itami:.......No, sir.

Me: Good. Now go inspect the unit while I read this.

As Itami left, I read what was the list.

Me: Let's see, here.

The JSDF has one Komatsu LAV with M2 50 .cal, a Mitsubishi Type 73 Light Truck Shin and the final vehicle is the military version of the Toyota High Mobility Vehicle(THMV) which also has a cloth roof covering. Okay I can see the cost effectiveness now.

The infantry are armed with a Howa Type 89 assault rifles(occasionally with M9 Bayonet) and a Nissan/IHI 110mm LAM , a licensed built version of the German Panzerfaust-3. Neat.

As for side arms, they also have a licensed Minebea P-9 by Minebea carried in Safariland 6004 Holsters. They are issued with the Type 88 helmet with JGSV-V8 mount (AN/PVS-14) and Type 2 Armour with deployment flags. That's nice.

Now the names.

First Lieutenant, Yōji Itami. The dumbass.

Sergeant Major, Sōichirō Kuwahara. Whoa 50? Respect.

Master Sergeant, Tetsuya Nishina. Don't know much.

Sergeant First Class, Akira Tomita. Still owns me ¥5000.

Sergeant First Class, Mari Kurokawa. Combat Medic, Tall, Cute-I mean motherly!

Sergeant First Class, Shino Kuribayashi. Close Combat Specialist. And little, small, still single sister.

Sergeant, Takeo Kurata. Anime Fan. Keep him away from Nekos.

Sergeant Azuma Higashi. Don't know much.

Leading Private, Tou. Will probably help him study to become an NCO.

Leading Private, Daisuke Tozu. Don't know much.

Leading Private, Wataru Katsumoto. Heavy Weapons Specialist, A child at heart, very loud and energetic guy.

Leading Private, Hayato Sasagawa. Great photographer. Tell him if any single male marine ask for pics, tell them to pay.

Leading Private, Hitoshi Furuta. Prospective chef. Cool. His cooking style is mostly Western Cuisine. He's going to be popular with the marines here.

Me: Alright, now for the marines in the unit.

The Marines has one LAV-25, a Cougar HE 6×6 with a Common Remotely Operated Weapon Station(CROWS) and the final vehicle is the Oshkosh M-ATV with Mk 19 grenade launcher. Okay that's really good.

The infantry are armed with a M16A3 assault rifles(occasionally with M9 Bayonet), M249 light machine gun SAW, M60E3 light machine gun and a Mk 153 Shoulder-Launched Multipurpose Assault Weapon (SMAW). Good.

As for side arms, they also have a licensed Beretta 92FS by Beretta carried in Blackhawk Level 2 Tactical SERPA Holsters. They are issued with the Modular Integrated Communications Helmet(MICH) and Scalable Plate Carrier (SPC) and Modular Tactical Vest (MTV) with deployment flags. That's nice.

Now the names.

Myself Captain, Maverick Kuribayashi.

Master Sergeant, Henry Smith. Age 45. Aka Sgt. Pops.

Gunnery Sergeant, Michael Hill. Nice guy, easy to talk to, tech expert and vehicle mechanic.

Corporal, Millie Sanchez. Age 23. Close Combat Specialist. Looks could kill, but a giant teddy bear, worked with me before coming here and her height is 6'9" or 205.74 cm.

Petty Officer Third Class(PO3), Samuel Redrick. White hair albino and great corpsman.

Private First Class, Diamond Backer. Age 19. Petite like Shino. Likes nature.

Sergeant, Antonio Menendez. Nothing much. Was a door breacher.

Lance-Corporal, Dewayne Thomas. Like Kurata, but knows when to keep it professional.

Staff Sergeant, Elijah Jones. Not much known. Good riflemen.

Sergeant, Noah Brown. Good vehicle mechanic.

Lance-Corporal, Benjamin Williams. Excellent with LMGs.

Sergeant, Lucas Garcia. Great Marksmanship skills and not much of a talker.

Private First Class, Maria Green. A Cinnamon Roll.

Me: Welp time to see the unit.

I arrive at the assembly area Sergeant Major Kuwabara assembles the unit. Thou it should Ita-forget it.

Kuwabara: FALL IN!

JSDF

USMC

Kuwabara:*salutes* Fifth Deep Recon Unit is to go, sir.

Me:*salutes back* Thank you, SgtMaj.

Me: Smooth. Alright for those who don't know me I'm Captain Maverick Kuribayashi of the United States Marine Corps I'll be Fifth Recons' CO while Itami is our 2IC. We'll be heading out to make contact with the locals. Hopefully not hostile ones, but make sure you're stocked on ammo, water, and MREs. However, when we do make contact I expect each of you to conduct yourselves the same way I expect my marines to conduct themselves. So watch you say to them. You get me?!

5RU: SIR. YES, SIR!!

Me: Oorah!! Itami, you ready?

Itami: Oh god, I miss one train the to sexy Shimbashi and now I'm here in squad fulla dudes.

The females: Excuse you?

Itami: A-and ladies!

Me: Hey, I was just an American tourist in Tokyo planning to see his half sisters. Now I'm on a military expedition in a whole new world and you don't see me complaining.

Smith: He's right, you know.

Thomas: Umm, you forgot to say "sir" to the Lt, MSgt.

Smith: A punch ones teeth out and he was acting like him.

I heard Itami gulped after we heard that. Oh right!

Me: Before we head out. Address me as Capt. K or Mav.

For the Japanese minus Shino looked a bit shocked and surprised.

Furuta: Not to be rude, but why sir?

Me: Because there's two Kuribayashis in this unit and only I will get to address my little sis by her first name.

I hear a few giggles as Shino gives a stink eye to me.

Smith: WHEELS UP, LET'S MOVE!!

Timeskip

En route to Koan Forest Settlement

After making contact with locals in a place called "Coda Village" we got directions to a forest settlement in Koan Forest as it's a few klicks out from Coda Village. I'm in the lead vehicle which is the Cougar. Itami, Thomas and Kurata are talking anime up front and I'm in the back with SgtMaj. Kuwabara as he navigates and SFC. Tomita is sitting across from me.

Tomita: By the way, what are we doing with gear that's now replaced or used. I mean, our vehicles seem to be modern and up to date don't they.

Itami: It's probably just a cost management thing.

Me: I hate to say this, but Itami is right. They figured worst case we'd have to ditch and run like hell. I mean, you still get ass chewing for ditching your weapon. But it's either your weapon or life.

Tomita: I see then.

Brown:*on the radio in the THMV* At least we don't have to worry about IEDs. Roll over those in one of these things that I'm in and they'll be putting what's left of us in buckets.

Tozu:*on the radio* Glad I wasn't deployed to the Middle East, then.

Nishina:*on the radio* Besides all that new stuff has all that gadgetry that needs GPS. No satellites out here so no need for it. Am I right?

Backer:*on the radio on the Mk 19* Yeah. It's also another reason we didn't get Javelins.

Me: That's right. No satellites, it's expensive and heavy.

Kuwabara: We're just bringing along what we need. Kurata there ought to at a small river coming up on a little bit, alright. Follow along the banks for a while and we should be getting a pretty good look at that forest they were telling us about.

Kurata: Roger that.

I noticed Tomita was giving me a curious look.

Me: If you got something on your mind Sergeant, just ask.

Tomita: Well sir, I know you've been with us since day one but really don't know that much about you. All we know you're our CO.

Me: Well Jackson and many others already knows this, but since we're gonna be working together might as well get know me better and everyone can hear me. I grew up in Los Angeles, California, my granddad was a USMC General and I wanted to follow in his footsteps in the Marines. I loved movies like "Full Metal Jacket", "Heartbreak Ridge", and even "Jarhead." I joined the Corps when I was seventeen, went to UCLA just the credit hours to qualify for officer school and to for my bachelor's degree in mathematics. I got high SAT and ACT scores when I got my hours I went to Quantico, Virginia for officer training. After graduating both officer and infantry school I was stationed in Camp Pendleton, California. I got my baptism of fire there. Then stationed in Camp Schwab, Okinawa and deployed with the 3rd Logistics Battalion to Afghanistan where I met some of the marines here with us. It's almost funny the way both worlds are spinning now.

Thomas: So how did you end up in the Ginza Incident sir?

Me: Wanted to meet my sisters.

Kurata: Not that it's any of my business. But how are you and Kuribayashi brother and sister?

Me: Same Dad, different Mom. And before any of you start. It was a Vegas college party gone wild.

Thomas: Then who's your Grandfather?

Me: Everyone. Switch to channel 4, that one's private.

As I said I both see and hear radio switching.

Me: Alright, you guys wanna know?

Shino:*on the radio* C'mon, Mav even I don't know. So tell us.

Me: Alright. My Mother was adopted by my Grandfather so she inherited his last name. My thought about having me have the same last name, but it'll cause problems.

Kuwabara: How so?

I smile as I'm about to drop the ball on them.

Me: Because my Grandfather is the former USMC 4-Star General. James "Chaos" Mattis.

All victors stop. And everyone looked at me with shock and surprise.

Everyone:*shocked & surprised* EEEEHHHH!?!?!?!!?

Chapter Text

Anywoo, I need the following;

Name:

Nationally:(Ex: Filipino-American)

JSDF or USMC:

Height:

Gender:

Age:

Eye color:

Hairstyle & color:

Rank:

Primary Weapon:

Secondary Weapon:

Battle Scars:

Love Interest:

Any Tattoos?(Americans):

Habits?:

Specific person(s) they to kill:

Favorite food:

That's all folks!!

Chapter Text

Date: November, 2023

Still en route to Koan Forest Settlement

Maverick's Pov

We were back on our way to Koan Forrest Settlement, though I can tell by the quietness in all victors that everyone is still shocked about what I told them. Then I look ahead to see smoke on the horizon. Lots of smoke. That can never be good.

I see that Itami also took notice of this and gave me a look. I nodded at him as he grabbed his radio.

Itami: All victors, we got smoke in twelve. Be prepared for anything.

Everyone:*on radio and in the vehicle* Yes, sir!

Timeskip

Night time outside the Koan Forest

We're overlooking the forest as it's currently ablaze both the SgtMaj. and the MSgt. are looking through their binos to see if they can spot anything of significance.

Kurata: It's on fire.

Menendez: No shit, perra. Did you think it's a massive bonfire?

Kurata regrets what he said as I see Shino and Backer chuckle a bit. But when they both catch me giving them a look, they lock it up.

Shino & Backer: We apologize, sir.

Jones: Still, I haven't seen a fire like this since the El Dorado Fire on September 5, 2020.

Tou: Don't remind me. My family lost a vacation home in that horrid year.

Kurokawa: But could have caused such a blaze?

Pops:*shocked* Holy shit....

Me: What?

Kuwabara: You gotta see this one for yourselves sirs.

Itami and I look through our binos and spot a large flying fucking red dragon continuing to breath fire down below as it veers back and forth across the forest.

I had to do a double take because what in the name of Skyrim am I seeing?!

Itami: Holy mother of crap?!

Williams: Fuck me.....

Green:*to Sasagawa* Sasagawa, you getting this?

Sasagawa:*taking photos* Yeah, every sec of it.

Me: Send some to me. And send the most to either the Generals or other Commanding Officers. As that dragon we'll now call "Lucas" is a major threat.

Even the wyverns prove a challenge for our 20mm. What can something of that size tank?

Shino: Lieutenant, Captain, would you like us to do sirs?

Itami:*serious tone* Sgt. Kuribayashi do you think you can hold my hand for me.*scared tone* Your second-in-commanding officer is getting kinda scared over here.

Me: Do you wanna do USMC PT in a EOD suit, Lt?

Itami:*scared tone* No sir.

Shino: Bite me.

Lucas roars catching our attention. Katsumoto aims the .50 cal at it, Hill in the LAV-25 points the autocannon at it and Sanchez points her M60 at it.

Me: Hold your fire! Don't piss that thing off unless you want to serve it American with a side of Japanese bbq! And I ain't planning on being part of that menu!

Lucas flies away.

Gacia: Seems Lucas is bugging out.

Furuta: Anyone know why Lucas was burning the forest?

My eyes widen at the what the answer to that question.

Nishina: Maybe another dragon?

Me: Or maybe it's like they said back in Coda Village MSgt., there's a settlement in there.

Everyone now has concern looks on their faces.

Me: SgtMaj., we gonna have to put a wait to set up camp.

Kuwabara: Yes, sir.

Itami: Everyone else, back in our vics! We're oscar mike!

Timeskip

At the now destroyed Koan Forest Settlement

The rain last night put out fire so we moved in to investigate and look for survivors.

Or at the very least someone or something that lived.

Houses have been reduced to their foundations and charred bodies are all over the place as we look through the rubble for any sign of life. Itami, Kurata, Thomas, Brown and myself are patrolling through when Kurata and Thomas sees a charred corpse.

Thomas: Oh....dayum....

Kurata: Uh.....sirs?

Me: We know. We know. Just keep searching for anything.

Brown: What's the matter you two, ain't seen a burned dead body before? Even after all the guys we killed so far.

Me: Lock it up, you three.

Kurata and Thomas quickens their pace.

Itami and I found a well and sat on the edge of it. Itami starts drinking from his canteen and I drink from my Camelbak. Shino and Backer reports their findings to us both.

Shino: Lieutenant, Cap, at first glance here we see about thirty-two foundations throughout the settlement. The majority of which appear to be roughly the size of family dwellings sirs.

Backer: And we only found twenty seven bodies. The rubble and wreckage could be hiding the rest.

Itami: Assuming that each foundation had a family of three or four inside.

Me: Then that adds up to either 96 or 128 with no survivors. Plus we don't know if Lucas had a snack on the villagers while cooking them so there's that.

Shino: This is just horrible.

Me: I would say top 10. WW2 being above "this".

Redrick:*walking up to us* Suppose that Lucas or many like it attacks group of people. Or large groups.

Me: Then like those pictures, we report it to the Generals. Don't want Lucas and it's kind flying towards Alnus Hill and we're gravely unprepared.

Redrick: Yes, but I'm not sure the Generals is going to like what else we have to tell them.

Shino: Yeah, from what I heard .50 cals barley put a dent in the wyverns in Ginza and they weren't breathing fire all over the place.

Itami:*grabs well bucket* A flying tank with a flame thrower is not a good thing. We should see what kind of reconnaissance we can do to learn more about them.*throws bucket into well*

Me: If you get the shits from drinking this well. I'll laugh and call you "Lt. Shitter".

Shino & Backer: Pffts!

*KLUNK!*

Me: Nani the fuck?

Backer: Maybe the bucket hit something?

I take out my Moonbeam and shine it down the well.

Backer: Welp. That's one way to survive a Dragon attack.

Itami: No kidding. Hey! We need help!

Me: Redrick, stay here. Shino, find Kurokawa and Sanchez, now!

Redrick & Shino: Yes, sir!

Timeskip

After we asked Sanchez to bring Itami and the girl up from the bottom the well, which shocked almost everyone of how strong she is. Kurokawa and Redrick are tending to the girl.

She's unconscious, but thankly alive. My best guess she probably suffered head trauma from falling the well and getting a wooden bucket landed on her head.

Though I wonder what her reaction will be when we tell her that both her friends and family are dead. Meanwhile Kurata is spazzing out over the fact that she's a blonde elf.

Kurata:*happy* AHHH! An elf, and not just any elf she's a blonde elf too! Now that's the kinda thing I was expecting to find out here!*giggles* We hit the jackpot baby!

Itami:*emptying water from his boots* Okay...you're into elves.

Me: Shino.

Shino slaps Kurata upside his head.

Kurata:*in pain* OWWW!!! What was that for?!

Me:*sarcastically* Oh I don't know. Maybe outside the fact that all her friends and family are dead. But continue to file her into your spank bank, boi.

Kurata instantly shuts up.

Thomas: USMC Clapback. Take it or leave it.

Kurokawa approaches to give us an update on the girl's conditions.

Itami: So, what's her conditions?

Kurokawa: Her temp is back to normal and her conditions are no longer critical.

Thomas: That's good to here.

Me: Great work the both of you.

Kurokawa: By the way, due to her clothes being wet we had to used one of the spare uniforms.

Shino: The nameless ones? Which one?

Kurokawa: Green's spare Jacket & T-shirt and my spare trousers.

Thomas: Alright, so how would you like to proceed, sirs?

Itami: Let's see...a dry pair of boots be pretty kick ass right about now!

Me: Or a dry pair of socks.

Kurokawa: Eh?

Me: Nevermind, no way we can leave her here. She ended up losing her entire village, we'll classify her as a refugee and take her with us.

Kurokawa:*slight smile* Now why did I get the feeling you were gonna say something like that, Mav.

Me:*blushes a bit* I mean....*looks away* It is the right thing to do for her.

Kurokawa:*smiles* I know.

I look at Shino and she is giving me a smug grin.

Shino:

Me: What the fuck are you looking so smug about?*smirks* Toga?

She loses her smug look with a horror and pissed off look as everyone around us has a confused look.

Then she stomps up to whispers to me angrily.

Shino:*whispering & peeved* Don't ever! Call me by my middle name in public ever again.

Me:*whispering* And don't try anything to get me embarrassed. Remember, I may be your commanding officer, but I'm still your older brother. Meaning I tell the others secrets about you.

Shino:*whispering* Don't make me fight you.

Me:*whispering* You'll lose.

Shino:*whispering & smug grin* Wanna bet?

Thomas: Uhhh?

Me & Shino: Huh?

Crap.

Me:*red face in embarrassment* L-Let's get moving.

Shino:*also red face in embarrassment* Y-Yeah.

Itami, Kurata, Kurokawa & Thomas:*whispering & smug grin* Yep. Those to are definitely brother and sister.

Oh man....

We board our vics and depart the settlement.

Kuwabara: That's it, we should head back to Alnus Hill.

Me: Best route back is most likely through Coda Village. We should tell them about Lucas the dragon as well.

Kuwabara: Good idea.

Kurata: Ya know? I'm thinking we'll probably run into a dragon again before a cat girl, huh?

Thomas: Don't say that shit, man! You know Murphy's Law?

You have no idea how right you are Tom.

Chapter Text

Date: November, 2023

At Coda Village

Maverick's Pov

We return to the village to inform the village chief about the settlement and Lucas the dragon and the people begin evacuating. Apparently according to the chief once a "Flame Dragon" gets a taste of human or elf flesh it comes back for more. Yep we are definitely reporting this.

We assist with the evacuation and unfortunately they're using horses and carriages. The convoy stalls because one the carriages was overloaded and snapped it's axle we move in to assist.

Pops: Let's get this column moving people! Lieutenant have look in that book of yours and tell the chief we can help!

Itami: On it MSgt!

Me: Redrick, Kurokawa, check for any injured!

Redrick & Kurokawa: Yes sir!

The carriage is fallen over the horse is whining in distress and a small girl is on the ground. Dammit. A teenage girl with sky blue hair and wearing a white and blue robe tries to tend to the injured girl.

Teenage Girl: Vita- minas iniurias.(Life-threatening injuries.)

Kurokawa and Redrick approaches while Kurokawa exams the injured girl.

Kurokawa: It looks like she might have a concussion, and her ribs might be broken too.

Redrick: Put her in the Cougar, as it's not safe with this hor-*notices the Teenage Girl* Hey! Ma'am it's not safe here! You need to step back!

Teenage Girl: Utrumque sanatores estis?(You both are healers?)

The horse rises up and starts panicking and is out of control and nearly stomps on the the injured girl.

Me: SHIT!!

Jones & Furata:*aiming their rifles* WATCH OU-

Before any of took a shot, Sanchez proceeded to not only stop the horse from stomping on the four, but carry the FUCKING THING?!?!?!

Me, Tomita, Itami & Kuwahara: Sumimasen ga, nani no seikōdesu ka?(Excuse me, but what the fuck?)

Everyone was speechless at this.

Everyone:

Kurokawa:............How?

Sanchez: I grew up on a farm. Had to also pick up cows, horses and tractor parts throughout most of my life there. So lifting this horse reminds me of home.

Everyone:...............

Me:*on the radio* All agree to never anger this "Giant Farmgirl Teddy Bear", say 'Aye'.

Everyone:*on the radio* Aye.

Sanchez: You alright little girl?

The teenage girl is in shock at what just happened. Which is understandable.

Teenage Girl: Hi homines... hi modo vitam meam servaverunt.(These people...these people just saved my life.)

Before my brain fries I head toward Itami, Thomas and Kurata near one of the houses. And Kurata ask us a question concerning the evac.

Kurata: Hey guys, how long do you think were supposed to take care of all these folks anyway?

Thomas: What you mean, TK?

Kurata I mean, don't they have some kind of noble lords or whatever to look after them?

Itami: Well, I asked about that. And....

Me: And?

Itami: And I bounced it to the village chief when we were talking. The lord of the area took his army with him and they end it up being a part of the body count at Alnus Hill. We wiped them out, Kurata, all of them.

Thomas: So in a way, we're at fault?

Me:*sighs* Sadly yes, Thomas. Which is why we have to give these people some hope in return of what we did.

Thomas: So in other words, repaying for our sins?

Itami: If you put it like that, then yeah.

Me: Alright, we better get this convoy moving. Don't want to see Lucas again.

Itami, Thomas & Kurata: Yes sir.

Timeskip

Night at a Bandit Camp

3rd Pov

A group of bandits gathers around of fire near a tipped carriage and the body of their recent victim discussing their next move.

Bandit 1: I heard everyone in Coda Village is going to bail out tonight.

Bandit-in-Charge: Sounds like easy pickings for us.

Bandit 2: It's not like we got a lot of guys, man!

BiC: Well check this out, a buncha defeated soldiers are camping out here. They'll jump at the chance to join us. If we offer those guys a little something, we can make an army out of our own and take down an entire city!

Bandit 1: And force the lord out of the area.

BiC:*shit eating grin* From leading a bunch of troublemakers to having my own city, I like it.

Then the bandit face freezes in place and his head falls right off his shoulders. The other bandits look on in fear as they can hear giggling in the darkness. As a silhouette emerges before them, a small girl dressed in Gothic attire wielding a large halberd moves toward the camp.

A/N: To the first timers and FBI. She's legal.

Gothic Girl:*giggles* Good evening, gentlemen.

The bandits look at her in shock.

Gothic Girl: I'm so glad you could all get together like this.*licks lips*

Gothic Girl:*raises weapon* And...I am very thankful for you offering your lives to charity. Emroy*cuts a bandit down*... loves the way you naughty boys have behaved yourselves. You should be honored that he's asking you join him...in the afterlife.

The girl cuts two more bandits down while giggling.

Rory: You may call me Rory Mercury. I am an apostle of the God Emroy.

Bandit 1: Holy shit it's really her! It's Rory the Reaper!

Bandit 2: Her gown, The Temple of Emroy's Oracle robe!

Bandit 1: WE GOTTA GET OUT OF HERE!!

The bandits all panic and run for their lives, but Rory gives chase.

Rory: Run as you may, but your still dead.

Rory runs at the scattering bandits cutting them down while giggling using her halberd to hurl rocks at them. Then she throws her weapon into the ground the resulting shock-wave causing the bandits to stumble and fall. She then jumps on her weapon and spins around it three times before picking it back.

A/N: Can I get a "Holy crap!"

She sees a bandit on the ground cowering and raises her weapon up and brings it down so hard that that impact causes a huge dust cloud to appear.

Timeskip

Day time, Coda Village Eavc Convoy

Maverick's Pov

The convoy is moving at a slug's pace, but nothing we can do about it. I'm in the lead vehicle which is the THMV with Itami, Kurata, Williams, Kurokawa, the unconscious elf girl and two kids. Kurokawa checks on the elf girl's blood pressure. And Williams is the machine gunner on top.

Also I had to tell everyone manly the Japanese to roll their sleeves down since the threat of possible chemical weapons or magic attacks prompt them to go sleeves down which they all agree. They can have their sleeves up on base, not in the field.

Kurokawa: One twenty over eighty, I'm thinking she'll up and around soon sirs.

Williams: Wow, a perfect blood pressure. That's rare.

Me: That's good....though I wouldn't want to wake up and hear the news.

Kurata: Have any of them said where they're going?

Itami: Hmm? Not really, no.

Williams: You serious?

Itami: Leading an evacuation effort, is a lot more tiring than I thought it'd be.

Me: Try the Afghanistan evacuation effort. That shit was a nightmare and a half.

Williams: You were there too, sir?

Me: Yeah. SF and the army created a big distraction for the Taliban during that time. Hell, most if not 90% of the US vehicles here the Special Region were from Afghanistan.

Williams: Good thing we manage to eavc almost 5mil people. Also heard that some Marine help about nearly 14k people out of there.

Kurokawa: That's amazing!

Kurata: What's their name?

Williams: He's sitting right in front of Kurokawa.

Wait for it.

Itami, Kurata, & Kurokawa:*shocked* Captain Mav!?!?!

Me: It was my second tour. Plus it was myself and several other platoons.

The convoy halts because one carriage's axle snapped and we try to help out, but unfortunately it's beyond repair. Tomita reports to both Itami and myself.

Tomita: It's not gonna work sirs. The axle gone.

Brown:*after inspecting it* He's not joking. Even some of the wood where axle was is completely in splinters. No way can we get a new one on time.

Chief:*shakes his head* If we stay here we're only leave ourselves to die. Only carry what is necessary and leave the rest.

Me:*to the family* You can some of you items on our vehicles. If you want to that is?

Man: Yes! Thank you Men in Green!

Me: More like 'Men' and 'Women' in Green.

The man agrees and takes what is needed, we assisted in putting some items on empty spots on our vehicles and he sets the carriage on fire the man moves to comfort his family. We board our vehicles and move out again some civilians ride with us.

Williams: Why'd they burn it?

Itami: Because they were just sitting there in front of their stuff and wouldn't leave it behind.

Me: Marine, I know worldly possessions can be hard to replace, but sometimes you gotta make tough calls.

Kurokawa: We could have put in a call for more vehicles.

Itami: Take a peek at your map you'll see we're behind enemy lines already. I mean, I guess they might let a few vehicles get by.

Me: But if we bring in too many we'll draw a lot of unwanted attention to ourselves.

Itami: They'll attack us.

Me: We'll attack back.

Itami: They'll die and more take their place. Then it's another attack.

Me: And we pretty much failed our mission to establish peaceful relations with these people. And we will definitely run out of ammo before they run out of people.

Itami: So we won't be able to get more vehicles, understand?

Williams: Guess the Major told you both in advance.

Me: More like we got that talk from 1st Deep Recon Capt. Rafaki. I also heard we're getting two former MARSOC Raiders.

Itami: Really? What are they like?

Me: Gen. Jackson just said one word that made me scared shitless. "Deadly."

Itami:*scared* O-Oh....

Kurata:*scared* T-Their names?

Me: Didn't get their last names, but their first names are Anthony and David.

Williams: Command really just sent two walking "One Man Marine Corps" to our unit.*sees something* What the? What is that? Hey, I see something up the road!

We see a silhouette up ahead, Itami and I take out our binos to see what's in distance. Seems to be a girl squatting in the middle of the road with crows fly around her. Creepy.

Itami: No...way, Goth Lolita Girl!

Me: Nani?

Kurata: What'd you say?!*takes out binos to see*

Me: I should slap the Betty Crocker skin off BOTH of your neck!!

The girl stands up and starts walking toward us. It was then I noticed the large halberd she's carrying.

Me:*on the radio* All units, take caution on the Goth Lolita Girl with halberd. She may look harmless, but remember she could be some sort of mercenary or assassin.

Everyone:*on the radio* Roger.

Goth Lolita Girl: Unde denique dominae et generosi salvete? Et quaenam ista est minimi contractionis parvae?(From where do you fine ladies and gentlemen hail? And what is that strange little contraption?)

Itami:*has his hand on his pistol* Yeah your right, MK. She looks like trouble.

Kurata: Yeah....

Is too late to bitch slap these two?

Kurokawa: What if she's a maid?

Itami: Then whoever her master is has.....questionable taste.

Williams: She looks like a walking fetish doll.

Ayo! WHAT THE FUCK?!?!

Myself, Itami, Kurata and Kurokawa stare at Williams.

Itami, Kurata, Kurokawa & I:

William:*looking around* What?! Don't look at me like that! I'm right!

Me: Time and place!

Brown:*on the radio* Ben, we also heard. What the heck?

William:*slowly shuts off radio*...........shit....

Kurokawa: When we get back we're going to have a 'talk'.

William: What are you? My mother?

Kurokawa: Your Staff Sergeant in US terms.

William: I'm sorry, ma'am.

The kids then open the vic's back door and head toward the girl ahead of us calling her an "oracle" several other people also gather near and bow to her as if she were a goddess.

Me:*on the radio* Change plans, she's good. So hands off the weapons and triggers.

Goth Lolita Girl: Where are you kids from?

Boy: Coda Village, Ma'am.

Old Lady: We're running away from our village, it was about to be attacked.

Man: A flame dragon appeared, so we evacuated.

Kurokawa: It almost looks like their praying to her doesn't it?

Williams: You think that fancy outfit of hers has some sort of special meaning or something?

Me: You mean like a Nun?

Itami: Or a miko?

Williams: Miko?

Kurokawa: Shrine maiden.

Williams: Ah, I see.

The girl approaches our vic.

Goth Lolita Girl: So who are these strangers you're with?

Boy: They came and helped us these are the good guys!

Thanks kid.

Goth Lolita Girl: And you're certain they're not taking you somewhere against your will?

Nope.

Boy the shakes his 'no'.

Goth Lolita Girl: So how is this thing moving without any horses?

By the power of science and OIL.

Boy: I don't know. But one thing for sure it's a lot more comfortable than a carriage!

Goth Lolita Girl: Really? More comfortable than a carriage?*licks lips*

I don't like the look.

Goth Lolita Girl: Well I would just love for you to show me...how "comfortable" the ride is~.

Itami tires to say "hello" in their language and it sounds like shit. I don't blame him. Then the girl jumps in the vic and sits on MY lap with big smile on her face. She puts her weapon on the the unconscious elf girl which looks really heavy. God help me.

Kurokawa: Hey! Hang on a second! That is not where you sit, miss!

The girl giggles seductively. Help....

Me:*slowly dying inside* Please move.....

Itami: How is this happening to you right now?!

Me: I! DON'T! KNOW!

The vic starts rocking back and forth. Lord I hope no UAVs were launched just to see this shit.

Me: Look, ma'am! I need you to get off, okay?!

Wait a min-

Goth Lolita Girl: Oh! Really~

Me:*freaking out* NOT IN THAT WAY!!!! HEY! HANDS OFF MY SIDEARM!!!

Goth Lolita Girl: Ohhh~?

Me: KEEP YOUR HANDS TO YOURSELF!!!!

Kurata: You're the luckiest guy ever, Captain!

Me: I'LL PT YOU TILL YOUR ASSHOLE IS SUCKING BUTTERMILK, KURATA!!!!

Williams: Sgt. Kurokawa! Help me before Capt. K kills these two!

Kurokawa: Right!

Timeskip

Arid Canyon

After my little "incident" with the goth girl. We're on the move again into a boxed canyon. The air is dry and hot and I wish I was wearing my desert cammies. Scratch that, everyone is wishing for their desert cammies.

Villager 1: Oh, look it's Roche Hill.

Villager 2: I can't believe we walked so far!

Kurata: The terrain's starting to look a little different.

Itami: Yeah...we really put some distance between us and the village. I hope we get this whole evacuation over with.

Williams: Amen to that, sir.

Kurokawa: It sure gets a lot hotter out here than it does in Japan.

Me: Really? Try LA heat waves or Saudi Arabia.

Kurokawa: You were in Saudi Arabia?

Me: Mostly stationed there not doing much.

Itami and I look out our windows toward the sun we see a small wyvern approach with the sun at it's back.

Williams: Wyvern!

Then it was suddenly eaten by Lucas the Flame Dragon. Itami and I get back inside.

Williams & Kurokawa: LUCAS!!!

Me:*on the radio* All units! Lucas is here! I repeat! LUCAS IS HERE!!

Thomas:*on the radio* Kurata! Remember what I said?! Murphy's Law!

Me:*on the radio* Weapons free!*shoots at Lucas*

Chapter Text

Date: November, 2023

Arid Canyon

Maverick's Pov

Lucas begins attacking the convoy indiscriminately breathing fire down and the people as they start running for their lives. I could hear the screams, we wheel left and rush towards Lucas. Time show that recruitment commercial I saw come tru-shit I don't have my saber.

Kuwabara:*on the radio* I know it's the tradition of the Self Defense Force to fight for the people, but we might wanna run!

Me:*on the radio* Forget that! You SDF guys are fighting with the few, the proud, the Marines! We ain't leaving no one behind! We need to draw it away from the the convoy!

Itami:*on the radio* All Victors engage!

Itami and I begin firing bursts at the dragon out our windows. Williams was shooting too with his M249 SAW.

Itami:*on the radio* We need a diversion Katsumoto, .50! Baker, keep firing the Mk 19! Hill, any luck on that 25mm?!

Hill:*on the radio* I think I'm just pissing it off!!

Katsumoto and Baker begins firing the .50 and the Mk 19 at Lucas, but it's not having any effect.

Williams:*fires a burst* Don't let up!*fires a burst* Keep on shooting!*fires a burst* It's gotta have a weakness some where!

Our fire seems to have no effect on Lucas's hide as it readies a flame attack. Shit!

Williams: FLAME ATTACK, INCOMING!!!!

Me: KURATA!! EVADE!!! EVADE!!!

Kurata: HANG ON!!

The vic shift right as the flames nearly hit us.

Kurata: That nearly bbq us!

Itami: Mav!!*fires a burst* We need a new plan!*fires a burst* That thing gonna burn us before we burn through our ammo!*fires a burst*

Katsumoto:*on the radio* Sirs! The .50's not doing anything!

Baker:*on the radio* Nor the Mk 19!

Me: You know you're trouble when the M2 .50, 40mm Grenade Launcher and 25 mm chain gun ain't doing shit! Changing mags!*reloading*

Williams: Fuck you, you overgrown lizard!!

Suddenly the elf girl wakes up and sees the dragon.

Me: Oh hello there, madam. Now's not the time to be up and about now.

Elf Girl: ONO!

Kurokawa: Huh!?

Elf Girl:*points at eye* ONO!

Why is she pointing at-THAT'S IT!!

Me: The eyes!*on the radio* All Victors, focus fire on the Lucas's eyes! SUPPRESSING FIRE!!!

We all start firing on Lucas's eyes and it become irritated and roars in pain and puts its hands over its face. Yes! Thank God for this Elf waking up!

Itami: That did it!*on the radio* Katsumoto, Panzerfaust-3!!

Katsumoto brings up a Panzerfaust 3 and aims it at Lucas.

Katsumoto: Oops*looks behind* better check my rear.

Everyone:*on and off the radio* JUST SHOOT IT!!!!

His vic hits a bump which made him fire it causing him to shoot wide.

Me & Itami: Oh goddammit!!

Then out of nowhere the goth girl grabs her halberd, kicks open the back door, and flips herself onto the vehicle's roof scaring the crap out of Williams. She then throws her weapon near Lucas and the impact causes the ground to elevate and the warhead runs into Lucas blowing it's left arm clean off. Lucas roars in pain and retreats flying away. FUCK YA!

We stop our vics and breathe huge sigh of relief at our victory.

Me: Good thing I didn't eat or drink anything.

Itami: Why?

Me: In all honesty. I was so scared that my body was trying to either shit or piss myself.

Itami was silent.

Me:*smiles* Lt. Pissy.

Itami then goans while I chuckle at his now wet pants.

Kurata: That.....was something.

Williams: You mean awesome, right?

Kurata: True. But that victory came at a cost.

Williams: Oh.....

Me:*sighs* Ladies and gentlemen. Lt. Pissy. Get your E-Tools. We got graves to dig.

Kurokawa: I'll also check for any injured with Redrick.

Timeskip

Night Time

Tragically 150 out of 600 people were killed during the attack. We buried the ones who we could and the villagers grieve for their dead. The 5th Recon are praying for the dead, most of the marines, myself included give the sign of the cross. All around us there all these small violet lights heading towards the night sky almost like their guiding those people home. Sanchez turns around to see a small girl crying, she comforts her by rubbing her head. Got me thinking of that girl from Ginza. After that the villagers reorganize themselves and prepare to depart.

Kuwabara: Most of the survivors have relatives they can stay with nearby. And a few others have arrangements for shelter and lodgings.

Hill: What about the rest? Are they sure they're gonna be able to find something? If they're on their own out there?

Sgt. Pops: I hope so too, but we got a bigger problem now.

Green: A lot of the kids, heavily injured and elderly lost their entire families in the attack. We need to help them.

We talk to the chief about the ordeal.

Chief: It might seem heartless, but we have our hands full trying to find another place to live. We cannot stretch ourselves further by adding some else.

Me: So...you're leaving...without them?

Chief:*removes his hat* We thank you. All of you, Men and Women in Green. You'll always have our utmost gratitude.

The convoy departs and we all wish them well as villagers express their gratitude towards us. I could see tears well up in Shino's eyes.

Reminds when I was 10 and 4 year old Shino started crying when I was leaving back to the States.

As her brother I put my hand on her shoulder to comfort her.

Me:*smiles* It's alright to shed your tears, Sis. I'm here if you need to talk.

Shino: Thanks. Lee.

Me: No problem. Toga.

Garica: Alright. So what are we gonna do with the rest of them?

Itami: It's your call, Capt. Kuribayashi.

We all look to see who is still with us.

Me: Well they're refugees, right?

Itami: Right.

Me: Don't you worry*smiles, snaps to attention and gives a salute* it'll be fine!

Kurokawa smiles at my gesture which catches Williams and Sanchez by surprise.

Sanchez: Whoa?

Williams: What are you smiling at?

Kurokawa: Nothing, just had a feeling he'd say and do something like that.

Williams and Sanchez looked at me, then at each other, then back to me smiling.

Williams & Sanchez knowing:

Oh dammit.

Me: Mount up everyone! We heading back to Alnus!

Itami: You all heard the Cap! We're Oscar Mike!

Sgt. Pops: Oh right. Mav, just a reminder it's actually three more that are joining not two.

Me: Really? Who's the third one?

When I asked that Pops gave me the 'serious' look. This gotten the attention of everyone.

Me: Smith. Who's the third one?

3rd Pov

Smith:*breathes in then out* After hearing the first two's names. The full names and rank of the three are; Cpl. Anthony Towson, Cpl. David Fernandes and Leading Private Mina Takahashi.

After he said everyone went wide eyed paled hearing those names.

Everyone:

Maverick & Shino:*terrified* Y-Y-You mean.....

Itami & Kuwabara:*terrified*.....those three....

Everyone:*terrified*......Monsters?.... 

Smith: Yes.

Meanwhile

Alnus Hill Base

Marines and JSDF cleared the way for the most dangerous on Earth. Jackson and Hazama stood in front of them greeting them.

BGen. Jackson: Welcome to Special Region, Corporals.

LtGen. Hazama: I don't what the US President and Prime Minister was thinking sending these three, but I pray that Kuribayashi can handle them. Try not to make a mess.

The Three: Yes, sir.....

Two USMC Former MARSOC Raiders now just infantry and one Former Delta Force now JSDF Ranger.

All three are considered a Dangerous.

All three have a kill count of over 300.

Their ages are 23(David & Mina) and 26(Anthony).

Their former ranks were all First Lieutenant(1stLt.).

For enemies on Earth, it's Flee on Sight.(Yes even North Korea)

Chapter Text

Name: John Graystone

Nationally: American

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 29

Hairstyle: Normal USMC haircut

Rank: 1st Lieutenant

Primary Weapon: Standard M4, standard ACOG and possibly the good ol EOtech, PEQ-15 laser, vertical grip, silencer (on Stealth missions).

Secondary Weapon: M9 Beretta

Battle Scars: none

Love Interest: none, but a wife back home

Any Tattoos?(Americans): none

Habits?: Swearing

Specific person to kill: Neither, anything that's a threat to any or his squad

Favorite food: Taco, any kind of Taco

Backstory: Graystone, he has a wife, yup, a childhood friend by the way, now wife, named Elena McAllister (Graystone) living in DC, working as some office lady, he's got a old brother in the Riker's Island since he's brother was involved in some gang's in Brooklyn and NY, never took drugs but shot at rival gangs as well as the PD, on bad relations with him but still he visits when he's got time, he gets pretty serious when shit goes down and for his experience on leading a squad since he was just some Sgt and as well a Platoon the time he was promoted to 1st LT and he was known to his men to his fine leadership.

Name: Nick Pusley

Nationally: Japanese-American (Mother is Japanese and father is American, born in the US)

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 27

Hairstyle: Normal USMC haircut

Rank: First Sergeant

Primary Weapon: Standard M16A3 (Same attachments, like the ACOG and EOtech, PEG-15, Veru grip and silencer)

Secondary Weapon: Normal M9

Battle Scars: Bullet wound left shoulder (Wound from Afghanistan before being redeployed to japan)

Love Interest: none

Any Tattoos?(Americans): none

Habits?: Just staring at the ground when doing nothing, thinking deeply

Specific person to kill: Whoever started shit in Ginza

Favorite food: Pizza from the MREs, as well the Pizzas he can buy outside

Backstory: Pusley has experience in combat back in Afghanistan, he was just some Corporal fighting alongside Graystone before and being commanded by Rafaki, got ambushed and got shot and it ain't very bad, Pusley's middle name is Nanakura and his mother is still alive yes, as well as his father back in Georgia just living normally and he doesn't talk about them a lot, he has a sister in Japan, she serves as a riflewoman in the SDF imma put the details later just wait, add her up, he doesn't have any relationship experiences but he's logical.

Name: Denis Rafaki

Nationally: African-American

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 43

Hairstyle: He has no hair, head shiny

Rank: Cpt/ Captain

Primary Weapon: Standard M4 as always

Secondary Weapon: M45A1

Battle Scars: Screwed up left ear (Afghanistan, since he was still an LT)

Love Interest: None (he was dumped before causing him to have distrust on women due to how women are today)

Any Tattoos?(Americans): Three roses and a skull in the middle, on his back

Habits?: Smoking

Specific person to kill: The most important thing to kill, hostile officers, and Zorzal.

Favorite food: Salad

Backstory: Rafaki was just a 2nd LT back in Iraq before, he got shot at a lot and nearly died from friendly fire twice in Iraq and once in afghanistan, lost 8 men in his platoon from one objective from an ambush in Iraq and when he already figures he's being cheated on before, and he's own neighbor, he's home told his ass that some other white dude came to his house and hears them bangin off course, called her and considered their relationship done, plus the white dude didn't knew the girl he was bangin which was Rafaki's wife had a husband which ended up dumping her too, pretty sad yeah, and a few years after when Afghanistan came in and getting promoted to Cpt., he said farewell to his old men since they got promoted to other ranks, transferred to other units and deployed on the bases on the mainland, and some going home, he got assigned to 1st Deep Recon, which is where Pusley and Graystone is.

Name: Kiyo (Nanakari) Pusley

Nationally: Japanese-American (Mother is Japanese and father is American, born in the US)

JSDF or USMC: JSDF

Age: 25

Hairstyle: Short

Rank: Leading Private

Primary Weapon: Standard issue Howa Type-89, or Howa type-64 due to budget cuts.

Secondary Weapon: Minebea 9mm Pistol AKA P220

Battle Scars: none

Love Interest: none yet, maybe some dude in Falmart.

Habits?: Reading

Specific person to kill: Just the thing she would rather do is go gun ho and kill anyone bad due to her trigger finger.

Favorite food: Ramen

Backstory: Kiyo is an SDF soldier and she has no combat experienced yet, didn't want to go to the US and maybe join the Corps, but she said no, instead she joined the SDF, and she lives all by herself off course mostly playing some video games and she's no geek, she knows some anime stuff, she doesn't like long hairs so she just wants it short so she won't have a hard time trying to maintain a long one, she has some fetish about demi-humans, and some gay novels, she was stationed in Okinawa which was where her big bro Nick is.

Chapter Text

Hey y'all! This will showing more names of US marines and JGSDF. But mostly USMC as I only see one JSDF. I don't mind, but there needs to more japanese as each Deep Recon has JSDF mixed with the marines.

Another thing, remember no advance weapons. This includes the M16A4s, Desert Eagles and M60E4s.

Also which one do want in which of 12 Deep Recon Units? For ones with officers which one do you want to lead?

1st Deep Recon=Capt. Denis Rafaki, 1stSgt. Nick Pusley & 1Lt. John Graystone

2nd Deep Recon=?

3rd Deep Recon=Leading Private Kiyo (Nanakari) Pusley

4th Deep Recon=?

5th Deep Recon=Capt. Maverick Kuribayashi, 1Lt. Yōji Itami, Cpl. Anthony Towson, Cpl. David Fernandes & Leading Private Mina Takahashi

6th Deep Recon=?

7th Deep Recon=?

8th Deep Recon=?

9th Deep Recon=?

10th Deep Recon=?

11th Deep Recon=?

12th Deep Recon=?

Anyway here's the names.

Name: Anthony Towson

Nationally:(Ex: Filipino-American) Trinidadian-American

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 26

Hairstyle: High and Tight

Rank: 1st Lieutenant Before, now a Corporal

Primary Weapon: M60E3

Secondary Weapon: M9, Benelli M4 and Ka-Bar

Battle Scars: Knife slash across the left eye, bullet graze wound at the side of the head, 70% of the left arm burnt and knife, bullet & shrapnel wounds all across the torso and legs

Love Interest: None(Later Giselle)

Any Tattoos?(Americans): None

Habits?: When fighting the enemy he will smile.

Specific person to kill: War Criminal, Slavers, Rapists, Hypocrites Scumbag, Bandits, Nobles, Terrorists and Zorzal El Caesar for what he to the Warrior Bunnies.

Favorite food: Rice & Peas w/Stew Chicken, with Cucumbers & Tomatoes and Shrimp

Name: David Fernandes

Nationally:(Ex: Filipino-American) American

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 23

Hairstyle: Buzz Cut before, now High and Tight

Rank: 2nd Lieutenant Before, now a Corporal

Primary Weapon: M4A1 with ACOG and EOtech, PEG-15, Veru grip and silencer

Secondary Weapon: Glock 19

Battle Scars: Knife slash across the chest, and three shrapnel wounds in the back

Love Interest: None(Later Shino Kuribayashi)

Any Tattoos?(Americans): On the upper chest, is a tattoo of a torn-out rib cage, but instead of Blood and Guts it's the American flag. On his back, a bald eagle with the wings outstretched across his arms. Also, a small black tattoo of the Assassin's Creed logo on the upper neck

Habits?: Cleaning his weapons, practicing at the firing range, sparring in the arena, playing video games, watching YouTube

Specific person to kill: War Criminal, Slavers, Rapists, Hypocrites Scumbag, Bandits, Nobles, Terrorists and Zorzal El Caesar for what he to the Warrior Bunnies.

Favorite food: Pepperoni pizza

Backstory: Grew up in New York all his life and had a great childhood. Joined the USMC after graduating college to serve and protect his country and people. Comes from a long family line of soldiers and marines. The men of his family fought in every war from the American revolution to the war on terror. Quickly earned a reputation for not showing any mercy to terrorist scum and never taking prisoners unless given specific orders.

These next two are by Negotiator_1-1

Name: John Deerman

Nationally:(Ex: Filipino-American) American

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 23

Hairstyle: same hairstyle as Lieutenant Fick in Generation Kill

Rank: Lance Corporal

Primary Weapon: M16A3 with M203 grenade launcher, carry handle and PEQ-15 Laser

Secondary Weapon: M45A1

Battle Scars: A long scar near the eye

Love Interest: A girlfriend back in the States

Any Tattoos?(Americans): none

Specific person to kill: Zorzal El Caesar

Favorite food: Beef Taco MRE

Name: Colt Johnson

Nationally: Israeli-American

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 26

Hairstyle: Mohawk

Rank: Staff Sergeant

Primary Weapon: M14 EBR

Secondary Weapon: M45A1

Love Interest: None

Any Tattoos?(Americans): A Tattoo of the 1st Marine Division

Habits?: Hunting

Specific person to kill: War Criminals

Favorite food: Beef Taco

This next one is from AmericanFlatcap

Name: Jace L. Kesler

Nationally:(Ex: Filipino-American) American

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 23

Hairstyle: High and Tight

Rank: Sergeant

Primary Weapon: M4A1 with ACOG and EOtech, PEG-15, Veru grip and silencer

Secondary Weapon: M45A1

Battle Scars: X-shaped scar on right side of neck (Shrapnel wound)

Love Interest: Pina

Any Tattoos?(Americans): None

Habits?: Tends to act like Joshua Graham from Fallout NV and morphine addict.

Specific person to kill: War Criminal, Rapists, Hypocrites Scumbag, Bandits, Nobles, Terrorists and Zorzal El Caesar for what he to the Warrior Bunnies.

This next one is from GreenKing309.

Name: Trevor 'Reaper' Clarks

Nationally: German-American

JSDF or USMC: USMC

Age: 34

Hairstyle: Buzz cut

Rank: Sergeant

Primary Weapon: Barrett M82 with Laser sight

Secondary Weapon: M45A1

Battle Scars: None

Love Interest: None, but later a bunny warrior in the future.

Any Tattoos?(Americans): Grim Reaper on left arm with words 'death comes with sight'.

Habits?: Reading history and hunting.

Specific person to kill: Will kill any high class leaders that are war criminals.

Favorite food: None

This next one is from Brianshooter672.

Name: Edward Castle

Nationally: Russian-American

JSDF or USMC: 1st Marine Division of USMC

Age: 29

Hairstyle: Auburn hair with Crew cut

Rank: Captain, but promote to Major after saving the a Villager and Slaying a Dragon.

Primary Weapon: M4A1 with M203 Grenade Launcher & EO Tech Holographic Sight with 4x4 Magnification Optics and Laser Sight

Secondary Weapon: Custom M45A1 with Extended 10 Round Magazine along with Small Red Dot Sight & Laser Sight

Battle Scars: On his right chest and left shoulder

Love Interest: A wife back in the States a Ukrainian-American

Any Tattoos?(Americans): USMC Tattoo on his Left Shoulder & "Semper Fidelis" on his right Wrist

Habits?: Reading especially about war and Automotive like Cars and Motorcycle

Specific person to kill: War Criminal, Rapists, Hypocrites Scumbag and Twisted personality type of people like Psycho who enjoyed killing others

Favorite food: Cheese Burger & Steak Especially Homemade

Name: Mina Takahashi

Nationally: Japanese-American

JSDF or USMC: JSDF

Age: 25

Hairstyle: Short Black with Auburn tips

Rank: Sergeant before, now Leading Private

Primary Weapon: Howa Type-89

Secondary Weapon: M9 and Bowie Knife

Battle Scars: Knife and gunshot wounds all across her legs and torso, Left eye was burned by acid leaving her original brown eye moss green and due trying to eating off hard stuff throughout her life, her became sharp and jagged like a shark's.

Love Interest: None(Later Noah Brown)

Habits?: Laughs or chuckles after a kill.(This scared many people, including Rory.)

Specific person to kill: Rapist and Slavers

Favorite food: Dango and Burger King

Chapter Text

The base has been coming along, hard to believe is started as a trench network and a few dozen tents. Now it's a star fortress covering all directions and centered around the Gate.

Some of question why it looks like the Star of David.

We brought the refugees back to the base, we then report it to the Major. Who is not happy that we brought them here?

Higaki: What?! Who told you to bring them here?!

Me: I did, sir.

Itami: So bringing 'em here was a bad idea?

Higaki: Do we have anywhere to keep them, Grunts?

Excuse me?

Itami: What do we do then?

Before Higaki could answer I looked behind him and said something that probably made him shit himself.

Me: ATTENTION ON DECK!!

Everyone snaps to attention as both Gen. Hazama and Jackson enter. Jackson was glaring at Higaki who is now sweating bullets. Then Hazama looks at both Itami and I.

LTGen. Hazama: Report, Captain.

Me: Sir respectfully, we couldn't abandon those people to their fate. Plus this is opportunity to learn more about the locals here, and start a friendly dialogue as we planned to do in the first place.

Gen. Hazama: I see.

BGen. Jackson: So, you'd rather we let these poor people die?

He seriously asked the Major who had gone ghostly pale.

Jackson: Oh sure, I didn't know your idea of human lives was that they are so expendable, after all, people are just little obstacles in our road that we can use to exploit for our path to development and peace. No? Well, if you don't want this to happen again, refrain from pulling this kind of act again, okay Maj. Higaki?

Higaki: Yes, sir........

Hazama: So for now Itami and Mav, we'll accept the refugees as part of a humanitarian effort. And Itami and Mav you're in charge of housing and observing them for now.

Me: Yes sir.

???: Also I'd like permission to interview some the refugees individually.

When we all heard that voice I'm pretty sure everyone's blood ran cold as we turn to look who spoke.

Anthony Towson

Jackson:..........Sure go right ahead.

Towson: Thank you, sir.

After he left we all sighed in what little relief we had.

Itami and I were now in the hallway with four members from 5DR.

Me: Baker and Kurokawa, we need some rations from the quartermaster. Williams and Tomita, see if you can get some tents.

Baker, Kurokawa, Williams & Tomita: Yes sir.

Me: Itami, you gonna help out with the paperwork?

Itami: Sure. Good thing I learn to speak and read english so I can help out.

Me: Careful, don't want the British coming.

Itami and I chuckled at the pun I made.

???: Itami. Kuribayashi.

We look to calling our name to see an officer wearing glasses.

Itami: Eh? 1st Lieutenant Yanagida.

Who? Oh right, he's the General's adjutant/HR/Bitch Boy.

Yanagida: Do you both have a moment?*plays with hair*

Me: Don't do that again.

Yanagida brought us somewhere private.

Yanagida: Alright, admit it.

Me: Huh? Admit?

Itami: Yeah, admit what?

Yanagida: Don't play dumb with me. I'm not sure about Kuribayashi, but you Itami. In all your service you never missed one call into headquarters. But after taking on this dragon called Lucas, not one message has gotten through from the both of you. You two thought we would order you to abandon the refugees, didn't yea?

Me: Huh? Must be this new place! Messing with the radio and the frequencies and whatnot? You know there ain't no Sats here.

Itami: Yeah, that would be my guess too.

Yanagida: You're both full of shit. You know that?

We just smile at him.

Yanagida: Look you two there is a lot of resources here, vast amounts of habitual land around us, and there's not a trace of environmental pollution to speak of. And from what our geologists have found we could shake the entire world's economy with what's here. And the only gateway to this world is right in the middle of Japan. The both Japanese and American governments doesn't know what to do with this treasure. So the Diet and Congress wants to know exactly what we're sitting on. Specifically, they want to know if it's worth turning half the world's major powers against us or not.

He then looks at me for my two cents.

Me: Hate to agree with the desk jockey, but he's got a point. Japan and the US has a hot apple pie sitting on the window sill and everyone that has either a good or bad history with us wants a piece of that pie. But whatever the politicians are doing I don't care. I just go where they tell me to. I'll leave you with this. Itami, the faster we finish this paperwork, the sooner you can look at your Hentai.

Yanagida burst out laughing, while Itami looks shocked.

Itami: It's not hentai!! It's art!!

Me:*sumg* Sure it is.

Timeskip

Towson's Personal Quarters(He requested it)

Anthony's Pov

I finally set up my quarters and got permission to interview some of the refugees individually I requested the three most interesting ones that I saw. The young girl with blue hair, the girl dressed in gothic attire with a large halberd.

How they let her inside? I have no idea.

And the elf girl. I'm sitting at a table with two glasses of water, a notepad and pen as the first interviewee walks in it's the blue haired one.

Me: Sedes, nunc.(You may sit down, now.)

She sit in the chair across from me with an expressionless face. I guess both minds think alike.

Me: Your name ma'am?

Blue: Lelei la Lalena.

Me: Ms. Lalena, my name is Corporal Towson and I'm told you're a "mage".

Lelei: Lelei will suffice, and yes but I'm still an apprentice.

Me: May I see a demonstration?

Lelei uses her magic to make the water in the glasses to actually levitate then proceeds to put back in the glass. Neat.

Me: Fascinating. How old are you Lelei?

Lelei: I'm 15 years of age.

As I talk to her and jot down notes she gives me a curious look and I raise my eyebrow at this.

Me: You want to ask me something go right ahead.

Lelei: Your eye, your speech tone, your burned hand, the language you're writing are all different. You are not Japanese or American so what are you?

Smart. She can tell that I'm not 100% American.

Me: You're an astute one aren't you. Having or showing the ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage. Yes, I'm not Japanese. No I am an American. However, my family is from another country on the other side of the Gate.

Lelei: And what country is that?

Me: Trinidad and the people from there are called Trinidadians or Trinis.

Lelei: I see. Are you a soldier?

When she said that I nearly broke the pen I'm holding, but my thumb did puncture the glass cup. Luckily no water was in it. And considering she's from another world. I'll let it slide.

Me: No ma'am. I'm a marine. Being called a soldier is considered an insult to marines.

Lelei: Oh. Then I apologize.

Me: It's alright.

After talking with Lelei for a while I learned a lot about magic and it's properties and she learned a lot as well and I dismissed her. Later the girl in Gothic attire came. With the halberd of course.  And sat down with a smile on her face.

Me: Can you tell me your name ma'am?

Girl in Gothic attire: Bene non es vir. Me Rory Mercurium apostolum Dei Emroy vocare potes.(Well aren't you the gentleman. You may call me Rory Mercury an Apostle of the God Emroy.)

Me: Emroy is a local deity, Ms. Mercury?

Rory: Please, call me Rory and yes Emroy is the God of Darkness, Violence, War, Love, Insanity, Crime, Execution and Death.

Damn. You sure that God or Goddess it's a marine?

Me: That weapon, the halberd you got there is pretty crazy, I seen a marine(Noah Brown) who works out every three days struggle to pick it up with two hands. Yet you're holding it in one handed, and I heard you pulled some pretty impressive feats when the dragon attacked the Captain's unit. You're not human are you?

Rory: You're correct, I'm a Demigod!

Me: A Demigod, huh? If you don't mind me asking, can you tell me you're age?

Rory: 960 of your years handsome.

........What?

Me: That's quite a stretch. Were you born this way, Rory?

Rory: No, I was born a human, then later became a demigod. But enough about me, I would like to know more about you. As have Hardy looking at you as well.

Me: Who's Hardy?

Rory: The Goddess of the Underworld. And she's right behind you.

I look behind me to see a woman with long white hair, white dress and red eyes smirking at me.

Hardy: Hello there.

Rory: She said-

Me:*eyes still on Hardy* I heard.

Hardy then looks surprised, then smirks at me again.

Hardy:*smirking* Only demigods could hear me. Are you really human?

Me: I'm a human. But I'm also a Devil Dog and one of the heads of Cerberus. Our motto is....

I got up and got in her face as I glared deep in her soul. She stop smirking now.

Me:*death glare* "No Surrender. No Retreat. Because if the enemy starts fleeing..."

Me:

Me: "...They start bleeding."

Hardy took a step back if I had to guess. In fear. Huh, I made a Goddess fear me. Neat.

Rory:*in fear* You're something else.

Me:*calm* Thank you.

Hardy: That guy scared me......I'm impressed.

I explain myself to Rory after Hardy left back to where she came from. And Rory tells me about the local religion of this world. I thank her educating me and she does as well with a flirtatious smile.

Am I attracting Demigods and Goddess? Questions for later.

Next came in the elf girl with a very nervous look on her face as she sits down.

Me: Non opus est puella timida esse. Nomen tuum mihi dicere potes?(There's no need to be nervous young lady. Can you tell me your name?)

Elf girl: Ego ... Tuka Luna Marceau, Hodor filia. Ex Koan Forest.(I'm...Hodor's daughter...Tuka Luna Marceau. From Koan Forest.)

Me: Ms. Marceau I am truly sorry about your village, I wish my unit could've been there sooner.

Tuka: Oh...That wasn't your friends' fault and please call me Tuka.

Me: Very well, you're a high elf right, Tuka?

Tuka: Yes. I am.

Me: As I've been told can you tell me how old you are?

Tuka: 165 years of age.

What the hell? She's younger than rory, but she's older than Mina, David and I combined. And I called her young-wait nevermind that last bit.

Me: Okay, you know myself and the ones that helped you should be thanking you.

Tuka: For what? I haven't done anything.

Me: You told them where to target the dragon during the attack that thing would have burned them for sure.

Tuka: Oh it was nothing at all. But why did you want to talk to me?

I explain myself again and she explains elven culture to me.

Me: Well I got everything I need here, thank you Tuka you can go now.

Tuka: Oh, okay.*stands up* And tell them 'thank you' for saving my life.

Me: Think nothing of it, we'll do it again in a heartbeat.

She leaves with a smile on her face, but something is still troubling that girl. Maybe someone close to her perished in front of her?

If so, she must be experiencing PTSD.

I gather my notes and begin writing my report to Washington, Tokyo and the base.

Me:*sighs* This is gonna take a while.

Timeskip

JSDF Bathhouse

3rd Pov

Tuka, Rory, and Lelei are in the JSDF baths washing the day away.

Rory: Ahhh...This is divine, I still can't believe these self defense force people set up an authentic bath in here.

A/N: The JSDF made the bathhouse. Most of the marines uses the showers as they say and I quote "You try sharing a bath with the Navy" end quote.

Lelei: I've never had...a warm bath like this

Rory: Really?

Lelei: I'm from the Rurudo tribe...we're nomads...we're constantly moving. So my baths have always been cold. Mrs. Oracle is this new to you?

Rory: Please no formalities, dear. Just call me Rory.

Lelei: Oh. Then you can call me Lelei.

Rory: Well, in the temple, there was an absolutely gorgeous imperial-style bath. But as one of Emroy's apostles I've bathed in more rivers and streams than I care to count. So, I'm enjoying the fact that I can take a bath in such away. It's kind of luxurious.

Lelei: They're going to do this everyday. It's what Itami and Mav said.

Rory: Itami and Mav? Oh! You mean the Lieutenant and Captain.

Tuka: Wait! That's men who saved me, right? When I was stuck at the bottom of the village well. I wondered if either Itami or Mav was the one who pulled me out.

Lelei: Yes, it was Mav's team...he was the officer in charge. Speaking of his team, did any of you speak to Towson?

Rory shuddered for a second.

Tuka: He was asking about elven culture. Did he ask any of you about something?

Lelei: He asked me about how magic works.

Rory:..He asked me about "religious customs."

Lelei: These soldiers are known as the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force of Japan and the marines are known as the United States Marine Corps of America. And here's what fascinating Japan's not the only country on the other side of the Gate. Towson's home country the United States of America is much bigger and is an ally of Japan.

Rory: I think he said he was a former member of the United States Marine Corps Marine Raider Regiment.

Tuka: And he said two others like him are here.

Lelei: There's a world we have yet to discover...it's bigger than we thought.

Timeskip

Maverick's Quarters

Maverick's Pov

I finish my report and I got word that an antenna was up and running so I was about to hit send when started thinking about what Yanagida said.

Me:*sighs* I really don't care what's going on with the politicians on both countries. I've been with these people since Ginza and the idea that I would ever betray both of them over a political agenda or another country wants "use" the people here. Just makes my skin fuckin' crawl.

Me: Good thing I'm sending this to the generals here and not Washington or Tokyo. Who knows what will happen to that info.

I hit send and hope they use this information wisely, but I highly doubt it. I decide to take my mind off the whole thing, by blasting "Paranoid" by Black Sabbath and doing cleaning my M9 pistol.

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Liberty-Prime Base: Deep Recon Assembly Area

3rd Pov

The 5th Recon is getting ready to move out again Tuka, Rory, and Lelei want to trade wyvern scales in a city called "Italica." Itami is checking for updates on his phone.

Kurata: So...now the JSDF and USMC is a delivery service? What?

Thomas: Yeah. What?

Maverick: Stop your bitchin'. It'll give them a chance to start supporting themselves. Plus, we finally get a chance to take a look at some of the ways they do trade and commerce around here. Plus we have 1st Deep Recon with us for support. So there's that.

Itami: Whoa! Guess who got another update..Meee!

Itami's phone was grab quickly by someone.

Itami: What the? Hey give that.........back........

Right in front of him was someone the JSDF wished they still didn't have.

Mina Takahashi

Mina:*looking at his phone* May I ask what your looking at, Itami?

Itami:*scared* It's uhh....it's.....important stuff! Yeah! Important-

Before he could finish his sentence.

Mina: If catch you playing games on your new phone.

Itami:*scared & confused* New phone?

Mina crush his current one:

Maverick:*taken aback* Oh lord...

Mina drops the now broken phone with a toothy smile.

Mina: Don't play with me. Itami.

As she walked away, Anthony came.

Anthony:*seeing the broken phone on the ground*.................*to Itami* Best not to take your new cell next time when she's around.

Itami:*terrified* N-Noted.

Williams: Here comes 1st Recon.

Smith: Say, where's Cpl. Fernandes at?

Tomtia: Oh crap! I forgot to tell him about this! Hey Kuribayashi can you go get Fernandes.

Shino: Right yeah.

Shino runs toward David's personal quarters as it's not hard to find as it's the one with the American, Marine Corps and the Marine 1st Division flag flying outside while knocking on the door she sees a sign written in three languages.

The Sith Lord's Man Cave

Special Region, Japan/United States of America

CPL. FERNANDES DAVID USMC

She knocks on the door again no answer, she puts her ear to it and hears music and she opens the door. Devil Dogs by Sabaton is blasting in the room, a flag is hanging on the railing, his dress blues on a hanger and nearby is David doing pull ups.

David Fernandes

The flag:

His dress Blues:

Shino: Corporal!*no response* Cpl. Fernandes!!*still no response* FERNANDES!!!

David turns to the source of the shouting and drops from the pole and turns off the music.

David: Shit, sorry about that Sergeant.*grabs towel* You need something?

Shino notices he's not wearing a shirt and her face turns bright red as she sees the knife slash across his chest, the three shrapnel wounds on his back, a tattoo of a torn-out rib cage, but instead of Blood and Guts it's the American flag on the upper chest, a bald eagle with the wings outstretched across his arms and his back, and a small black tattoo of the Assassin's Creed logo on his upper neck

Shino: Uhhhh.....OH! Right cpl., we're moving out to a place called "Italica" to see how they commerce is done around here. And uh.......the three girls that Towson talked from before, are going to trade wyvern scales to help support themselves.

David:*raised eyebrow* And finding this shit out now, because?

Shino: Because almost everyone forgot to tell you cpl.*stares* Damn, you can grind meat off those.

David:*sighs* Tchs! Give me ten mikes to clean up and get my gear, you go ahead a tell Itami and Kuribayashi that SFC.

Shino: Roger!

David: Also take a picture, it'll last longer.

Shino is now completely red face.

Shino:

Shino quickly leaves still with a bright red face.

David:*smirks* She likes what she sees.

David quickly cleans up and puts his on gear and looks at a green duffel bag that he has in the corner of his room. He decides to grab it and head toward the Deep Recons' assembly area. But before he meets them. He sees a 7.62 x 51mm NATO ammo box and grabs it.

Anthony seeing him with the ammo box in hand: Duck.

Itami:*sees David* Hey there he-AH!!*ducks from the ammo box that was throw at him from David* WHAT DID I DO?!?!?

Anthony:*whispers to Itami* We all know what did to those SFs.

Itami:......Oh.

John: Say what's in the duffel bag?

David:*loads duffel bag into vehicle* Oh...just an "Insurance Policy" for myself, Tow and Cap.

John knowing what it probably is: Understandable.

Kurokawa: "Insurance Policy"?

Maverick: Yep, just in case.

Denis: As in if shit hits the fan.

The captains broad their vics to their respected Recon vics.

Maverick & Denis: We're Oscar Mike!

The everyone gets in a vehicle as they depart the base and head for the city of Italica.

1st Deep Recon vehicles are the same as 5th Deep Recon.

Timeskip

En Route to Italica

Maverick's Pov

1st and 5th Recons' is heading to city called "Italica" from what we were told the city is not only a strategic crossroad city. But a major economic center, good opportunity to observe how trade and commerce are done around here.

The City of Italica

We stop a few kliks outside the city cause we could see a column of smoke.

Williams: Alright, this is the second time we're running into a cloud of smoke.

Tou:*on the radio* Yeah, just our luck.

Lelei is looking through a pair of binos the wrong way.

Lelei: The smoke is really far away

Me: Wrong way around

Lelei looks at me with confusion.

Towson: Here look, you look through that side.

Towson turns them around for her.

Lelei: Oh right. Thank you.

Rafaki:*on the radio* Heads up everybody, let's be sure to keep our eyes open.

Lelei: Smoke's looks manmade. Must be trouble.

Itami: Do you know where it's from?

Lelei: Looks like it's...man...made...it's a flower.

Tuka: A flower?

Towson: I think you meant "Fire" there Little Lady "Fi-re."

Lelei: Fi-re.

Itami: Well look at you, playing "Big Brother" aren't we?

Towson:

Itami who is scared shitless corrects himself: I-I-I-I mean in a good way! Not in a joking way of course!

Me: Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.

I see Lelei giving Towson a small smile.

Kurata: How do we approach this Captain?

Me: Well, two things could be happening. One they're have a raging bonfire party, or two the city's under siege. We should hang back at safe distance and observe the situation.

Rafaki:*on the radio* If the is city under siege we should pick the opportune time to intervene and assist the defenders. But going in would risk us getting overrun and having to pull out.

Takahashi: It's your call Cap.

Me: Let's all stay awake there people and keep moving forward. And remember, watch the sky as well as the ground. We don't want any surprises.

Everyone:*both on and off the radio* Roger!/Wilco!/Oorah!

Pusley:*on the radio* Okay, we're going in. But maintain 360 security at all times.

Rory looks on with a smile and licks her lips. Creepy as always.

Williams: What's up?

Rory:*giggles* There's blood in the air.

Towson, Takahashi & Fernandes:*smirks under Shemagh* This is where the fun begins.

Me: Should I be worried now?

Everyone:*both on and off the radio* Yes.

Chapter Text

Hey there, it's me the Author.

Just wanted to ask, who's your favorite character(s) in this story so far?

You can comment down below.

That's all. Got go and buy food now.

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Outside of Italica

Maverick's Pov

Italica is under siege by bandits, the only people defending the city are a few trained soldiers and a civilian militia. The attackers have been driven off for now, but they're probably just regrouping. We park our vehicles outside the walls and wait.

Brown:*on the radio* Think they noticed us?

Williams: I mean, who would miss a couple of large woodland colored military vics.

Fernandes: If not, then it's a miracle that they held this city for a while.

It was then a voice we hear from the city walls.

???: Tu illuc! Vosmet ipsos cognoscite! Si inimicus noster non es, nunc in apertum veni!(You there! Identify yourselves! If you're not our enemy come into the open now!)

Me: Well it's time.

Rafaki:*on the radio* What's the gameplan?

Me:*on the radio* Listen up, this is how it's gonna go down. Myself, Itami, Rafaki, Towson, Takahashi, Rory, Tuka and Lelei are going move to the city gate on foot. Nobody makes a move until we give the call. And if the worst should happen I want you to wheel the vics around and get out of here. One LAV stays to pick us up. We clear?

Everyone:*on & off the radio* Yes sir.

Me: Itami, Rakaki, Towson and Takahashi, we'll leave our primaries here but keep our side arms handy we don't want to provoke any hostility. Lelei, Tuka, Rory you head up first, the rest of us five will follow behind you.

Lelei: Right then

Tuka: Okay.

Rory: Of course.

Itami: You sure about this, K?

Me: I'm pretty sure they know who Rory is and I doubt they'll be a little hesitant about shooting at us once they see her, but we'll stick close to them. Everyone ready?

Everyone nods their heads.

Rakaki:*on the radio* All set.

Me: Alright, let's do this.

Williams & Kurata: LEEEEERRROY-

Me & Towson: Shut up!

Williams & Kurata: Sorry.

Lelei steps out first, then Tuka, then Rory followed by Itami, then Towson followed by Takahashi and myself. I then see Rakaki coming up behind me as we make our way toward the city wall.

Hill:*on the radio* So far, so good you guys.

Itami: Yeah, excellent call on bringing Rory with us. Nobodies shooting at us.

We approach the door, Itami knocks on it we can here someone remove a lock and suddenly the door open an knocks Itami on his ass and reveals a red haired woman wearing light armor.

???: Welcome to Itatica, friends!

She looks down to see Itami on the ground and myself and Rakaki are trying not laugh our ass off right now. But in the vics I can hear a lot of them laughing their asses off.

Redhead: Did...I...I....Did I do that?

The Girls nods their heads while Towson sighs and Takahashi giggles at Itami's expense.

Towson then drags Itami by leg and spots three wooden barrels and it looks like he's thinking.

Towson: 

Wait.

Me: Don't do it. That's too much paperwork.

Towson: Right.

We drag Itami inside the city as 1st Lieutenant Graystone tries to contact us via the radio.

Graystone:*on the radio* Captains, Lt, Corporals. Is everything alright, over?

Me: Mav here, we're good. Besides, remember who we're with, over.

Graystone:*on the radio* Fairpoint, over.

Rakaki: Still, stand by for further orders, over and out.

Tuka gets Itami's canteen and starts pouring water on his face while Redhead stands there dumbfounded.

Tuka: What is wrong with you!? What kind of person just shoves a door open without looking?! Even dwarves and pixies are more careful! What are you? Some kind of goblin?!

God I wish I brought a camera or a GoPro.

I then see Towson pulls out his CAT phone and takes a pic.

Me:*mouths to Towson* Sent that shit to me.

Towson: 👍🏾

Itami wakes up so see Rory violet eyes looking right back him.

Rory: Welcome back....to the world of the living.

Itami jolts up.

Itami: What happened?

Towson & Rakaki: You got knocked the fuck out.

Itami: Nani?

Takahashi: あなたはドアと戦い、ドアが勝ちました。(You fought the door, and the door won.)

Itami: Wut?

Me: Say "What?" one more time, jackass.

Itami:.........Nobody took a picture, right?

Me:*lying* No.

Itami: Okay good.*gets up* So they let us in.

Me: Yeah.*to the defenders* So who's in charge here?

Everyone around us look toward Redhead, then a petite young woman with shoulder-length brown hair and jade green eyes wearing an identical armor as Redhead, jumps in front if her.

Brownhead: Everyone! You are in presence of Her Majesty...The Third Princess Piña Co Lada! Show some respect!

Lelei: The Princess?

Itami & Rakaki: Piña Co Lada?

Me: The drink?

Towson & Takahashi:*silently* One of the Kill or Capture...

Oh fuck....Given that she's royalty. SFs have a Kill or Capture for any noble or the family related to the leader. Emperor Molt Sol Augustus.

Me:*Towson & Takahashi* Not now you two. Let's see what's up in this city first.

Towson & Takahashi:..........Fine.

Me:*to Piña* So your Majesty. Where should we talk?*looks around* In private.

Piña: Follow me.

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Italica Castle/Formal Clan Mansion

Maverick's Pov

Piña and her subordinate from earlier Hamilton brief us on the current situation. Italica is one of the Empire's major economic hub run by a noble family called the Formal Clan. Unfortunately the head of the family Colt Formal died during the Battle of Ginza.

He was one of the nobles that I didn't shoot. So maybe he died from someone else.

His death caused a temporary conflict in his family over who would succeed him; ultimately the youngest daughter Myui succeeded him as the new head of the clan who is only eleven years old.

Poor kid and poor Colt. From the sound of it he seem like one of the "Good" nobles.

And apparently, most of the nobles and professional soldiers were sent to the Gate, too. And we all know what happened to those guys. Since then, public order has fallen apart and current head has had no prior training or experience in leading soldiers into combat. Piña has assumed command of what's left of the city's militia here, but I, Rakaki, Towson and Takahashi can tell she's green herself.

Pina: Let me get this straight, you and your soldiers are offering to help us defend the city.

Towson & Takahashi:*emotionless*💢 Excuse me?

Me: Yeah...I don't think any merchants here are in the mood to buy dragon scales right now. Also the ones in my uniform(Woodland MARPAT). Are not soldiers, but marines. Calling us a soldier is considered an insult.

Pina:*looking at the two's death glare* R-right.

Itami:*giving Mui another chocolate bar* Plus, you can't exactly conduct trade if the city's razed to the ground.

Pina: Very well then...I'll assign your forces to occupy and guard the South Gate.

Me, Itami & Rakaki: No.

Pina: No?

Me: By no, we mean that not all of our forces will be in one spot.

Rakaki: Meaning, a quarter of us will be at the North, South, East and West gate.

Pina looked like she wanted to protest and say something else, but closed her mouth knowing that Rakaki is right.

Pina: If this helps defend the city better, then so be it.

Me: Thank you, M'Lady.*on the radio* All units, set up defensive positions at the North, South, East and West gate, over.

Everyone:*on the radio* Yes, sir.

Timeskip

South Gate Wall

Several hours after the order was given to the soldiers and marines to go to certain positions on each gate. I radioed base about predicament, hopefully getting us reinforcements. I can also see that Pina and Hamilton are watching us from a far. The sun begin to set I see Fernandes decide to get the duffel bag out from earlier.

With us on the wall of the South Gate. Are myself, Towson, Takahashi, Itami, Rory, Tomtia, Shino, Tuka, Pusley, Clarks(1DR), Thomas, Ito(1DR), Kurokawa, Takeo, Lelei, and Sato(1DR).

Takeo:*to Fernandes* If you don't mind me asking. What are you doing?

Fernandes: You'll see. Cap! Ant!

Everyone/Takahashi: Ant?

Towson: Yeah?

Me: What is it?

I put my M16E3 in the vehicle and he open the duffel bag to reveal the "Insurance Policies". And let's just say.....

Shino, Thomas & Pusley:*shocked* Holy shit......

Fernandes:*to Towson* For you.

M2 Stinger

Fernandes:*to Me* For you.

SCAR-L GL

Fernandes: And for me.

AA-12

Everyone:............

Itami: Is that a freakin'-

Fernandes: M2 Stinger machine gun used in WW2 by the marines. And yes this model works. A SCAR-L with a Schlager 3.4x scope and a grenade launcher. And a AA-12 full auto shotgun with a Commando Foregrip, a FSS OLE-V Laser sight and a Corio RE-X Pro Reflex sight.

We began inspecting the guns. Towson and Fernandes change their mag pouches for LMG and drum mag pouches.

Pusley: Not to be that one guy. But how in the fuck did you manage to get that thing here?

Fernandes: Called in a good friend of ours in MARSOC. And he manage to get them for us. He said I still owe him one.

Ito: What does he owe you?

Fernandes: Saved him after a he was hit by an IED and ambush by the Taliban. He would survive the encounter but he came back to one of our bases and...........Well you can say he's like us, but more on stealth side. He goes by the nickname Nazgul. And may have God have mercy on those that who do harm to innocent meet him and watch the shadows with a careful eye, for he has None and the shadows won't help you when you hide.

Myself and everyone else shivered in fright. Even turned pale Rory.

Me: God I hope some dumbass doesn't do something down right stupid.

Chapter Text

Then put the names of US marines (Ex-SFs or SFs) and JGSDF. But mostly either USMC or JSDF. I don't mind.

Another thing, remember no advance weapons. This includes the M16A4s, Desert Eagles, M60E4s, M27s, XM5, XM250 or M17. Yet.

Be realistic. Meaning no captains around the age of 20.

For love interest: If it's someone new put them in. If it's someone from the show: 17 for anyone under 17. 18+ for adults.

Anywoo, I need the following;

Name:

Nickname/Title:

Nationally:(Ex: Filipino-American)

Skin color:

JSDF or USMC:

Are they in the Special Forces?:

Likes:

Are they in the Former Special Forces?:

Dislikes:

Age:

Gender:

Hairstyle:

Former Rank(Former Captain):

Rank:

Body Count:

Primary Weapon:

Secondary Weapon:

Battle Scars:

Special skills:

Love Interest:

Any Tattoos?(Americans):

Habits?:

Specific person or people want to kill:

Do they have a 'Flee on Sight'?:

(Flee on sight means if you ever catch sight of this person, it will be in your best health to run away as soon as possible, as fast as possible.)

Favorite food:

Least Favorite Food:

Background:

Reason for being kicked out(Former Special Forces):

That's all folks!!

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Italica South Wall Gate

Maverick's Pov

As I start putting the first mag in and lock and load the SCAR and later head up the to wall. Pusley is looking through his binos, as well as Itami and then myself.

Itami: You guys see what I see.

Clarks:*taking aim* Yep.

Me: Wait-

Clarks fires two shots at the two watching us. All that's left of them was a headless body.

Towson:*rushing in* Reaper, what happen?

Clarks: Scouts. Two battalions behind 'em too. Not sure if they're coming here though. So notify everyone else.

Pusley:*sighs* Your right about that, Clarks. Just.......don't blow our eardrums.

Itami: Well, they're what's left of the guys we defeated back at Alnus. So they might try something.

Towson: 2,000 guys is somewhat enough to attack the city at once. And they'll stand out on that limestone on the northern cliffs.

Me: I'd say best routes are probably going to be the west, north or the east gates. And you know where that puts us.

Itami: Yeah...just sittin' here on our butts. We're the only ones playing the decoy. This gate was already damaged during their prior engagement.

Pusley: So the princess is assuming if they see the seventeen of us here. They'll attack, once they get past us, they'll run into her secondary line. Yeah what the fuck is this bullshit.

Fernandes:*coming up* You just said it. A bullshit plan of hers, but we decided to have a good amount of us at every gate wall.

Me: So we're just gonna sit here with our thumbs up our asses. And shoot at at anyone stupid enough to show up. Oh, hey put out those fires and get your NVGs out. It starting to get dark now.

Just like I said it starting to get dark as we prepare for a night raid just in case.

Itami: Thomas, see what we can do about keepin' the bad guys on the other side.

Thomas: Roger that.*to Sato* Sato! We'll use the Mk 19 on the JLTV.

Sato: Right yea.

Rory leaning against the wall behind us.

Rory: Itami, Maverick dear?

Itami: Huh?

Me:*pulling up NVG* Yeah?

Rory: Why are you two helping the princess of the Empire that attacked your homeland?

Me: To protect the people of this town, Rory.

Itami: What Mav said.

Rory: You two really mean it?

Me: Of course, I did.

Itami: Yeah, I mean why wouldn't we?

Rory: And Maverick. Both you and the Marines homeland was not attacked but you wish to help anyways. Why is that?

Me: When your friend's in trouble you help them. America and Japan have been allies for seventy-one years. Also, these people had nothing to do with the attack and are just caught up in it all. Plus, I'm half Japanese, half American. So I'm technically protecting and serving two of my homelands.

Itami struggles to get his NVG on his helmet.

Itami: Dammit! C'mon get on there!

Towson: Dios mío, no tienes remedio.

Rory: Let me have a look at it.

Itami: Huh?

Rory: I'll keep it steady.

Itami: I'd appreciate that.

Rory holds Itami's helmet while he puts his NVG on.

Itami: Do you care about what's going on?

Rory: Emory is the God of battle ya know? Where death and destruction come with the territory. But there is a motive. It is the most important thing. If your purpose isn't righteous,*puts the helmet on Itami's head* then death will sully your soul.

So, like Hitler, Mao and Zorzal?

Fernandes: So, we weren't lying when we wanted to help, there's no problem then?

Me: But I do have another reason. Rafaki and I wanna show them a different way. That we're not the big enemy of theirs. We want the Princess to understand that she can talk with us.

Rory then got super excited.

Rory: I like it! I really like it! Your fear!

What?

Me: What?

Itami: Nani?

Rory: I can feel it coming off from you!

Context!

Itami: Fear?

Rory: You'll burn fear into her soul I just know it!*jumps onto wall* I am wholly looking forward to helping you both in the upcoming battle, sweeties!

Towson, Takahashi & Fernandes:*giving a thumbs up* You got it, Rory!

Me & Pusley: Oh shit.

Rory: It's been so long since I could let loose! This should be superb!*giggles*

Takahashi: Will it be weird to start praying either to her or to Emory?

Towson: I don't know.

Itami:*rubbing the back of his neck* That's not exactly what we meant.

Two nukes beg to differ.

Timeskip to Nighttime

It's gotten dark and everyone's on watch. The West and East gates positions have no fires since we have our NVGs. But suddenly we can see the East gate light up like the Fourth of July with the sounds of gunfire and mortar fire there. The enemy's attempting to overrun the east gate! Much to Rory's disappointment.

Then we heard Captain Rafaki try to contact us via the radio, but most it was static? What the hell?

Rafaki:*from the radio* Need..*static* assistance at...*static* our loca-*static* demi-human is jamming ou-*static*

Rory:*pouting* Why way over there?! We were supposed to fight them right here!

Tomtia:*looks at his watch* I got 0311...they couldn't time it out any better could they.

Me: Those hostiles used to be regular Army. But now they have jammers?

Shino: He did say a demi-human was doing this. Maybe magic?

Before I could answer Kurokawa has a shocked look.

Me: What is Doc?

Kurokawa:*points* Those three are fast....

We all look to see Towson, Takahashi and Fernandes hauling ass and almost half there.

Towson, Takahashi & Fernandes:

Everyone/Me & Clarks:

Rory:*nervous* Are sure those three are human?

We looked at Rory, then back at the three, then back at Rory, then back at three and finally back at Rory.

Clarks:*shrugs* I don't know.

Rory:........

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Alnus Hill JGSDF & USMC Base

3rd Pov

General Hazama and Jackson are briefing their battalion commanders regarding the situation at Italica.

Hazama: Gentlemen, 1st and 5th Deep Recon just relayed a request from Princess Pina of the Empire. As the commanding officer in the city of Italica, she'd like us to help reinforce their positions inside the city.

All the battalion commanders basically all volunteer at once. While the USMC ones were skeptical to trust throwing many of their troops in front of someone who is technically the enemy.

Author's Note: Col. Hector George, Lt Col. Tony Price, Lt Col. Desmond Gears, Col. Fillmore Westfield and Lt Col. Joshua Jones.

Colonel Naoki Kamo: Allow my unit to handle it!

Lieutenant Colonel Tsuge: 101st Company is ready to go anytime! You just give the word sir!

Colonel Shunya Kengun: Nonsense! A ground assault will be too slow! Italica needs help right away! Generals...send in my airborne unit, sir!

The USMC ones smiled at that silently agreeing with Col. Kengun.

Lieutenant Colonel Youga: I installed the speaker system. It's ready. We've got a CD by Richard Wagner- Ride of the Valkyries and we're good to go.

???: Great choice.

The JGSDF soldiers turned towards the voice while both Jackson and other USMC smiled at the voice.

Jackson: Captain Cole. Good to see you.

Brigadier General Jackson Baker

Captain William Ryder Cole

Capt. Cole salutes to both the colonels and generals as they saluted back.

Cole: Lt Col. Gears, called for me to assist his airborne unit, sir.

Col. Kengun: So, you'll be riding with my group too, Gears?

Lt Col. Gears: That's right.*to Cole* And is it here?

Cole: It's currently waiting to be flown, sir.

Hazama: So. We're going with the airborne option this time then. The situation needs a quick and fast response. But we'll need the rest of you on stand by.

Jackson:*under his breath* Here we go, these knuckleheads and Jarheads have been waiting for a long time for something like this.

Hazama:*pinches the bridge of his nose* But the last thing we need is a bunch of crazy meat heads.

The USMC:*hearing that* Excuse me?

Hazama: Nothing.

Multiple transport and attack helicopters and one A-10 Thunderbolt II begin taking off and heading toward the rising sun and toward Italica.

Cole's A-10 Warthog

Timeskip

Italica South Wall Gate

Maverick's Pov

The whole thing is falling apart the East Gate is slowly being overrun, and that princess hasn't sent anyone over there to ask for our assistance.

Unless you're Cerberus. Then prepare to see lots of blood.

And I'm getting a little restless and Rory is uhh...how do I put this in a SFW way.

"Rubbing off her peach" on the whole situation..........I think I need stop looking at her sometimes.

Itami: What's up with Rory?

Me: I've been wondering that as well.

Lelei: Rory's body acts as the doorway to death, whenever soldiers fall in battle, they go through her to Emroy. And each passing soul creates a somewhat...pleasurable sensation.

Clarks: Christ, imagine if she was in our world in the battle of Stalingrad. She would be knocked out by the pleasure.

Or the Normandy landings.

Pusley: Didn't know that death and destruction could become an aphrodisiac. And very specific kink she's got.

Shino: Doesn't seem pleasurable.

Ito: Lelei...can we do anything to help her?

Kurokawa: Yeah, cause watching her touch herself while a battle is going is getting awkward.

Lelei: Only she can allow herself to surrender.

We all look toward the East Gate.

Me:*to Thomas* Any word or signal from the East Gate?!

Thomas: Negative, sir!

You know what? FUCK IT!!

Me: The East Gate needs our support now! We need to get our asses moving and assist our fellow soldiers and marines!

Itami: You're right Mav, Kuribayashi!

Shino: Yes, sir!

Itami: I'm sorry...but can you stay with Rory for now.

Me: Lt. Pusley you're in charge here.

Pusley: Got it, sir.

Shino approaches Rory who is still making NSFW moans.

Shino: Okay, c'mon Rory. Stick with us and hang in there.

Rory then puts her hand on Shino's shoulder to help herself up then she jumps off the wall and starts dashing toward a nearby rooftop and begins heading toward the East Gate. Damn she's quick.

Itami: Follow Rory!

Me: Tomita, Shino, and Doc you three are with us let's fuckin' go!*to Thomas* Thomas! Start the JLTV!

Thomas: You got it, sir!

We boarded the vehicle and sped off toward the East Gate. We can see Rory advancing parallel to us on the rooftops. Itami gets on the radio while Thomas drives and the rest of us ready our weapons.

Itami: 4-0-1, This is 5th Deep Recon! The enemy is attacking the East Gate where the captain of 1st Deep Recon is. I say again. Insurgents are at the East Gate! One of the enemy combatants can jam our radios there. We'll mark the target with a white flare over.

Cobra Pilot:*radio* Copy were still five mikes out. One of us will be overwatch incase for airborne threats.

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Italica East Gate

Time: Dawn

Maverick's Pov

We're nearing the East Gate. I just hope that Rafaki and his team were able to hold the hostiles off long enough for both us and the Air Cav to make it here on time. Shion is mentally preparing herself, and double check the SCAR-L GL.

Itami: Kuribayashi.

Shion: Uh... Yes, sir!

Itami: Go ahead and take off your NVG.

Shion: Why, Lieutenant? 

Me: Because it's daybreak, sis.

Tomita: And because you tend to break things.

Shion gets pissed at that remark while I laugh.

Shion: I'll break your face!*to Me* And you! Stop laughing!

Me: Save that anger for the enemy Shion! Itami light the flar-!

I stop mid sentence as I see Fernandes literality snap a guy's neck, shoot him with the AA-12, then full-autos on 15 people while I see some of Rafaki men falling back a bit.

Everyone:........

Shion:.............That was kinda hot

Nani?

Thomas: Wut?

Itami, Tomita & Kurokawa: Nani?

Shion: Nothing.

Ignoring that. Itami leans out the window and lights the flare. And I swear I could hear music and it almost sounds like "Ride of the Valkyries." Then I hear explosions coming from the other side of the wall. And a-HOLY SHIT IS THAT A A-10?!?!?!

Cole's A-10: BBBBRRRRRRRTTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!!!

GODDAMN SON!!!!!! Is weird to have a hard on hearing that.

Itami, Tomita, Shion & Kurokawa: YOU GUYS BROUGHT A-10!?!?!?

Me: Hey. It's not a war crime the first time. A little 30mm going at Mach Jesus wouldn't hurt a little.

I then could clearly hear comms from the helicopter pilots. Meaning whoever was jamming our shit was taken down.

Huey pilot:*radio* All units this is Oscar-1. We've got friendlies inside the city gate. Engage outside the walls only.

Thomas: Fuck yah! Air Cav's here!

I could hear helicopters engaging the enemy on the other side of the East Wall. My adrenaline is going through the roof right now and just want cut loose on all those bastards. Thomas stops the vehicle near the East Gate and we begin to disembark.

Me: FIX BAYONETS!!!!

Itami, Tomita, Shion, Thomas and Kurokawa fix bayonets on their rifles.

Shion: AL-FUCKIN'-RIGHT!!!

Shion runs past us toward the barricade letting out a war cry.

Shion: BANZAI!!!

Tomita: That dumbass.

Me: That dumbass is my half-sister. Also..THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING FUCKIN' ABOUT!! OORAH!!!

I follow after my little sis with the SCAR-L GL in hand.

Me: LEROYYYYYYYYYYYYYY JENKINSSSSSSSS!!!

Itami: That crazy Jap-Yankee! Let's go!

Itami and Tomita follow after us. Rory and Takahashi had already gotten her ahead of us and was cutting down anyone who got near them. Rory even cut through an entire shield wall.

When a large hostile appeared from behind Takahashi she...

Takahashi:*choking the large hostile*

Takahashi:*sweetly* Your back go break now!

Takahashi:

Rory:*shocked* OH MY GOD!?

Me:*shocked* OH MY JEBUS!?

Shion rushes forward and fires a burst into him. Two more guys try to rush at her, she stumbles one and shoots him dead and roundhouse kicks the other in the face. Another tries to swipe at her head with a sword, she just dodges it and Towson fires burst at him. She charges forward again at a guy with his shield locked and breaks her bayonet on it. Oh lord I can hear the logistics guy screaming.

The guy tries a downward slash, but Kuribayashi blocks it with her rifle, pulls out her pistol, and shots the guy several times. However she breaks her bi-pod as a result. Guess Tomita was right about that "breaking things" tendency. Eight more hostiles try to rush her and Fernandes and I cut them down with my SCAR-L and his AA-12.

Me: ANYONE WHO RUNS IS A BANDIT! ANYONE WHO STANDS STILL IS A WELL DISCIPLINED BANDIT!

Fernandes: WELCOME TO THE DEATH FIELDS!!! MOTHERFUCKERS!!!

Shion looks over to us with happy look on her face.

Shion: Bro! Corporal!

Fernandes: Kuribayashi regroup on us!

Shion: Yes, sir!

Shion moves towards us as I see Towson lay down covering fire killing several hostiles.

Towson: IS THAT THE BEST YOU BITCHES GOT?! MAN, YOU GUYS AREN'T SHIT! SO WHAT YOU GOT BITCHES!? WHAT YOU GOT!?!?

The enemy's leader is on the wall trying rally his men.

Bandit Leader: FALLBACK! EVERYONE IN FORMATION! 

The hostiles try forming a shield wall, Shion hurls a grenade and I use the Grenade Launcher on the SCAR-L at them while I continue to fire bursts into their line killing even more of them bullets piercing their shields. One them tries to flank us but Rory and Takahashi cuts him down. Another tries to attack Rory from behind and Towson shoot him with his M9 pistol. Then another on tries to hit him from behind and Rory stabs him right in the chest. After that the six of us are standing back to back with smiles on our faces. Itami and Tomita take up positions near the barricade observing the carnage.

Itami: Jesus Christ. Those six are getting way too into this.

Tomita: What do we do?

Thomas:*driving behind and stopping* Do whatever you can to keep the enemy in front of them!*to Kurokawa* Cover their rear with that Mk 19!*fires at the enemy*

Kurokawa: Got it!

Itami, Thomas, Kurokawa and Tomita are covering our flanks dropping anyone trying to get behind us. An archer prepares to fire at Shion and she didn't see him! Shit no!

Me: Toga, look out!!

The archer fires and I step in front of her and the arrow hits me in my body armor and goes into the left side of my chest.

Me:*in pain* AGH! BASTARD FUCKER!

Shion: Lee!

Towson, Takahashi & Fernandes: Captain Kuribayashi!!

Despite the pain I still raise my assault rifle and kill the archer and Towson, Takahashi and Fernandes ten others next him. Shion rushes to me with a worried look on her face.

Shion: Lee, are you alright!?

Me:*breaks the arrow, but leaves the tip in* NO! But I'm still standing and kicking ass!

The enemy's leaders position gets hit by a missile and he falls from the wall on to Rory's halberd. He tries to pull himself off it and Rory just holds him up.

Bandit Leader:*weakly breathes* I'm not beaten...This battle isn't a real battle...They have no honor...They have no honor Oracle. You know it to be true. Please Oracle!!

Rory slams him on the ground a pulls her halberd out of his chest. The rest of the hostiles are starting to waver at the loss of their commander.

Bandit 1: The Oracle killed him!*gets shot*

Bandit 2: Don't stand there! We still have a bat-*gets shot up*

They attempt to regroup, I then hear a Viper pilot on comms.

Hunter 2-1:*radio*5th Recon. Hunter 2-1 here! You've got ten seconds to clear the area and then we're gonna execute a cleanup of the engagement zone. I say again. We're staring the cleanup of the engagement zone. You need to get the hell out now.

Me: ITAMI GRAB RORY! SHION, ANT, DAV, MINA FALL BACK NOW!

Itami rushes forward to grab Rory and head back to the barricade I start to head towards it myself, but then I stumble because of the pain in my chest. Fernandes and Shion rushes back to help me.

Me: Ow! That went in deeper than I thought it did.

Shion: Maverick, let help you!

Fernandes: We don't leave our Marines behind, sir! Also. That's what every girl that gets pierced by big dick mc in hentai says, sir!*laughs*

Shion slings my left arm over her shoulder and Fernandes slings my right arm over his shoulder and we retreat to the barricade when pilot begins his countdown on comms.

Hunter 2-1:*radio*Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one.

3rd Pov

The AH-1Z Viper's M197 electric 20mm cannon begins slicing through the reaming bandits clustered at the East Gate. As the gunfire and screams begin to stop Pina and Hamilton look on from a nearby balcony in shock at the Attack helicopter's firepower.

Hamilton:*shocked* It's a monster.

Pina: A flying horse of steel.*looks at the A-10* And a iron dragon. How can they even exist? No soldier or army can match such a level of force. A power that can eradicate everything. No pride, no glory...nothing left in its wake.

The JSDF and USMC begin rappelling infantry near the East Gate inside and outside the city to mop up. Take prisoners, aiding the wounded, and helping remove rubble from the area. Maverick was still reeling from the arrow he took. Kurokawa and Shion tend to his wound.

Kurokawa: Hold still, Captain.

Shion: Maverick Lee Kuribayashi, that was very reckless, but thanks for that.

Maverick: Says the one who did a one person "banzai charge" into a company sized force. Ow. But you're welcome I would have done the same for any of my marines.

David:*smiles* Same here. That was awesome of what you did.

Shion smiles and blushes at that.

Towson: Speaking of which that was hardcore shit you did back there! You should've have joined the Corps!

Maverick: Hell yea-*in pain* Ugh! Easy there Doc!

Shion smiles at that.

Kurokawa: Just applying the Quick-Clot. You're sure you don't want any morphine, sir? 

Maverick:*trying look tough* No thanks Kurokawa, I gotta keep my head clear.

Kurokawa just smiles at him. Maverick saw it and blushes.

Itami, Thomas and Tomita approach them.

Itami: I know this is a stupid question. But you gonna be okay man? That look liked it hurt real bad.

Maverick:*smiles* Shit, if Ginza and Afghanistan couldn't kill me. What make you think a some asshole with bow and arrow will?

Mina: Mad Jack would.

They finish up with bandaging Maverick's wound when survivors approach them. 

Militia Man: Thank you! We're all safe thanks to you, the Men and Women in Green.

Maverick: Men and Women in Green? Well, I've heard worse.

Militia man: But I must ask. Who are you and where do you come from?

Tomita: We're from Japan. The Japanese Self-Defense Force.

David: Part-Time Soldiers.

The militia man turns to the Marines.

Militia man: And you four, you all fought like a man possessed by a demon. Are you from "Japan" as well?

Thomas: No sir. We're from the United States. US for short.

Maverick, David, Towson & Thomas: And we're the US Marine Corps.

Maverick: HOME OF THE BUDGET CUTS!!

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Italica Castle/Formal Clan Mansion

Maverick's Pov

The JSDF and USMC are helping clean up the area. Such as policing the dead, clearing rubble, and providing security. Itami, Rakaki, Towson, and I are back at the castle with Sanchez, Tomita, Tuka, Rory, and Lelei negotiating a treaty and I noticed Itami has a black eye.

Towson:*whisper* But wut de ass happened to your eye?

Itami:*whisper* Rory punched me.

Me:*whisper* What the fuck did you do to her?!

Itami:*whisper* I accidentally groped her boob while carrying her away earlier. 

Towson & I:*whisper* Oh, okay.

Pina's subordinate Hamilton reads the conditions of a treaty

Hamilton: To show your appreciation for your assistance here. We'd like to negotiate a fair and equitable compensation. Article two is regarding all envoys and their safe passage, as well as their expenses. And Article three is regarding trade privilege with shopkeepers on Alnus Hill, tariffs are hereby waived. However, we would like to make it clear that we possess the right to the captives. 

Lelei: We understand that human resources are necessary for Italica's recovery. However they want to assurance that the captives are treated well and humanely.

Hamilton:*confused* Treat the captives humanely?

Lelei: Like a friend or a relative, someone familiar not treated as animals or slaves.

Hamilton: Would friends and relatives attack? Taking up arms against a peaceful town completely unprovoked, looting and butchering them?!

UUUUUHHHHHH... yes.

Lelei: This is their requirement.

Hamilton: Hmm. Very well then this will be all regarding the treatment of captives. The rest of the provisions address conditions for withdrawal of your troops.

Lelei: No objections as it's been written.

Hamilton turns to Pina and nods her head.

Hamilton: Then the terms have been agreed upon.

Timeskip

En Route back to Alnus Hill

The JSDF and USMC withdrew its forces from Italica and the people we're grateful for the assistance. The girls got to conduct their business there. The JSDF and USMC took a few captives mostly women including a woman with bird features that Rakaki recognized as the one who jammed our shit. But him and his unit left earlier before us.

And I don't know why Itami picked them out and why did I agreed. Now we're heading back to Alnus. And we are all exhausted. Except these three Demon Dogs(Towson, Fernandes & Takahashi).

Itami:*yawns* Good grief, I'm worn out.

Me:*stretches* You tellin' me, didn't think I'd be going all Rambo and Schwarzenegger back there.

Kurata: You are not kidding, sirs. We heard it was rough out there.

Itami: And I didn't get a whole lot of sleep last night anyway. You can just kill me now.

Takahashi:*chuckles* Is that a serious offer?

Itami:*scared* No...

Then Kurata slams on the brakes and everyone jolts forward and Williams hits his helmet on his M249 stock.

Williams:*pain* OW! Goddammit!

Kurata: We got more smoke on our two, sirs!

Itami: Again? Are you kidding me?

Williams: Good heavens, even Afghanistan had it's quiet moments.

Kurokawa:*to Williams* Really?

Williams: Yeah. And that shit was loud.

The Itami and I look through our binos.

Itami: Is it coming this way? Can't get a clear enough view to tell what it is.

Me: Neither can I.

Williams:*looking though 4x ACOG* Oh, think I got it!

Itami: What do you see, LCpl?

Williams: A tiara!

A what?

Itami: Yeah, sure okay...A tiara?!?

Williams: Looks like a blonde!

Itami & Kurata: There's a blonde!

Williams: WITH FUCKING RINGLETS!!!!

Itami & Kurata: I love fucking ringlets!!

Williams: Confirmed! A blonde with sweet ass ringlets at 2 o'clock!

Me: Jesus Christ! What is with you guys and blondes!?

Kurata: With all due respect sir! Your country is filled with blondes so you take it for granted!

Williams: Not all in our country are blondes. But that's a 100% blonde right there!

Me: None of you never dated one! Anyways she has the type of armor some of those knight were wearing back in Italica. Along with about a platoon size force of cavalry all female riders and their banners have multi-colored roses on them.

Takahashi: Must be same Rose-Order the princess was talked about before.

The women on horseback begin to approach us.

Pops:*on the radio* Look sharp, people.

Me: Hang on Pops, we don't need to start anything here. That means you too, Takahashi. I'm not seeing it. But I know you have your knife out ready to kill.

Takahashi:*quietly* Dang it.

Itami: Don't need to be breaking the treaty on the first day now.

Pops:*on the radio* Wilco.

A white haired women approaches the second vehicle.

White hair: Where are you from?

Tomita: We're coming from Italica and back to home.

Yep.

White hair: Where's "home?"

Tomita: Alnus Hill.

The Marines & I:

White hair:*draws sword* What do you mean Alnus Hill?

The rest of the knights ready their weapons.

Itami: Remember what Mav said! No shooting, okay?

The blonde knight dismounts and grabs Tomita and Menendez by their collars.

Blonde: It's you! You're one of them!

Itami and I get out of the vehicle to intervene and the women turns to us.

Itami: Whoa, hang on. Hey there...our guys didn't just offend now, did they?

Me: Ma'am, let's not do anything reckless. Just calm down okay.

Blonde knight hits me right in my wound.

Blonde: Silence!!

Me:*in pain* AW!! FUCK ME!!

Everyone starts raising their weapons and Hill in the LAV-25 points the autocannon at them.

Pops & Kuwabara: No! Don't shoot!

Itami: Wait! No Don't! Get outta here!

Fernandes:*pissed* Dammit all! Everyone! Go to the Checkpoint and get the fuck going now!

The vehicles all rev up and retreat leaving me and Itami at the mercy of the knights.

Shino:*calling out* ONII-CHAN!!!

As much as I wanted to pull out my side arm and shoot that blonde bitch. We were outnumbered, so I along with Itami reluctantly surrender.  

Itami: So uh...How ya doin? Good I hope.

You know what?

Me: Yōji.

Itami: Yeah Mav-*gets hit with Mav's helmet*

3rd Pov

Maverick:

(2:46)

The rest of the knights seeing the ass whoopin:

Panache:*smiles* Ha, bitch.

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Italica Castle, Italica

Maverick's Pov

After one of us ordered 5th Recon to retreat Itami and I were taken prisoner by Pina's knights. They dragged us back to Italica tied to their horses. They also stripped us our gear, my wound is hurting like like shit with some bleeding and I'm still pissed off. Also along the way they didn't want to rough up Itami as I already did that.

It was pretty badly.

We're both leaning against the wall with Hamilton seeing us and Pina berating her subordinates.

Pina: WHAT THE HELL HAVE YOU DONE?!

She throws a goblet at the blondie's head who I learned her name was Bozes. Seriously, are all the Rose-Order of Knights named after drinks? God, I hope I don't meet one named after Martini or Tequila. But Vodka, maybe...

Pina:*heavy breathing* You idiots!

Bozes falls to her knees with her now head bleeding.

Now look who's bleeding now!

And the white haired one named Panache puts a cloth over her wound.

Panache: Your Majesty! What have we done to make you this angry?

Go ahead Princess Cocktail! Tell 'em!

Pina: Don't you all get it?

Hamilton: Master Itami, Master Kuribayashi! Are you both alright? 

Me: Maybe, see to him first.

Itami reeling from the pain keels over. Maybe I whooped his ass too hard.

Several maids enter and take Itami away leaving me alone with Pina and one of her officers an older man named Grey. Pina is sitting in a chair face palming.

Pina: We have broken the treaty one the very first day.

Grey: They can use this as a reason to restart the war. I wouldn't put it past your father to do that. But we don't know what these "Japanese" and "Americans" would do the same thing.

Well, maybe in different time period where it was Imperial Japan they will actually. But here I don't see that happening.

Now the US...........Oh God. I left those three in charge. They may be rank Corporals, but they were and somewhat on paper still 1Lt.

Grey: Wait? Why is he still here?

Me: Great question, also why am I still tied up here?

Pina: Of course, Grey untie him please.

Grey unties me and I rub my wrist afterwords.

Me: Thank you for that, Grey.

Grey: Your welcome. At the very least Bozes and Panache didn't go overboard and kill them both immediately.

After weighing their options on how to respond, Grey is dismissed leaving me with Pina. I get up and sit in a chair in front of Pina.

Pina: Please forgive my subordinates for your treatment.

Me: It's fine, I had worse. And they didn't know about the treaty. Though the blonde one "Bozes" she punched me pretty hard in my arrow wound.

Pina: Oh, do you need it looked at?

Me: Probably. So back to my original question, why am I still here?

Pina: I was hoping you and I could talk.

God I hope it's not a "Need a man to marry" talk.

Me: What do you want to talk about Princess?

Pina: I never quite got your name yet.

Me: Really? Okay. It's Captain Maverick L. Kuribayashi, ma'am.

Pina: Captain "Kuribayashi", are you Japanese or American?

Me: No ma'am, I'm both. I'm an American and Japanese or Japanese-American. And my home country is the United States of America or USA for short. And as you can see and tell, USA is an ally of Japan.

I explain myself to her without going into too much detail.

Pina: So you're a "Marine" shouldn't you be at sea with your Navy?

Me: Close. But we fight our country's battles in the air, on land, and  at sea. We proudly bear the title of United States Marine Corps, ma'am.

Author's Note: 🎶From the Halls of Montezuma🎶

🎶To the shores of Tripoli;🎶

🎶We fight our country's battles🎶

🎶In the air, on land, and sea;🎶

🎶First to fight for right and freedom🎶

🎶And to keep our honor clean;🎶

🎶We are proud to claim the title🎶

🎶Of United States Marine.🎶

Pina: Be honest with me do you think Japan or the USA will attack after this incident?

Me: Princess, let the assure you right here that Japan is not interested in conquest. Believe me, if they were they would have done it already you've seen it first hand. Now the USA on the other hand. All I can say is that the country was already upset. And since I'm still alive and not someone's slave. All I can say is don't REALLY piss off the United States further then it already is.

Me: Or someone said a long time ago when they pissed off the United States, "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve." And that was said after three days later after a attack.

Pina looks away with sad look on her face.

Me: Was this your first time leading a real battle?

Pina: Yes, how did you know?

Me: I've been there myself as well. I also understand you nearly lost one your knights when the East Gate was about to be overrun. Hope he's recovering well.

Pina: Yes, I hope so too. Norma Co Igloo was almost killed when the bandits took the wall. Thankfully, one of your Marines saved him.

Me: You should thank Petty Officer Third Class Redrick for saving him. And he's technically not a Marine, but Navy. And I know how much it hurts to lose people under your command.

Pina: Thank you, but is there anyway can you and Itami can forgive this incident?

Me: Well, you can start by giv-*painful groans*

My wound started flaring up really bad that almost fallen off my chair but Pina catches me before I kiss the ground.

Pina: Captain Kuribayashi! What's wrong?! Say something!

Me: Aw man. I'm no doctor, but I must of lost a few more pints than I thought.*about to blackout* I think I REALLY need to get medical attention.

Pina looks at her right hand to see my blood on it and I begin to blackout.

Pina: SOMEONE GET IN HERE NOW!!

As I begin to blackout. I saw a lady a woman with long white hair, white dress and red eyes smirking at me. I don't know why, but I glare at her and blackout.

Hardy's Pov

I stare at the Marine glaring at me then passing out. I was thinking of taking his soul with me.......

Till I looked at what's protecting his soul.....

Me:*in fear* It's like the one that Towson guy had behind him. Only smaller.

Behind and on top of the Marine was a large.......Red Eye.......Beast..

Now that I think about it. It's the same one that every Marine here has expect those three.

The Beast growls at me as if-

The Beast:*deep voice that will scare the Devil*  Keep. Away. From. His soul.

In a panic. I hurriedly leave and away from the Marine and The Beast.

What did I open up to this world? Because the Saderan Empire will not be prepare for these monsters.

.

.

.

.

.

Gooooood~

Timeskip

Italica Castle/Formal Clan Mansion/Guest Bedroom

Maverick's Pov

I awaken to find myself in a guest bedroom with Itami in a bed to my left.

Thank God we're in separate beds.

We both have have bandages wrapped around our chests. As well as four maid surrounding my bed. The maids have mixed features including one with snakes in her hair, one with rabbit ears, and one with cat ears with the expectation of one human.

So a Medusa, Warrior Bunny and a Neko.

Human Maid: Are you awake Master Kuribayashi?

Itami: Hey Mav, you okay man? When they brought you in here looked pretty pale.

Me: Yeah, guess I lost more blood than I thought. And sorry about....before. I was pretty mad.

Itami: It's alright. But do all Kuribayashis have bad tempers?

Me:.......My half-sister Nanami is the only one.

Itami: Oh...

The Neko maid begins pouring water into two cups.

Itami: Ehh! Those are cat ears! 

Now I'm glad Kurata ain't here.

Cat Maid: Hmmm? Is something wrong?

Me: Dude, don't you start. I can only imagine how Kurata would react if he was here.

An older woman also dressed as a maid enters the room, I can assume she's head maid.

Head Maid: There's no need to worry. We've been ordered by the Princess to give you both the best service possible. All you have to is ask one of us and we will take care of you. Also regarding the Knights who mistreated you, they've been severely reprimanded. Your actions have given this town a new life and for this we are eternally grateful, My Lords. 

They all bow to us in gratitude.

"My Lords"? Lord Maverick L. Kuribayashi. Or Lord Kuribayashi. Or Lord Maverick. I can't pick which.

Itami: Ohh...y'know don't mention it.

Me: We were just doing our job ma'am. And not to be rude, but you are?

Kaine: I am Kaine head maid of the Formal Family and to assault the saviors of Italica in the way they did is unforgivable. As such, if you wish to reduce this town to rubble I will assist you in doing so. They certainly deserve it. But please...I ask that you spare our mistress the Countess. Please don't make her part of your retribution.

Itami: It's okay. We'd never do something like that.

Past Japan would.

Me: Yeah, no one else needs to die today.

Smith, I hope your watching those three well.

Kaine: Thank you both for your generosity. It's definitely appreciated.

Me: Your welcome, ma'am.

Kaine: These four are your personal nurses, feel free to ask them for anything while you're recovering.

The four maids bow to us.

Maids: Count on us Masters. We're more than happy to serve you.

Kaine: As I said, Just ask them for anything you need. 

Maybe a glass of orange juice.

With two shots of tequila.

The Warrior Bunny maid rabbit ears suddenly crop up and gasps. Knowing that reaction, that's not good.

Kaine: What's happening?

Me: I could say the same thing.

Warrior Bunny Maid: Someone's at the backdoor...It sounds like they're trying to force their way in. No wait. They did force their way in.

Kaine: More than likely it's Master Itami and Kuribayashi's people. Show them the way in and bring them here. If it's someone else, then you know what to do.

Neko Maid: Yes, M'yam

The Neko and Warrior Bunny maids leave the room.

Itami: 'Scuse me..can they really-

Kaine: Can they handle themselves? Mamina's a voglia Warrior Bunny and Persia is a very adept cat-person. Aurea is a medusa and Momu is human. 

Me: That's interesting is there any chance either I or most likely, a man name Towson could talk to them individually?

Kaine: Of course, whatever you wish. The late head of the family was very open-minded, and actively made a point of employing species of all varieties. You could far as to say it was an "interest" of his.

Me: It was his interest?*shit eating grin* Hey Yōji, I think you and the late head would have been good friends.

Itami: Oh fuck you, Maverick!

Aurea: Itami you have very similar smell to the late Master.

Pffts!!! Ha!

Momu: Hey!*hits Aurea on the head* You can't just say things like that to our guest, okay!

Aurea: Okay.

Kaine: Medusas use their hair to drain the life from their adversaries. Aurea knows better but you'll still have to watch yourselves.

Interesting, in our literature Medusa turns people to stone by making eye contact.

Itami: So Mav, whatcha you think?

Me: Well, we've made contact with what did you call them.....*snaps finger* "Demi-Humans" right? It almost as unbelievable and unimaginable like your Rangers and Special Forces Certification.

Itami: Well, you saw the certificate on my wall back in Japan.

Me: Oh my god! It would crush Shino if she found out you were in Special Forces.

Itami: What that's supposed to mean? Speaking of which, I think Kuribayashi has a crush on Fernandes, Mav. And Kurokawa might have a small crush on you.

Me: Wha... what makes you say that? Both I mean.

Itami: Oh come on! I saw the way she looked at you when was patching you up after the battle. And also,*grins* before we left Alnus Kuribayashi came back from Fernandes quarters with her face all red and a smile must have seen something she liked.

Me: Well...Kurokawa did see me without a shirt technically, but I didn't think much about it at the time. And Fernandes and Shion? I can let that shit slide as long as he treats her right and not hurt her feelings.

My face gets a little red at the thought of Kurokawa.

Itami: Well?

Me: Well what, motherfucker?! 

Itami: Well, what do ya think of her?

Me: I think Mari she's-

Kurata: Lieutenant!

Thomas: Captain!

Shino: Big Brother!

We look over to see 5th Recon as well as Lelei, Tuka, and Rory all standing in the the room the maids had let them.

Itami:*whispers* This conversation isn't over.

Me:*whisper* Well it is now so shut the hell up!

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Italica Castle Living Room, Italica

3rd Pov

Bozes and Panache stand before Pina discussing their next move.

Pina: Bozes...Panache...You have attacked officers of the Japan Self Defense Force and United States Marine Corps. You treated Master Itami and Kuribayashi in a less than hospitable way and endangered their lives. This is a violation of our treaty. These people possess the power to fight off a Flame Dragon. So imagine what would happen if they decided to declare war, wouldn't be good I assure you. The Empire would fall!

Bozes & Panache: Yes, Your Majesty.

Pina: It is on both of you to make them forget this ever happened. Kuribayashi was about offer a suggestion to me but collapsed. So you're both going to have to offer those two men your bodies.

Bozes and Panache shiver at the thought.

Pina: I know, it's degrading. But you will do whatever it takes to make those two happy.

Bozes and Panache both look at each other.

Bozes: We are daughters of nobility, Your Majesty. 

Panache: And we understand what it takes to protect the realm.

Bozes: We will do what must be done.

Meanwhile

Italica Castle  Guest Room,  Italica

Maverick's Pov

5th Recon got inside the city and into the mansion, apparently Tuka used her magic to put the wall sentries to sleep and the maids let them into the mansion.

And nearly got killed by Takahashi as she managed to sneak up on them. But Towson and Fernandes held her back before she could spill blood.

The unit rest their weapons on the ground, without the magazine in and the safety on and start mingling. And just as I predicted Kurata absolutely loses his shit over Persia. Lucky, Thomas kept a close eye on him.

Kurata: Uh... ma'am! Corporal Takedo Kurata repor-*gets elbowed by Thomas* milady! I am Twenty-one years old and single! My hobbies are anime and dou-*gets elbowed by Thomas* I mean! It's a pleasure to meet you!*bows*

Thomas:*facepalms* Oh my Lord.....

Persia just giggles at that.

Thomas: I'll be damn.

Shino is by my side and Mamina comments the way we handled ourselves during the battle. Kurokawa also checks on my condition.

Mamina: The way you both and those three fought those bandits was astounding! I really mean it! I totally saw everything!

Takahashi: Nah...It wasn't that great! I had my fare share of fights.

Mamina: You bit a guy's head off.

Kurokawa: She what?

Me: Ignore her for your safety and mental health. Shino, if you had done that same hardcore bad ass shit you pulled back there and you were in the Marine Corps! I would recommended you for the Medal of Honor!

Shino: Says the guy who mowed them down with a SCAR-L GL! Anyway, how's your wound, bro?

Me: It would feel better if you kissed it.*chuckles*

Shino: Bite me.

Me: But it's kinda tender didn't help getting punched there either probably going to be bruised by tomorrow.

Kurokawa: Would feel better if I kissed it.

I blushed and Shino just laughs. Kurokawa rubs my wound with her hand as I look at her face she has a smile and she's clearly blushing. Looks like Itami was right she does have a crush on me and I don't know how to deal with this.

Itami: Well now...looks like we're comfortable.

Tomita: I don't think we're going to be calling for a dust-off anytime soon.

Pops & Kuwahara: Agreed.

Towson: Guess we'll take the night off.

Itami: Yeah, let's just call tonight a cultural interchange.

Me: By the way. Who was first-

Shino:*deadpans* Sir. It took all of us to hold and calm down those three. But it took a Sanchez and the JLTV to hold down Takahashi.

Itami and I:

Me: Good Lord...

Meanwhile

Italica Castle Outside the  Guest Room,  Italica

3rd Pov

Bozes and Panache are wearing revealing lingerie stealing themselves for what they're about to do but they remember what Pina told them and they enter the room.

They are dumbstruck at what they find. They see everyone talking, laughing, and having fun completely ignoring them. Sasagawa even take a picture with his camera.

Sasagawa: Everyone, say cheese!

5th Deep Recon and the Maids: Cheese!/Cheese./Chīzu!/¡Queso!

Tomita and Williams explains to how they got in.

Itami: Oh wow and they let you in. It's kind of of hilarious you Tow.*laughs*

Maverick: It's not that funny Itami. Takahashi nearly killed them.

Itmai: Oh yeah....

Bozes and Panache are both red in the face and pissed off that they're being ignored in such a way. Some of the marines actually ignored them on propose.

Bozes: I don't believe this.

Panache: The nerve of these men, these pigs have no idea what it took to lower ourselves!

Panache storms over to Maverick and Bozes storms over to Itami. Panache raises her hand and comes down to slap him but Maverick catches it with quick reflexes.

Panache: What?!

Maverick: Fool me once, I'm mad. Fool me twice, How could you? Fool me three times, I AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIN'T HAVIN DAT SHIT!!!!!!!!!!

But Itami is caught completely unprepared and Bozes gives really hard bitch smack to the left side of his face.

Itami: AHH!!!

Anthony and David wheeze in laughter.

The next Morning

Italica Castle Living Room, Italica

Maverick's Pov

We're all standing before Pina and she notices the huge pink mark on Itami's face and most of us are trying to not break out into laughter.

Pina: Alright, what's wrong with his face?!

Bozes and Panache hangs her head in shame.

Bozes: That would be my doing Your Majesty.

Panache: I attempted the same but was blocked with lightning quick reflexes by Master Kuribayashi. And was nearly kicked in my rear by his sister.

Shino: Don't make me break my foot off in yo ass!

Me: Shh...The ass kickin' can wait.

Pina: Arghh! Oh dear god! How do I explain this?!

Hill: Well, Your Majesty. If it's all the same to you we'd like to take our leave now. And you just do whatever need to do.

Pina: This isn't good! Uh, the sun's almost up! Why don't we sit down for breakfast we can talk it out. Get to know each other better! 

Nishina: We appreciate the offer, Milady. The thing is our government has called the Lieutenant and Captain back home to report to some of our lawmakers.

Me: Excuse me, but nani the fuck?

Itami: Yeah, nani the fuck?

Kurata: The both of you have called in as sworn witnesses. Even American officials are coming, sir.

Oh shit! I've never even testified before to Congress and now I'm to testify before the Japanese National Diet and probably a few Congress members!! Yeah no pressure!! I can handle it!

Lelei: Itami and Kuribayashi are returning to Japan to testify to their Senate.

Pina has a terrified look on her face

Pina: To their Senate!

Pina's Pov

The Japanese have a senate, so that means depending on what they tell them. They could have their military do something in retaliation or Kuribayashi's country could be become fully really committed!

Maverick's Pov

We were about to leave when Pina stops us.

Pina: Wait! I would like to accompany you to Alnus Hill!

Itami & I: What?

The Marines: What?

The JSDF: Nani?

Pina: I must speak with your superiors and apologize to them for violating the treaty. Is that possible?

Itami: Come with us?!

Fuck my life.

Timeskip

Outside Italica Castle, Italica

We're about to depart for Alnus when I look around to see all the maids to see us off. Pina and Bozes are accompanying us in more "formal" attire. I personally think they look damn ridiculous. Because.....

Damn....

But who am I to judge on "formal" attire. Kurata waves goodbye to Perisa. I'll let him have his moment.

Kurata: Take it easy Persia! I'll be back soon!

Persia:*waves back* I'll be waiting for you, Kurata!

Kurata: I love you!

Fernandes:*smacks Kurata on the back of his head* Shut hell up and drive Kurata!

Itami: So I guess the Princess is really coming with us, isn't she?

Towson: Sir, a message from the Major. He said we can bring them in and treat them with all do courtesy.

Itami: Yeah, yeah just let him know what our ETA is will ya? MOVE OUT!

Me: All Victors we're Oscar Mike!

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

En route to Liberty-Prime Base

Maverick's Pov

While en route to Liberty-Prime Base I can see that Pina and Bozes are very uneasy about being in a self propelled moving vehicle as we come up to the base of the hill.

Bozes: Princess, I can see it!

Pina: You mean we're already there, that was fast.

Williams:*smug* Surprise, Princess Cocktail~

As we approach the hill a AH-1S Cobra and AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters does a flyby over us. Pina looks on see Sgt. Kesler, First Lieutenant Yamaguchi and the rest of 7th Deep Recon infantry doing target practice at a range. Their CO Edward Castle was a Captain but got promoted to Major after saving a Villager and Slaying a Dragon. Lucky bastard.

Then Captain Elijah Reynolds, Corporal Yuki "Snow" Urai and the rest of 8th Deep Recon were doing clearing drills. 

Pina: What are those staffs? Is every soldier and marine in this army a Wizard?

What da fuq she say? Army?

Lelei: No Ma'am. They're not using any magic. Um...those are weapons they are called "assault rifles."

Pina: Those are weapons?!

Towson: Yes.

Lelei: This is how they work. A small hint of fire is ignited within the cylinder forcing a small stones at high speeds.

Takahashi: In other words, gun go bang, bang and kill, kill.

Pina: What about Kuribayashi's people, the American Marines?

Lelei: They use similar weapons but are built differently.

I smile and give Lelei a thumbs up for remembering that and she smiles back.

Lelei: Also um...how did you put it Towson?

Towson: Every Marine is first and foremost a Rifleman. Even the cooks, janitors and engineers in the Marine Corps know how to kill. And by the way. We. Are. Not. The Army. We're the Marine Corps. Get it right before you piss someone off.

"This is my rifle, there are many like it but this one is mine. Without me, my rifle is nothing. Without my rifle, I am nothing..." Sometimes I miss basic.

Pina: They don't have to be in the proximity of their enemy to take them out.

500 yards is good practice. For us. Not you.

Lelei: It's the reason the Imperial Army fell.

Takahashi: そうだ、少女を殺せ！(Yes, slay girl!)

Pina look over toward the other window to see Type 74 Tanks along with the Cobras and Vipers conducting a combined arms drills. 

Wait a damn minute? Is that?

Me: HOLY SHIT?!

Itami: What?

Me:*pointing* M1 Abrams!

I can tell that everyone in 5th Recon looked to see....

USMC M1A1 Abrams

....USMC M1A1 Abrams.

I know all the marines are smiling now.

Fernandes: Looks like big meats back on the menu!

Pina: First their flying steel and now steel elephants.

Depleted uranium for the Abrams and explosive Redbull going Mach 'Fuck you and anything near you' for the A-10. If they brought the Douglas A-1 Skyraider here-oh wait that's navy's plane.

Pina: They really are creatures from another world. Why have come here? What do they want from us?

ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?! You attack their country without warning or provocation! What did you think was gonna happen you dumb redhead bitch?!

Lelei: The Empire stepped on the Griffon's tail.

At least you didn't fully awaken the Sleeping Giant. I mean Jesus, imagine if the Gate had appeared in New York City or Washington DC! If they did. They better start to pray to the Devil. Because God won't help them when the Marines Corps kicks in on full-time.

Bozes: Mind your mouth, girl. Do not speak so casually when The Empire is on the verge of collapse.

Towson gives Bozes a glare shutting her up.

Lelei: My tribe roams where it pleases, Knight. We have never answered to The Empire.

Towson, Fernandes and I give Lelei a nod at her sense of independence.

Pina: I suppose you can rule a nation by force. But you can't control what they think no matter how hard you try. 

Timeskip

Division HQ Liberty-Prime Base

We arrive at the HQ to to attend briefings regarding our testimonies in Tokyo. Pina tries to pull us aside.

Pina: Lieutenant Itami and Captain Kuribayashi, since we are all here could I have a moment to speak to the both of you.

Itami: Uhhh...sorry, no...I really have to attend a few briefings involving about all this meeting-with-the-government stuff. 

Me: I have to do the same and make another report to First Lieutenant Lockwood about the logistics and show this new Private First Class named Raymond Davis.

Itami quickly run off:

Itami: SFC. Kuribayashi and LCpl. Williams should be able help you I'm sure!

Me: HEY WAIT UP!

Pina: Wait!

She grabs my jacket.

Pina: What were you going to tell me before you collapsed back in Italica, Kuribayashi!

Me: Oh yeah that. Find a way to end this conflict peacefully. And don't worry about what happened, I'll report it as a miscommunication.

I take my leave and follow after Itami.

Man. This will be hectic.

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Outside the GATE Liberty-Prime Base

Maverick's Pov

I finished the briefings with the brass and my next report to Baker regarding both the Battle of Italica and my brief POW experience from the previous day. I made sure to to clarify that the Knights that captured Itami and I hadn't been informed about the treaty.

I also left out me beatin' the shit out of Itami in my report. And I'm 100% sure Itami did the same.

If he didn't. He better sleep with one eye open.

We're heading back to Tokyo and give our testimony at the Diet and a few US Congress members. From what the brass told us we are to testify regarding the dragon attack. Apparently it's caused a bit of a media storm; Tuka, Rory, and Lelei are also coming with us to give testimony. I walk up to the Gate and see Itami, Tomita, Kurokawa, Takahashi and Shino are all waiting in their Dress Greens and I arrive wearing my Service Alphas.

Author Note: Ignore the General rank and imagine the Captain Rank.

I also saw Towson and Fernandes in their Service As as well.

Shino: Oh!*blushes* You look handsome in that uniform Cpl. Fernandes.

Kurokawa:*blushes* I could say the same for you Captain.

Fernandes:*smirks* Thank you, Kuribayashi.

Me: Um...Thank you, Kurokawa. You also look fabulous in your Dress Greens.

I saw Towson and Tomtia raise a eyebrow at me, Shino smug look and Kurokawa blush increasing. Oh lord, someone change the subject before I say something embarrassing like I did at my Homecoming Dance in High School! Fuck you again, Becky!

Takahashi: You clean up nice sir.

My savior! The Tiny Psycho!

Me: Yeah, amazing what a hot shower and a shave will do for ya.

Tomita: I thought you three were going to wear that other US Marine uniform, sir.

Me: Oh, you mean the Dress Blues. Those are for more formal occasions, this is like a business suit.

Towson: Formal occasions like weddings, dances...

Takahashi: Funerals and murders.

Itami, Tomita, Kurokawa, Shino and I:*slowly looking at Takahashi*

Shino and I:*deadpan* Why did you say that like it was a completely normal sentence?

Takahashi just smiles.

Kurokawa: Sometimes I wonder why America sent you in the JSDF, but a large part of me doesn't want to know or too afraid to know.

A black car approaches us and and Yanagida emerges from the drivers side. Right side of the car mind you.

Yanagida: I do apologize, the paper work took awhile but we're done.

He then opens the rear passenger door, and Pina and Bozes emerge from the car much to our surprise and somewhat annoyance.

Yanagida: They'll be flying under the radar, if you get my meaning Lieutenant and Captain. Keep an eye on them for us.

Itami: Are we just showing up unannounced?

Yanadida: People know they're already going to be there.

He hands me an envelope.

Yanadida: This is directly from both ours and the American Generals. Says to treat them with all due courtesy. Treat them as any foreign ambassador.

Everyone and I looks at Takahashi.

Takahashi: What? I won't murder them in their sleep. 

Pina: She scares me.

Shino: She scares everyone.*looks at Towson and Fernandes* Almost everyone.

Great, now we're also on VIP protection detail. Although, us Marines should be used to that. As we're the ones that protect all US embassies.

Timeskip

Ginza Tokyo, Japan

After we crossed the Gate and arrived back in Tokyo the Special Region people are fascinated by the skyscrapers.

Bozes: These towers...they're so...tall.

You should see the ones in different countries.

Pina: Look at that...there's people inside.

Surprisingly they still work near this GATE.

Lelei: Because of the limited lands they've upwards.

Maybe.

Rory: I suppose that means the country is relatively small.

It is.

Lelei: Or they simply have a large population.

Not really.

Pina: One thing's for sure...We've discovered a country where they make miracles like this every day...and our Empire has started a war against one of them.

Lelei: Towson, is America like this?

Towson: Depends on where you go. America is a vast and large country with different landscapes and climates. I mostly grew up in close to the country's capital, I occasionally went into the city just for legal stuff.

LeleI: I would like to visit your country someday, Towson.

Towson:*headpats her* Some other time Lelei. Just not now.

Later where at a Immigration and Customs checkpoint Itami is filling out paperwork.

Because I threat-ordered him to.

Rory has her Halberd wrapped up not show any hostility with the civilians and despite wearing a sweater Tuka shivers because the cold though it is December. And almost Christmas.

Tuka:*shivers* Oh my, it's cold out here.

Shino: Yeah, I told you it was gonna be.

Itami: Are you okay? I can get you a coat.

I take off my coat and wrap around her.

Me: Don't be stubborn now. We don't want you getting sick Tuka.

Tuka: Oh thank you Mav it's really warm.

I can see Shino and Mari smile at my selflessness. When someone approaches.

???: Well, there they are.

???:*in English* About time.

I look over to see an older looking man in a trench coat and two other men in business suits. And a American.

Komakado: Komakado from the National Defense Intelligence Headquarters.

Morris: Graham Morris, Head of the CIA Far East Division. And we're here to make sure you get to your destination in one piece.

Itami:*to Komakado* So you're Public Security?

Me: Like the Diplomatic Security Service?

Komakado:*laughs* You're so perceptive! No wonder you're both such big heroes.

Itami: It wasn't really anything.

Komakado: Well not everyone agrees do they? I did a little reading on you.

He pulls out a notebook and reads.

Komakado: You were second to last in the course for basic officer. Lucky for you one of your colleagues was injured and dropped out. It was said here they wanted to keep you as a Sub-Lieutenant for a while. But that your commander got so frustrated he sent you to Ranger School but somehow you managed to pass. Then here we go...transferred to Narashino...Where you superiors were content to leave you at 2nd Lieutenant, but then there was the famous Ginza Incident. Where you received a meritorious promotion in spite of yourself.

He closes the book.

Itami: Give the man a gold star.

Komakado:*laughs* "Underachiever"..."juvenile"...and those're just the highlights. A Ranger maybe, but why the Special Forces? 

Upon hearing this Shino starts freaking out. Called it.

Itami: OK. You get two gold stars. Okay, hear me out. You kick one lazy ant out of an army, another one sloughs off to take it's place. It's just those things in nature.

Komakado: You're saying the JSDF needs lazy soldiers? 

Itami: All I know is I tried telling the Colonel that when he was chewing my ass.

Morris: And you wound up with even more responsibility.

Itami: I guess my logic got all twisted around.

Morris: Who knows maybe it's just better not to get anything done.

Shino:*maniacal laughter* No! That's a lie! Tell me it's not a lie! This idiot's a Ranger but he's in Special Forces too!

Me: It's not a lie sadly. But it's okay. I didn't believe it either but I saw his certification.

Fernandes puts a hand on Shino's shoulder to calm her down.

Morris: Oh...I almost forgot about our US Marine Captain here.*pulls up a tablet* The US Department of Defense handed me your file.

Oh God.

Morris: Hmm let's see quite the opposite of Lieutenant Itami...Graduated top ten in your class in Quantico, Virginia. Deployed to Afghanistan with the 1st Marine Division. Saw heavy action in during the Evacuation of Afghanistan, lead your entire platoon and Afghan civilians out of hail of fire, and nearly got your head taken off by a sniper. Even though you were mostly a Logistics Officer.

Me: I made the right calls and we achieved our objectives with minimal casualties.

Morris: And so modest as well...Later you applied yourself to Marine Reconnaissance/MARSOC once again finish in the top ten. Stationed here in Okinawa with the 3rd Recon Battalion and deployed to Syria. Your unit hit an IED and was ambushed by a large enemy force but managed to rally your unit a lead a counter attack surprised you weren't promoted for that.

Me:*sighs* My company commander had worked in Logistics too, but never saw combat. I told him were walking into an ambush after taking some pot shots from rebels. But he had us charge right at it anyway. When our lead vehicle hit the IED and they ambushed us. I managed to rally everyone pushed the enemy back without air support...I almost lost four marines that day, the Captain tried to pin the whole thing on me. I wanted to punch his lights out for his incompetence, but drone footage caught everything. Bastard's now demoted to a Corporal. And I can sleep easy at night knowing what I did was right.

My fist shakes in anger thinking about that day, until Kurokawa holds my fist as I quickly calm down.

Me:*to Kurokawa* Thanks.

Kurokawa just sends a quick smile.

Morris: But then Ginza happened that put you back in the spotlight and got you promoted.

Shino: No way! He's far more qualified than that jackass!

Me: Love you too, lil sis.

Tomtia: What about Towson, Fernandes and Takahashi.

Morris: Mostly their combat records are blank.

Pina: Blank?

Morris: I mean...Both MARSOC and Delta Force did so when these three killed nearly over 3,000 enemies within 72 hours. It's the reason why they got demoted and kicked out till they calm down. For Takahashi. She was covered in so much blood that reinforcements thought she was a zombie.

3rd Pov

Everyone was silent.

Takahashi: Should I also take this off?

Next thing she did was pull out a necklace.

The necklace was eyeballs.

Rory:*scared and hiding behind Maverick* She scares me.

Takahashi: You should see what my mother did. And she scares me.

That made everyone freeze in fear.

Bozes:*scared* Does this world have apostles!?

Anthony: I mean. I sacred Hardy away.

Pina, Tuka and Bozes:*shocked* YOU WHAT?!?!

Anthony: Yeah.

David: Wait, what does she look like?

Anthony: A woman with long white hair, white dress and red eyes.

David: Oh...I think nearly choked her out by accident when she snuck up behind me. We both apologize as she disappeared. What is she? A Goddess?

Anthony: The Goddess of the Underworld.

David: Oh okay.

Everyone jaw-dropped and stood still for the two said like it was a completely normal sentence.

Pina:*terrified* The Empire really made a grave mistake.

Bozes:*terrified* I'm more terrified of Takahashi's mother.

Rory:*terrified* I'm more terrified of Fernandes.

Tuka:*terrified* I'm more terrified of seeing them angry.

Komakado:*to Morris whispering* They don't need to about the Takahashi Clan. It'll give them nightmares.

Morris:*whispering* Yeah. A Clan of female warrior psychopaths and that lose their husbands by  untimely accidents.

Komakado:*whispering* Poor guys. And poor Takahashis.

Morris:*whispering* Weird how they very protective of their husbands, but the second they turn their back. The husband gets killed or dies by something.

Komakado:*whispering* Poor guys.

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Maverick's Pov

National Diet Building, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

After taking the "guests" to get some lunch and got Tuka a women's business suit.

We arrived at the National Diet Building. Itami, Tuka, Rory, Lelei, David, Mina, Anthony, and I got off the bus. While Tomita, Kuribayashi, Kurokawa, Pina, and Bozes stayed on.

Pina: Are we not getting off here, Sergeant?

Tomita: Technically, 'we' are not doing anything, Princess...you're not here...in fact I don't even know who you are.

Timeskip

National Diet Building Committee Room, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

The eight of us entered the Committee Room and took our seats with several Japanese government officials, representatives, and press are there.

I even took notice of a few American, Russian, Chinese, Korean and Filipino government officials, representatives, and two American congressmen.

I'm not showing it, but I am nervous as hell right now. Feels like the whole world is watching, which it probably is. And probably the troops in the Special Region are watching too. And having these guys here is adding lighter fluid to napalm.

Chairman: Ladies and gentlemen, we will now begin questioning the witnesses.

A female representative named Mizuki Kōhara begins the questioning. From what Shino and Kuwahara said about this woman...

She's a total bitch.

Kōhara: I'm going to be as straightforward as possible... The Self Defense Force and the American Marines gave us reports regarding an incident with a "dragon..." a creature which attacked you. As well as caused the deaths of one hundred and fifty civilians.

David, Mina and Anthony gave Itami and I a side eye as if saying, "And you didn't tell us?"

Chairman: First Lieutenant, Itami Yōji .

Itami gets up from his chair and goes to the podium.

Itami: Yeah...well uh...It was a dragon; it was big and scary.

Kōhara: And what do you mean by that Lieutenant? People are dead, don't you think you, Captain Kuribayashi, the Self Defense Force and the Marines could have done more to protect them?!

David:*quietly* This lady pisses me off.

Mina:*quietly* You're not the only one.

Itami: I certainly have regrets that so many people died that day ma'am...However... We didn't really have any way to stop it.

Kōhara: So then...are you telling me that the Self Defense Force and the Marine Corps is incapable?

Okay. I'm not nervous anymore. Just pissed off.

Itami: No... I'm saying we didn't have the firepower. I mean the machine guns we had available to us didn't help much Senator. Neither the .30cal nor .50cal. Heck, even the Mk 19 and 25mm from the LAV-25 did any damage to it. We needed stuff like railguns and laser cannons and graviton bombs.

Me: Or even a MOAB.

Itami: That too.

A Japanese representative interjects.

Representative: Ah...Mrs. Kōhara. The Self Defense Force and Marine Corps brought back samples for examinations. They are pretty tough; they have scales stronger than tungsten sheets. And they actually breathe fire. It's almost as if they're some sort of flying tank. They were faced with such a creature and you're telling them not to expect casualties? That's kind of an unrealistic expectation, don't you think?

Kōhara: Very well then. Now...I'd like to call Captain Kuribayashi Maverick to take the stand.

Me:*quietly* Oh fuck...

Anthony:*quietly* Don't fuck up.

Me:*quietly* I'll try not to.

Ah shit, here we go. Please don't let me fuck this shit up.

Chairman: Captain Kuribayashi.

I sighed one last time and approach the podium.

Kōhara: Captain, how would you describe the Self Defense Force and your fellow Marines conduct in the Special Region?

Me:*clears his throat* First of all, I would like to thank you for allowing me and the others with us to testify before your legislative body as a sign of solidarity between our two nations. And to answer your question ma'am, your Self Defense Force and my fellow US Marines has conducted themselves in most exemplary manner equal to the Marine Corps. I'm proud to call them my battle brothers and sisters.*looks at Itami* Even if their lazy and unmotivated.

Itami sends a quick smile at me.

Kōhara: Were you present during the dragon attack, Captain?

Me: I was and was the Commanding Officer. It's exactly as Lieutenant Itami described ma'am. The dragon was borderline unstoppable I'd say we were lucky that we forced the dragon to retreat. But I would highly recommend researching into finding effective countermeasures and methods to prevent tragedies like these.

Kōhara: What do you have to say about the civilian deaths, Captain. And how has the US government responded to the dragon attack?

Me: I regret that the civilian casualty count wasn't zero. As for Washington I cannot say because I only report to my generals and they don't send anything back unless it's important. And that means if something is bad for all of us. And I'm under USMC command while in the Special Region ma'am.

Kōhara: All right then, I call Lelei la Lalena to the stand.

I step back to seat and Lelei takes the podium.

Kōhara: Do you understand me?

Lelei: Yes, a little.

Kōhara: Then let's get started. I want to take a moment to address the living conditions at the camp...Do you have any restrictions?

Lelei: I'm not sure what you mean by "restrictions". Isn't that every single human being. We're all born into this world with some kind of restriction.

Kōhara:*frustrated* Let me rephrase it for you... Are you lacking any of life's basic necessities at the camp?

I saw AT's eye twitch in annoyance by the lady's tone towards Lelei.

Lelei: Well, no...we have plenty of food, clothing and shelter...There's really nothing missing I guess. We never seem to run out of anything.

Kōhara: Really... You don't feel the SDF and Marines, which was described as ill-equipped and responsible for the one hundred and fifty victims?

Mina:*quietly* Can I take her out?

Me:*quietly* No.

Mina:*quietly* NUTS!

Lelei: No.

They finished questioning Lelei and Tuka takes the podium.

Tuka: I'm an elf from the Forest of Lodo, the daughter of Hodrew...Tuka Luna Marceau.

A US representative interjects.

Representative: I'm sorry, but I'm afraid I have to ask this...Are those ears actually real?

Tuka: Sure...these are my ears.

She rubs and shows her ear

Tuka: Do you want to touch them?

I saw the camera's flashes intensify and everyone clamoring and pulling out their phones. And can feel the Internet have a collective nerdgasm and probably Marine Recruiting rising right now so they can be deployed to the Special Region, too.

Chairman: Quiet! Order please!

Mina: I'll have two number-

She gets her mouth covered by David as he, Itami, Anthony and I giggle a little.

Kōhara: Miss Marceau. When you were attacked by the dragon, did you witness the SDF soldiers and Marines doing anything inappropriate?

Tuka: Uh...I...can't say. I was...unconscious at the time.

We don't talk about the Rory incident.

Kōhara: Very well then. The next witness please!

The Chairman calls for Towson, but the US congressmen quickly state that both he and David and Mina only just arrived to the Special Region the day after the attack. Rory then take the podium wearing a black veil for some odd reason.

Kōhara: Please state your name.

Rory: Rory Mercury.

Kōhara: Please tell us, what your life is like in the Alnus Hill camp.

Rory: It's simple really. In the morning when I wake, I pray. And then...Then I take some lives. Then pray. And when night comes, I go to sleep.

Weird flex, but okay.

Kōhara: What do you mean by, "take some lives"?

Rory: I kill... I kill people for my Lord Emory's sake. He's the God of Darkness, War, Death, Violence, and Insanity... It's kind of his thing. 

Kōhara: Let's try a different question. You appear to be a person who's lost someone dear to them recently. Is it safe to say the Self Defense Forces and Marine Corps are to blame for that?

Rory looks to Lelei.

Lelei: She doesn't understand the meaning of your question... Rory's entire family-

Kōhara: According to the report when the dragon attack it killed one hundred and fifty people fleeing the village. But not a single soldier or marine was killed or injured during that engagement. The Self Defense Force and Marine Corps is supposed to risk their lives and fight for those in danger. But here... they chose to run from that fight and cost people their lives!

I get in rage on the inside, didn't I just tell her we forced it to retreat. I saw both Anthony and David equally pissed and holding down Mina who is slowly breaking the chair she's sitting on.

Kōhara gets an evil smirk on her fuckin' face.

Kōhara: So..you need to tell us everything! Tell us what you saw! Tell us what they did! Tell us the truth.

THAT'S IT! I'M GONNA LET MINA LET THIS THING BLEED-!!

Rory:*inhales* ARE YOU A GODDAMN IDIOT?!

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Maverick's Pov

National Diet Building Committee Room, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Rory:*inhales* ARE YOU A GODDAMN IDIOT?!

The mic feedback was so loud everyone is holding their ears except for David, Anthony, Mina and I. Our hearing is already used to loud noises.

Kōhara: Huh...what..excuse me?

Rory: I believe you heard my question. You're probably asked that a lot.

She folds her veil back.

Rory: Little Miss Thing.*giggles*

Sick burn Rory. But where'd learn that-

I look at Itami who silently giggling and looked at Towson who is trying his best not to smile.

Kōhara: You understood me.

Rory: Well, look who just caught up. I assume what you really want know is how Itami, Maverick and their people fought against the dragon, am I right?

Kōhara is stunned by that statement. Or the clapback she's about to receive.

Rory: They did everything they could... and then some. They did not hide in their carriages nor behind civilians. I tell you they did nothing of the sort.

Kōhara: Uh..I

I took notice of the American, Russian, Chinese, Korean and Filipino government officials smiling a bit.

Rory: Let's get to the point shall we? There are times when a soldier or a marine must protect their own life. You sit here safe and comfortable, and accuse others of being cowards. If you ask me you're the coward Little Miss Thing.

HOT DAMN, RORY! HAHAHAHAH!!!!

Anthony:*quietly* My nigga you just got roasted!

David:*quietly laughing* Clap back, she gon' clap back!

Mina was heard quietly laughing.

A/N: Can I get a "Fuck Kōhara!"?

3rd Pov

7th Combat Squad HQ, Liberty-Prime Base

All the Deep Recon and Surveillance units were watching the Diet Meeting on a large flat screen TV.

The JSDF and USMC:

Raymond:*laughing* Oh my God!

Trevor:*chuckling* Damn Rory!

Kurata, Katsumoto, Michael, Kiyo, Edward, Sasagawa, Sarah, Hill, Diamond, Thomas, Williams and Maria:

Maverick's Pov

National Diet Building Committee Room, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Kōhara:*eye twitching* What did you call me?

Rory: They faced a flame dragon...and lived to tell the tale. So you should offer them praise for pulling off such a feat. You demonstrate a rather creative way of manipulating numbers to make them look a certain way don't you?

Jesus, politicians are all the same no matter where you're from. But there are some who try their best at helping the nation they rule, but some politicians are self-serving and don't do things for the good of the people.

Rory: Your Self Defense Forces and US Marine Corps SAVED four hundred and fifty people. I can only imagine the problems the soldiers and marines this country and others face if this is how they're treated.

David:*quietly* Damn. Need to bring her to Washington for the roasts she's cooking in here.

Me:*quietly* Shhh, let her cook.

Rory: Itami, Maverick and their team accomplished something no one has ever done. And that is my answer to that stupid question of yours. Is that true enough for you, Little Miss Thing?

Kōhara:*seething* It looks like someone forgot to teach you how to speak to an adult. "Little Miss Thing".

Uh oh.

Rory: You're not talking about me are you?

Kōhara: Of course I'm talking about you! I don't know how things are done in the Special Region, but in this country we respect our elders!

I don't respect you.

Rory goes into murder mode and is about to unveil her halberd.

Rory:*murderous* Oh, I am going to love this.

Itami was about to get up from his chair to stop Rory. But...

Mina:*very calm* Rory.

Rory stopped and slowly looked at Mina with a terrified look.

Rory:*terrified* Y-Yes?

Mina:*closed eyed smile* Sit back to your seat.

Rory immediately did so without a second thought. While Tuka and Lelei were shaking slightly.

Tuka:*scared* I felt so much murderous aura coming from Takahashi.

Itami gets up to the podium.

Itami: Mrs. Kōhara! I think there's been a huge misunderstanding!

Rory just whimpers from Mina's look as she leans in close to her.

Mina:*whisper* I would have let ya done it. But not here. Too many watchers.

Rory gives her a scared smile.

Itami:*clears his throat* I should take this opportunity to let the Diet know that Miss Mercury is actually the oldest person in attendance here today.

David, Anthony, Mina and I: Oh boy...

Kōhara: Hmph! And how old is she supposed to be?

Rory: 961 of your years, honey.

Kōhara:*shocked* 9-961!?

Everyone:*shocked* Huh?!

US congressman:*shocked* What the hell?!

A Japanese representative:*shocked* Nani!?

A Russian representative:*shocked* Какого черта?!(What the fuck?!)

3rd Pov

The White House Oval Office in Washington DC, United States

US President Dirrell spits out his coffee in shock.

Dirrell:*shocked* What the shit?!

The Zhongnanhai Presidential office in the Imperial City, Beijing, People's Republic of China

The Chinese President Dong Dechou is seen watching the Diet on his laptop and his jaw is dropped hearing Rory's age.

Dong:*shocked* 什么？！(What the?!)

The Moscow Kremlin Presidential office in Red Square, Moscow, Russian Federation

The Russian President Boris Zyuganov is seen shocked and amazed by Rory's age.

Zyuganov: Интригующе.(Intriguing.)

Maverick's Pov

National Diet Building Committee Room, Chiyoda City, Tokyo

Kōhara: And...just how old do you happen to be, Ms. Marceau?

Tuka: 165.

The bitch looks to Lelei.

Kōhara: Uhhhh.. What about you?

Lelei: I'm 15 years of age.

Lelei takes the podium once more.

Lelei: And I'm also human. Where I come from, we live around seventy years. In fact, most of the people in my world are human beings. Tuka is an elf, and elves have incredibly long lifespans. Those of her kind have the potential to live forever. Rory started out as a human being, but her body stop aging when she became a demigod and an oracle. A demigod will abandon her body after a thousand years, transforming into a spiritual apostle and eventually a god. She has no concept of "life expectancy."

Everyone is astonished by what they just heard from Lelei.

Anthony:*quietly* Give the girl a gold star.

Chairman: Do you have anymore question, Ms. Kōhara?

Kōhara: No. I don't.

Chairman: Very well, then. We will conclude the questioning of the witnesses.

As the proceedings came to an end, I couldn't help but reflect on the events of the day. It had been a challenging and intense experience, but I was proud of how we had handled ourselves. The truth had prevailed, and our actions in the Special Region had been defended.

Now, we could only hope that the Diet members and the world at large would take our testimonies to heart and understand the complex reality of the Special Region.

US congressman: Not jus yet.

Everyone stopped as a US congressman approached us with a case.

US congressman: I may not be the president or a member of the military, but for the honor, signal act of valor or devotion to your country, good general qualities in the service, and extraordinary heroism in the line of their profession, which meant heroism outside of combat operations. I present Kuribayashi Maverick, Towson Anthony, Fernandes David and Takahashi Mina. Highest military decoration awarded for the United States Armed Forces.

He opens the case and my eyes widen in both shock and pride.

US congressman: The Medal of Honor.

With that, the congressman took the medals from the case and began pinning them on our uniforms one by one. It was a moment of immense pride and gratitude, and I couldn't have asked for better teammates to share this honor with.

US Congressman: Congratulations, heroes.

All four of us did a salute as we forced ourselves to not cry. Mostly Mina and I.

Then the second US Congressman came up to us.

US Congressman 2: I also like to bestow your former ranks.

I saw David, Anthony and Mina's eyes widen.

David: You mean?

US Congressman 2: That's correct.

He hands the three their first lieutenant rank insignias, David and Anthony's MARSOC patches and Mina's 75th Ranger patch.

Mina: Wait does that mean?

US Congressman 2: That's right. Your not in the JSDF anymore. Your back in the US Army, First Lieutenant Takahashi.

Mina: This... This is unbelievable.

David: I can't believe it.

Anthony: It's like a dream.

I couldn't agree more with their sentiments. It was a momentous occasion, and the weight of our achievements and the recognition we were receiving were almost overwhelming.

US Congressman 2: Your exceptional service and dedication have earned you the right to resume your ranks and affiliations in the United States Armed Forces. Your country is proud to have you back in its ranks. Congratulations, First Lieutenants.

Mina: By the way, can I just do one thing? And tell security not come in here?

Itami: Takahashi, are you armed?

She lifted her jacket and we all see four Glock 17s, a M1911, a Ka-Bar, a Kukri, a Tento, a Desert Eagle and a Twinkie.

Me:.......

Itami:........

David and Anthony:.........

Tuka, Rory and Lelei:........

Everyone in the Committee Room:...........

Kōhara:......That woman scares me.

Mina's impressive arsenal of firearms and bladed weapons left everyone in the room utterly speechless. It was a jaw-dropping moment, to say the least.

Itami: Takahashi, what in the world do you need all those weapons for?

Me: Seriously, Takahashi, a Twinkie?

David and Anthony nodding in agreement.

Tuka, Rory, and Lelei are still in shock.

Everyone in the Committee Room, including Kōhara is speechless.

Mina:*grinning* Well, you never know when you might need a Twinkie, right? And as for the rest, I like to be prepared for any situation.

Itami:*sighs* Just... keep them hidden, and don't cause any more surprises.

Kōhara:*muttering to herself* This just keeps getting stranger and stranger.

US Congressman 2: Takahashi, were you asking if you can fire one of your weapons in the are like a cowboy?

Mina:........Yes?

US Congressman 2:*chuckles* Well, as entertaining as that might be, I think it's best if we avoid any accidental discharges in here. Let's save the cowboy antics for another time.

Mina:*grinning* Fair enough. But you know where to find me if you ever change your mind.

The room breathed a collective sigh of relief as Mina agreed to hold off on her cowboy-inspired firearm display. It was clear that her unique personality was keeping everyone on their toes.

Chapter Text

December, 2023

3rd Pov

The Moscow Kremlin Presidential office in Red Square, Moscow, Russian Federation

A day after the Diet meeting, we see the Russian President Boris Zyuganov doing some paperwork.

He was lucky to become the President of Russia. Because thanks to the former Russian President Vladimir Putin for selecting him as his successor during mid January of 2022.

And the first thing that Zyuganov did as President. Is to have Putin arrested and charged with the amount crimes he committed both before and after he became the Russian President.

Zyuganov wanted to be on good terms with the West and Europe. He also wanted to make the Russian people happy and more open.

The world would be watching closely to see how these changes would impact Russia's role on the global stage.

As he was working, he thought about the GATE again.

Zyuganov: Те японцы и американцы. Почему бы им просто не уничтожить Врата? Но опять же... что будет, если он появится в Москве? И те трое из GATE. Тука Луна Марсо, Рори Меркьюри и Лелей ла Лалена. А что, если есть нетронутые ценные ресурсы, такие как старые, железная руда, уголь и многое другое?(Those Japanese and Americans. Why don't they just destroy the Gate? But then again...what would happen if one appears in Moscow? And those three from the GATE. Tuka Luna Marceau, Rory Mercury and Lelei la Lalena. And what if there are untouch valuable resources like old, iron ore, coal, and more?)

Zyuganov leaned back in his chair thinking about the entire situation. Knowing that it was a pivotal moment for Russia's foreign policy. He understood that the GATE presented both opportunities and challenges that required a nuanced approach.

On one hand, Russia could establish diplomatic relations with the Special Region and potentially gain access to valuable resources, including rare minerals and magical knowledge. This could bolster Russia's economy and technological advancements.

On the other hand, the presence of the GATE posed a significant security risk. If unchecked, it could become a conduit for hostile forces or terrorists to enter Russian territory. Zyuganov couldn't ignore the potential threat to national security.

As he reviewed the reports from Russian intelligence agencies, Zyuganov considered the stance of other world powers, particularly the United States and China. He knew that Russia's response to the GATE would affect its relationships with these major players on the global stage.

Zyuganov's advisors presented various options, from establishing a peaceful exchange of knowledge and resources with the Special Region to launching a military operation to secure the GATE. Each option had its advantages and drawbacks, and the Russian president weighed them carefully.

Ultimately, President Zyuganov understood that a comprehensive strategy was needed—one that would balance economic interests, national security, and diplomacy. He decided to convene a meeting with his top foreign policy and military advisors to discuss potential courses of action and chart a path forward for Russia's stance on the GATE.

It was then a FSB Agent rushes in with sweat drenching his face as if he ran a mile.

Zyuganov: В чем проблема?(What's the problem?)

FSB Agent: Господин Президент! Мне сообщили, что бандитская группа спецназа направляется в Японию!(Mr. President! I have gotten word that a rogue spetsnaz group is heading to Japan!)

Zyuganov was about ask why the group was heading to Japan. Until his eyes and the advisors eyes widen in shock.

The group wants to kidnap Rory, Tuka, and Lelei in Japan in order to extract information from them.

This would cause a political shit storm to Russia!

However, if Zyuganov warned Japan or America of the upcoming threat They wouldn't believe him in a second! Thanks to the former president. And Russia/Japan/US Relations.

Zyuganov decided to try and take this in his own hands.

Zyuganov:*to the FSB Agent* Я хочу, чтобы группа спецназа тоже отправилась в Японию. И ликвидировать группу изгоев.(I want a Spetsnaz team heading to Japan, too. And eliminate the rogue group.)

Everyone was shocked hearing what Zyuganov said. He explains.

Zyuganov: А также, если они встретят на поле боя американский и японский спецназ. Они не должны стрелять по ним.(Also, if they do encounter American and Japanese Special Forces on the field. They must not fire on them.)

The room was filled with tension as President Zyuganov made his decision. His advisors exchanged uneasy glances, well aware of the potential consequences of this action.

Zyuganov's order to send a Spetsnaz team to Japan to counter the rogue group's threat was a bold move. It signified his commitment to protecting Russia's interests, which included preventing a political disaster resulting from the rogue group's actions.

However, the caveat about not firing on American and Japanese Special Forces added another layer of complexity to the mission. Given the delicate state of international relations, any misunderstanding or friendly fire could escalate tensions and lead to a diplomatic crisis.

The FSB agent acknowledged the orders and rushed out to execute them. Zyuganov turned to his advisors, his expression resolute.

Zyuganov: Мы не можем позволить, чтобы эта группа изгоев скомпрометировала нашу позицию или еще больше дестабилизировала ситуацию. Наша команда спецназа должна действовать быстро и точно. Мы будем общаться с нашими коллегами в Японии и США, чтобы избежать недопонимания.(We cannot afford to allow this rogue group to compromise our position or destabilize the situation further. Our Spetsnaz team must act swiftly and with precision. We'll communicate with our counterparts in Japan and the United States to ensure there are no misunderstandings.)

The advisors nodded in agreement, realizing the importance of coordination between nations, even in such a delicate situation.

Meanwhile in China

The Zhongnanhai Presidential office in the Imperial City, Beijing, People's Republic of China

Dong:*on the phone* 你的意思是见鬼？！(The hell you mean?!)

Dong was on the phone with one of his military advisors. Apparently, North Korean Special Forces are heading to Japan to kill/kidnap Rory, Tuka, and Lelei in Japan. With the help of a  former Chinese Secret Service that was under former Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Military Advisor:*on the phone* 总书记，确实如此。 金正恩在几天内部署了大批特种部队来屠杀或抓捕特区人民，我们仍然不知道他为什么要这样做。(General Secretary, it's true. Kim Jong Un has deployed a large group of Special Forces to kill or capture the Special Region people in a couple of days, we still do not know why he's doing this.)

Dong leaned against his chair, holding is forehead with his hand.

Dong:*talking to himself* 那个傻子在做什么？！ 他知道他会遭到政治上的强烈反对吗？ 哦，我到底在说谁！ 他当然知道！ 而且他也不在乎！ 我们应该是......不。 如果那个隐士胖子要把我和我的国家带进这个狗屎坑，我就不会走那条路！(What is that fool doing?! Does he know the political backlash he'll get? Oh who the hell am I saying! Of course he does! And he doesn't give a fuck too! We're supposed to be....No. I will not go down that road if that hermit fat fuck is going to lead me and my country in this shithole!)

Dong:*on the phone* 久加诺夫总统是否接受了我们对即将到来的混乱的任何合作？(Has President Zyuganov received any of our collaborations for this upcoming mess?)

Military Advisor:*on the phone* 没有总书记。 他还没有回复，很可能他正在处理像我们一样的情况。(No General Secretary. He hasn't replied yet and it is very likely he's dealing with a similar situation like us.)

Dong sighs with a headache feeling in. Like Zyuganov, he too wanted to build good relationships with the Western countries. Hell, he even opened up to Western social media and search websites.

Dong:*on the phone* ...给其他人打电话，我们很快就会和他们讨论这个问题。(...Call the rest of the party, we will discuss this with them soon.)

Military Advisor:*on the phone* 是的，总书记。(Yes, General Secretary.)

The situation was growing increasingly dire, and President Dong of China found himself caught in a difficult position. The news of North Korean Special Forces heading to Japan with hostile intentions was deeply concerning, and the involvement of a former Chinese Secret Service agent only added to the complexity of the situation.

Dong had worked diligently to improve China's international relations and open up to the Western world. Still, this unexpected turn of events threatened to jeopardize those efforts and potentially lead to a diplomatic crisis.

As he spoke with his military advisor on the phone, Dong contemplated the best course of action. Cooperation with other nations involved in the GATE situation seemed inevitable, and President Zyuganov of Russia was yet to respond to their proposals.

Dong realized the urgency of the matter and instructed his advisor to contact other key members of the Chinese government to discuss the unfolding crisis. The international community needed to act swiftly to prevent any further escalation and ensure the safety of Rory, Tuka, and Lelei.

With tensions rising and uncertainty looming, President Dong prepared to engage in discussions that would shape the future of China's involvement in the GATE incident. The decisions made in the coming days would have far-reaching consequences, both domestically and on the global stage.

Chapter Text

December, 2023

Maverick's Pov

Tokyo Subway Station, Japan

After the deliberation Anthony, David, Mina, Itami, and I got in our casual winter clothes and headed to the subway. The bus we used to get to the Diet Building is now a decoy. Apparently somebody out there is interested in us. The train arrives and the door opens and it surprises the girls.

Lelei: It's opened.

Anthony: Yes, it did, Lelei.

Anthony, David, Mina, Itami, and I enter the train. Well...Anthony and I had to duck our heads as the train wasn't built for people over 6ft tall.

Itami: Let's get going guys!

David: Come on in. We don't have a lot of time!

Tuka and Lelei rush in but Rory is hesitant and Itami and Mina pulls her in as the doors shut and the train begins to move. As we notice onlookers prying eyes on us. Anthony and Mina glare at them making them the onlookers look somewhere else besides us.

Itami: Geez, I look like one of those shady internet talent scouts.

Me: Could be worse... You could be one of those shady Hollywood talent scouts.

Mina: More like you look like a possible pedo.

Me and Itami:..........

I noticed David and Anthony are holding in a fit of laughter.

Itami: Why must you hurt my feelings this way, Takahashi?

Mina:*smiles* Because it's fun.

Tomita: Lieutenants! Captain!

We look over to see Tomita, Kurokawa and Shino in casual winter clothes along with Pina and Bozes.

I blush a bit seeing Kurokawa.

Itami: Hey. Good work, man.

Tomita: Almost didn't make it. I wasn't aware that the bus was a decoy...I got lucky back there.

Me: Well...we got everyone back together so it's all good in a way.

Shino: Maybe for you five, but not for them. They're scared to death of the tunnel. I mean, they keep saying something about being dragged into the abyss.

Anthony: Sounds like a brother of mine talking about his bad girlfriend.

Itami: It's everyone's first time on a subway, Just give 'em a chance.

Me: Plus we have these four.

Itami: Four?

Me: Takahashi, Towson, Fernandes, and Rory.

Itami: Oh.

The train bumps and Bozes leans on Tomita.

Bozes: Pardon me.

Tomita: It's fine.

Kurokawa and Shino gives me a knowing look as I have a shit-eating grin now.

A/N: Tomita and Bozes, sitting in a tree~

The train bumps again and Rory clings to Anthony.

Itami:*concerned for Rory* What's the matter, you okay?

Rory: No. It's just that the underground reaches to Hardy's territory!

Anthony:*raised eyebrow* Really?

Rory: She's completely nuts! She asked me to marry her 200 years ago. And she demanded over and over again! I just don't want to be close to anyone right now.

Anthony: Your close to me now.

Rory: So she won't come near me. She absolutely despise men. So if I am around you maybe she won't come around me! Also. You. Takahashi and Fernandes scare Hardy........And me.

Train PA: Kasumigaseki Station. Kasumigaseki Station.

The train stops and the door open and we find Komakado waiting for us.

Komakado: Hey, stranger.

Komakado rides with us and he explains that Morris found out there's a mole in National Defense Intelligence and Rory is getting more restless about being underground the next stop is at Ginza.

Me: All right... let's get off here.

Komakado: Look you can't just pick your stops! Stick to the plan!

Mina: We are. But your plan-

Subway PA: The Marunouchi Line is currently out of service due to a wiring incident between Ginza and Tokyo.

Mina: -needs more planning.

Me: What the fuck is going on?

Anthony looks at Mina and she nods and hands him one of her Glock 17s.

We make our way to the surface much to Rory's relief. The area is filled with Christmas music and lights. I wonder how the others are doing?

Meanwhile~

3rd Pov

5th Deep Recon Barracks, Liberty-Prime Base

Let's just say their having Christmas party.

A/N: Just the partying. No fireworks.

USMC:*singing* You down with O.P.P.?!

JSDF:*singing* Yeah you know me!!

USMC:*singing* You down with O.P.P.?!

JSDF:*singing* Yeah you know me!!

USMC:*singing* You down with O.P.P.?!

JSDF:*singing* Yeah you know me!!

USMC:*singing* Who's down with O.P.P.?!

JSDF:*singing* Every last homie!!

The members of the 5th Deep Reconnaissance and Surveillance Unit were in the midst of a lively Christmas party, celebrating the season and enjoying the camaraderie between the JSDF and USMC personnel.

As they sang along to the music, it was clear that the bonds forged between the two groups had grown stronger. Despite the challenges and dangers they faced in the Special Region, moments like these allowed them to unwind and enjoy each other's company.

The room was adorned with decorations, twinkling lights, and a festive tree in the corner, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Tables were loaded with a variety of holiday treats and beverages, and laughter filled the air as the members of the JSDF and USMC celebrated together.

Hill, the unit's resident DJ, had taken charge of the music, mixing in popular Christmas tunes with some classic party tracks. The dance floor was crowded with soldiers and marines showing off their best moves, and even a few daring individuals had formed a dance-off circle, drawing cheers and applause from the onlookers.

Redrick, who had a knack for concocting creative cocktails, was serving up his signature holiday-themed drinks. He had prepared a special punch that had earned rave reviews, and many partygoers had a red cup in hand as they mingled and danced.

Kurata, Katsumoto, Higashi, Davis, Nishina, Sasagawa, Sarah, Sanchez, Diamond, Thomas, Williams, and Maria were all gathered together, sharing stories and laughter. Their camaraderie had grown stronger with each mission in the Special Region, and this festive occasion was a perfect opportunity to relax and bond even further.

The party was a reminder of the unity and friendship that had developed between the JSDF and USMC members, transcending cultural differences and challenging circumstances. They were not just allies in the field; they had become a close-knit family, supporting and caring for each other, even during the holiday season far from home.

Back with the others in Earth

Maverick's Pov

Ginza Subway Station, Japan

I'm sure their fine.

David: Stopping the subway. So what're they after, anyway? 

Komakado: To show us they can do it. They want to let us know we're not safe anywhere... But they've also shown they don't know where we are either. Next time, they won't be able to do something that can just be passed off as some kind of accident. Ah, for example.

Some guy in hoodie runs up and tries to steal Rory's halberd. But it crushes him under it's vast weight. Jesus...

Komakado: Eh...Certainly direct, but not too bright.*tries to picks up the halberd* Amateurs.

Me: I wouldn't pick that up if I were you.

Anthony:*CAT smartphone out* Nah, go ahead and pick it up.

Komakado: Hm? What's that?

Komakado:*PAIN* AAAAHH!!!!

Mina and Rory in laughter wheezes.

Much Later~

An ambulance arrives to take Komakado to the hospital a few moments later. He's lying on his stomach on a gurney.

Rory: Mister Creepy Pants probably should've known better.

Lelei: Well, he's not a demigod Rory.

Mina: Yep.

Mina picks the halberd with zero effort. She even spins the halberd.

Rory:........

Everyone:........

Lelei: Or a Takahashi...

Me:*to Mina* Your basically a walking war crime aren't you?

Mina:*giving Rory her Halberd back* Maybe~

Komakado:*painfully* Keep going till you reach Ichigaya, all right.

The ambulance leaves.

Tomita: Are we about to get moving, sir

Itami: No, hang on a second.

Shino: We're not going to a nerd convention, okay?

David: Those aren't open till February to April of next year.

Itami: That's not what I was thinking.

Me: You don't mean?

Itami: Yeah...

Me: Oh fuck...

Everyone else: What?

Timeskip

Outside an apartment building at night, Japan

We're outside an apartment and I know who lives in it. Itami has bag of food and goes into the place and Kurokawa pulls me aside.

Me: What's up?

Kurokawa: I caught your testimony on Kuribayashi's phone sir, and did you really mean it when you said that?

Me: Said what, exactly?

Kurokawa:*blushes* When you called us your "battle brothers and sisters." Did you really mean all of that Maverick?

Me:*blushes too* Absolutely. Every word of it, you're almost on par with the Corps. Almost.

Itami: Okay guys, come on in.

We stand outside the door. I look inside and see a familiar face.

Anthony: Hey, Jackass? Who da fuck is this, girl?

Itami: Oh, this is Risa...She's my ex-wife.

Pina: His what?

Shino and Kurokawa: She's your...

Tomita: ...ex-wife? Sir?!

Me and Mina:*waves* Hi Risa.

We al double-take at Mina. Including Itami.

Mina: My mother and her mother went to the same school.

Risa: And she used to visit and play when we were kids.

Everyone:...........

Me, David, Anthony and Tomita:*to Risa* You got any beer?

Chapter Text

December, 2023

Maverick's Pov

Risa's Apartment

Everyone goes inside and gets comfortable Lelei and Tuka are amazed at all the books and "stuff" Risa has, Rory is freaking out over a porcelain doll, and Pina and Bozes are looking at one of Risa's "stuff" featuring homo-erotica but I digress. Itami and Mina explains the situation to Risa while she eats and Tomita, David, and Anthony keeps watch.

Itami:...and that's why we're here. 

Risa: Coming here was an awful idea.

Mina: Yes, we know. So please, Risa-chan?

Risa:*sighs* Okay...There's nothing about this to justify getting me mixed up in something so dangerous.

David: That's right. She might be your ex, Itami. But she's still a civilian. And we all know what that means if something happens to her.

Anthony: I second that, plus a lot of guys and gals I know would rather go back to Syria than their exes.

Kurokawa: On top of that it probably wasn't a good idea to lose the Bureau guy.

Me: We still have the CIA guy. But he's probably tied up with what's going on too.

Mina: Yeah, well we keep running into all these problems whenever Mr. Creepy Pants and the other two guts with him are around.

Itami: So then you think he might be the moe?

Mina: Hmm. Probably not, but probably someone close to him. Or someone within the CIA.

Tomita: Or he might've been followed.

Shino: Not likely, Tomita. If he was followed someone would be kicking in that door right now. And probably get killed by one of us, but it'll blow our cover and reveal our location.

Risa: Excuse me... I'd kinda prefer if nothing kooky happens here at my house. I have got a deadline to meet!

Anthony:*raises eyebrow* Kooky?

David: Yeah, what does she mean by "kooky"?

Risa: You know, crazy, strange, bizarre... The last thing I need is for my ex-husband and his military friends to bring danger and chaos into my home.

Rory had found another item in the apartment that caught her attention, a quirky little trinket, and she started to play with it. The atmosphere in the room seemed tense, filled with unease and uncertainty.

Itami: I promise we won't stay long, Risa. As soon as we can figure things out, we'll be out of your hair.

Mina: Just give us a little time, and we'll make sure everything's okay.

Risa nodded, though still somewhat wary of the situation. She hoped that us her unexpected guests would keep our word and not bring any more "kooky" incidents to her doorstep.

Risa: Fine, but if anything goes wrong, it's your responsibility.

With this tentative agreement, we settled in Risa's apartment, keeping watch and discussing our next steps. The mysteries surrounding the Bureau guy and the potential mole in National Defense Intelligence weighed heavily on our minds, and we knew we had to tread carefully to unravel the truth.

Short Timeskip

Later on, everyone tries getting some sleep. I try to as well but I just can't after everything that was going on right now. I can hear Tomita, Anthony and Risa talking.

Tomita: Miss Risa.

Risa: Hmm?

Anthony:  We gotta ask. Is it true that you were actually married to Itami?

Risa: I was... I suppose we're friends now.

Tomita: The two of you were able to remain friends even after getting a divorce?

Anthony: Can't imagine that.

I agree, AT. That's something that'll never happen when a Marine gets a divorce. BECAUSE HIS EX WIFE IS FUCKING JODY!

Risa: Hmm... Other folks might have a problem. However, it's not like we were mad at each other. The two of us weren't exactly what most people call a classic normal married couple.

Anthony: Oversimplify it for us single people. 

Risa: We were both kinda freaks...and realized it works out better this way. 

Tomita: Fair enough. Changing the topic, so how do you know Capt. Mav?

Risa: Oh, he stayed over a few times while he trained with Itami. Itami couldn't hold his sake all that well when he went out with Maverick and brought him here. And well um... other things happened.

She blushes as Anthony and Tomita raised an eyebrow at this.

Anthony and Tomita: What happened?

I get up and approach them.

Me: One time I stayed over after too many drinks. I took a shower and came out without a shirt on and only in a towel. And Risa? Well, she went a little crazy.

Risa:*blushing red* I was not!

Me: Bullshit. You rubbed my abdomen while drooling saying and I quote, "That cute boy face and that manly build is perfect! Oh please, oh please, model for me, Maverick-sama!"

Anthony and Tomita chuckle a little.

Risa: Oh come on, it was reasonable.

Me: Yeah, then you tried to get the "full package deal." It was really awkward when Itami walked in and you were trying to get my towel off.

Anthony and Tomita are holding in a full blown laugh.

Risa:*giggle* It's a real impressive package to say the least.

Me: Okay that's enough. Towson, Tomita get some sleep I'll take over.

Tomita: Are you sure, sir?

Anthony: Yeah, you don't need a second guy?

Me: That's an order Sergeant and 1st Lt.

Anthony and Tomita: Yes sir.

Tomita and Anthony found a place to lay down and goes to sleep and Risa continues her work. Then my phone begins to vibrate and I look to see who it is. It's my Mom.

Me: I gotta take this, I'll be in the entryway Risa.

Risa: Hai.

3rd Pov

Maverick heads towards the entryway not knowing he accidentally woke up Kurokawa, he sits down and answers his phone and Kurokawa not intending to eavesdrop on his phone call. But did so.

Maverick: Hey, Mom. Good, *checks the time* morning.

Kurokawa's thoughts: He's calling his mother at this hour? Oh right, it's daytime in America right now.

Maverick: Yeah, Merry Christmas to you too as well.... I can't really talk loud, Mom. There's people trying to sleep close by.

Kurokawa's thoughts: He must be used to spending holidays away from his family.

Maverick: Where am I now? I'm still in Japan... Oh you saw my testimony too... I know, politicians are the same no matter where you're from. No, didn't get to meet Dad yet and neither has Shino... Yes, she's doing alright as well.

Kurokawa's thoughts: He's really close to both of his families.

Maverick:*sighs* Listen, I am so sorry I couldn't be at Dad's funeral.

Kurokawa's thoughts: He couldn't attend his own father's funeral. Wait. But he said...Does mean his Step-Father?

Upon hearing that, Kurokawa's chest begins to ache feeling sorry for Maverick's loss and that he couldn't attend his step-father's funeral.

Maverick: Both the Japanese and Marine Commanders offered me some emergency leave when they got word of Dad's passing but I turned it down... Cause you know what Dad and Grandpa Chaos would have said, "The mission comes first".... Well I couldn't just abandon my mission and my unit just for that.

Kurokawa's thoughts: He turned downed his emergency leave. For us?

Maverick: Again. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to sound cold or anything like that. But we knew it was coming, his Ischemic heart disease had been going bad for a while. That's why the Army retired him... How have you been holding up?.... Well that's great, I'm glad you got the support... Tell you what, when this whole other worldly war is over, I'll come home we'll mourn Dad properly and I'll give you some stories... Alright Mom, I'll talk to you later.... I love you too bye.

Maverick hangs up his phone and puts it in his pocket and his right hand begins shaking and he places his head in his hands trying to hold back his grief and sorrow for the loss of his step-dad. Who he only knew since he was 10 years old.

Now he's 30 years old, meaning he only knew him for 20 years.

Kurokawa wants to walk over to him and comfort him but decides to give him some space for now. She realized that Maverick had gone through so much, both in his personal life and in his military career, and his dedication to the mission was undeniable.

She quietly returned to her makeshift sleeping area, feeling a mix of emotions. Despite the challenges they were facing, she admired the strength and resilience of the people around her, especially Maverick, who had sacrificed time with his family to fulfill his duty in this otherworldly situation.

Kurokawa decided to keep this newfound insight about Maverick to herself for now, understanding that he might not want his personal struggles to become a topic of discussion among the group. She lay down, trying to get some rest, while silently sending a wish for comfort and strength to her dedicated and battle-hardened captain.

Timeskip to Morning

Maverick's Pov

After the phone call with my Mom I kept watch most of the night, still thinking about my step-dad. Itami starts giving us the plan for the day.

Itami: Alright, it's time to have some fun!

Shino: Huh?

David: You've gotta be kidding me. We don't have time to fuck around!

Itami: Listen. My motto is you gotta live hard and play even harder. And of course...probably eat and sleep in between. Besides, if we end up going exactly where we're supposed to go, then the threat will be there. We might as well go where the people. As they are more witnesses that way. 

Risa:*happy scream* Itami is right! It's time to go shopping! It's for our own safety!

She said that while holding envelope that said, "Aid Money".

Anthony:*mutters* Didn't know they had alimony laws in Japan.

Mina: Yeah, something like that.

Risa: Plus, I'm sure you all need to replenish your fashion supplies! Right?

Anthony and I:*deadpans* They don't have clothes for my height.

Anthony: Or shoe size. As I'm a size 14.

Kurokawa: I rarely find clothes for my height.

Mina: I mostly shop in the kids clothes section.

Shino: HA!

Mina: Laugh all you want! At least I don't have to worry about my boobs sagging after I hit 50. Cause I ain't got none.

Mina said with a proud smile. As Shino stopped laughing. And I'm holding my laugh to not get hit by any of the women in here.

Tomita: Well, when in Tokyo you might as well shop.

Bozes walks over to Tomita and whisper something in his ear. I have a shit-eating grin now.

Itami: And I'll do some recon at the manga store.

Of course you would say that.

Risa:*shocked* WHAT?!

Itami: Shut! Up!

David:*to Tomita* What about you, Sgt?

Tomita: The ladies here... They've asked to go to a library, to examine some documents. 

Me: I have to meet up with someone who owes me a free meal.

David: Same here. The meet up with someone part.

Shino:*to David* I'll go with you Lieutenant.

Kurokawa: And I'll go with you, Mav.

David:*to Shino* Very well, we can make it look like we're on a date or something similar. But I need you hang back when I meet my contact.

Shino:*blushes* A d-date.

Now, normally. Any older brother will get very defensive right now. But this is Shino Kuribayashi. This small chick is built different.

Itami: Well alright then, Risa's team is going shopping, Tomita's team is going to a library, Mav's team is going get a free meal, and Ferenades and Kuribayashi are going on their "date." Right! It looks like we've got our marching orders. And at 1400 hours we'll meet up at Shinjuku Station and head over to the hot spring. 

Risa: All right! Woo!

Mina and Risa grab Anthony as he was about to leave.

Risa: Where do you think your going?

Anthony:........With Itami. Six of my younger siblings want some manga delivered back stateside.

Itami:*finger guns* Ayy-

Anthony:*Trinidadian accent* Hush ya mother ass up now.

Mina, David and a few chuckled at how Anthony switched accents.

Timeskip

David's Pov

Public Park

Kuribayashi and I are walking in a park arms linked she seems to be enjoying herself. I took her to breakfast this morning and I got a text from my contact saying where to meet. I see him on a bench reading a newspaper.

Me: There he is. Remember, hang back and keep your eyes open. 

Kuribayashi: Y-yes sir.

I pull myself away from Kuribayashi whom seem to not really want to let go of my arm. Cute. I go over to the man on the bench and sit next to him.

Me:*not looking at him* Mad Dog.

James Mattis:*reading the newspaper* Hmm, haven't been called that in years. How have you been son?

Me:*not looking at him* I've been doing good. So has Towson.

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* Who's the girl?

Me:*not looking at him* She's one of my Japanese subordinates. She's a fighter.

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* She seems to be more than that.

Me:*not looking at him* She's give it time. Anyway, let's stay on task, sir.

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* Alright then, Demon Dog.

Me:*not looking at him* What do you know, sir?  

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* All I can gather from my friends at the Pentagon and the CIA here is that there are "special players" in the game right now. They even sent in 42nd Marine Company of the 1st Marine Division. Or the in other words, the Marine Company you and Towson were in.

Me:*not looking at him* Ivan's Marines.

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* That's right.

Me:*not looking at him* The "special players" want the Special Region people don't they?

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* CIA said there's also "Ex-Players" as well.

I get pissed off hearing that. Former US troops planning to kidnap the Special Region people.

Me:*not looking at him* Damn them.

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* Indeed. But know this the Corps, CIA, and the Pentagon have your backs.

Me:*not looking at him* I know I shouldn't be asking anything of you considering what you did for us.

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* What happened in Afghanistan with you, Towson, and Takahashi was a crock of shit son. I would have had that Major shot if I could. You are a solid Marine and a fine officer, one of the best that I wish were under my command at the time.

Me:*not looking at him* I appreciate that sir.

Mattis then pulls out two packages and presents them to me.

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* This first one is for you keep with you and hidden. The other is for your Japanese comrades, Towson and Takahashi. Give them my regards as well.

I take the two packages.

Me:*not looking at him* Thank you and I will, sir.

I get up and start to leave when he stops me.

Mattis:*reading the newspaper* One last thing, they gave your former MARSOC team an outstanding funeral and I was honored to attend son.

I breathed in and remember my mission and the first time I met Ant and Mina. It was also the day we killed over 3k. I breathed out holding my emotions.

Me:*not looking at him* Thank you, Gen. Mattis.  

I leave him there and return to to Kuribayashi still trying to hold back my emotions.

Kuribayashi: Are you alright Lieutenant?

Me:*sniffs* I'm fine Kuribayashi. We should probably get to Shinjuku.

Kuribayashi: Okay.

She linked arms with me again and we left together.

Me: Quick question. How tall are you?

Kuribayashi: 5'1"

Me: Huh. I'm 2in taller than you.

Kuribayashi:*smirks* But your still short in American terms.

Kuribayashi's comment about my height brought a faint smile to my face. I couldn't deny that I was shorter than average by US standards, but in this situation, my height was the least of my concerns. With Kuribayashi by my side and the support of my comrades, I felt a renewed determination to face the challenges that lay ahead.

Me: You're right, Kuribayashi. I may be short by US standards, but I've got everything I need to get the job done.

We continued on our way, moving forward together with newfound resolve, ready to meet up with the rest of our team in Shinjuku, where our next set of challenges awaited.

Chapter Text

December, 2023

Maverick's Pov

Sankai Resort, Hakone, Japan

After meeting back up with Itami and the others we headed to the hotel. The scenery is nice, Itami, Towson, Ferenades, Takahashi and I noticed a few UAV drones flying when we entered our room. Someone or some must be keeping an eye on us hopefully it's the Japanese and US. We settle in and head to the baths it's Towson, Tomita, Ferenades, Itami, and I are the only men in the bath.

Itami: Phew. This is really nice

Tomita: It sure is.

Towson, Ferenades, and I: Yep.

Itami: And we're all alone.

Tomita: Yes we are.

Tomita and Towson suddenly jolts away from Itami.

Tomita: Whoa, whoa, whoa, easy sir!

Towson: Hey! I'm in the Marines not the fucking Navy!

Itami: Oh whatever! Get over yourselves!

Ferenades: Y'see. This is why I like showers while in Japan and not pubic baths.

Me:*laughs* Jesus! Is it Thursday already?

Meanwhile in the Female Bath

3rd Pov

Risa: Hey Kuribayashi, I bet you got some good dirt huh? Come on let's hear some gossip.

Kuribayashi: Well, lemme think here...*to Bozes* Looks to me like Tomita's got the hots for you girl.

Bozes: Uh...? What do you mean?

Kuribayashi: What d'you think of him?

Bozes: Well I um...

Kurokawa: I'm sure you've seen him staring?

Risa & Mina: Ohhhh~

Kurokawa: What?

Risa: What about you and Maverick? I saw you staring at him last night.

Kurokawa:*blushes* Oh you saw that.

Mina: Got a thing for older guys or foreign guys?

Kurokawa: Wait? Older?

Kuribayashi: Yeah, my brother's 30 years old and you are...?

Kurokawa: 23...he's older than me!

Kuribayashi: Well what do you think of him?

Kurokawa: Well... He's a solid, dependable, mature, caring, and courageous Marine.

Risa: He's got that cute face and a hot body.

Kuribayashi: He's also calm under fire, he cares about others almost to the point of self-sacrificing.

Pina: What do you mean?

Kuribayashi: He... He took an arrow for me back in Italica.

Rory: Has he noticed your feelings, Kurokawa?

Kurokawa: I'm not sure, he seem to stay professional all the time. Cracking a few jokes every now and then. But something eating him inside and he keeps it buried.

Kuribayashi: Well, you gotta make the first move since he won't. Tell him how you feel I got your back.

Mina: And what about you, Kuribayashi-san?

Kuribayashi: What do you mean?

Mina:*smirks* You and David~ What do you think of him?

Kuribayashi, now a bit flustered, hesitated for a moment before answering Mina's question about her feelings toward David.

Kuribayashi: Well... I respect Lieutenant Ferenades a lot. He's a dedicated and capable officer, and he's shown care and consideration for our team. I appreciate his qualities as a leader.

Risa: Oh, come on, Kuribayashi! That's just a professional evaluation. What do you think of him as a man?

Kuribayashi:*blushing* I... um, I think he's a good guy. He's, well, quite attractive, and he has a sense of humor that can be endearing.

Mina:*grinning* That's more like it! Do you have any personal interest in him?

Kuribayashi:*shyly* Well, I don't know... We're coworkers, and I wouldn't want to make things awkward. Besides, he's probably not interested in me that way.

Rory: You never know unless you try. What's the harm in letting him know how you feel?

Kuribayashi:*blushing deeper* I... I'll think about it, but I don't want to disrupt the team dynamics.

Pina:*teasingly* Oh, come on! Don't you want to find out if there's a spark between you two? It might be worth the risk.

Risa: And if you make a move, it might even encourage Kurokawa to do the same with Maverick!

Kuribayashi: I guess I'll consider it, but I'm not making any promises.

The women continued their playful discussion, sharing their perspectives and experiences as they navigated the complexities of relationships and romantic feelings within the team.

Meanwhile outside of the Resort

Japanese and US governments had also set up a special ops teams of their own to secure the perimeter around the Resort. However, the US sent 1st USMC Division, 234th Battalion, 7th Company there.

Better known as Ivans' Marines. Because most of the marines in this company are russian descent, US born Russian-Americans, or US born Eastern European-Americans. And their one of the most deadliest and dangerous Marine infantry companies in the world. And that they're the only military infantry company with a "Flee On Sight" or "Surrender On Sight" order as they are way too dangerous to fight in ranged combat and extremely deadly at CQC.

We see it's CO Major Dustin "Иван Янки" Walker. A Black Russian-American US Marine spotting with USMC Sgt. Johnathan 'Nazgul' Wellington with a M27 with VCOG, Foregrip w/ bipod legs inside, Suppressor and Laser Sight. And with Croatian-Japanese JSDF Ranger Warrant Officer Haruka "Phoenix" Fukawa with a Remington ACR-E 6.8 (Grey Painted with A Trijicon 4x32 ACOG Scope).

Haruka "Phoenix" Fukawa is a Transgender Female and from the surface, she looks cold, silent, and deadly. Some say that if you stare into her eyes over her glasses, you'll just stare into the void. Very few dares screw with her due to her surviving so many Gang and Yakuza Raids that typically wiped out her whole squad except her. Even when you think she's down and out she just rises up like nothing's wrong, earning her the codename Phoenix and a reputation as a "Soldier to aspire to" especially considering she was Ranger with Spec Ops training. When really, she only puts on a mask to keep others away from her. Her only friend growing up joined alongside her and said friend she was tricked into killing in their first Gang Raid resulting in both of Fukawa's kneecap areas also being completely eviscerated by a SPAS-12 and having to have them COMPLETELY replaced. She dares not get close to anyone out of fear and PTSD that what happened to her friend will happen to others too. But maybe this deployment to the special region will be what finally shatters that mask of hers.

Dustin "Иван Янки" Walker was Born in Moscow Russia, his mother is the great granddaughter of the Joseph Stalin. And his father is the great grandson of the late Henry Johnson. But a the age 5 his father, mother and himself moved to New Carrollton, Maryland US. His childhood was great, but he was mostly if all anti-social to the point he became a selective mute. However when it came to bullying, hurting innocents, racism, rapists, terrorists, etc. He. Will. Show. Blood. During his grade school years he was called "lil Black Ivan" due to his russian accent and skin color and beating up 15 people(5 kids 5 middle schoolers 5 high schoolers). Which made everyone fear him until high school. During that time he tried the MCJROTC and for first time he wanted something out that doesn't involve him being anti-social. After he graduated at the age of 17 he join the Marines. During his bootcamp he was passing and making records that his DIs was so impressed of his talents, skill, effectiveness and behavior that they asked command to put him in OCS when he turns 19. At 24 1st LT. he was leading a platoon, but they got into a heavy firefight......

Both he and the platoon came back to base with only the blood of their enemies on their fists, knifes, rifles and pistols. At the now age of 27 Major he leads a company called "Ivans' Marines". He was also on leave when he got a call from command saying one sentence. "Get your gear and company ready marine, it's time to hunt."

His response was a simple emotionless "да sir."

Johnathan 'Nazgul' Wellington was born in Britain but moved to America with his parents. During his childhood and highschool he was bullied but he was always quick wit and knows how to defend himself because his father was a retired MI6 and he trained his son in the arts of special forces. During basic he always has a knack to suddenly appear out of nowhere before calmly speaking to his speers. The recruits say that he was a 'ghost' or 'specter', some of them called him a Nazgul because some of them are fans of LOTR. After basic he went into the Marine Raider and the drill Sergeants were surprised by his determination and how he can just appear. He was sent into Afghanistan where he was hit by an IED and ambush by the Taliban. He would survive the encounter but he came back to one of their bases and (REDACTED). He would embrace the shadows and made it his allie to make the terrorists pay for ever using it. He has watched the LOTR and made his nickname 'Nazgul' and have tattoos of the dreaded hunters. For he was a hunter and none will escape him. When the Giza incident happened he will wait before he's called. And may have God have mercy on those who meet him and watch the shadows with a careful eye, for he has None and the shadows won't help you when you hide.

Dustin:*to his radio* Command, this is Mike Whiskey(Major Walker). Anything on the UAV?

Commander:*radio* Mike Whiskey, this is Command. We've been monitoring the UAV feeds closely, and it appears that there's been no significant activity or threats detected around your location so far. Continue your perimeter watch and stay alert. Over.

Dustin:*to his radio* Roger, Command. We'll maintain our vigilance. Out.

With the radio transmission concluded, Major Walker continued to scan the surrounding area, maintaining a watchful presence around the resort to ensure the safety and security of his team and the high-profile individuals they were tasked to protect.

Nazgul: Hold up, I see movement up ahead. Targets appear to be carrying AKs with Foregrip, Suppressors, Laser Sights, and NVGs.

Dustin:*stoic* Russian Spetsnaz GRU.

Phoenix: What the?

Dustin:*stoic* What is it?

Phoenix: One of those Spetsnaz guys just took out one of their own.

This raised a few eyebrows. Until Dustin noticed the one that shot their own spotted the three. Nazgul was about to put a hole in their head when he saw the Spetsnaz guy doing a hand gesture that says, "Friendly! No shoot!"

Dustin:*to his radio* Command, this is Mike Whiskey. We have a unusual situation. Over.

Commander:*radio* Go ahead. Over.

Dustin:*to his radio* We have friendly Russian Spetsnaz GRU units taking out other Russian Spetsnaz GRUs. Over.

Morris:*radio* This is CIA Agent Morris. Repeat your last?

Dustin:*to his radio* This is Mike Whiskey. We have witnessed friendly Russian Spetsnaz GRU units eliminating other Russian Spetsnaz GRUs. It seems there's a conflict within their ranks. Over.

Morris:*radio* Roger that, Mike Whiskey. Maintain your observation and do not engage unless necessary. We'll follow up on this from our end. Out.

Dustin:*to his radio* Understood, Command. Mike Whiskey out.

Dustin signaled to Nazgul and Phoenix to hold their fire for the time being. The situation had just taken an unexpected turn, and it was essential to observe the unfolding events without making any hasty decisions. They continued to watch the Spetsnaz soldiers and prepared to act as needed while awaiting further instructions.

CIA Agent Chuck:*radio* This is CIA Agent Chuck with SSgt. Cooper. We see a few Chinese Special Ops Units taking out some Koreans. Over.

Commander:*radio* Which Koreans?

SSgt. Ryan Cooper:*radio* The North ones. The Chinese Special Ops Units also did a hand gesture that says, "Friendly! No shoot!" What the heck is going on? Over.

Commander:*radio* Understood, Chuck and Cooper. We're getting similar reports from various locations. It seems there's some sort of internal conflict among these foreign special ops units. Stand by for further instructions, and do not engage unless absolutely necessary. Out.

The situation was becoming more perplexing as reports of conflicts between different special ops units from various countries started coming in. The teams on the ground were instructed to maintain observation, prioritize their safety, and await further guidance as the authorities attempted to make sense of these unexpected developments.

Chapter Text

December, 2023

Maverick's Pov

Sankai Resort, Hakone, Japan

After getting out of the bath we put on Jinbeis(what a male version of a yukata is called), Itami's on the ground rolling around like a little kid.

Itami: Waaughh! I wanna stay here till the end of the year or after it! I wanna forget about work and get all wrinkly in the bath!

Tomita: And we all know you can't.

Towson: Got that right, T.

Itami: Ugh, you guys are no fun.*continues rolling around* I'll just have to enjoy this moment while it lasts!

Fernandes: He's got a point, you know. We should savor the relaxation before we get back to business.

Me: Yeah, you're right. Let's make the most of it.

We all take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at the resort, knowing that our responsibilities and challenges will return soon enough. But for now, we're enjoying this brief escape from the chaos of our missions.

Suddenly there's a knock on the door. Itami nods at us as Towson went to a duffel bag and threw each of us a Glock 19.

We get into fighting positions when to door suddenly burst open to reveal Rory, Shino, and Kurokawa kind of staggering.

Me:*lowering his Glock* Are they-

Shino:*drunk* Okay, boys! You better get your asses in formation pronto!!

Rory:*drunk* Asses NOW!!

Itami & Tomita: Huh?!

Kurokawa:*drunk* You heard us!!

Me: Seriously! Is it Thursday!?

David & Anthony: Context.

Short Timeskip

Women's Room

David's Pov

After we were dragged into the ladies room and we're drinking, eating, telling jokes, exchanging stories. I decide to bring out one of the gifts given to me by Mattis.

Me: I want to give you all something.

Ant: Is it legal?

Me: Yes.

I pull out a 750ml bottle of Jameson on the table.

Maverick: Holy shit on a Irishman! Where'd you get this!?

Me: This is from the greatest Marine since Chesty Puller, Daniel Daly, John Basilone, and Tony Stein. And he sends his regards as well....I want to thank all of you.

Itami: For what?

Me: For allowing us Marines the privilege of serving with you all. And meeting these terrific and fun people from a whole different world.

Tomita: No man, we should be thanking you for all your support. You Marines stuck with us since this whole crazy thing began. If your former unit was here, they'd be proud right now.

Me: Yeah.... They would be proud. You all are honored comrades and outstanding soldiers.

Mina: High praise coming from a US Marine! You must be drunk!

Me: We'll see about that, Army!

Kuribayashi: You boys really think you can hold your liquor?

Maverick: Oh! I can drink a whole college fraternity under the table and still drive home that night!

Ant: And I'm 4% Scottish and 1% Irish! I can hold my liquor!!

Kurokawa: Well shut up and start drinking you Yanks!

Me: Oh it is on now! I call upon the spirits of every Marine past, present, and future to take me to alcohohalla!!

Ant and Maverick: OORAH!!

Short Timeskip

Hallway

After several shots of whiskey, beer, and sake I stagger in the hallway returning from the bathroom and I start to think about my old MARSOC unit. How they would be proud if they were still alive.

I see a wasted Maverick getting dragged in a dark room with a drunk Kurokawa. I bet those two are going to fuck like rabbits.

A door suddenly opened and a hand grabs me pulls me in and I stumble to the floor. Then a figure is sitting on my lap I can't see it until the moonlight reveals it to be Kuribayashi.

Me: What are you doing?

Kuribayashi: Hey Fernandes, have I ever told you that you're really cute~

Me: Kuribayashi, we shouldn't be doing this. Maverick will be mad if found out.

Kuribayashi: What's wrong? Don't like older girls?~

Me: Older? You're same age is me I wouldn't call you older...But that's not the point, we can get in serious trouble Kuribayashi.

Kuribayashi: Call me Shino, Fernandes-kun~

Fuck...

She leans down pressing her body against mine and started kissing me the taste of liquor is strong on her tongue after ten seconds she breaks the kiss. I can see tears welling up in her eyes. Was my breathe? Did I pre-nut?!

Kuribayashi: I'm so sorry.

Wut?

Me: What?

Kuribayashi: I'm so sorry about your old unit.

Me: Wait what? How do you know about that?

Kuribayashi: I didn't mean to, but I overheard you talking to your Mattis today. Your unit died you while you were fighting in Afghanistan and you couldn't even attend their funeral. You could have gone home but you stayed with us. I saw that you were a hidden mess and I wanted to comfort you.

Me: But, I don't want you to do this out of pity.

Kuribayashi: It's not out of pity! I-I-I really do like you Fernandes!

Hearing that my heart skipped a beat and I didn't know what to say.

She leans back up takes off her yukata revealing her body to me....

My God, them titties are huge. She really is a shortstack.

My face is burning red and I turn my head away like a gentleman, but she grabs my face and turns me to face her.

Kuribayashi: It's okay, just relax Fernandes.

Me: David.

Kuribayashi: Wut?

Me: That's my first name. Shino are you sure about this?

She nods her head.

Me:*smirks* Okay~

Kuribayashi then leans down and starts kissing my neck and my small black tattoo of the Assassin's Creed logo on my upper neck and I let out some groans. She opens my robe revealing my Knife slash across my chest wound and my tattoo of a torn-out rib cage, but instead of Blood and Guts it's the American flag.

Kuribayashi: Let me make you feel good~

She starts kissing my wound and then our eyes meet. She locks her lips with mine and I wrap my arms around her. I just wanted this moment to last forever.

Why do I feel Karma wants to-

*WHIP* *CRACK*

That's a sound I'm all to familiar with, as my eyes widen as sound happens again.

*WHIP* *CRACK*

As someone who has fired a gun with a suppressor. I'd know that sound anywhere. Suppressed or not! Then the sound happen several times as holes are appearing all over the room I roll Kuribayashi on to the floor to protect her.

Kuribayashi:*surprised* What's going on?!

Me: CONTACT!!!

Damn! Cock-blocked by bullets!

Unknown hostiles are firing on the hotel I can hear suppressed weapons and bullets are ripping through the room! I'm holding down Kuribayashi to protect her, I look over so see my pack.

Me: Stay down, Kuribayashi.

Kuribayashi:*noticing his serious look* Okay.

I crawl over to my pack with bullets whistling over me. I reach my pack and pull the other gift that Mattis gave me. A Heckler & Koch UMP45 with a suppressor, foregrip, and Holographic Red Dot Sight.

I load a mag in and pulled the slide back. Bullets stop coming in our direction but I can still hear fire nearby and what sounds like American English, Russian, and Korean. I look over to Kuribayashi.

Me: Regroup with the others, I'll see what's going on outside and keep your head down.

Kuribayashi: But? Are you sure?

Me: Trust me, Shino.

Shino:*nods* Okay.

She puts her yukata back on and and leaves the room keep herself low to the floor. I head outside through one the destroyed windows and find some cover next to Anthony who is holding a suppressed MP7. It is absolute chaos out here, three different fire teams are shooting at each other. And distant flashes from the woods are taking some out. Probably Marines and JSDF.

Even we begin shooting at anyone we see.

Rory is already outside with her halberd in hand and in full murder mode. She's running toward them deflecting bullets with her weapon, laughing as she cuts them down one by one with Mina also using Rory's halberd whenever she passes it to her.

It was then the hostiles finally noticed Mina and a few either ran and got shot by a sniper. Or end up getting killed by her as she laughed.

Mina:*laughing* HAHAHA!!!! MURDER TIME, FUN TIME!!!!

The hostiles target both her and Rory but it doesn't seem to affect them or frighten them. Bodies are dropping all over the place, either from Anthony, Mina, Rory, myself, or opposing teams. The fight only lasted for a few minutes but it felt like an eternity. As quickly as it started it quickly ended, the garden is littered with bodies, empty shell casings, and an ocean of blood. After the adrenaline wears off, I scan the area for a few seconds Anthony signals to others.

Anthony: CLEAR!!

Itami and the others comes out to see what happened as Mina and I start checking the bodies to make sure they're down and identify them.

Risa: Ehhhhhhhh!!! What...the...hell happened here?

Maverick & Tomita: A massacre...that's what.

Suddenly, more guys come out and looked to be fully geared to a teeth! Looks like a Russian Spetsnaz team and a Chinese Special Forces team.

We were about to put a bullet in them.

When...

Russian Spetsnaz leader:*hands up* FRIENDLY!! NO SHOOT!!

Chinese Special Forces Leader:*hands up* WE FRIENDLY!! NO SHOOT!!

Everyone: Huh?

3rd Pov

In front of the group was a bunch of fully geared Russian Spetsnaz team and a Chinese Special Forces team. Saying their friendly?

David:*whispering to Itami* I don't believe them one bit.

Maverick:*whispering* Neither do I.

Mina:*to the Russian Spetsnaz leader* Why should we believe you!

???:*stoic* Because they didn't shoot us.

Everyone turns to the voice to see Major Dustin Walker coming out the treeline.

Anthony:*scared* Major Walker?

The JSDF, Risa, and Rory noticed the fearful looks on Maverick, Anthony, David, and even Mina's faces as Dustin appeared.

Rory can almost feel the amount of souls the Dustin has killed over the years of his service in the USMC. Now normally each passing soul creates a somewhat pleasurable sensation for Rory.

But right now it wasn't a somewhat pleasurable sensation. It was as if the souls had locked away and tortured for years as she fell on her butt in fear of the soulless gray eyed Marine.

Dustin glanced at Rory.

Rory immediately looked away in complete fear.

Major Dustin Walker's reputation clearly precedes him, causing fear and unease among the group. As the Russian Spetsnaz and Chinese Special Forces teams claim to be friendly, Walker's presence suggests that there may be more to this situation than meets the eye.

Itami looks around at the tense atmosphere and steps forward.

Itami: Alright, let's lower our weapons and figure out what's going on here. Major Walker, care to explain why you're here?

Dustin Walker:*stoic* I received orders to ensure the safety of a specific group of individuals in this location. We spotted hostiles closing in, and my team and I engaged them.

Mina: Engaged them?

Tomita: What about those Russians and Chinese?

Dustin Walker:*stoic* They're not our enemies. Our orders are clear: Protect the designated individuals and eliminate any threats to them.

Itami: Well, we appreciate your help, but we would've appreciated it even more if you'd shown up a bit earlier.

Dustin Walker remains stoic, and the tension in the air doesn't seem to dissipate.

Maverick:*whispers to Anthony* I've heard about this guy. He's got a dark reputation, and his kill count is insane.

Anthony:*whispers back* Yeah, I've heard the same. He's known as "Иван Янки" or "Black Ivan" among the Marines.

Despite the uneasy circumstances, the situation seems to have calmed down, and everyone cautiously lowers their weapons. It's clear that there's a lot more going on behind the scenes, and the group may need to work together with these unexpected allies to uncover the truth.

Dustin:*stoic* In any case. You guys are gonna be surrounded by Public Security and CIA soon, you guys should get out of here.

Risa: Sounds good!

Dustin: Marines, JSDF, and Takahashi, gather weapons and ammo and get back in your normal clothes and get ready to leave. My Marines and...

He looks at the Russian Spetsnaz and Chinese Special Forces teams.

Dustin: ...They. Will handle the bodies.

Everyone: Roger!/Yes sir!/Oorah!/Sir!/Yes Major!

Dustin looks up at the full moon.

Dustin:*mutters* Something tells me there's going to be more trouble.

Timeskip

Highway,  Hakone, Japan

Maverick's Pov

We got back in our casual clothes and left the hotel on foot. I'm still trying to process what just happened as we're walking down the highway. I'm on point, because I needed some space and I volunteered for it. Everyone is within earshot of me.

Tomita: Jesus...all we've been doing is running away lately. 

Itami: So much for our good time I guess.

Towson: Itami.

Itami: Right. Shutting up now.

Kurokawa: We should be counting our blessings that the hotel is in the SDF and USMC pension network. Or we might have had an early retirement.

Mina: Got that right.

Shino has a concerned look on her face while looking at me.

David: Worried about him?

Shino: He hasn't said a word since we left the hotel.

Itami: Just give him some space for now. Probably because of the recent events.

We come across a van on the roadside I signal everyone to halt, and head back to the others.

Me: Okay, there's a van parked on the roadside, probably one those agents' getaway vehicle. Driver's probably waiting to extract them, we'll hit him at three sides. Itami, Mina, you hit him from the front, Shino, David take the driver side, and Anthony and I'll hit him from the passenger side. Take him alive if you can. If he reaches for anything kill him.

Everyone nods and we approach the van undetected and catch the driver by surprise. Itami, Mina, and I have pistols pointed at him, Shino and Anthony have a suppressed MP7s pointed at his head, and David has a suppressed UMP45. I recognize his gear. He's Russian.

Itami: Hey there buddy...sorry but we're gonna need to borrow your ride.

*WHIP* *CRACK*

Suddenly, the driver was killed by a headshot.

We looked around until we see USMC Sgt. Johnathan 'Nazgul' Wellington with a M27 with VCOG, Foregrip w/ bipod legs inside, Suppressor and Laser Sight.

He shushes us as he moves away back in the night not making a sound.

Everyone:......

Anthony, David, and Mina:*mutters* Nice shot, Nazgul.

We take the guy's body out and dump it at the side of the highway. We took his van and move out heading towards Tokyo. Tomita drives, Itami rides shotgun, Shino sits in the middle behind them, and I'm in the back with the others. I'm sitting in silence wondering if any of this is my fault.  

Itami: You know... We shouldn't go straight to Ginza. They're gonna be waiting to jumps us.

Anthony: I agree. But their probably already caught by either Public Security, CIA, Spetsnaz or Chinese Special Forces.

Tomita: I dunno... maybe it'd be better if we just went straight back through the GATE instead of staying here.

Shino: Ugghhh... You wanna head back to a warzone, so we can be more safe?

David: It's more secure than here right now.

Pina put her hand on Itami's shoulder.

Lelei: The Princess wants to ask you something. What's the point of all this running around when you're supposed to be our security detachment?

Kurokawa: She's got a point. Why're we running? What're we doing?

Itami and I hesitate to answer.

Shino:*to Itami* Um Lieutenant! What's the deal? We're trained to be the brave ones remember! Lieutenant!

Itami: Mph... Well, the truth is... 

Everyone waits to hear Itami's response to the situation.

Itami: I have no idea, okay!

Everyone is shocked at Itami's response. Shino gets pissed off and points her weapon at his head.

Shino: I am going to kill you! You're just winging it!

David: You are still drunk aren't you?

Shino: I wish I was!

Pina: Hang on... I think I'm starting to understand what the situation here. But first, let me ask. Am I going to be used as a political hostage?

Itami: Course not. That's not why we're here. Mav back me up here.

I still sit in silence hesitating to answer.

Anthony, David, and Mina: Don't look at us.

Pina: I wish to believe you, Lieutenant... but we've had far too many transportation changes in the last few days. And the hotel... It would seem someone is out to get us... and I am in no rush to go with them. We came here to mediate negotiations between Japan, America, and the Empire. Because that what needs to happen. But out there, are people who think you will be benefiting too much from this negotiation and they want a say in it. Do you understand?

Itami and I exchange glances, realizing the gravity of the situation. Pina's words hit home, and it becomes clear that they are not just running from a dangerous situation, but that there are political forces at play. The task of mediating negotiations is a crucial one, and the presence of Itami, the JSDF, and the others could potentially shift the balance of power in these negotiations.

Itami: Princess Pina, I understand your concerns. We didn't expect things to escalate like this. Our primary goal is to ensure your safety, and if going back to the Gate will provide that safety, we'll consider it. But first, let's find a secure location to regroup and assess the situation.

Shino: You still have a duty, Itami. You can't run away from it. We can't.

Pina: I didn't ask for this war or these circumstances, but we have a duty as well. Let's find a place to regroup and figure out our next steps together.

Mina: I agree. We can't let fear dictate our actions.

Kurokawa: We'll stick together. Itami, you're our leader, so make a decision.

Itami takes a moment to think, and then he nods.

Itami: Alright, let's find a secure location to regroup. We need to stay safe and fulfill our duties, whatever they may be.

Chapter Text

Date: December, 2023

Maverick's Pov

Convenient Store: Highway, Japan

After some driving we stop at a highway convenient store to get some snacks and other things Tuka, Rory, and Lelei went to go get them. I told them to just bring me a coffee, I keep watch outside. I'm still pissed at myself for letting my guard down and letting those guys attack us. Even ones US Ex-troops nearly kill me and everyone else. Kurokawa walks up to me and hands me my coffee.

Kurokawa: Here you go, Mav.

Me: Thanks, Kurokawa.

I take the canned coffee and open it. Kurokawa looks at me with a worried look on her face.

Me: What's up?

Kurokawa: You hardly said a word since we left the hotel. What's bothering you?

Me: We were just attacked by guys from three nations. One of them from the US, and it's my fault.

Kurokawa: What, no! This is not your fault! You didn't know about them!

Me: David tipped me off about them and Mattis also tipped him off before he did to me, but I.... we let our guard down and it nearly got us killed.

Kurokawa:*grabs his hand* No! None of that is your fault or anyone else's! So stop blaming yourself!...*blushes* Also I want to talk about what happened between... you and I.

Me: Oh, it's fine if you wanna forget about it. We all do stupid things when we're drunk. Even being dragged in a dark room to makeout and fuck like horny teenagers in a hentai.

Kurokawa:*blushes red* N-No, I was being serious I really do like you.

Me:*sighs* I appreciate your feelings toward me, it's that... the Corps has strict policies regarding officers and enlisted fraternization, especially if they're in the same unit. I suppose the SDF is the same way.

Kurokawa:*squeezes his hand* I don't care! I want to be with you and that's how I really feel Maverick!

Me: Jesus Christ, you're really putting me in a bind here... I like you too. You're one kick-ass medic, and the prettiest girl I have ever met. I've had other girlfriends, but they never understood this crazy life of ours. Plus they also cheated on me. So, if you're willing keep it professional while we're on the clock and on the down low. I would love to date you, Mari.

Mari has a smile on her face and tears welling up in her eyes. She looks into the van to see if anyone's watching.

Mari: Okay...Can I be unprofessional for just a few more seconds?

Me: Wha-?

Mari puts her hands on my shoulders, props herself up a bit and kisses me. She breaks the kiss after a few seconds.

Me:*blushes* Sorry, that probably tasted like coffee.

Mari:*blushes* It's all right, I probably tasted like alcohol.

Me: Okay then, we're back on the clock now Sergeant.

Kurokawa: Yes sir!

As Kurokawa and I share that brief moment of intimacy, there's a sense of understanding and connection between us. The tension and worry that had been weighing on me seem to dissipate, if only for a little while. We both know the challenges that lie ahead, both in our professional duties and in navigating this newfound romantic interest, but we're determined to make it work.

We head back to the van with the coffee in hand, wearing a sense of newfound confidence in our unspoken understanding. The group returns with their snacks, and we continue on our journey, not knowing what awaits us but ready to face it together.

Timeskip to the Next Day

Ginza Tokyo, Japan

We're finally back in Tokyo, according to local news feeds the Japanese Prime Minister resigned due to an "illness". Too much of a coincidence he resigned around the timed we were attacked, someone must of had some dirt on him. We're now stuck in traffic because while Kurokawa and I were...."talking." Risa got on social media and said, at 2 o'clock Rory, Tuka, and Lelei will be offering flowers at the Ginza Memorial and then they'll be going back through the GATE.

Tomita: Well it looks like we're stuck here for awhile.

Risa: Yeah I guess so. I had no idea this many people would show up.

Me: Oh no, you just got on the Internet and told that people from another world were going to be at the GATE at a specified time. What did you think was going to happen?

Anthony: You be surprised how social media works. Even a few YouTubers are doing live streams.

Mina: What are we going to do?

Itami: Looks like we're gonna have to walk it. Buuut...

We look at the very large crowd.

Itami: Trying to go through that crowd is really gonna suck.

Shino:*sarcastic* Thanks, Lieutenant Obvious.

David: Yeah, they're gonna make you Colonel in no time Itami.

Tomita: I hate to say it but we're not moving'. Any ideas?

Mina raises her finger.

Everyone:*deadpans at her* Is it legal?

Mina thinks for a sec then slowly lowers her hand.

Mina: It was actually legal. But I didn't feel like calling them.

Rory: Give me minute, okay?

Rory gets out of the van and starts asking a random person where Ginza is.

Itami: This isn't good. We have no idea what kind of people they're in that crowd. Some of the victims' families aren't gonna take too kindly to seeing girls from the enemy's country/world out there.

Anthony: She can definitely handle herself. But we need tight security on the Princess and the others.

Itami: I know, maybe we should call this thing off.

Kurokawa: Hold up, if we change the timing we're gonna go up to the people that were trying to shoot us.

Me: And we don't want another body count.

Itami: Yeah probably.

Mina: I-

Me: Mina, no.

Mina: Mina, yes~

Rory stand in the middle of the crowd with a boutique of flowers with a smile. The crowd make a corridor for her with phones and cameras out.

Mina: Well that works.

Itami: I guess we don't have a choice but to do it now.

Me: If we don't we'll lose any advantages that we do have.

We get out of the van and put Risa in the driver's seat.

Itami: Risa I'm sorry, but we have go.

Mina: Park the van somewhere safe and just walk away.

Risa: Wait Itami!

Itami: I'm counting on you.

Risa: I haven't driven anything in a really long time!

Itami: I know you can do it Risa!

She makes a sad face.

Itami: Aw, you don't have to make that face.

Risa: You're coming back aren't you?

Itami: Well it might take me a while...but I'll be in touch I promise.*suddenly grabs Risa's face* And you better pay me back for all that money spent, got it?!

Risa: Fine! I'll get you the money as soon as get my doujin finished okaaaay!!

Mina: Itami-san, we need go now.

Itami: Alright then, take care.

Risa: Mina-chan! Maverick-kun!

Mina and I: Yeah?

Risa: You...You look after him, alright!?

Mina:*chuckles* Aye aye ma'am!

Me: I'll look after the idiot for ya. See you around Risa.

We regroup with Tomita, Anthony, David, Kurokawa, and Shino and discuss our plan.

Anthony: Here's the deal... I need you all to be sharp.

Me: 360° security around the VIPs.

David: If anyone make any attempt to harm the diplomats from the Special Region...

Mina:*locks and loads Desert Eagle* Kill 'em.

Me: If kill someone with a Twinkie. I'll laugh and question if this is reality.

Tomita: You gonna be okay with this? They're could be more Americans.

Me: I'm a United States Marine Corps Captain. Not the CIA, I'll do what I have to do. Semper Fi!  

David and Anthony: Always faithful!

We form a diamond around the girls as they're all carrying flowers. Tomita in front, Anthony on the left, Itami on the right, Shino in the rear, and David and Kurokawa behind Tomita as we move down the street. Crowds of people are on both sides of the streets with phone and cameras. Police on crowd control and a news helicopter is circling overhead. We head toward the containment area around the GATE then a reporter recognizes Shino-wait a minute? Is that?

Nanami Kuribayashi

Nanami-chan!?

Nanami: Hey Shino, Maverick!

Shino: Back off!*Gets into fighting position*

The Nanami freaks out then Shino realizes who she is.

Shino: Oh hey Nanami! What are you doing here?

Nanami: I'm... I'm like on the TV. Maybe I could get... like an interview with you or Maverick-kun?

Me: Not happening, lil sis! We gotta head back to the Special Region ASAP.

Nanami: You're taking them?

Shino: Mm-hm! Oh, tell you what! Maybe you could do me a bit of a solid!

She starts talking to the the news camera, hopefully not dropping the ball about us on national TV. I can see from across the street what look like two Americans watching us. They had to be agents, I sneak away from everyone and make across the street and sneak around the agents hiding near a van. I can hear Komakado and Morris talking to them.

Morris:(in English) Aah... Agent Adams my old friend from the West Coast.

CIA Agent Alicia Adams

Adams:(in English) Kinda busy here, Graham. If it's about the hot spring it's been settled.

Komakado:(in English) Oh, yes...that time when your hired boys got their collective asses handed to them. I've been told not to complain about how you handle business, but I do have a duty to the people who pay my salary to keep an eye on those with "foreign interest".

I approach the agents from behind with my pistol out.

Komakado:(in English) By the way Ms. CIA, it looks like someone has something they want to say.

Adams:(in English) What?!

I pistol whip one agent in the head knocking him out. And Morris pins Adams against the van with his forearm against her neck, she struggles to get free.

Adams:(in English) What the hell?!

Morris:(in English) The next time you fuck up an op that badly! Do us all a favor and shoot yourself in the fucking head Alicia!

Adams:(in English) You forget yourself Marine and Agent Morris! Have you two forgotten what flag you're supposed to be flying?!

I get angry and put my pistol to her head.

Me:(in English) You daughter of a bastard!! Don't ever question my loyalty! I know damn well what I took an oath to! I've been following my orders to the letter! I've been giving my sweat and blood over there! You nearly destroy our relationship with both the Japanese and Americans with any chance we have of opening diplomacy with the people on the other side of that GATE! All for what?! So you can buck for promotion?!

Adams:(in English) Fuck... you... Jarhead!

My trigger finger gets really itchy, but she ain't worth a bullet.

Me:(in English) Don't you ever interfere with my mission again or I will kill you! You hear me! I... Will... Kill you!! Do you understand Agent Bitch?!

I put the fear of God in her and walk past Komakado and Morris.

Me: Thanks for the distraction you two.

Komakado:*smiles* Anytime my young American friend.

Morris:*smiles* Safe travels, Devil Dog!

I give them a nod and walk back to the GATE with the others.

Date: January, 2024

Timeskip

Alnus Hill: Liberty-Prime Base, Maverick's Quarters

After everything that happened, I have never been so happy to be on a frontline combat base back in my uniform sitting on my bunk. The girls made their tribute to fallen at Ginza, Pina met with Japanese and American Foreign Affairs while we were giving our testimony at the Diet. Hopefully some negotiations can get started and this war can come to a proper conclusion. I get anxious wondering if I'm going to get recalled after what I did to those agents.

Me: Eh. Fuckin' worth it.

Then there's a knock on my door.

Me: Enter!

I steel myself for what might be on the other side of that door and to my relief... it's Kurokawa in her uniform with a cute smile on her face.

Kurokawa: Hey there, Captain!

Me:*sighs* Good, it's only you.

She sits down next to me and lays her head on my shoulder.

Kurokawa: What were you expecting?

Me: Some random Private or E4 telling me that I've being recalled by the US.

Kurokawa:*giggles* Guess not!

Me: Yeah, guess not...

Kurokawa: Now then.

She suddenly grabs my face and locks lips with me and pushes me on the bed. She breaks the kiss and sits on my lap and has a seductive smile.

Mari:*seductive* What do ya say we pick up where we left off back at the hotel? We've still got ten more days of leave~

Me: Let ask you one more time Mari... Are you absolutely sure about this?

Mari:*seductive* Without a single doubt in my mind, Lee~

Me: Okie-dokie.

She leans back down and kisses me again and I wrap my arms around her. From here on we would have a relationship in secret. I just hope she can keep it professional in front of everyone else.

3rd Pov

The White House Oval Office in Washington DC, United States

We see US President Dirrell on a video call with Russian President Zyuganov, Chinese President Dong, and Japanese Prime Minister Morita about two things:

1) About the Hakone Incident, also known as the Sankai Resort Incident or the Battle of Hakone.

2) About having Russian and Chinese soldiers deployed to the Special Region with the JSDF & USMC.

Dirrell: Your fuckin' kidding, right?

Zyuganov: We are not.

Dong: It's more like.... showing that all four sides can work together. And as an apology for the Incident.

US President Dirrell sat back in his chair, a sense of disbelief and exasperation washing over him. The conversation had taken an unexpected turn as they discussed the fallout from the Hakone Incident and the proposal for Russian and Chinese soldiers to be deployed alongside the JSDF and USMC in the Special Region. It was clear that this was not an easy decision to make.

Dirrell:*sighs* This is a complex situation, gentlemen. I understand the need to demonstrate cooperation, but sending Russian and Chinese troops into the Special Region is no small matter. The incident in Hakone was bad enough. We need to ensure that we can trust each other and that such incidents won't repeat themselves.

Zyuganov: We acknowledge that, President Dirrell. Our proposal is not without its risks, but it's essential that we find a way to work together in the Special Region. We need to prove that cooperation can overcome distrust.

Dong: We have our own interests and concerns, but the stability of the Special Region is of utmost importance. Sending a joint peacekeeping force is a way to show our commitment to maintaining order and facilitating diplomatic negotiations.

Prime Minister Morita chimed in, supporting the idea of cooperation:

Morita: I agree with Presidents Zyuganov and Dong. The Special Region is a unique opportunity for us to establish a new way of international relations. While it carries risks, it's worth the effort if it leads to lasting peace.

Dirrell leaned forward, deep in thought:

Dirrell: We'll need to set strict rules of engagement, clear lines of command, and ensure that the troops from each nation can work together seamlessly. We'll also need to consider how to involve the JSDF and USMC in this endeavor.

As they continued to discuss the details and logistics of such a joint operation, it became evident that finding a common ground and overcoming their respective concerns would be a considerable challenge. However, the hope for peace and cooperation in the Special Region remained a strong motivator for all parties involved.

Dirrell: I'm also planning on having USMC 1st USMC Division, 234th Battalion, 7th Company deployed there as well.

The other three were shocked knowing who that Marine Infantry Company is. But this made Presidents Zyuganov and Dong smile.

Zyuganov: Sending in Ivans' Marines, Mr. President?

Dong: That sounds like great idea.

Dirrell's thoughts: (Internal) I mean, after that whole Diet meeting. Marine Corps recruitment has gone up to 40%. Within three to six months, I'll have an extra 30,000 new Marines.

The decision was met with a silent understanding among the leaders. They recognized the importance of having well-trained and disciplined forces from multiple nations working together, and the USMC's participation added to the weight of this collaboration. However, they were also aware of the challenges and intricacies that lay ahead in ensuring that this multinational operation could succeed in the Special Region.

Dong: The reason why we want to have this Joint Operation, is because another GATE opened up between the borders of Russia and China.

Dirrell:*shocked* WHAT?!

Morita:*shocked* N-NAI?!

Zyuganov: That's the bad news. The good news is where the GATE up nearby.

Dirrell:*shocked* Alnus Hill...

Zyuganov: That's right.

The location of the new GATE's appearance was a mixed blessing. While it was close to Alnus Hill, which was relatively well understood, the fact that a new GATE had emerged between two major world powers raised concerns and questions about the nature of the Special Region and the potential for more such occurrences. The leaders knew they had to act quickly to address this new development and maintain stability in the region.

Dirrell: So what you're saying? Both you and Russia already have soldiers mobilized right by the second GATE ready to go?

Dong: We're just waiting for the approval from both you and Prime Minister Morita to let us work together. If not, we'll have the troops returned and destroy the second GATE so nothing similar to Ginza will happen.

Zyuganov: It's your call, Mr. President and Mr. Prime Minister.

Dirrell:*pauses, contemplating the situation* We can't afford to let that GATE go unchecked, especially with the potential threat it poses. I believe it's in the best interest of all our nations to work together and establish a joint operation to secure the new GATE and ensure the safety and stability of the region.

Morita:*nodding* I agree with President Dirrell. We must act swiftly and cooperatively to address this situation.

Dong:*smiling* Very well, then. Let's work together to ensure the success of this joint operation.

Zyuganov: Excellent. We'll make the necessary preparations and coordinate our efforts. Thank you, Mr. President and Mr. Prime Minister.

The leaders agreed to work together to address the new GATE situation and ensure that it would not become a threat like the previous GATE in Ginza. They knew that cooperation and swift action were essential in this matter.

Chapter Text

Hey y'all!

This will a different one. As I won't be asking for more JSDF & USMC.

But Russian and Chinese soldiers.

But if want to put in a Marine, it has to be one from 1st USMC Division, 234th Battalion, 7th Company. Aka: Ivans' Marines.

Be realistic. Meaning no captains, lieutenants, and sergeants around the age of 20.

For love interest: If it's someone new put them in. If it's someone from the show: 17 for anyone under 17. 18+ for adults.

Anywoo, I need the following;

Name:

Callsign:

Nationally:(Ex: Ukrainian-American or Russian-Korean)

Skin color:

Russian, Chinese, or Ivans' Marines:

Likes:

Dislikes:

Fear:

Age:

Gender:

Hairstyle:

Rank:

Body Count:

Primary Weapon:

Secondary Weapon:

Melee Weapon:

Battle Scars:

Language(s):

Skills:

Married or Happy?:

Divorced or Widow?:

Children or No kids:

Relation/related to anyone?:

Any Tattoos?:

Pastime?:

Specific people they don't mind killing:

Do they have a 'Flee on Sight'?:

(Flee on sight means if you ever catch sight of this person, it will be in your best health to run away as soon as possible, as fast as possible.)

Personality:

Favorite food:

Least Favorite Food:

Background:

That's all folks!!

Chapter Text

Here are the following:

• Commanding Officer: Maj. Dustin Walker
• Second-in-Command: Cpt. William R. Cole
• Third-in-command: 1stSgt. Samantha "Sam" Solovyov
• Also Third-in-command in case Sam's not there: 1stLt. Tony Frank

GySgt. Kei R. Cole (William R. Cole's twin sister)

SSgt. Ryan Cooper

Sgt. Sarah "Sally" Petrova

LCpl. Yuri Blacker

Cpl. Hanz Fronzt

PFC. Andrew Meyer

Sgt. Lisa "LM" MacArthur

PFC. Lucy Makarov

PFC. Kane Makarov(Lucy's twin brother)

SSgt. Sam Fisher

PFC. Alex Mason

Cpl. Anna Drake

Sgt. James Nick

PFC. Rickez Weber

LCpl. Parker Drake

PFC. Brian Ijens

1. LCpl. Brody Fernandes
2. SSgt. Andrew Fernandes
3. Cpl. Noah Fernandes
4. LCpl. Eric Fernandes

• The Fernandes brothers are 22 year old quadruplets. That means two sets of twins.

PFC. Illa Blacker(Yuri's adopted little sister)

PFC. Grays Tam

Sgt. Adam Cooper(Ryan's adopted brother. Their the same age. 24)

PFC. Helena Wilson

Cpl. Bell Zero

Sgt. Otto Abrams

LCpl. Jason "JJ" Jackson

PFC. Mason "MJ" Jackson(JJ's twin brother)

PFC. James Ramirez

GYSGT. Alexandra Solovyov(Sam's little sister)

Sgt. Sofia Novikov

Cpl. Anya Volkov

PFC. Dmitri Devin

Sgt. Bula Boyka

1. Cpl. Nina Koval
2. Sgt. Fedir Koval
3. LCpl. Isai Koval
4. SSgt. Yehor Koval
5. LCpl. Boyko Koval
6. PFC. Yulia Koval

• The Kovals are sextuplets. That means six set of twins.

2ndLt. Aki Watanabe

Sgt. Aya Nakamura

LCpl. Ruby J. Rose

GySgt. Viktor Ivanov

Sgt. Ronald Pavelski

Cpl. Makarov Petrov

2ndLt. Roman Vladimirovich Kovalyov

LCpl. Nikolai Vestroskey

Chapter Text

Date: February, 2024

3rd Pov

Alnus Hill: Liberty-Prime Base, Motor-pool

The arrival of Russian and Chinese soldiers at Liberty-Prime Base brought a mix of reactions among the 5th Deep Recon team. Maverick, Itami, Anthony, David, Mina, Sarah, and the others watched with a combination of surprise, skepticism, and a hint of frustration.

David: You have got to be fucking kidding me.

The sight of these foreign troops, especially on a base primarily operated by the JSDF and USMC, was undoubtedly an unusual and, for some, an uncomfortable experience.

Kurata: So those what Russian soldiers look like up close?

Williams: Could say the same for those Chinese soldiers....

The realization of the scale of the joint operation and the presence of Russian and Chinese military forces comparable to their own prompted a collective sigh from the team.

Kuwahara:*to the officers* You said their our allies?

Maverick: Yeah, they're our allies, apparently.

Kurokawa: And in possession of a second GATE?

Anthony: That's right.

Thomas: And they have a military base that's almost equal in size as ours?

Maverick: Fuck yeah.

The dynamics on Alnus Hill were shifting, as the collaboration between nations became more tangible. The challenge now was to integrate these forces seamlessly, setting aside differences and ensuring effective communication to address the new GATE situation and maintain stability in the Special Region.

As the Russian and Chinese soldiers settled in, the members of the 5th Deep Recon team couldn't help but wonder how this collaboration would unfold and what challenges lay ahead in coordinating such a diverse international force. They knew that adapting to this new reality was crucial for the success of their mission and the peacekeeping efforts in the Special Region.

As the Russian and Chinese soldiers settled into their respective areas on Liberty-Prime Base, a Russian 1st Lieutenant named Svetlana Anastasia Herzog, accompanied by a squad of twelve soldiers, approached the 5th Deep Recon team. Her uniform was adorned with Russian military insignia, and her confident stride reflected the discipline ingrained in her military training.

Svetlana extended her hand toward Maverick, indicating a gesture of camaraderie and respect. Maverick, though initially surprised, recognized the diplomatic necessity of fostering positive relations between the allied forces.

Svetlana: Captain Maverick, I presume?

Maverick, somewhat taken aback, shook off his surprise and met her gaze. He extended his hand, reciprocating the gesture.

Maverick: That's right. And you are?

Svetlana: 1st Lieutenant Svetlana Anastasia Herzog. It's a pleasure to finally meet the infamous Captain Maverick. I've heard stories.

Maverick raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity in his expression.

Maverick: Infamous, huh? Well, I hope they were mostly good stories.

Svetlana chuckled, her soldiers standing in a disciplined formation behind her.

Svetlana: Good or bad, stories often exaggerate. I'm here to ensure our collaboration goes smoothly and that we achieve our common goals.

Maverick nodded, acknowledging the pragmatic approach.

Maverick: Same here. Our objective is to maintain peace and stability in the Special Region. Let's make sure we do it right.

Svetlana's firm handshake conveyed determination, and a brief smile crossed her face.

Svetlana: Agreed, Captain. I hope our combined efforts will bring success.

As the two officers exchanged pleasantries, the language barrier was evident but didn't hinder the mutual understanding. Maverick, Svetlana, and the rest of the 5th Deep Recon team were now part of a larger, international force with the shared responsibility of managing the new GATE and ensuring a peaceful coexistence with the people of the Special Region.

Anthony, with his keen observational skills, couldn't help but notice the subtle details as he stood beside Maverick and observed the interaction between Captain Maverick and 1st Lieutenant Herzog. As Herzog spoke, Anthony's eyes briefly flickered to her face, where he noticed faint pockmarks.

Anthony:*thoughts* Pockmarks... she must've been through some rough times.

His analytical mind quickly estimated that these marks might be remnants of past experiences, possibly indicating exposure to harsh conditions or even combat situations. Anthony, having served alongside Maverick and the rest of the team, was well-attuned to picking up on such details.

Anthony:*whispering to Maverick* Pockmarks on her face... you think she's seen some action?

Maverick, who was still engaged in conversation with Herzog, cast a discreet glance at her before returning his attention to Anthony.

Maverick:*whispering back* Yeah, it looks that way. Hard to tell what kind of action, though.

Anthony:*smirking* My bet? She's about 37 years old. Life tends to leave its marks.

Maverick suppressed a chuckle, appreciating Anthony's knack for sizing up people based on subtle cues.

Maverick:*whispering* You and your detective skills, Ant.

Anthony nodded knowingly, a wry smile playing on his lips. As the formalities continued between the leaders of the joint task force, Anthony couldn't shake off the feeling that beneath 1st Lieutenant Herzog's composed exterior, there lay a history of challenges and battles that had shaped her into the seasoned officer she appeared to be.

As the Russian soldiers continued to integrate with the 5th Deep Recon team, another figure caught the attention of David, Mina, and Sarah. A Warrant Officer named Alexandra Vladimir Häyhä stood among the Russian squad, his demeanor calm and collected. David and Mina exchanged glances, recognizing him from their encounter during the Sankai Resort Incident.

David:*nudging Mina* Look who's here. That's one of the Spetsnaz leaders we dealt with back in Hakone.

Mina:*raising an eyebrow* Häyhä, wasn't it?

Sarah, with her knack for history, overheard their conversation and added her own insight.

Sarah:*whispering* Alexandra Vladimir Häyhä... he's the great-grandson of Simo Häyhä, the famous Finnish sniper known as the "White Death."

David:*nodding* Yeah, that's him. Small world, huh?

As the Russian soldiers mingled with their Japanese and American counterparts, it was a peculiar twist of fate that Alexandra Vladimir Häyhä found himself working alongside individuals he had encountered under different circumstances.

The echoes of the Sankai Resort Incident seemed to reverberate through the air, bridging past encounters with the present mission. It remained to be seen how these intertwined connections would influence the dynamics of the joint task force as they prepared to address the new GATE situation

As the Russian soldiers integrated with the team, another group approached from the other side. A Chinese Captain named Han Zheng led twelve other Chinese soldiers toward the 5th Deep Recon team. Maverick, standing alongside Itami and Anthony, noticed the approaching Chinese contingent. Han Zheng, a well-built and composed officer, extended his hand toward Maverick.

Han Zheng: Captain Maverick, I presume?

Maverick:*firm handshake* That's right. And you are?

Han Zheng:*smiling* Captain Han Zheng, People's Liberation Army. I must say, it's an honor to work alongside the JSDF and the USMC.

Maverick:*nodding* Pleasure's all mine, Captain Zheng. What brings you here?

Han Zheng:*smirking* Well, I hear there's a new GATE causing some commotion, and we're here to help resolve the situation. Cooperation between our nations is crucial in times like these.

Maverick:*appreciative* Couldn't agree more. Let's make sure we get this job done together.

As they exchanged introductions, Maverick couldn't help but notice a sense of familiarity in Han Zheng's features.

There was a distinct Chinese-American aspect to his appearance. Maverick made a mental note of this detail, recognizing the diversity within the international team assembled to address the GATE situation. The collaboration between Russian, Chinese, Japanese, and American forces marked a significant step toward unity in the face of unforeseen challenges.

Among the twelve Chinese soldiers accompanying Captain Han Zheng, there was a man named Corporal Chen Long. As he approached the 5th Deep Recon team, his calm demeanor and serious expression caught the attention of Kurata and Williams.

Kurata:*whispering to Williams* This guy looks like he's seen some serious shit.

Williams:*nodding* Yeah, no kidding. That calm and serious vibe... he's like a ghost.

As Chen Long extended his hand for a handshake, Kurata and Williams took note of his strong and precise movements. There was an air of discipline about him that hinted at extensive training and experience.

Chen:*firm handshake* Corporal Chen Long. It's an honor to be working alongside the JSDF and the USMC.

Maverick:*nodding* The honor is ours, Corporal Long. We appreciate your expertise in handling situations like these.

Chen:*nodding* I've dealt with anomalies before. We'll make sure this GATE situation is under control.

As the introductions continued, Kurata and Williams couldn't shake the feeling that Chen Long brought a different kind of intensity to the team—one that spoke of a soldier who had faced challenges beyond the ordinary. The international collaboration was forming a diverse and formidable unit, each member contributing unique skills and perspectives to address the unfolding crisis.

As the four groups continued to get along, a US Marine is heard shouting out getting everyone's attention.

US Marine: Hey look! It's Maj. Walker and Ivans' Marines!

The four groups saw the USMC 1st Division, 234th Battalion, 7th Company. Or better known as Ivans' Marines. The total is 200 Marines. Most of the marines in this company are russian descent, US born Russian-Americans, or US born Eastern European-Americans. While a couple of them are just Americans.

Ryan: WHAT'S UP BITCHES!!!!!

That. Was SSgt. Ryan Cooper. A 5ft wildcard in Ivans' Marines....

As SSgt. Ryan Cooper shouted his greeting, the atmosphere shifted. The presence of Ivans' Marines, the 1st Division, 234th Battalion, 7th Company, added another layer of intensity and energy to the already diverse group.

Maverick:*smirking* Looks like the party just got louder.

Cooper, known for his larger-than-life personality and unfiltered remarks, led the way for Ivans' Marines. The mix of Russian-Americans, Eastern European-Americans, and a couple of pure-blooded Americans created a unique dynamic within the company.

Cooper:*grinning* What's up, comrades and fellow Jarheads! Ready to show these other nations how real Marines get shit done?

The Marines in Ivans' Marines responded with cheers and hollers, a display of camaraderie that echoed through the motor-pool area. The Russian and Chinese soldiers, along with the members of 5th Deep Recon, watched as the Marines exchanged greetings, creating a buzz of excitement.

Svetlana:*smirking* Seems like your Marines have a lot of spirit.

Maverick:*chuckles* That's an understatement.

As the different groups interacted, it became evident that the collaboration between nations wasn't just about military strategy; it was about building connections and fostering a sense of unity among the soldiers from different backgrounds. 

Anthony: You know, in a way. Both David and I are actually from Ivans' Marines.

5th Deep Recon:*double-taking* Wait what?

Shino: But. Didn't your files say you two were from the USMC 1st Division?

David: Yeah. But it didn't specified what Battalion and Company we're in. Just the Division.

Svetlana:*to Anthony* I got to ask, 1st Lieutenant Towson. Are you 100% American?

Anthony: Nope. 50% American. 50% Trinidadian.

Williams: And 1st Lieutenant Fernandes?

David: 100% American.

The revelation about Anthony and David's background surprised the members of 5th Deep Recon. The ambiguity in their files had kept their true affiliation hidden until now.

Svetlana:*raising an eyebrow* So, you guys have been holding out on us?

Anthony:*smirking* More like we kept the mystery alive.

David:*nodding* Yeah, adds a bit of spice to our profiles.

The banter between the groups continued, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie that transcended national boundaries. The diverse backgrounds within 5th Deep Recon, combined with Ivans' Marines' unique mix of Russian and American heritage, added an interesting dynamic to the collaboration.

Maverick:*grinning* Looks like we've got a team with stories to tell.

As the soldiers from different nations and backgrounds continued to interact, it became clear that the success of their mission hinged not only on military strategy but also on the bonds they were forming. United by a common goal, the coalition prepared to face the challenges presented by the new GATE, each member bringing their own skills, experiences, and stories to the table.

Meanwhile, we see JSDF Lieutenant General Kōichirō Hazama and Brigadier General Jackson Baker meeting with/welcoming the Russian енера́л-майо́р(Major General) and the Chinese Zhōngjiàng(Lieutenant General).

The meeting between the high-ranking officers from different nations took place in a secure and designated area within the Liberty-Prime Base. Lieutenant General Kōichirō Hazama, representing the Japanese Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), and Brigadier General Jackson Baker, representing the United States Marine Corps (USMC), welcomed the Russian Major General and the Chinese Lieutenant General.

Hazama:*bowing respectfully* Welcome to Liberty-Prime Base. I am Lieutenant General Kōichirō Hazama of the JSDF.

Baker:*offering a handshake* Brigadier General Jackson Baker, USMC. Pleasure to have you here.

Russian Major General:*nodding* General Maksim Volkov. I lead the Russian contingent.

Chinese Lieutenant General:*shaking hands* Lieutenant General Khan Wheng. I represent the People's Liberation Army.

The atmosphere in the room was tense yet cordial, as the leaders acknowledged the significance of their collaboration in the face of the emerging threats from the new GATE. Each officer brought a wealth of military experience and strategic expertise to the table, making the joint operation a formidable force.

Hazama:*addressing the group* Our cooperation is crucial in ensuring the security and stability of the Special Region. We must work seamlessly to address the challenges posed by the new GATE.

Volkov:*nodding in agreement* I share your sentiments, General Hazama. Our troops are ready to assist in any way necessary.

Wheng:*assertively* We are here to maintain order and facilitate diplomatic negotiations. Let us act with a unified purpose.

Baker:*smirking* Well said. Now, let's discuss the specifics of our joint operation.

As the officers delved into the details of their collaborative efforts, the room buzzed with a sense of determination. Despite the political complexities and historical tensions between their nations, the leaders understood that the success of their mission required mutual trust and efficient coordination. The fate of the Special Region hung in the balance, and the coalition's ability to work together would determine the outcome of this critical endeavor.

Chapter Text

Date: February, 2024

3rd Pov

Alnus Hill: Liberty-Prime Base, General's Office

The four military leaders began their discussions, delving into the details of the joint operation, sharing intelligence, and discussing logistical aspects. They outlined plans for deployment, rules of engagement, and ways to coordinate their forces effectively in the Special Region.

Hazama: We aim to maintain peace and security in the region while respecting the sovereignty of the nations involved.

Baker: Our primary objective is to prevent any further incidents that might escalate tensions or cause harm to civilians or our forces.

Volkov: The Russian contingent is ready to support these efforts. Our experience and capabilities are at your disposal.

Wheng: Likewise, the PLA is committed to ensuring stability in the Special Region. We've prepared our troops for deployment under the joint operation.

The meeting continued, focusing on ironing out the details of their collaboration, building mutual trust, and establishing a cohesive plan that would allow for effective cooperation among the Russian, Chinese, and JSDF forces.

Hazama: Gentlemen, I believe our meeting has set the foundation for a successful joint operation. I look forward to our combined efforts.

Baker: Agreed. Working together will undoubtedly yield positive outcomes for everyone involved.

Volkov: Thank you for your hospitality and cooperation. Together, we will handle this situation in the Special Region.

Wheng: It's an honor to collaborate with you all. Our troops stand ready for the mission ahead.

With a mutual understanding and shared objectives, the leaders concluded their meeting, prepared to deploy their joint forces to address the new GATE and its potential implications in the Special Region.

Baker: Also, you two want to have a joint-force on our twelve deep recon and surveillance units, right?

Volkov and Wheng nodded as Baker and Hazama pull out the files of twelve deep recon and surveillance units. Volkov and Wheng does the same with their twelve deep recon and surveillance units. As they began selecting which unit would work together perfectly, Volkov pulled out the file Seventh Deep Recon and Surveillance unit. Or Captain Han Zheng and 1st Lieutenant Svetlana Herzog unit.

Volkov: I believe these would work well with your Fifth Deep Recon and Surveillance unit.

Baker and Hazama looked at the file and names of the Russian/Chinese Seventh Deep Recon and Surveillance unit led Captain Han Zheng and 1st Lieutenant Svetlana Herzog.

Hazama:*raising an eyebrow* You want to have your unit work with 5th Deep Recon team that is led by Captain Maverick Kuribayashi, 1st Lieutenants Yōji Itami, Sarah Lockwood, Anthony Towson, David Fernandes and Mina Takahashi?

Volkov: Да.

Wheng: 恰恰。

As the discussion turned towards coordination between specific reconnaissance units, the leaders delved deeper into the operational details. Baker, Hazama, Volkov, and Wheng meticulously went through the profiles of each unit, considering compatibility, skill sets, and the dynamics that could lead to effective collaboration.

Volkov: Captain Zheng and 1st Lieutenant Herzog have demonstrated exemplary skills in deep recon. They're versatile and have experience operating in diverse environments.

Hazama: Our Fifth Deep Recon team possesses a wealth of knowledge and extensive experience in the Special Region. Their expertise could complement each other.

Baker: The synergy between these teams could significantly enhance our reconnaissance capabilities. It's crucial for our joint operation.

Wheng: Agreed. This partnership could provide us with a more comprehensive understanding of the situation around the new GATE.

The leaders assessed the potential benefits of combining the Fifth Deep Recon and Seventh Deep Recon teams, recognizing the importance of having cohesive and effective reconnaissance units to gather critical information and ensure the safety of their forces.

Baker: We'll have to ensure smooth integration and establish a strong communication framework between these units.

Hazama: It's vital that they're well-informed about the objectives and rules of engagement.

Volkov: I'll inform Captain Zheng and 1st Lieutenant Herzog about this collaboration. They'll prepare accordingly.

Wheng: Our teams will be ready for joint operations. Let's proceed with this plan.

With a consensus reached, the leaders finalized the decision to merge the Fifth and Seventh Deep Recon units, setting the stage for a collaboration that would significantly enhance their reconnaissance efforts in the Special Region. The joint operation was beginning to take shape, bolstered by the combined strengths of their forces and a unified approach towards achieving their goals.

Wheng: In the meantime what about the enlisted names?

Baker and Hazama show the names and ranks of the enlisted Fifth Deep Recon team. Starting with the JSDF then the USMC.

• Sergeant Major, Sōichirō Kuwahara.
• Master Sergeant, Tetsuya Nishina.
• Sergeant First Class, Akira Tomita.
• Sergeant First Class, Mari Kurokawa.
• Sergeant First Class, Shino Kuribayashi.
• Sergeant, Takeo Kurata.
• Sergeant Azuma Higashi.
• Leading Private, Tou.
• Leading Private, Daisuke Tozu.
• Leading Private, Wataru Katsumoto.
• Leading Private, Hayato Sasagawa.
• Leading Private, Hitoshi Furuta.
• Master Sergeant, Henry Smith.
• Gunnery Sergeant, Michael Hill
• Corporal, Millie Sanchez.
• Petty Officer Third Class(PO3), Samuel Redrick.
• Private First Class, Diamond Backer.
• Sergeant, Antonio Menendez.
• Lance-Corporal, Dewayne Thomas.
• Staff Sergeant, Elijah Jones.
• Sergeant, Noah Brown.
• Lance-Corporal, Benjamin Williams.
• Sergeant, Lucas Garcia.
• Private First Class, Maria Green.
• Private First Class, Raymond Davis.

With a nod Volkov and Wheng also share the names and ranks of the enlisted Seventh Deep Recon team. Starting with the Russians then the Chinese.

Russian:

• Warrant Officer, Alexandra Vladimir Häyhä
• Sergeant Major, Ivan Reznov.
• Junior Sergeant, Sasha Fuchs.
• Senior Sergeant, Mikhail Kuznetsov.
• Sergeant, Nikolai Volkov.
• Sergeant, Yuri Petrov.
• Junior Sergeant, Tanya Pavelovna.
• Corporal, Yuri Sokolov.
• Corporal, Alexei Petrov.
• Corporal, Viktor Ivanov.
• Private, Mikhail Voronin.
• Private, Daniil Kuznetsov.

Chinese:

• Second Class Master Sergeant, Wang Lei.
• Third Class Master Sergeant, Cho Yan.
• Third Class Master Sergeant, Zhang Wei.
• Master Sergeant, Liu Yang.
• Master Sergeant, Zhao Hong.
• Staff Sergeant, Li Wei.
• Corporal, Chen Long.
• Private Upper Class, Wu Ming.
• Private First Class, Liu Ren.
• Private Upper Class, Yang Hao.
• Private First Class, Hu Jie.
• Private First Class, Zang Xia.

The four military leaders reviewed the enlisted members' profiles, acknowledging the diverse skills, experiences, and specialties within their units. The assembled team members represented a mix of expertise and backgrounds that would contribute to the success of the joint operation in the Special Region. With these names and ranks shared, they continued to discuss how to effectively integrate and coordinate their enlisted forces for the upcoming mission.

The military leaders meticulously went through the names, ranks, and backgrounds of the enlisted members from both the Fifth and Seventh Deep Recon teams. They recognized the diversity and range of expertise among the soldiers, acknowledging the potential for a robust collaboration.

Baker: The skill sets within our enlisted ranks are impressive and diverse. We'll need to ensure they are effectively integrated into our joint operations.

Hazama: Agreed. Communication and coordination will be critical to maximize the capabilities of our combined forces.

Volkov: Our soldiers possess a variety of specialties that can complement each other. It's essential to leverage their strengths.

Wheng: Our soldiers have undergone rigorous training. Their expertise will be vital in gathering information and executing missions.

The leaders then discussed strategies to streamline communication, synchronize objectives, and establish a cohesive command structure among the enlisted members from different nations. They emphasized the importance of teamwork, respect, and understanding among the soldiers to achieve their common goals effectively.

Baker: We must prioritize building camaraderie and mutual trust among our enlisted forces. It's crucial for our success.

Hazama: Absolutely. Creating a unified command structure and fostering teamwork will be fundamental.

Volkov: We'll ensure our soldiers are briefed adequately and understand their roles in the joint operation.

Wheng: Our soldiers will follow the established protocols and demonstrate professionalism in their conduct.

With a focus on creating a unified and well-coordinated team, the leaders continued their discussions on the logistics, training exercises, and operational protocols to prepare the enlisted members for the upcoming mission in the Special Region. The aim was to ensure seamless integration and efficient cooperation among the enlisted forces, maximizing their potential for success.

Meanwhile with the Twelve Deep Recon and Surveillance Units and other Russian, Chinese, & Japanese soldiers and US marines at the Motor-Pool.

Having a dance off. Everyone is intermingled together, there's no American, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese side, just everyone hanging in one big group dancing to either rap, hip-hop, trap, rock, etc.

And Ryan and his adopted brother another US Marine part of Ivans' Marines Adam are the DJs.

Ryan:*yelling in microphone* C'MON DON'T BE CHICKENS AND DANCE!!!

Adam:*yelling in microphone* WE WANNA SEE YOU MOVIN' PEOPLE!!!!

Troops clad in their uniforms, regardless of nationality, joined in the festivities, showcasing their dance moves and letting loose. There were no distinct sides or boundaries, just a united group of troops sharing the same space and enjoying the moment.

Ryan hyped up the crowd with his spirited encouragement through the microphone, urging everyone to join in and dance without inhibitions. Adam chimed in, echoing his sentiments, encouraging people to get moving and have a good time.

Troops of different backgrounds, languages, and military units found common ground on the dance floor, exchanging smiles, laughter, and camaraderie through the universal language of music and dance. The diversity among them melted away as they moved to the rhythm, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared enjoyment amidst the ongoing joint operation preparations.

Amidst the laughter and cheers, troops showcased their best dance moves, breaking barriers and fostering a sense of unity, camaraderie, and mutual respect among the international military forces gathered at the motor-pool.

We even see David and Sasha breakdancing while a few marines were cheering for David, Russians cheered for Sasha as she tried to out dance the Marine. Their moves were precise, energetic, and skillful, each trying to outdo the other in a friendly competition.

As David showcased his agile breakdancing skills, the cheering section from the Marine unit rallied behind him, egging him on with enthusiastic cheers and applause. His flips, spins, and intricate footwork drew admiration and support from his fellow Marines.

On the other side, the Russian soldiers passionately cheered for Sasha, encouraging her to match and surpass David's impressive moves. Sasha's fluid and dynamic dance moves captivated the audience, showcasing her prowess in breakdancing. Her agility and finesse added a competitive edge to the friendly dance-off.

The atmosphere was electric as the two dancers pushed their limits, showcasing their best moves with a blend of style and precision. The cheers from the Marines and the Russian soldiers reverberated through the motor-pool, creating a vibrant and supportive backdrop for the dance-off.

Despite the friendly competition, the spirit of camaraderie prevailed. The exchange of cheers, encouragement, and mutual respect between the Marines and the Russian soldiers showcased the unity and bond formed among the troops, transcending language and nationality through the universal language of dance.

Chapter Text

Date: February, 2024

Maverick's Pov

Alnus Hill: Liberty-Prime Base, Maverick's Quarters

I wake up in my bunk and hear "Reveille" playing outside, along with the sun shining through the window. I look to my right to see Mari already awake, resting her head on my shoulder and looking up at me and smiling.

Mari: Hey there handsome man~

Me: Morning Mari, what've you been up to?

Mari: Just watching you sleep, you looked cute.

Me: I'm not cute.

She kisses me in the lips.

Me: Okay maybe a little cute. But you know, as much as I enjoy being with you. You probably shouldn't be staying over like this. Someone might notice you missing from your bunk.

Mari: Don't worry, I bunk by myself since I'm a NCO.

Me:*stretches* Welp. I better get up and do some good morning PT and get ready for the day.

She slides on top of me pressing herself against me and has a lustful look in her eyes.

Mari: How about I give you real "workout", Maverick-kun~

LET'S GOOOOOO!

Me: Jeez, you didn't get enough last night. But I can't say no to that~

She giggles and kisses my lips and I put my hands on her waist. Then suddenly there's a knock at my door and we immediately stop. Cockblocking jackass!

Me: Ah shit, get your stuff and hide in the the latrine I'll go see what's up.

Mari gets out the bunk and quickly grabs her things and quickly walks to the latrine and I get up and just put my cammie pants and a green shirt on and head to the door. I open the door to find Chinese Army Private First Class Liu Ren on the other side.

Ren:*salutes* 早安队长！ Did I catch you at a bad time sir?

Me:*salutes back* I was about to start PT, what do you need from me Private?

Ren: Briefing at Division HQ is at 1000 hours sir.

Me: Anything else?

Ren: You have a package sir, from America. Thank Sergeant Kurata for telling me that it was for you and not your sister.

I take the package and and see it's from my Mom's address.

Me: Is that all Private?

Ren: Yes sir, that is all.

Me: Alright then, your dismissed.

He salutes me and I salute back, he faces right and leaves. I close the door and grab my K-Bar knife and head back to my bunk and cut the tape. Mari comes out of the latrine only wearing her jacket and underwear and sits next to me.

Mari: What did you get?

Me: Package from my Mom in the states. I just opened it.

I open the box to find a picture and I look at it and try not to cry.

Mari: Mav, what's wrong?

Me: This picture is from when I graduated Infantry School. My Mom is wearing her Sunday dress. I'm in my Marine Service uniform, and my Dad's wearing his Air Force Service uniform. He told me, "Even tho we're not blood related, this will be the proudest moment in my whole life. And I'm sure your bio father would say the same thing and that he's glad to see you now."

I try to hold back my emotions. Keyword; try. But Mari puts her arms around me and rest her head on my shoulder.

Mari: It's okay to hurt sometimes. So go ahead just let it go Lee, I'm here.

Like a dam breaking. I give in to my emotion and start crying.

Mari: It's okay to let out those emotions, Maverick. Sometimes, that release can bring comfort and healing, especially when you have someone there to support you. It's clear how much that photo means to you, connecting you to your family and their support for your journey.

Mari: Sometimes, the pain and longing for those we've lost or those far away can become overwhelming. Sharing those emotions with someone who cares can ease the weight we carry.

Mari: Letting it out doesn't make you weak; it shows strength and the depth of your emotions. Remember, your team, your friends, and even those from other nations are all part of your extended family here. They'll support you through the highs and lows of this mission and beyond.

 I calm down after a few minutes.

Me:*sniffs* Thanks Mari...you're really helping me out.

Mari:*kisses his cheek* No problem, I should probably get back to my barracks.

Me: Yeah. And I need to get ready for that briefing.

Mari: Still wanna do that "workout"and shower together?~

Me: Definitively.

Small Time Skip

Author's Note: No sex. Use your

Mari and I have been seeing each other for a few weeks....in secret of course. To say she can be frisky is an understatement, though I told her to keep everything on the down low. But she started off with simple hand brushes passing by each other to pulling me into a closet to make out like horny teenagers. And of course sleeping with me at night in my quarters, I'm not particularly complaining about it but we could get caught one day. Though I will admit that does make it hotter, but I digress. After the uh..."workout" and shower she puts her uniform back on and is about to leave when she turns to me with a seductive smile. That damn smile.

Mari: I'll see ya later, Captain~

Me: Yeah, I'll catch you later Sergeant.

She leaves and shuts the door.

Me: Good God above, six times she's trying to kill me. Wait, she's a medic. Now I'm more scared.

Timeskip

Alnus Hill: Alnus Hill Village

It's hard to believe it's been months since the Empire attacked Japan. The refugee camp has turned into a thriving town in that time. People for all walks of life in this world come here both human and demi-human alike mostly to buy stuff from the PX in town. I'm walking through town with Itami, Kuwabara, Towson, and Russian Army Junior Sergeant, Tanya Pavelovna.

Tanya Pavelovna

Itami: Wow, look at this place it's really gotten busy, hasn't it Old School?

Kuwabara: It used to be just the PX here. And now they've gone and built a little town around it.

Anthony: I'm sure it has something to do with the PX being full of a bunch of Japanese and US products that people have never seen before.

Kuwabara: Yeah, I know... It's kinda like a side market. People are making a killing selling all this stuff to the nobility back home.

Pavelovna: I also heard that some Eastern Europe and Chinese products will come in by two weeks. This includes having a PX near our base as well.

Anthony: That's......unique.

Me: And that is what you call Capitalism, everybody loves money, even the communist.

Pavelovna:*raised eyebrow* So communism has capitalism?

Kuwabara: No...what he meant to say is that socialism speaks to you about the welfare of people, but they are hypocrites.

Anthony: Like the case of Hugo Chavez, the communist dictator of Venezuela, who said: "Being rich is bad!" But he had at his personal disposal, more than $500 million.

Pavelovna: That makes sense.

Itami: Is that what's going on? Well that's kinda cool. A lot of this makes for pretty sweet souvenirs, don'tcha think? Besides a little free trade is a good thing for everyone.

Kuwabara: I wouldn't say everyone sir.

Itami: Huh?

Anthony: He's right. We keep building more and more streets and buildings...

Pavelovna: Then both America, Japan, China, and Russia. Is gonna have to bring in more troops for security.

Me: It's barely working as it is even with the extra help from Russia and China. Lucky Countess Myui decided to loan out her maids to help run all this.

Anthony: Oh yeah, that eleven year old girl that's head of the Formal Family in Italica.

Pavelovna:*raised eyebrow* Eleven year old girl?

Me: I'll explain it to you later.

We walk near the tavern/bar and observe a group of JSDF soldiers and Russian soldiers eating, drinking, and joking around.

Kuwabara: It does have its negative effects as well.

Itami: What do you mean?

Kuwabara: I'm not a prohibitionist but look at this...way too much free time, sir. It can lead to bad habits and a lot of our young guys have a taste for bad habits.

Anthony:*whispering to Pavelovna* He's just mad cause Ryan and Häyhä out drank him in a drinking match.

Itami: A soldier needs to unwind after a hard day. Hey Mav, Towson, don't the USMC unwind?

Me: Yeah it's fine and all, then you come back after a nice weekend.

Anthony: Then the Gunny comes in to your office and tells you that two Privates got royally shit-faced.

Me: Got into a fight with couple of squids and kicked their asses, then stole their car for a joyride.

Anthony: Somehow making back to base without crashing or getting pulled over, rolling past the MPs.

Me: Park the car outside Battalion Headquarters...in the grass.

Anthony: And try to fight the MPs only to get their asses kicked and dragged off to the brig.

Me: Then you have to spend your entire morning writing them counselling statements, and NJPing their asses!

Anthony: Oh and on top that, the whole company has go on dry status for the next month!

Me: As in the consumption of any alcohol is prohibited by command until the duration period is over!!

They all give us a wide eyed look.

Anthony: What?! If that's never happened in the JSDF! Then I call bullshit!

Me: Don't worry about it Ant. The JSDF doesn't eat crayons and drink cobra blood in Thailand.

Itami: Anyway, but if things get too out of hand I'm sure you know how to straighten the goofballs out.

Kuwabara: Yeah.

Anthony: What if it was Mina?

Itami: Not it.

Kuwabara: Not it.

Me: Not it.

Pavelovna: Не то.

Anthony: Fuck...

???: HANDS OFF THE TAIL! ASSHOLE!!

We look over to see a dwarf getting kicked out of the tavern for trying feel up one of the barmaids, Delilah.

Delilah: Grrr! Who the hell do you think you are?! This ass is for show not for trash like you to try grab and smack, you got it you little pint sized twerp!

Me:*mutters* Reminds of a strip joint party one time. That Marine wasn't happy when he saw his Mom.

Dwarf: Watch your mouth bitch... You're messing with the wrong dwarf!

Then Rory and that Harpy from Italica showed up, who I learned later is named Myuute and whom the JSDF and USMC made an MP. HOW COME SHE GETS TO BECOME AN MP!? I DON'T KNOW!

Although she is scared shitless whenever she hears the A-10.

Rory: Well hello there little fella, would you mind if I messed with you? I'm sure that you're aware who I am aren't you.

Dwarf:*frightened* Uh...Emroy's girl.

Rory: Look at that you got it on the very first try! Guess I'll give you a chance to get out of this alive! But if you're still interested in getting messed with, then I'll happily oblige!

Anthony and Pavelovna:*stepping up* Count us in as well.*cracks knuckles*

Dwarf:*runs away* I'm good! I'm good! I'm good!

Rory: Heh. Typical.

We approach the two.

Itami: Out on patrol, Rory?

Rory: They've been a lot more people coming in and out of town lately...

Myuute: Many are idiots like Stumpy the Drunken Prev who can't keep their hands to themselves.

Me: Sounds like you two got everything under control.

Rory: Are you going to eat?

Kuwabara: We were actually about to meet someone for a drink.

We look to the tavern to see Redrick and Ivanov waving at us. We enter the tavern sit down and order a couple of ales. We start drinking and I tell some stories.

Me: Okay, I was out with some marines on a San Diego beach drinking, hitting golf balls into the ocean. When this guy 2nd Lieutenant, starts mouthing off. I tell him to shut up and he take offense to that.*drinks* So he tries taking a swing at me just to trip over his own feet and falls face first into the sand and he is just out like a light.*drinks* So I get an idea, we picked him up and put him in the bed of the truck drive back to the street*drinks* and we chain him to a palm tree. He comes to and start ranting and raving that, *mockingly* " You son of bitch! I'm the best Marine in the whole company!" and I say, "Yeah, and you're fucking tied to a Goddamn tree!"

We all have a huge laugh at that when we see Tuka passing by and appears to be searching for something.

Rory: Tuka! Looking for someone dear?

Tuka: Yeah... kind of... something like that.

Rory: Aw! Do you have a boyfriend now?~

Tuka: Oh don't be silly, Rory!

She waves us off and leaves.

Itami: Is really she doing this every day now?

Redrick: Every day about this time, sir. She starts wandering around looking for her dead pops.*sighs* How long are we going to let her keep doing this.

Kuwabara: Well we can't stop her.

Rory:*drinks* Do you really think she needs someone to force her into dealing with this situation?

Redrick: Well yes of course she does... You can't deal with the future by dwelling on the past. And if she keeps this up... she'll end up losing her grip on reality right now. No one... should have to live like that.

I look away knowing her pain but I don't want to say it out loud.

Rory: Suppose I see where you're coming from...

Itami: Look Redrick, if we all told her the truth... that her father is dead and she's searching in vain. What good do you think that would do for her? ...It could very well send her to a place much darker than this. And as her doctor, you're the one who'd have to be there for her.

Anthony: Grief counseling is a long process and you just don't have the time Doc. Eventually, we'll be all ordered to withdraw back through the Gate. Both US, Japanese, Russian, and Chinese.

Me: All of us will be gone.. and Tuka will be left here to deal with it all by herself.

Redrick: Okay, so you're favor we do nothing.

Me: I do... if we can't care for that girl until the very end... then let her be.

Redrick: Very well, sir.*stands up* I need to get ready for tomorrow, night.

He walks off clearly pissed off.

Me: *drinks and sighs* I'll be right back.

I stand up put my PC back on and catch up to Redrick.

Me: Doc!

Redrick: What the fuck is it now, sir?

Me: Look, I know what I said was...kind of a dick move.

Redrick: Then why did you say it, Captain?

Me: Because....

Redrick: Cap?

Me: Because I know Tuka's pain better than anyone... My dad died too Doc.

Redrick:*shocked* Holy shit! When?!

Me: Four months ago.

Redrick: But that was when we...

Me: When we first passed through the Gate, yeah. I didn't find about it until weeks after he was buried. The Generals gave me the option go home but I turned it down.

Redrick: What?! Why?!

Me: Because he taught me that the mission comes first, and I have a mission. To be the 5th Recons' CO. I forced myself to confront the reality that he was gone, and there was nothing I could do about it for the sake of the mission. However, I've had a lot of down time and start thinking about things. Like, how I couldn't be there to say goodbye, comfort my mom, or thinking about the last time I talked him and... it hurts. It's not traumatic like Tuka because my dad died of heart failure, her dad was eaten by a dragon.*sniffs* But it hurts... so... much that sometimes it's hard to hold back.

Tears start welling up in my eyes and Redrick pats my shoulder.

Redrick: I'm so sorry Mav, does anyone else know about this?

Me: You and three other people and I'd like to keep it that way.

Redrick: Got it.

He let's go as Kuwabara approaches us.

Kuwabara: Everything okay? You were gone a long time, sir.

Me: Everything's fine Sergeant Major, will you please escort Petty Officer Third Class back to base I'm gonna head back to the tavern now.

Kuwabara: Yes sir.

I nod to Redrick and he nods back and leave him with Kuwabara and I make my way back to the tavern. I get close to the tavern and Itami sprints past me.

Itami: Gotta go!

Me: Dafuq?

Delilah: Hey buddy, I'm putting this on your tab!

I reenter the tavern and talk to Delilah.

Me: Hey, what's going on here?

Delilah: Your friend didn't pay his tab. Are you gonna skip out too?

Me: Did that son of bitch leave me with the bill?! I'm gonna fucking kill him! And where's Rory and the others?

Delilah: She bailed though the window. The other did the same. And Towson...

We look to see Anthony paying for 4/8 of the bill with a pissed off look.

Delilah: Somehow I feel like he'll murder me. And this dark elf over there says she was saving her from your friend. So you gonna pay up or what?

Me:*sighs* Fine. What's this about a dark elf?

I pay the tab as someone taps my shoulder and I look over to see who it is.

???: Excuse me?

Me: Can I help you ma'am?

I see Anthony moving silently behind her.

???: Are you one of the Green Ones or the Black and Green Ones?

Anthony:*coming up* Pardon?

Does she mean the JSDF combat uniform and the USMC Woodland MARPAT?

???: It's important that I speak to the either of them are you two one of them?

Anthony and I look at each other then back at the dark elf woman.

Me: I guess you could say that, why don't we get a table and talk.

???: Very well then.

Anthony: Delilah, can we get three waters please?

Delilah: Sure thing, Scary-I mean Handsome.

Anthony and I sit at a table across from the dark elf she remove her turban, Ant gets out a notepad and pen as Delilah brings our drinks.

Delilah: Here ya go.

Anthony: Thank you, Gorgeous Warrior Bunny.

Delilah leaves with a smile and a slight blush.

Me: So can tell us your name?

Yao: Yes, I'm the daughter of Dehan in the Dushi Clan living in the Schwarzt Forest. Yao Haa Dushi, I seek the aid of the Green Ones or the Black and Green Ones.

Me: Ms. Dushi what exactly are you requesting of the "Green Ones and the Black and Green Ones?"

Yao: You can call me Yao, and I wish to request their assistance to a most dire matter and I am prepared to pay them.

She puts a sack on to the table and reveals a large diamond. Wait? LARGE DIAMOND?!?!

Me: Is that a diamond?

Anthony: Fuck me with a Demon Dog. That's one hell of a rock you got their Yao. What exactly is your request?

Yao: I need them to kill a Flame Dragon.

Me: A Flame Dragon?

I noticed Anthony looked excited as he's smiling like Mina.

Yao: Yes, it's already injured; if this payment is insufficient I shall include myself as part of the payment.

His smile dropped to a thinking one.

Me: That won't be necessary ma'am. And this dragon. Is it big, red, has an arrow lodged in it's eye, and missing an arm?

Yao: Yes, how did you know?

Me: Because my team and I was there when it's arm was blown off.

Yao: So, you have the skills in fighting a dragon?

Me: Skill? I would call surviving that thing out of pure luck.

Yao: May ask your names?

Me: Captain Kuribayashi, and this is Lieutenant Towson. We're both officers of the United States Marine Corps.

Yao: Are you close to their leaders?

Anthony: We are in a way, but we have a mission tomorrow so we can't do anything right now. We'll be gone two maybe three days tops... Tell ya what, when we get back I'll speak to the Generals about your request. However I am not guaranteeing you anything.

She reaches over and grabs his hands and smiles.

Yao: Thank you, I am very grateful you are willing to pass my request to the Green Ones and the Black and Green Ones.

Anthony:*smiles* No problem ma'am, but like I told you I am not promising you anything, okay.

We finish our drinks and we pay the bill...again, and we leave the tavern.

Me: Do have anywhere to stay for the night Yao?

Yao: That won't be a problem and thank you again Kuribayashi and Towson.

We part ways and Anthony and I head back to base to rest and prep for tomorrow's mission, to the Imperial Capital.

Anthony: Heard that Japan is sending Ministry of Foreign Affairs bureaucrat Kōji Sugawara... and Tomoe Takahashi aka Mina's mom as a attache.

Me: And let's not forget the US is sending the newest rank of the USMC. A 5-Star General. In other words, the General of the United States Marine Corps.

Anthony: They didn't give us a name of who he is, but know that we can't fuck around.

Me: So, who are the Russians and the Chinese sending for this mission to the Imperial Capital?

Anthony: Yeah, the Russians have Admiral Maksim Mesha leading their contingent. He's a seasoned commander, experienced in various combat situations. And for the Chinese, it's Senator Khan Wheng. She's reputed for her tactical insights and diplomatic finesse.

Me: Impressive. Mesha seems like a no-nonsense leader, and Wheng's diplomatic skills might be crucial for our mission, especially in navigating political complexities.

Anthony: Oh, absolutely. She's earned quite a reputation among politics.

Me: Sounds like a formidable duo from both sides. A Admiral and an Senator. You mentioned the 5-star General from the USMC. Any idea who that might be?

Anthony: Not much detail yet. The specifics are likely classified, and details on the US representative haven't been disclosed. But considering the significance of a 5-star rank, they'll definitely hold a critical position within our combined efforts.

Me: Let's hope their expertise proves vital during our mission. We're stepping into the Imperial Capital, and things could get complicated. But I'm confident in our combined capabilities.

Anthony: Absolutely, Captain. We've handled tough situations before. Plus, with the Russians and Chinese joining us, it might just make things a little smoother.

Me: Agreed. We'll have to keep an eye out for any further briefings and updates. Thanks for the info, Anthony. Let's get some rest before the mission tomorrow.

Anthony: Sounds like a plan, Captain. Good night.

Chapter Text

Date: May, 2021

David Fernandes' Pov

Afghanistan: Kandahar's highway

We're out an a routine patrol approaching an large town, I ride shotgun in the second Humvee with three others behind us. Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire" is playing on one of my marine's Bluetooth speaker.

The sun beat down mercilessly, casting stark shadows across the rugged landscape of Afghanistan.

I glanced out the window, scanning the horizon for any signs of trouble, my grip tightening on the handle above the door. The tension was palpable, a constant companion on these patrols, but the music provided a welcome distraction, a brief respite from the harsh reality of our surroundings.

The town loomed ahead, a cluster of mud-brick buildings huddled together against the backdrop of the arid desert. As we approached, I signaled to the driver, and he slowed the vehicle to a crawl, eyes darting warily from side to side.

We passed through the outskirts of the town, the streets eerily quiet in the midday heat. Every shadow seemed to conceal potential danger, every corner held unseen threats. But we pressed on, vigilant and alert, our senses tuned to the slightest hint of trouble.

The song on the radio faded into the distance as we continued our patrol, the familiar refrain of "I fell into a burning ring of fire" echoing in my mind. In this unforgiving land, surrounded by uncertainty and danger, it felt like we were indeed walking through fire, navigating the perilous path between life and death.

But we were Marines, trained to face adversity head-on, to stand firm in the face of danger. And as we rumbled along the dusty highway, I knew that together, we would overcome whatever challenges lay ahead, united by our duty and our unwavering resolve.

Suddenly some shots wiz past our vehicle.

Driver: Contact front!

MARSOC Captain: All Victors halt!

All of the vehicles halt as I look at my CO.

Me: Why'd we stop, sir?

MARSOC Captain: That was just some pot shots, LT. They're trying to draw us into an ambush stand by.

Saber:*radio* Crusader this is Saber, do you copy, over.

MARSOC Captain: This is Crusader 2-1 Actual, send traffic over.

Saber:*radio* Crusader, proceed into town and clear it out, over.

MARSOC Captain: Solid copy, Saber. Interrogative, the enemy could have already set an ambush break...Request permission to bypass? Over.

Saber:*radio* Negative, Crusader. Proceed into town and clear out all hostiles. Out

MARSOC Captain: Copy, out. Fuck!*slams radio* That fucking POG of a Lieutenant Colonel wants to score some glory for his first time out on the field!

Me: What's the call Capt. Razor?

Razor(MARSOC Captain) put in a call on the radio to the rest of the MARSOC platoon.

Razor: All Crusader Victors, this is Crusader 2-1 Actual. Move forward and prepare to engage...

Me:*sighed and nods* Alright Marines, ready up and prepare for contact.

We proceed forward. As the first vehicle enters the town. A massive explosion sent the Humvee ten feet in the air, slams into the ground, and it's on fire!

Me: SHIT!!! IED!!!

Razor: JESUS CHRIST!! THEY'RE BURNING!!!

I look on in horror as the Humvee burns. The chaotic scene unfolded before us in a whirlwind of dust and smoke. The deafening blast of the IED echoed in our ears, sending shockwaves through the air and rattling our bones. Flames licked at the twisted wreckage of the Humvee, casting eerie shadows against the scorched earth.

Razor's voice crackled over the radio, urgent and commanding, as he barked out orders to the rest of the platoon. The gravity of the situation hung heavy in the air, a stark reminder of the dangers we faced every day in this unforgiving land.

Me: Get down! Return fire!

I shouted, instinct taking over as adrenaline surged through my veins. The training kicked in, muscle memory guiding my actions as I crouched behind cover, rifle at the ready. Bullets whizzed past, kicking up puffs of dirt as they struck the ground around us.

Razor's voice cut through the chaos, steady and determined, as he coordinated our response to the ambush. We moved with precision and purpose, laying down suppressing fire as we advanced into the heart of the town, determined to root out the enemy and eliminate the threat.

The heat of the flames licked at my skin, the acrid smell of smoke filling my nostrils as we pressed forward, inch by inch. Every step was fraught with peril, every corner a potential death trap. But we pushed on, fueled by a sense of duty and a fierce determination to see the mission through to the end.

The battle raged on, fierce and unforgiving, but we fought with all our strength and courage, unwilling to back down in the face of adversity. And as the smoke cleared and the gunfire finally died down, we stood victorious, battered but unbowed, our resolve unshaken by the trials of war.

Time begins to slow down and the song plays it's chorus warped and distorted. The world also starts to become blurry I start to feel like I'm engulfed in flames. I try to brush it off but it won't come off. It starts to burn my flesh and I let out a blood curdling scream.

Me: AHHHH!! AHHHHHHHH!!!

Date: February, 2024

Alnus Hill: Liberty-Prime Base, Fernandes' Quarters

I wake up in a panic, hyperventilating, and covered in sweat. Damn PTSD.

It was just a bad dream, but I haven't thought about that mission in a long time. Shino who is sleeping next to me woke up and is trying to calm me down.

Shino: Hey, what's wrong, David?! Calm down!

My eyes are widened and my I'm still hyperventilating. Shino embraces me and rests her head on my shoulder. My breathing starts to slow down as I focus on her soft skin against mine.

Shino: It's alright...just relax, it was just a bad dream.

Me: I'm sorry...I don't want you to see me like this.

She kisses me in the lips.

Shino: It's okay, lay back down.

She lays me back down still hugging me.

Shino: What did you dream about if you don't mind me asking?

Me: My second tour in Afghanistan.*sighs* Even in a another world, I can't seem to escape that nightmare of a patrol.

Shino: But that wasn't yours or your CO's fault, right?

Me: I know, but those were still my Marines...and I couldn't save most of them. Even our CO.

I look at my clock to see that it's 0200, we have a mission in four hours to the Imperial Capital. I look back over at Shino who's already asleep and I'm glad she's in my life. I finally drift off back to sleep.

Timeskip to four hours later

I'm walking with Shino to the helipad still feeling groggy but some Black Rifle Coffee did help as we near the helipad. I take Shino aside to talk.

Me: Hey, I'm sorry about last night...The night terrors don't happen often, but when they do it usually drives people away. It's how a some of my relationships have ended, I'll understand if you want to do the same with me.

I brace myself for what I thought she was going to say, but she just cups my face with her hands.

Shino: Hey, look at me in eyes, Marine.

I look directly into her brown eyes.

Shino: Is that why you asked me if I was sure about us during the hotspring resort?

Me: Yeah. I've got some demons in me and my shadow is full of skeletons of both allies and enemies. And I don't want to drag you down, Shino.

She gives me a smile.

Shino: Listen, don't ever think you're dragging me down. In fact, I'm happy that you're opening up to me like this. If you ever want to talk about any of that I'll be waiting okay.

She props herself up a bit and kisses me and I kiss her back after a few seconds she breaks it and we head over to the the helipad where some cargo is being loaded into a Chinook. Itami, Maverick, Lockwood, Mina and Anthony are checking everything with Captain Han Zheng and 1st Lieutenant Svetlana Herzog and....Mina's cousin a diplomat named Kaede Takahashi. Another Takahashi Clan member.

3rd Pov

Itami: Textiles... dishes, pots and pans and all sorts of kitchen stuff. Oh wow, you even got sake in here. Oh what's "Maker's Mark?"

Maverick: Bourbon, a little gift from the States along with other things.

Anthony: For a fact Maker's Mark is expensive and one of the best bourbon out there.

Sarah:*looks at Anthony* How do you know that?

Anthony: I and a few others "tactically" acquired a bottle from an Army officer one time.

Svetlana:*chuckles* I'm pretty sure no one would mind if you marines went and took one.

David: I might later.

David was about to touch it when Kaede slaps his hand away.

David:*holds hand* Okay, OW.

Kaede: I mind.*to Mina* これらのコンテナに入っているものはすべて、私たち外交官のための弾薬と武器ですか？ (All the stuff in these containers are the ammunition and weapons for us diplomats?)

Mina:*smirks* ああ、楓さんは自分でボトルの 1 つや 2 つをすくったことがないと言いたいのですか？ (Oh are you trying to tell me you've never once skimmed a bottle or two for yourself, Kaede-san?)

Kaede:*scoffs* 盗みなどの行為は絶対に行いません。 (I will never do such a thing as stealing.)

Maverick:*mutters* Bullshi-

Mina: True. Even I nearly got stabbed by my aunt for trying to take a cookie.

Maverick:*double-takes* I'm sorry. But could you repeat that?

Itami and Lockwood share a knowing glance, understanding the dynamics at play between Mina and her cousin Kaede. Meanwhile, Anthony stifles a chuckle at the exchange.

Anthony: Well, looks like we've got a lively group for this mission.

Svetlana: Indeed. It's always interesting when diplomats are involved in military operations.

David: Yeah, let's just hope it doesn't get too complicated.

Kaede shoots Maverick a sharp glare, her expression serious.

Kaede: I said, stealing is a disgraceful act and I would never engage in such behavior.

Maverick raises his hands in surrender, realizing he struck a nerve.

Maverick: Got it, got it. No stealing from the diplomats.

Han unveils a cover to find crates full of Alnus gold.

David:*looking at the amount of gold in amazement* Shhhhhiit.

Han: And this funds the operation?

Kaede: Yes. Both the Japanese and Americans managed to collect some local currency from the Alnus co-op. From grocery sales. And now we'll be able to put it to good use.

Han: Hmm. Should be highly effective in stabilizing and growing a developing country.

Mina: Or bribing the right politicians.

Anthony: Or bribing the right gangs and cartels.

Itami: Depends on the country, right? This definitely beats strong-arm tactics.

Kaede: Agree to disagree.

Mina: Yeah, they saw what happened the last timed they threatened us.

Itami: That body count speaks for itself Lieutenant.

Kaede: And that's why you are never going to be an ambassador.

Anthony and David stifles a chuckle.

Kaede: We don't need to create any more unnecessary problems. For now, we'll just focus on getting more peace-minded people to the table.

They get everything loaded as the Chinook revs up and prepares to take off.

Svetlana: Itami, Marines, Mina. Make sure it all get through.

Itami: Yeah we got this, okay.

Maverick, Sarah, Anthony, David and Mina give her a thumbs up as the ramp closes up. They take their seats and the helicopter heads to the Imperial Capital. They get about halfway there when Kaede saw something flying by.

Kaede: On your right.

One F-15J Eagle, a F-35B Lightning II, a Su-35S, and a J-16 fly on the starboard side and the pilots give them a thumbs up and flew away.

Kaede: Now they're leaving.

Itami: Probably just screwing around. Flyboys, they must love it out here.

Anthony: Yeah, fly boys in the Corps or the Chair Force would get a real kick flying out here. I heard Cole was having fun flying about in that A-10 one time.

Kaede: Why would you think something like that, Towson-san?

Anthony: No air traffic, and no restricted airspace. It's open skies out here.

Sarah: Except for the dragons and wyverns of course.

David: No, you mean target practices.

Mina: Yeah, that's a better name. Target Rich Environment.

Maverick: However. Sonic Booms + Medieval buildings = bad time.

Kaede: True.

Timeskip

Maverick's Pov

Saderan Empire: Imperial Capital Outskirts

We landed on an LZ outside the capital we unpacked everything and put it on horse drawn carriages and make our way to a rendezvous point with the Pina's knights and 1st Deep Recon.

Itami: A little further down we'll be meeting a contact.

Kaede: Hmm. Is it someone you know from the Capital?

Mina: A knight named Hamilton will be there along with some her subordinates called the Rose Maiden Knights. But also we sent our own for more protection, 1st Deep Recon(1DR). The leaders are Captain Denis Rafaki, 1stSgt. Nick Pusley and 1Lt. John Graystone.

Me: It's just a quick exchange.

We arrive at the rendezvous, Hamilton and two other knights are there and Rafaki and some of 1DR was there too. And to our surprise Pina is there as well and glad to see us.

Pina: Hello Itami! Sorry for the trouble!

Itami: Hey...no sweat.

Pina: Marines, it's good to see you all again!

Me: Likewise.

Sarah: A pleasure to meet.

Anthony: Feeling's mutual Princess.

David: What Ant said.

Mina just nodded at her.

Kaede: And who is this woman?

Denis: Princess Pina Co Lada.*whispers* Yes, she's named after the drink.*out loud* Who happens to be the third princess of the Saderan Empire.

Pina, Rafaki and Itami head over to talk while I and Sarah handle things with Hamilton and Kaede.

Me: Okay, so everything is in place I'll be heading to the party with my gifts and Itami and Lockwood will be doing the weapons demo with some senators.

Sarah: And the rest of 5th Deep Recon will do the weapons demo and setup the urban combat test ground. While Rafaki will communicate with our MBTs and other armor support units for the weapons demo.

Hamilton: We'll arrange a room for you to change Kuribayashi and.....

Sarah: 1st Lieutenant Sarah Lockwood.

Hamilton: Yes, we'll arrange a room for you to change too.

Sarah: Thanks.

Me: Thanks Hamilton.

Itami gives something to Pina and I can see what it is. It's what Risa called "Yaoi" I think the terms are. A quick "WTF?!" from Rafaki who saw it and the cover I now clearly see... I'm not going to judge. It's 2024. LGBT has it's things.

We finish our business and head out to our next destination as I saw the rest of 5th Deep Recon arrive.

Kurata: Omigod omigod! You heard about it, right, sir? In the Imperial Capital a bunch of beast girls and bird girls too!*gets slapped in the back of the head by Thomas* OW!!! What was that for?!

Thomas: Yeah, THEY'RE ALL SLAVES. Glad to know that's a turn on for you ya fucking C R E E P.

Kurata: Oh....

Anthony:*pinches the bridge of his nose* Dear...Fucking...God Kurata, I am going to kill you one day.

Davis: But I thought you partial into cat girls? Thomas told me.

Shino: You and Itami are the biggest dorks ever! Cut the chatter!

David: I wholeheartedly agree. Please shut the fuck up!

Itami and Kurata: NOOO!!

The Americans, Japanese, Chinese, and Russians just sighed and faceplams at the two dropped as a baby dumpasses.

Itami: This is important stuff we're talking about here!

Kurata: Damn right it is!

David: I hate you both.

Han and Me: And we outrank you. So, shut up.

Itami and Kurata:*groans* Yes, sir.

Kaede looks at Mina and she nods. Kaede just sighs at this.

Mari: Lieutenant, Mav, I forgot to mention the children of the refugees from Coda Village stopped by to see us before we left.

Itami and Me: They did?

Green: Yeah, they wanted to thank us for all the kindnesses we've shown them and they wanted us to know that they're glad we brought them at the base.

I smile at thinking about saving those kids that day and Mari gives my hand a squeeze without anyone noticing.

Kuwahara: Oh, and Captain Kuribayashi. They wanted to tell you, "Oorah! Leatherneck!"

Anthony:*chuckles* They learn fast, we'll make Marines out of them yet!

Mina: Ah yes, child soldiers.

Everyone:*turning to Mina* Dammit Mina...

Mina: What?

We move closer to the Capital, I start thinking about everything about that has happened up this point both the good and the bad. Also what's going to happen, and wondering if that dark elf from last night is staying out of trouble until I get back.

The landscape outside the capital rushes by as we draw closer to our destination. The weight of responsibility settles on my shoulders, a familiar sensation before any mission. But this time, it's different. The stakes are higher, the risks more pronounced, and the unknowns more numerous.

I glance at Sarah, who catches my eye with a reassuring smile. It's moments like these that remind me why we're here, why we endure the hardships and the dangers. For her, for our team, for the people we serve.

But amidst the camaraderie and the sense of purpose, there's a lingering unease. The encounter with the dark elf last night serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows, unseen and unpredictable. I can't shake the feeling that there's more to her than meets the eye, and I wonder what role she'll play in the days to come.

As we approach the Capital, I steel myself for what lies ahead. Whatever challenges await us, whatever obstacles we may face, we'll meet them head-on, together as a team. And maybe, just maybe, we'll make a difference in this world torn by conflict and uncertainty.

With a deep breath, I focus on the task at hand, pushing aside doubts and fears. The mission awaits, and we're ready to face it, united in purpose and resolve.

Chapter Text

Date: February, 2024

Maverick's Pov

Saderan Empire: Imperial Gardens

Princess Pina, the Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Kōji Sugawara, the USMC A 5-Star General, Russian Navy Admiral Maksim Mesha, and Chinese Senator Khan Wheng are throwing a party for pro-peace Imperial Senators and Nobles. Hopefully to show them that the Americans, Japanese, Chinese, and Russians don't want this war to increase drastically.

Or in the politicians case, make the public think otherwise.

We've been instructed to assist with this party and formally introduce to The Empire. Itami, Han, Svetlana and I move to the courtyard to brief 5th Recon on our mission here.

Häyhä: Attention!*salutes* Officers present!

Oh, and Itami's wearing Imperial clothing and Han, Svetlana and I still wearing our gear the whole team both Americans, Japanese, Chinese, and Russians trying to hold back their laughter at how ridiculous he looks and Anthony, David, Sarah, and I just have a huge grin on our faces.

Kurata:*chuckles* You're lookin' good, sir!

Davis: Got that drip, sir!

Pavelovna: That outfit...

Ren: Just priceless.

Even Tomita is having difficulty holding back, we salute back at the Warrant Officer Häyhä.

Kuwabara: It uh...it looks good on you.

Itami: I know when you're lying to me.

Me:*sarcastically* Oh no, you look great Itami.

Itami: And I know when you're being sarcastic Mav.

Han: Uh... well it at least it look like it fits.

Then a boy shows up from behind at points a Itami.

Boy: Hey! Check out the biggest dork in the world!

Everyone stifles a laugh with Anthony and David biting their arms to not bust out as the boy's mother shows up and takes him away.

Mother: Honey, stop it!

Boy: Huh? But look at him, how could you not laugh?

Mother: Hush!

Then Mina comes. Oh God...

Mina: Okay guys, everything is getting unloaded and set up as we speak. Also, you should see-

She stops and looks at Itami and we all waited for a response from her.

Mina:......

Itami:........

Me:........

Everyone:........

Mina's silence hangs in the air, a pregnant pause that seems to stretch on indefinitely. The tension is palpable as we await her reaction to Itami's attire, unsure of what she'll say or do.

Finally, Mina breaks the silence with a burst of laughter, unable to contain her amusement any longer. Her laughter is infectious, and soon the entire team joins in, the courtyard echoing with the sound of mirth and camaraderie.

Mina: Oh my gods, Itami! I've never seen anything like it!

Itami: Hey, what's so funny? I think I look pretty good.

Mina: Pretty good? You look like you raided the Imperial wardrobe and got lost in there!

The laughter continues, the tension of the moment melting away as we share in the absurdity of Itami's attire. It's moments like these that remind us of the bonds we share, the friendships forged in the crucible of conflict and camaraderie.

As the laughter subsides, Itami grins sheepishly, accepting the good-natured ribbing with good humor. With the ice broken, we return to the task at hand, our spirits buoyed by the shared moment of levity.

Me: Alright, enough teasing. Let's focus on the mission. We've got a party to assist with, and I don't think the guests are ready for Itami's fashion statement just yet.

Itami: Hey, I'll have you know, this outfit is a hit here!

Sarah: Maybe in a history museum!

More laughter erupts at Sarah's remark, and with a final chuckle, we turn our attention to the preparations for the party. Despite the seriousness of our mission, the camaraderie and humor of our team serve as a reminder that even in the midst of turmoil, there's always room for laughter and friendship.

Mina: Right. So, as I was saying, everything is being set up for the party. Our primary objective is to ensure the smooth running of the event and assist in any way necessary. We'll be liaising with the Imperial staff and providing security as needed.

Han: Additionally, we'll be introducing ourselves formally to the Imperial dignitaries and establishing a rapport with key figures. It's crucial that we convey our commitment to peace and cooperation.

Svetlana: And let's not forget the cultural aspect. We need to show respect for Saderan traditions and customs, especially considering the significance of this gathering.

Itami:*to Maverick, Sarah, Anthony, David, Han, Svetlana and Mina* Say, how come you guys aren't dressed up like me?

Me: Oh, I will be in my Dress Blues later, because the general said so.

Sarah, Anthony, David, Han, and Svetlana: Same.

Mina: For me, I have a kimono ready. My mother threaten me to wear it.

Everyone: Understandable.

Itami: Besides Mina. I meant, why aren't you dressed like this?!

Anthony: Consider it payback for sticking me and Mav with the tab the other night, ya Blue Falcon!

Reznov: Blue Falcon?

Hill: Also known as the "buddy fucker".

Reznov: Ah.

Itami removes the hat and gives the briefing.

Itami: Listen up! Just like what Captain Zheng and 1st Lieutenants Herzog and Takahashi said. Today's mission may not be the usual, but this is still very important. I expect everyone to be alert and to do their job with purpose.

David:*looks at his watch* It's almost time.

Han: Alright! They're coming people, everyone get to your post.

Me: You all know what to do. 5th Recon fall out!

Everyone: Sir!/Yes sir!/Oorah!

Everyone moves to their assignments as the guests begin arriving. I grab my duffel bag and ruck and start making my way to the party. Personally, I'd rather do the weapons demo but I got orders.

Timeskip

Saderan Empire: Imperial Villa

I look in the mirror to see if my uniform is on correctly haven't worn this thing in a really long time since the Ginza thing.

I spot Anthony, Sarah and David also in their Dress Blues and Han and Svetlana in their dress uniform.

Svetlana dress uniform

Han dress uniform

We all lock and load our sidearms and put them in our holsters just in case the worse should happen. We begin triple checking our uniforms when I hear a knock at the door. David open the door to see Pina wearing her party dress and Mina wearing a Black & White Japanese Kimono.

Anthony: Ayy. You fixed your hair, Mina.

Mina: Thanks. Kaede helped mostly.

Pina: Are you all ready?

Anthony, Sarah, David, Han, Svetlana and I: Yes ma'am.

Pina: Care to escort a lady, Kuribayashi?

I look at David and Han and both give me a thumbs up, while Anthony mouths, "Don't let Mari see you~".

I go wide eye a bit. He knew!

Me:*voice cracks* Of-!*clears throat* Of course Princess.

We walk down a hallway with Pina's arms linked against mine. I'm nervous as hell but not showing it.

Pina: You look very handsome in those outfits Lieutenants and Mav.

David and Anthony: Thank you, Princess.

Me: Thank you, you lovely yourself Princess.

Pina: I recall you wore a different attire when we went to Japan.

Sarah: The Blues are for ceremonial and formal occasions, ma'am.

Mina:*mutters* And other stuff.

Pina: Well it certainly suits you three and thank you all for helping out with this event and also for...*blushes* bringing that other thing.

Mina, Sarah, and Svetlana: Other thing?

Me: Oh! You meant the uh,*clears throat* "graphic novel" Itami brought you Princess?

Anthony: Hentai?

Me: Risa's hentai.

David and Anthony shuttered at remembering that.

Pina: Not just that! But also these.

She shows us newspaper headlines from the Ginza Incident and the Battle of Alnus Hill I look at some of the head lines as Han, Anthony, and Svetlana read them.

Anthony:*reading* "OFF DUTY JGSDF AND USMC OFFICERS SAVE HUNDREDS IN GINZA!"

Han:*reading* "HERO US MARINE IS TO BE JOINED WITH A MILITARY JOINT OP WITH THE JSDF AND USMC!"

Svetlana:*reading* "USMC LEADS FROM THE FRONT AT ALNUS HILL WITH JGSDF!"

Me: God I hate the papers, I was just doing what I thought was right at the time.

Pina: There's no need to be modest, I saw your valor first hand at Italica.

Me: I'm a USMC Infantry Officer Princess, I was just doing my job.

Han: Before Herzog and I came here. We read these exploits and wanted to know...Who are these men named Itami and Kuribayashi?

Svetlana: And we came and finally met them. Our expectations weren't a lie.

Pina nods solemnly, her gaze thoughtful as she listens to our responses. It's clear that she holds a deep respect for the bravery and valor displayed by our team during the Ginza Incident and the Battle of Alnus Hill.

Pina: Your humility is admirable, Kuribayashi. But never underestimate the impact of your actions. Your courage and selflessness have not gone unnoticed, both here and in the wider world.

Mina: She's right, you know. You've become symbols of hope and heroism for many, especially among the people of the Special Region.

Sarah: It's not just about doing our jobs, though. It's about standing up for what's right, even when it's difficult or dangerous.

Pina smiles warmly, her eyes reflecting genuine gratitude and admiration.

Pina: Well said, Lieutenant Lockwood. Your dedication to justice and compassion is truly inspiring.

As we continue our conversation, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and humility wash over me. Despite our reservations and doubts, it's clear that our actions have made a difference, both in this world and beyond.

Me: Thank you, Princess. We're honored to serve alongside you and your people, and we'll do everything in our power to help bring about a lasting peace.

Anthony, David, Han, and Svetlana nod in agreement, their expressions reflecting determination and resolve. With Pina's words echoing in our minds, we prepare to face whatever challenges lie ahead, united in our commitment to a brighter future for the people of the Special Region.

We arrive at the party and there are all sorts of men and women eating and drinking some even brought their kids, Pina introduces me.

Pina: Everyone, I would like to introduce Marines Captain Maverick Kuribayashi, 1st Lieutenants Sarah Lockwood, Anthony Towson, David Fernandes and Mina Takahashi. The Representatives of Japan's ally, The United States of America. And next to them are Captain Han Zheng and 1st Lieutenant Svetlana Herzog. The Representatives of Japan's new allies, The People's Republic of China. And The Russian Federation.

Anthony, Sarah, Mina, David, Han, Svetlana and I: A pleasure to meet all of you.

I could feel everyone eyes on us and again no pressure we're just representing our entire nations again. We begin mingling with the party goers.

Noble Man: Captain, what kind of country is the "United States of America?"

Me: You can call it the United States or America or just the US, sir. And we're a federal constitutional representative republic.

Noble Man: What do your people call themselves?

Me: We call ourselves Americans sir.

Noble Woman:*to David* I can't believe your country sent someone so young and handsome to represent them.

David: I'm honored to do so ma'am.

Noble Woman: And so polite as well...that outfit I'd swear it almost make you look like a prince.

David: I'm just a Marine ma'am.

Noble Man:*to Anthony* The emblem on your collar what does it mean?

Anthony: The Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, sir? Well the Eagle represents our country, the Globe is for our worldwide commitment to the Corps and it's areas of responsibility. And the Anchor represent our amphibious nature and close ties with our Navy. We earn these in a crucible of training both officer and enlisted.

The other meaning is. We Stole the Eagle From the Air Force, The Rope from the Army, The Anchor from the Navy, and on the seventh day when God rested. We Took the Globe and we've been running the Show Ever since.

Noble Man:*to Anthony* I see. If I may ask, why is your skin different than the others?

Anthony looked a bit confused on how to explain is dark skin. Until he looked at the man and answered in the best and easiest way he could.

Anthony: Ah, well sir, that's because I'm African-American. It's just a term we use in the United States to describe people with African ancestry. My ancestors originally came from Africa, but now I'm proud to call myself an American.

Noble Man: Ah, I see. Thank you for explaining.

As the conversations continue, I can sense a genuine curiosity and interest from the partygoers about our backgrounds and our countries. It's a unique opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding between our nations.

Meanwhile, Han and Svetlana are engaged in diplomatic discussions with other dignitaries, exchanging pleasantries and discussing potential areas of cooperation. It's a delicate dance of diplomacy, but they handle it with grace and skill.

I spot some of kids chatting with Mina assuming she's the same age as them. They really don't know she's 25 years old.

Boy:*to Mina* Say, how did you get that scar?

Girl: Why are your teeth so sharp looking?

Boy: How are you a Lieutenant in the military?

Mina:........

Mina smiles gently at the children's curiosity, realizing they're unaware of her true age and experiences.

Mina: Well, you see, I got this scar from a little adventure I had when I was younger. As for my teeth, they've always been like this, just lucky I guess. And as for being a lieutenant in the military, well, I worked really hard and studied a lot to get there. It's important to follow your dreams and work towards your goals, no matter how big they may seem.

The children nod, fascinated by Mina's answers, and continue to ask her more questions about her life and experiences. Mina happily engages with them, enjoying their innocent curiosity and enthusiasm.

Noble Man:*to Sarah* I heard that the Americans, Japanese, Chinese, and Russians are doing demonstrations of their weapons, Lieutenant?

Sarah: I only brought my rifle and pistol sir, but I am willing to do a demonstration if something can can be arranged.

After some dummy targets are set up in a nearby courtyard as well as a small gathering of people. Sarah locked and loaded her rifle and prepare to fire I turn to the gathering.

Me: Everyone, you may want to put hands over your ears.

The gathering puts their hands over their ears as Sarah fires five single shots at the targets and switch it over to burst and she then fired bursts until the mag was empty. After she checked that the rifle is empty and switch it to safe and turn to the gathering.

Sarah: Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, this is the M16A2 Service Rifle. This and similar weapon systems are standard issue to all Marine Riflemen and every Marine is a Rifleman.

The people we're all shocked and and amazed by it's firepower after some time I made my way to small balcony where Pina was speaking to three men and two women they hear me coming and turn to me.

They were Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Kōji Sugawara, the USMC A 5-Star General, Russian Navy Admiral Maksim Mesha, Chinese Senator Khan Wheng, and Tomoe Takahashi.

I salute to the Admiral and the 5-Star General.

Kōji Sugawara

Russian Navy Admiral Maksim Mesha

Chinese Senator Khan Wheng

Tomoe Takahashi

I then widen my eyes at the nametag of the USMC 5-Star General's name.

General of the United States Marine Corps. General Anthony R. Towson.

In other words, Anthony's father.

USMC General Anthony R. Towson

General Anthony R. Towson:*salutes back* Captain Kuribayashi.

Sugawara: Ah, I don't believe we've actually met in person.*offers hand* Kōji Sugawara, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Me:*shakes his hand* Captain Kuribayashi, US Marines, good to meet to me you Mr. Sugawara.

Tomoe:*offers hand* And I believe you know me from my daughter Mina. Tomoe Takahashi, Head of the Takahashi Clan.

I shook her hand and winced as she put some strength in it. I guess she's much, MUCH stronger than Mina. And probably Rory.

Mesha:*salutes* Russian Navy Admiral Maksim Mesha. Nice to meet you.

Khan:*offers hand* Chinese Senator Khan Wheng. I heard about you from my husband Chinese Zhōngjiàng or in English Lieutenant General Khen Wheng.

Pina: Are you enjoying yourself Kuribayashi?

I take a moment to collect myself, realizing the significance of the people I'm speaking with.

Me: Yes, Your Highness. It's an honor to be here and to have the opportunity to contribute to this event.

Pina smiles warmly at my response, and the others nod in acknowledgment.

Pina: I'm glad to hear that. Your presence here is appreciated, Captain Kuribayashi.

General Towson: Your performance with the demonstration was quite impressive, Captain. You handled yourself well.

Me: Thank you, sir. It's always a privilege to showcase the capabilities of our weaponry.

General Towson nods approvingly, and the others offer words of encouragement as well. I feel a sense of pride knowing that I've represented my country and my fellow Marines admirably in front of such esteemed company.

Chapter Text

Date: February, 2024

Maverick's Pov

Saderan Empire: Imperial Villa

We continue our conversation, discussing various topics ranging from military strategy to cultural exchange, all the while representing our respective nations with pride and professionalism.

Sugawara: You know, Captain. Your testimony at the Diet says a lot. Besides I think you're doing quite well in my opinion. 

Me: If you say so, sir.

Khan: I may have majored in Political Science in college. But even many of the other senators China also loved your testimony, Marine.

Me: Thank you, ma'am.

Pina: Well you put on quite a show.

Me: Well, hopefully our weapon's and urban combat demo will go well.

As we continue our conversation, I feel a sense of validation and appreciation for the work we've put into this mission. It's reassuring to receive praise from such esteemed individuals, especially considering the importance of our objectives.

Pina: I have no doubt it will, Captain. Your team has shown exceptional professionalism and skill thus far.

General Towson: Indeed, Kuribayashi. Your team's performance reflects well on the Marine Corps and our allies.

Mesha: The demonstration will serve as a powerful statement of our combined capabilities and commitment to peace.

I nod in agreement, feeling a renewed sense of confidence in our mission. With the support of our allies and the determination of our team, I'm certain that we can make a positive impact here in the Imperial Capital.

A small girl suddenly runs up to us looking for Sugawara.

Small Girl: Mr. Sugawara!*catches breath*

Sugawara: Uh... What can I do for you?

Small Girl:*grabs Sugawara's arm* My stupid cousin won't stop bragging about her necklace and showing it to me! So she it's just a string of pearls, but who really cares, right! It's very irritating and making it impossible to enjoy your party. You gotta help me!

Sugawara over at looks at General Towson for assistance.

General Towson:*sips drink* Don't look at me, it's your party. Plus, I have 15 kids. 5 are boys, 10 are girls.

Pina and I spit-take at that and Mesha raises an eyebrow impressed.

Small Girl: Please, there must be something you can do.*squeezes Sugawara's arm tighter*

She whimpers like a puppy clinging to Sugawara and I'm getting uncomfortable vibes from that.

Sugawara: I'm...not sure exactly what I could...

Girl's Mother: Sherry no!*pulls Sherry away* Mr. Sugawara, I'm sorry, please forgive her rudeness.

Pina:*whispers to me* She's a member of the Tyueli family. They're in close with Marquis Casel.

Me:*whispers back* I heard he's a key player in the Saderan Empire Senate?

Pina:*whispers* Yes.

Sherry's parents are scolding her and taking her away and hearing about their background, but Sugawara stops them.

Sugawara: Please wait a moment, you must be her parents. Please don't be too hard on her, I assure you it was no trouble.

Me:*clears throat* Mr. Sugawara, I believe there's a shipment of Japanese and some American jewelry on the way that would look lovely on this young lady.

Sherry looks away in embarrassment as Tomoe giggles at her reaction.

Sugawara: Oh, thank you for that Captain.

Tomoe:*grabs Sherry shoulder* Listen Sherry, you should try not trouble your parents, understand. And if you're a good girl...I'm sure a wonderful reward will be coming your way.

Sherry gets all flustered turns to Sugawara and she slightly lifts up her dress and lightly bows to him. After that she runs off still red in the face. Pina picks up their drinks and walk over to Sugawara.

Pina: Quite the ladies man aren't you, Sir Sugawara? So I'm guessing in a few days, she might receive some Japanese pearls that would make her cousin jealous.

She hands a drink to him as he takes it.

Sugawara: Can't hurt to have a connection with Marquis Casel.

Pina: Did you see on the poor girl's face? I think she's in love.

Me: There is so much wrong with that.

Mesha: Ага...(Yeah...)

General Towson: Very wrong...

Pina: Is that so Maverick.*points* You've already got some admirers as well.

I look over to where Pina is pointing to see a group of noble women giggling, giving me very flirtatious looks, and waving at me. I just wave back at them and smile.

Oh God, if Mari saw this she would kill me or worst case scenario being castrated. Alive.

Me: Anyway Mr. Sugawara, we should probably meet up with Itami and the Senators.

As the interaction with Sherry and her family settles, I take a moment to collect myself, feeling a bit relieved that the situation has been resolved smoothly. However, Pina's teasing about my newfound admirers brings a flush of embarrassment to my cheeks.

Me: Uh, yes, of course, Princess. Mr. Sugawara, shall we?

Sugawara nods, setting his drink aside, and we make our way through the crowd to join Itami and the Senators. Despite the slight distraction, I remain focused on the task at hand, determined to fulfill our mission with professionalism and integrity.

Timeskip

Saderan Empire: Outskirts of the Imperial Gardens

USMC, JSDF, PLA, and Russian Army Weapons Demo

I gather my gear and we came upon Itami, Sarah, Han, Svetlana and the Senators as Itami's team is conducting a 81mm mortar demo.

Nishina: Half-load!

Katsumoto: Half-load, ready!

Nishina: Fire!

The 81mm mortar fires with a loud whoosh, sending the projectile soaring through the air towards its target downrange. The explosion upon impact kicks up a cloud of dust and debris, eliciting horrified murmurs from the gathered spectators.

The soldiers and marines fire several more mortars, the Senators observe the range and destruction in horror realizing that continuing to escalate this war will only lead to their Empire's complete and total collapse.

Next, we all walked to a Range and each of the soldiers and marines grabbed an assault rifle, shotgun, LMG and/or a pistol.

David looked back at the group and showed it to them and explained only the highly less classified stuff and explained why we're using brass catchers on our weapons. The reason was simple. It was cheaper and easier to make them.

Because the brass, the casing and bullet that was used in our guns, had the potential to kill someone. If fired directly at them. Plus, we started to use special 3D printers to make new ammo for our guns. The brass was a distinct color, shape and was a little bit lighter than our normal ones due to our bullets being custom-made for this type of environment.

Meaning they were easy to distinguish from each other.

After that. We showed our weapons. I, personally, was holding an M16A2.

But when they looked down the Range, they saw the dummies. But they were wearing Saderan Armor and Helmets.

The Senators were shocked seeing their fellow Kingdom's gear used as test dummies.

We all aimed our assault rifles, shotguns, LMGs, and pistols at the dummies and for our rifles switched on full auto.

General Towson:*shouts to us* LIVE AMMUNITION! AIM! 3-2-1. FIRE!

We opened fire at the dummies. Bullets from the Howa Type 89s, the AK-74s, the Type 03s, the Type 95s, the M16A2s, a M4, a M60, a M240, PKMs, RPKs, a QJY-201, a Sumitomo MINIMI, a few Minebea P9s, a few M9s, MP-443 Grachs, and a few QSZ-92s were fired. 12g shells from Remington M870s and Mossberg 500s were also fired.

All the shots were hitting the targets. We emptied all our magazines at the same time and quickly reloaded and aimed our guns back at the dummies. When we were ready to fire, General Towson gave us the go, and we fired again. And did this until our weapons were empty.

General Towson: Ceasefire!

General Towson called out as after we all dumped two mags of all diverse types of ammunition at the dummies. The Armor and Helmets were shattered, broken, and looked like they were exploded by a bomb. Everyone besides us was shocked at how it could penetrate the Armor like butter. The Armor is shredded apart with multiple of its parts missing.

A few MBTs like the M1A1 Abrams, Type 74, and T-72 along with a few IFVs like the BTR-80 and LAV-25A2 and a Mil Mi-28 Havoc Attack helicopter came over to the range. General Towson got on a radio and spoke in it to the crews of each vehicle.

General Towson: Tank Commanders, IFV Commanders, Helicopter Gunner, are you ready to conduct the live fire demo? 3-2-1 Go!

They started to fire at the dummies and destroyed them and turned them into a pile of scrap and rubble. Everyone was amazed or frighten. Especially the Senators. The Senators were surprised seeing a M1A1 Abrams and Mil Mi-28 Havoc up close. Type 74 and LAV-25A2 was their first time seeing it. And the T-72 and BTR-80 respectively.

The T-72 was a big shock to them. Especially seeing a BTR-80, an IFV from Russia.

After the demo. General Towson called out.

General Towson: Ceasefire!

After that, everyone went silent. As they couldn't believe what was happening.

It was then they saw an area that looked to be like a urban area.

General Towson: Alright, it's time for the Urban Warfare demo to Commence.

We saw Anthony in his gear ready to move.

General Towson: Timer starts as soon as the first target pops up.

His dad said as Hill goes to the area controls and loudspeaker microphone.

Anthony enters the first area, and the first set of targets pops up.

I speak through the speakers

Me: Clear the first area. Go! Go! Go!

He clears the first area.

Me: Area cleared! Move into the building!

He clears the building.

Me: Up the stairs, LT!

He runs up the stairs.

Me: Melee with your gun!

He rifle butts the target and shoots more targets.

Me: Area cleared! Jump down now!

He jumps off the ledge.

Me: Last area! Move! Move!

He clears the last area.

Me: Sprint to the exit! Clock's ticking!

When he reaches the exit, David will comment on his run depending on how well he ran it. And let's just say...

David: Very impressive, Ant! You made that course your bitch!

Congratulate David on Anthony's performance.

30 seconds was the minimum time to run it.

Anthony did it in 12.5 seconds. Making everyone besides myself, Mina, General Towson, Itami, Sarah, Sugawara, Mesha, Tomoe, Khan, Han and Svetlana jaw dropped. They were expecting the clock to go over 20 or 30 seconds. Not 12.5.

General Towson: I guess, Anthony won. He got the fastest time.

He is MARSOC for a reason.

Me: Congrats, Ant.

I said patting him on the back.

Sugawara: Hello Marquis Dussie. It's been some time we dined at your home.

Dussie: Sugawara, no need to waste time with idle with idle chit chat. Just tell us what does Japan, America, Russia, and China wants in order to proceed with the peace negations?

Sugawara: I'd be happy to, and I don't believe you've met our American, Russian, and Chinese allies yet. General Towson, Admiral Mesha, and Senator Wheng. Marquis Dussie he's a member of the Imperial Senate.

General Towson: Sir.

Mesha nods head a bit.

Khan: Nǐ hǎo.(Hello.)

Dussie: American, Russian, and Chinese? And what does their countries want?

General Towson: Marquis, you have my personal assurance that my county has the same wishes as Japan to see this conflict brought to a swift and peaceful resolution.

Dussie:*to Mesha and Khan* And Russia and China?

The Russian Admiral and Chinese Senator exchange a glance before Mesha responds.

Mesha: Russia shares the desire for peace. We seek stability in the region and wish to see diplomatic solutions prevail over conflict.

Khan: China echoes these sentiments. Our goal is to foster cooperation and mutual understanding among all parties involved.

Dussie nods thoughtfully, considering their words.

Dussie: I see. Well, let us hope that our negotiations can lead to a resolution that benefits all.

One of the lookouts reports to Sarah on the radio.

Archer:*via radio* Avenger, this this Archer. Come in, over.

Sarah: This is Avenger, whatcha got, over?

Archer:*radio* A small group of men on horseback are about to head to the cordon. They don't appear to be guest, but they are dressed well and don't look like bandits or anything like that. How would like us to handle them, over?

Sarah: Standby, continue to monitor them, over.

Archer:*radio* Roger that. Out.

Sarah: Hey, Mav. A group of men are approaching on horseback. I'm getting the VIPs out of site. 

Me: Right, I should disappear as well. And tell the guests I was feeling sick and had to leave.

Our vics arrive to escort the Senators away from the party as most of the other vics have left already.

Itami: The garden party will continue as planned. Your families can stay and enjoy themselves.

Mina: You must understand we can't make it public that we've been in contact with you yet.

Han: Just as a precaution we've decided to take you to the Capital.

David: We're going to be making our way to the South East Gate.

Cicero La Moltose: What? You're taking us to the slums?

Dussie: It's the perfect place to not be seen.

Anthony: Get the mortars, rifles and shit packed up! We're falling back!

Me: You heard him people! Let's move!

The team quickly begins to mobilize, packing up their equipment and preparing to leave the party discreetly. As the Senators are escorted away, the remaining members of the group start to make their way towards the southeast gate, keeping a low profile to avoid drawing attention.

Itami: Keep your heads down and stay together. We'll regroup at the southeast gate and assess the situation from there.

Han: Everyone, stay vigilant. We don't know who these men on horseback are or what their intentions may be.

Svetlana: Let's move quickly but quietly. We don't want to attract any unwanted attention.

Sarah: Archer, keep an eye on those men and report any suspicious activity.

Archer:*via radio* Roger that, Avenger. Continuing to monitor.

With their preparations complete, the team moves swiftly but cautiously, ready to face whatever challenges may arise as they navigate through the city towards safety.

Timeskip

Saderan Empire: Imperial Capital

We drive to the Slums near the South East Gate, to link up with elements inside the area.

Kurata: Whoo! So this is it the most infamous spot in the Empire!

Private Upper Class, Wu Ming spoke via the radio.

Ming: A hotbed of violence and crime. Trouble Town.

Williams: Or early 90s LA and NY.

Kurata: Aww man. I mean, I was hoping for a paradise full of sexy animal girls. I didn't know it'd be like... this.

David: Boy it's a slum! A shithole. I saw places like this in the Middle East. They look like shit, they smell shit, and disease and death are everywhere. Hell, I just saw a dead body float by right in front of us in a river that's probably both the drinking water and sewage.

We meet out contacts in the slum.

Kuwabara:*salutes* 5th Deep Recon and Surveillance Unit has arrived.

Nyutabaru:*salutes back* I'm Director Nyutabaru.

Tony:*salutes back* MARSOC 1stLt. Tony Frank. And Ivans' Marines.

Nyutabaru: I take it you two must be the JGSDF soldier and USN Corpsman with the medical background?

Kurokawa: Yes sir, I'm Sergeant First Class Kurokawa.

Redrick: And I'm Petty Officer Third Class Redrick.

Nyutabaru: Oh, good to see our US Marines and 75th Ranger again.

Anthony: Sup.

David: How you been Director?

Mina: Hello there.

Me: Good to ya.

Kurokawa: Minus those three. But you were already here, Mav?

Me: I was on a leading a security detail a few weeks before the Russian and Chinese arrived.

Flashback~

A large group of hostile demi-humans is gathering outside our safe house. From what we gathered, they're from from a local criminal element. Most of them are armed with spears, swords, bow and arrows, crossbows, and one of them has a large hammer. I peel open the shutter on the first floor of the safe house to observe the situation.

Nazgul: Isn't that cute, they think they're intimidating us~

JSDF SF: What are your orders, Captain?

Me: Our shooters in position?

David: Yeah.

Me: Then wait for them to do something stupid.

Suddenly, they fire a volley of flaming arrows at the safe house.

JSDF SF: Captain?

Me: Wait for it.

A four arm hostile with the large hammer runs up and attempts to break down the front door.

Four Arm Gangster: Knock, Knock!

Me: And there it is. And here's a stupid prize! FIRE NOW!!!

The soldiers and Marine Raiders covering the door open fire and kill him, I use my HK416 rifle to push open the shutter and take aim outside.

Mina:*via the radio* GO LOUD PEOPLE!!!

All the shutters fly open an we unleash a hail of lead and slaughter them. Our shooters on the on rooftops start dropping the archers. Anthony lead a shotgun squad out taking point to clear out the stragglers.

Anthony: Let's go! On me! Clear the street! Watch every corner, alleyway, window, and rooftop!

They move into the street watching when in comes another around the corner and tries to stab Ant.

Anthony: Nope!*fires his M1014*

He put in one shot is his head blow brain matter everywhere. Then an arrow whizzes past me and I see where it came from and fire at it.

Me:*fires three shots* Sniper! Second floor window! On the building to my right side!*fires three shots* Get a nade in there!

I suppress the sniper's position, as two of Marine Raiders threw M67 grenades into the open window.

*BOOM*

Guy:*dying* AHHHHHH!

Anthony: Street clear!

Me: Great job! Get back inside!

End of Flashback~

Me: Alright Docs, I'll catch you two later, I gotta meet back up with Itami.

The team splits up, with me heading off to rendezvous with Itami while the others remain with the contacts in the slum. As I make my way through the crowded and chaotic streets, I can't shake off the memories of my previous encounters in this area.

As I finally meet up with Itami, I find him deep in conversation with some other members of the group. They seem to be discussing their next course of action in light of recent developments.

Itami: Maverick, good to see you. We're just discussing our options here. Things are getting more complicated by the minute.

Me: What's the latest?

Itami: Well, it seems that tensions are rising, and there's talk of increased military activity in the region. We need to stay on our toes and be prepared for anything.

Me: Understood. Anything specific we need to do?

Itami: For now, we'll continue to gather information and assess the situation. We can't afford to make any hasty moves. Let's keep a low profile and stay out of trouble.

Me: Agreed. I'll do what I can to help.

With a plan in place, Itami and I continue to navigate through the bustling streets, keeping a watchful eye on our surroundings as we remain vigilant for any signs of trouble.

Chapter Text

Flashback to before the two GATEs opened to Earth~

3rd Pov

Holy deity realm for the Gods and Goddesses of Earth

We see Amaterasu was doing something she hadn't done much in these past two hundred years. She was smiling. Her old friend was coming to visit once again and she had prepared the best sake in all of Japan even though neither of them had to drink or eat but they could certainly taste and that was enough for them.

The sky above her realm shimmered as a golden portal opened, and from it stepped a figure cloaked in pure white flame. His presence radiated a serene authority that could calm even the most turbulent of souls not that it was needed right now.

Amaterasu: Kami-sama

Amaterasu greeted warmly, inclining her head slightly in respect.

God: Amaterasu.

God responded with a gentle smile and his own nod.

God: It has been too long.

They sat together in a tranquil garden, where cherry blossoms eternally bloomed. The goddess poured sake into two delicate cups, and they each took a sip, savoring the complex flavor. She made a mental note to give some of this sake to Ame when she came back from that convention. And Buddha for some of his support.

God was looking back at on a small memory of Jesus Christ learning to skateboard and did an amazing trick that even some of the Angels were learning too.

God: How are things in your domain?

Big G asked, his voice filled with genuine interest not unlike when one of the mortals talked with him. She liked that about God he always treated everyone with respect even when others wouldn't return the favor.

Amaterasu:*laughing* Like you don't know.

He started to laugh too before they stopped once Amaterasu decided to give him a real answer.

Amaterasu: The people are thriving, though their belief in us wanes as the modern world progresses. But that is to be expected. Change is the nature of existence, after all.

God nodded his flames waning for a moment revealing his eyes.

God: We will always be there for them Amaterasu no matter if they believe or don't. Speaking of I have to confess I am not here just to talk and enjoy this wonderful sake.

God still remembers Amaterasu giving some of her godly power to Suki Takahashi. Aka: The very first Takahashi of the Takahashi Clan.

God also kind of did the same thing with a Nigerian warrior clan called the Sane(Towson) Clan that still has many alive this day. And another one who was from Great Britain(Jack the Ripper) originally but moved to America(Fernandes). But he adjustments that the godly power activated at certain times.

Next to God and Amaterasu was two small but strong Gods sitting at a table having tea.

Back then(WW2), both were at each others throats. But now, they are having tea.

One dressed in full samurai armor including mask despite able to drink the tea. The armor was damaged and rustic as if he hasn't fully "awaken" in years. As if the old samurai is slowly losing his time.

While the other one was a black wolf with glowing red eyes and sharp teeth with a collar saying "Semper Fidelis". He was clean but looked mean. He is also God's attack dog if things ever happen.

The wolf spoke in English but the samurai spoke in calm Japanese.

Wolf God: in English Times are changing. Our followers are dwindling, but our duties remain the same. Don't you think, Samurai?

Samurai God: in Japanese Indeed, Black Wolf. The tides of belief ebb and flow. Yet, our essence and purpose persist. We protect and guide, regardless of the numbers who call upon us.

God observed the exchange, his eyes reflecting the depth of their shared history. Amaterasu, having caught up on the significance of God's visit, leaned forward slightly, her expression curious.

Amaterasu: You mentioned you're not here just for the sake and conversation. What brings you to my domain, old friend?

God placed his cup down gently, the divine energy around him rippling with purpose.

God: I've come to discuss a matter that requires our attention. A confluence of events is approaching, one that will bridge our realms with another. Two gates will open, connecting Earth with a world unlike any we've seen.

Amaterasu's eyes widened slightly, her interest piqued.

Amaterasu: Another world? What kind of world are we talking about?

God: A world of magic and myth, where empires rise and fall, and where the balance of power is delicate. The gates will connect Japan and another place, bringing challenges and opportunities for both realms.

Amaterasu: This sounds... significant. How can we prepare?

God's flames flickered as he considered the best course of action.

God: We need to ensure that the right individuals are in place to handle what's to come. Those with the strength, wisdom, and compassion to guide their people through the trials ahead.

Black Wolf God: in English Warriors and leaders, then. Mortals who can stand against the chaos.

Samurai God: in Japanese And those who can forge alliances where none existed before.

God nodded, his gaze turning to Amaterasu.

God: Amaterasu, I have faith in the Takahashi clan. Their lineage has always been intertwined with divine favor. They will play a crucial role in what is to come.

Amaterasu smiled, pride evident in her eyes.

Amaterasu: The Takahashis have always risen to the occasion. They will not fail you, or us.

God: And in America, the Towson clan has proven their mettle time and again. Their spirit is indomitable, their loyalty unwavering. They will be key players in this unfolding drama.

Amaterasu: So it shall be. I will lend my strength to ensure they are ready.

God: Thank you, Amaterasu. And to you both, Black Wolf and Samurai, your guidance and protection will be invaluable.

Black Wolf God: in English Count on us.

Samurai God: in Japanese We are ready.

With their resolve strengthened, the deities understood the magnitude of the task ahead. As the golden portal shimmered once more, God rose, preparing to return to his domain.

God: The gates will open soon. Stay vigilant, and may our efforts bring about a brighter future for all.

Amaterasu: Farewell, my friend. Until we meet again.

God smiled one last time, stepping through the portal, leaving behind the tranquil garden and the determined deities, ready to face the coming challenges.

Later~

~After the second GATE was opened~

Amaterasu: I'm going to burn you alive!!!

Izanagi(her father), God, Buddha, Jade Emperor, Sun Wukong: Chill!!!

Tsukuyomi: I'll see you outside.

Hardy:*pretending to be confused* Did I say something wrong?

Emroy, the God of War, looked at Hardy with a mix of frustration and resignation.

Emroy: We've really messed up this time.

Flare, observing the chaos, remarked casually.

Flare: So she's the sun goddess, huh?

Meanwhile, the Samurai God, held back by Cerberus, was itching for a fight. His armor, slightly more polished than before, glinted ominously.

Samurai God: Release me, Cerberus. Let me at her!

Cerberus, his three heads growling softly, tightened his grip.

Cerberus: Calm down, warrior. Now's not the time.

In a corner of the divine realm, Anubis and Hades watched the spectacle unfold, their conversation almost surreal against the backdrop of divine conflict.

Anubis: So, how's your day been?

Hades: Pretty good. Yours?

Anubis: Same. Busy with the usual.

Hades glanced at Hardy, shaking his head.

Hades: That girl is an idiot, isn't she?

Anubis: Yeah, and I thought we had our moments of stupidity.

As the two gods chatted, the others continued to restrain Amaterasu. Izanagi, her father, tried to reason with her, his voice gentle yet firm.

Izanagi: Daughter, calm yourself. We need to handle this with wisdom, not wrath.

God: Amaterasu, this isn't the way. We need to find a solution, not escalate the conflict.

Amaterasu's fury gradually subsided, though her glare remained fixed on Hardy. She took a deep breath, her divine radiance dimming slightly.

Amaterasu: Fine. But this is not over, Hardy. Not by a long shot.

Hardy smirked, clearly enjoying the chaos she had caused, but wisely refrained from saying anything more. The gods slowly released their hold on Amaterasu, ready to intervene again if necessary.

God: Now, let's discuss how we can fix this situation. We have to ensure the stability of both realms and prevent further conflict.

With tensions still high but more controlled, the deities began to discuss their next steps, seeking a path forward that would benefit both their world and the newly connected realm beyond the GATE.

It was then Hardy asked a question. Her question had shifted the atmosphere from tense to perilous. Realizing the gravity of her mistake, she swallowed hard, visibly nervous as the gods and goddesses around her bristled with barely contained rage and power.

Hardy: Do you have Apostles on Earth?

God: You mean mortals that we endow with some of our own power?

Hardy: Yes. I appear to—

God: In a way, yes. But only a select few. They remain dormant until necessary. Mortals know them as Special Forces Operators.

Amaterasu smirked, her anger momentarily replaced by satisfaction.

Amaterasu: That's right. You've only physically encountered two of them. I would say three, but you merely watched from a distance before he passed out.

Emroy's expression darkened as he leaned forward.

Emroy: Are you saying you can send these mortals to stop us?

Jesus, who had been quietly observing, interjected with a serene yet firm tone.

Jesus: Stop you? No. Monitor you? Perhaps.

Hardy, still defiant but increasingly aware of the growing hostility, scoffed.

Hardy: What I see is weakness. You allow humanity to advance without control over them—why are you all looking at me like that?

God's visage darkened, his aura intensifying. Even when he toned it down to avoid overwhelming mortal senses, his anger was palpable. The atmosphere grew heavier as Michael and the rest of the Archangels/Seraphs unsheathed their flaming swords, their divine fire casting an ominous glow.

Hades, maintaining his usual composure but clearly irate, motioned for Thanatos to fetch Cerberus and the "special" shackles. The Jade Emperor, realizing the severity of the situation, instructed Sun Wukong to assist Buddha in restraining Amaterasu, who was once again brimming with fury.

Wolf God: behind a terrified Hardy You shouldn't have said that. You should not have said that, Hardy.

Hades, his demeanor icy and resolute, glared at Hardy with a look that could freeze flames—a look he had once given to Sisyphus.

Hades: Your arrogance and ignorance have endangered more than you realize.

God stepped forward, his voice resonating with divine authority.

God: Humanity's freedom to advance and evolve is not a weakness, but a strength. We guide and protect them when necessary, but we do not control their every action. Your interference, however, has upset the balance.

Hardy, realizing the full extent of her error, took a step back, her confidence shaken. The gravity of her actions and the united front of the Earth's deities made it clear she had crossed a line.

Amaterasu: struggling against her restraints This is far from over, Hardy. The next time you think to meddle in our affairs, remember this moment.

The deities, now focused on mitigating the damage caused by Hardy's actions, began strategizing on how to address the situation in Falmart and ensure the safety of both realms. Hardy, feeling the weight of their collective disapproval, silently vowed to tread more carefully in the future.

Hardy: And what if I didn't?

At that moment, God snapped his fingers, and instantly, she felt an overwhelming force pulling her into the ground. It felt like millions of hands were dragging her down, each grip tightening with immense strength.

Instinctively, she glanced back and her heart sank with dread. The sight was horrifying beyond measure. The souls of countless humans, those condemned to Hell, were clawing at her. Among them were six particularly tormented figures whose faces were etched with eternal agony: Stalin, Hitler, Mao, Tojo, Leopold II, and Josef Mengele.

The sheer malevolence emanating from these souls made it clear: these were the worst of humanity, suffering endlessly for their deeds. Hardy's bravado crumbled as she realized the gravity of her mistake. She wasn't just dealing with gods; she was dealing with entities who had the power and the will to enforce justice in the most severe ways.

God's voice, calm yet laced with authority, echoed in her mind.

God: This is a mere glimpse of the consequences you risk. Earth's deities protect and govern with balance, and any threat to that balance will be met with appropriate force.

Amaterasu, still restrained but glaring with righteous fury, added:

Amaterasu: Understand this, Hardy. We do not seek conflict, but we will not hesitate to defend our realm and our people. Do not mistake our restraint for weakness.

Hardy, shaken to her core, was released from the grip of the damned souls, leaving her trembling and gasping for breath. The lesson was clear: Earth's gods and goddesses were not to be underestimated or provoked. This display of power was a warning—a stark reminder of the authority and might they wielded.

The other deities around her remained solemn, their eyes locked on Hardy, ensuring she comprehended the full weight of her actions. The atmosphere was heavy with a mix of disappointment and unyielding resolve.

Wolf God: in a low, growling voice Remember this moment, Hardy. Cross this line again, and there will be no mercy.

Hardy nodded weakly, the gravity of her situation finally sinking in. She had learned, in the most harrowing way, that the Earth's gods and goddesses were entities of immense power and unwavering justice, not to be trifled with under any circumstances.

Author's Note: This was inspired by the recent posts on Reddit.

Chapter Text

Date: February, 2024

David Fernandes' Pov

Saderan Empire: Imperial Capital

After meeting back up with everyone else. Pina told us, mainly Mav, Ant, Mina, Itami, Sarah, Han and Svetlana that her older brother Zorzal was the one who crashed the party. So we're resting in her villa I start unpacking my gear when I hear a knock at my door. Not expecting anything I point my M17 at the door.

Me: Who's there?

Shino:*from behind the door* It's me, David.

Hearing that I sighed in relief, put my pistol away, and sit down on my bed.

Me: It's open.

Shino opens the door wearing a combat shirt. Checking me out wearing my Blues. Hold up, is she wearing a bra or not?

Shino: Oh wow! As if you weren't handsome already~

Shino walks over and sit next to me.

Me: What's up?

Shino: I wanted to keep you company tonight~

She puts her hand on my thigh, then another hand cups my face and she kisses me. I put my hand on her waist after she breaks the kiss and pushes me on the bed, sits on my lap, and has a sadistic smile on her face.

Oh no...

Shino: I heard you were flirting with other women at the party today.

OH GOD!!

Me: I didn't flirt!! I was just being polite, they waved at me and I wave back!!!

Shino: Really?~

NO CBT PLEASE!!!!

Me: Really!!

Shino: Hmm... Okay, but I still gotta punish you~

Wut?

Me: Wut?

Shino:*giggles* I'm gonna get rough tonight~

YEAH BOI!!!

Timeskip

Author's Note: Once again brought to you by your own imagination ain't no fucking here.

After some very rough "corrective training" Shino is resting her head on my chest when the radio suddenly goes off.

Kuwabara:*via radio* Delta 5-4 come in, over.

I reach for the radio without waking Shino.

Me: 5-4 here go ahead 5-6, Over.

Kuwabara:*via radio* 5-4, we have reports of a possible earthquake about to hit the Capital you better brace yourself, Over.

Me: 5-6 Interrogative. What are you basing this off of? Over.

Kuwabara:*via radio* 5-4, We've had several demi-humans who have had the same anxious feeling about an earthquake all come in to the clinic at the same time. This report is coming from Redrick and Kurokawa. How copy? Over.

Me: Solid copy 5-6, we'll prepare for possible earthquake. 5-4 out... Hey Shino, wake up.

Shino: Mmmm... What is it?

Me: We got a situation, get dressed and get your gear on.

Shino: Yes sir!

Kuribayashi and I get back in our gear and we meet with Itami, Mav, Ant, Mina, Han and Svetlana along with Pina and Hamilton outside the villa. And Pina is not happy to be woken up in the middle of the night.

Pina: There's no way the earth can just move! Do you have any idea what time it is?!

Itami: I know, I'm sorry. We just know that there is a possibility. Damn it! I can't believe this is happening, right before we start the negotiations!

Me: I know, it's like the gods of this world are fucking with us.

Meanwhile somewhere else.

3rd POV

Holy deity realm for the Gods and Goddesses of Falmart

Black Wolf God:*beating the shit out of a God*

Hardy:*scared* H-hey, I think you got him.

Black Wolf God:*while still beating the shit out of a God* You want he's having?!

Hardy:*shakes her 'no' in fear* No...

Black Wolf God:*while still beating the shit out of a God* That's what I thought. Justice... FOR EARTH!!!!

Back to Falmart

David Fernandes' Pov

Saderan Empire:  Pina's Villa

We start feeling tremors underneath our feet.

Itami: Takahashi!

Mina: Uh-huh. I feel it.

The tremors begin to intensify, and the actual quake coming our way.

Maverick: HERE IT COMES!!

Me: BRACE YOURSELVES!!

Maverick's Pov

An earthquake is happening in the Imperial Capital, though it's not catastrophic as I see soldiers running around in panic like it's the end of the world. It's like these people never experienced an earthquake before. Calm and collected Itami, Sugawara, and I walk up to Pina who's comforting Hamilton. In all honesty, to us marines and soldiers from Earth wasn't a big problem. The runways on our airfields however... will probably need to be repaired leading to most aircraft to be grounded.

Itami: Jeez this is a pretty big one isn't it. I mean I'd say it like a level 4 or 5 maybe. 

Sugawara: Judging by the preliminary tremor, I'd say the epicenter isn't very close.

Me: Yeah, I think one like this hit California a while back.

Ant:*coming up to three* I remember one hitting during my second day in high school. On August 23, 2011 at 1:51 PM, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake shook the Washington DC region. The quake, whose epicenter was in Mineral, Virginia, was felt up and down the east coast of the North America from the Carolinas to Canada.

David: Oh shit. I remember that day too.

Me: Same.

Pina: Itami, Kuribayashi, what's going on?!

Itami and I: What?

Pina: How can you all be so calm at a time like this?

Itami: Well uh... this magnitude of earthquake sorta happens to us all the time back home in Japan.

Sarah: Happens in America too, but it's not a common occurrence.

Me: It'll be over before you know it.

The tremors eventually stop.

Me: See? What'd I tell ya? Ant, status update!

Ant: Right, ya!

Han: S. Kuribayashi, 1stLT Takahashi! Check on the women and see if they're okay!

Shino: Roger!

Mina: Got it!

Svetlana: 1st Lieutenant Lockwood, contact all units. We're gonna to need a damage report.

After receiving damage reports from other Deep Recon units, we explain to Pina that there's going to be some aftershock.

Pina: There's going to be another one?!

Itami: Uh-huh. Y'see usually after an earthquake of that size, there's going to be what they call some aftershock.

Me: He's right. Shouldn't be too bad, but you might want to stay away from things that could fall over.

Pina: We have to do something! I must inform my father! Gather our clothes. We're going to the Imperial Palace!

Itami: You ladies be careful.

Pina: What are you saying, you mean you're not coming with us?

Itami: What I mean is your father's the Emperor and we're envoys from enemy nations. It'll look bad if we came with you.

Me: Finally using some sense, Itami.

Itami: Oh fuck off, Mav.

Sugawara: Even if this is an emergency situation... I'm not sure it's a good idea enemy troops to just show up unannounced.

Pina place her hands on mine and Itami's arms.

Pina: You let me handle that. But please... I need you on this. I need you both at my side!

Pina gives us a pleading look and myself, Mina, Anthony, Itami, Sarah, Sugawara, David, Han and Svetlana look at each other. Itami and Sugawara laugh nervously, I just shake my head in defeat.

With a collective sigh, we decided to accompany Pina to the Imperial Palace. Despite the potential risks and political implications, we couldn't ignore her earnest plea for our support. As we prepared to leave, I took a moment to check on everyone, making sure they were ready and aware of the situation.

Me: Everyone, gear up and stay alert. We don't know what we're walking into.

We moved quickly, making our way through the streets that were still trembling with aftershocks. The Saderan citizens were in disarray, many of them clearly unaccustomed to such seismic activity. Pina and Hamilton led the way, their expressions a mix of determination and concern.

Itami: Stay close and keep your eyes open. We need to get to the palace without drawing too much attention.

Sarah: Easier said than done. These people are panicking.

Me: Just keep moving. We'll handle whatever comes our way.

Timeskip

Saderan Empire: Imperial Palace, Throne Room

As we approached the Palace, along the way we saw some guards practically shitting themselves over the quake. Pina gets her father up, has us brought to the throne room. She gets the place organized for the visit. Itami, General Towson, Sugawara, Mesha, Tomoe, and Khan are up front and I'm in the back with Tomita, Shino, Anthony, David, Mina, Sarah, Han and Svetlana. Meeting an Emperor for the first time and I'm not in my Blues.

Shino:*whisper* Big bro, why aren't you up front?

Me:*whisper* Japan and US has the lead on this one and remember that Ant's dad is there up front. We'll just hang back with you and Tomita until the time is right. Also, are not wearing a bra under that top?

Shino looks away blushing. Aww, my little half-sister found a boyfriend.

Mina:*whisper* I'm a little nervous here.

Anthony:*whisper* Same. Just try and keep your nerves calm.

The Emperor sits on his throne resting his face on his right fist.

Emperor Molt Sol Augustus: So... I see we have some visitors. Mind telling me who they are.

Pina: Oh! Of course. Allow me to introduce you. This Sugawara, a Japanese emissary. Along with him is Tomoe Takahashi of Japan as well, Admiral Maksim Mesha of Russia, Senator Khan Wheng of China, and General Anthony R. Towson of the United States of America.

Sugawara, Tomoe, and Khan bows and the rest of us salute the Emperor.

Molt: A Japanese emissary along with a Russian, a Chinese, and a American emissaries? Why would you bring them here at a time like this?

Pina: Uh, well they are well experienced in the earth tremors, Father. I though perhaps they could offer some advice.

Molt: Is that so...

He rises from the throne.

Molt: Then I would like to welcome them. But unfortunately, as you can see, we are in the middle of a bit of a crisis. So I'm afraid a proper welcome will have to wait.

Sugawara: I understand, Your Majesty. I'm sure you will provide ample opportunity for future negotiations when the situation improves.

Jesus Christ now I'm nervous as hell. Something stupid is-

???: FATHER!!

We turn around to see a six foot blonde man wearing red sleeveless shirt and purple cape walked into the throne room with an entourage. A major HVT with a Kill or Capture on his head by Special Forces. Zorzal El Caesar.

Zorzal: I am here Father!*shoves Tomita and David* Move it!

I and a few of us get pissed. Especially David who is giving the blonde prick a death glare.

Zorzal: Aah. I'm so glad to see you're well! Now, let's get you out of here as quickly as possible!

Pina: Please wait brother! I have already summoned the other leading members to join us!

Zorzal: This is not the time to waste on bureaucrats! Noriko and Ann says another earthquake can come at any moment!

Itami: Who's Noriko and Ann?

Me:*whisper* That name sounded Japanese and English.

Mina, Tomoe, General Towson, and Anthony:*whisper* That name sounded familiar...

Pina: How would you know anything about earthquakes?! And who is this Noriko and Ann people you speak of?!

Zorzal signals to his men and they bring in two women in slave's clothes enchained and crying. Well, one is crying the other is beaten with bruises-wait she has dark skin?

Zorzal: This is Noriko and the brown skin one is Ann. Why don't you two say hello? They are two of the survivors we were able to capture from the other side of the gate! Ann here is quite the fighter and kept on defending Noriko from me.

Hearing that made all of us go wide eye in hate. He walks over to Noriko and Ann and kicks them both in the ribs and picks them up by their clothes. I'm seething with anger and really want to kill this motherfucker.

Zorzal: Get up. Now! I want you two to tell his majesty exactly what you told me about the tremors before, okay!*grabs Noriko's face* Start talking!

Noriko: どうか私を傷つけないでください... (Please don't hurt me...)

Ann:(in English) Fuck you ya cocksucking jackass!

David and I: What the fuck?!

Tomita: She's Japanese? And the other is American?

The two then looked at us and said something that made all of us freeze.

Noriko: ミナちゃん？友恵おばさん？ (Mina-chan? Aunty Tomoe?)

Ann:(in English) Dad, Anthony! I'm glad to see you two!

Most of us froze and slowly turn to see both Mina, Tomoe, General Towson, and Anthony eyes bloodshot in pure rage and fury.

Itami: Shit.

Han: Shit.

Svetlana: Shit.

Sarah and I: Oh crap.

David:*pulling out CAT smartphone* Well now...

General Towson:*in rage* Anthony.

Tomoe:*in fury* Mina-san~

Anthony and Mina:*in rage & fury* Yes Dad/Mother.

General Towson and Tomoe:*in rage & fury* Make him bleed.

Anthony rushes up to Zorzal in a speed that none of caught on time and roundhouse kicks him right in the jaw sending him six feet spinning back into some his followers. One them tries to attack him but Mina punches him in the body and face with a two-hit combo putting him down and the rest of us wanted to follow behind them. But we did what Itami is doing.

We chose life to not get in that crossfire of an angry US Marine and a Japanese-American 75th Ranger.

Anthony:*in a blind rage* Now you FUCKED UP!!!!

Mina:*furious* I'm gonna invent a new way to perform a lobotomy. STARTING WITH YOU!!!!

Both headbutts two of Zorzal's followers away from the two girls. Mind you, their wearing their helmets. And they check to see to Noriko and Ann.

Mina:*concerned* Are you alright, Noriko-chan? Did he do anything immoral to you? Are you still a virgin?!

Anthony:(in English) Ann I knew you was alive!*hugs her* When Mom called about you missing during the Ginza Incident I to make several calls and requests to get deployed here. I'm glad I that you fought back and didn't mentally loss it.

They take out knives and cuts their restraints.

Anthony:*concerned* Don't worry. We'll take care of you.

Noriko:(in Japanese) So, I can go home?

Ann:(in Japanese)*to Noriko* Y'see Noriko! I told you our families will rescue us!(in English) Ow, my ribs.

Mina: Yes, we'll take you back. Home, to Japan.*looks at Ann* And America.

Noriko starts sobbing and embraces Mina. This raises many flags. Ginza is a popular tourist place. If Ann is here. Are there more Non-Japanese people here?

Sugawara: I can't believe a Japanese person is enslaved here.

Khan puts her suit jacket on Noriko while General Towson places his Dress Blues jacket on Ann.

Mesha: Blyat... What's the meaning of this, Your Majesty? Why are they here?

Pina: I'm certain there must be some kind of mistake! Please forgive us I'm sure we can-

We here laughter from that asshole Zorzal as he rises to his feet while spitting out a tooth.

Zorzal: I won't bother asking how you all got in here. But it seems that you have chosen your own destiny. It's a serious crime to attack a member of the royal family. A very serious one.*snaps finger*

His men ready their weapons, and we back off a few steps back. Tomoe takes the girls to safety.

Shino: I really don't like this guy.

David: Imma kill him.

Me: Wait in line, Dave. Ant and Mina got first dibs.

General Towson: As the highest ranked military in this room.*pulls out a customized USMC M1911 pistol, slides back and releases the safety* Weapons free, do whatever it takes you two. The rest, cover their flanks.

Mina:*sadistic smile* Roger that~

Anthony: Yes, Dad.

She draws her bayonet and attaches it to her rifle. Ant readies his M60.

Zorzal: Kill them!

Two of his men advance on them with swords out.

Tomita: Careful with that-

Mina headshots the two.

Mina: That all depends on these idiots.

Anthony: Let's go MT!

Mina and Anthony charge forward, she rushes forward and quickly stabs one of them under the arm. Ant rush the other and jabs one in the chest and shoots him. Two more try to hit them from behind, Mina locks weapons with one of them the other tries to slash at her from behind and I shoot him with my rifle. Anthony lock his Ka-Bar with one guy's sword and pushes him left, bash him in the face with a punch, and stab him in neck. Mina slashes her opponents throats.

Zorzal: Dammit! What are you waiting for?! Form a line and take those two out!

Imperial soldiers begin forming a shield wall in front of us. Anthony stands near Mina's left, both of them aim their weapons.

Both didn't wait as Anthony goes prone, sets up the bipod on the M60, and releases a hail of lead at the shield wall. Full-auto fire penetrates their shields and decimates their front rank as hostiles drop one by one.

Soon most of the hostiles are down and he cease fire, the survivors are trembling with fear.

Han: Drop your weapons or suffer the same fate as your friends!

Me: Drop your fucking weapons now!

Itami: Drop the weapons or we'll drop you!

The survivors drop their weapons and surrendered.

Shino: Smartest thing you've done today.

Zorzal: Bunch of goddamn cowards!

Itami points his pistol at Zorzal and Mina throws a Desert Eagle and catches it without breaking eye contact.

Itami:*pissed off* Now Prince. When you brought Noriko and Ann into the room, you said their "survivors". What that tells me is that you kidnapped other people as well. People that didn't make it?

Anthony: Better answer, Boy.

Zorzal: I have no obligation to tell you all anything.

Itami: Have it your way. He's all yours Shino.

Anthony: Knock a tooth out of him, Battle Sister.

Shino: 🎵Yes sir! And I will, Battle Brother!🎵

She puts her weapon on ground on it's bipod, then stretches her gloves, and approaches Zorzal while Mina and Ant back up a bit for her.

Zorzal: Okay little girl, do you know who the hell I am!?

He takes a swing at her, but she dodges and comes up with an uppercut right to his jaw knocking out a tooth as she promised.

Shino: Mewing won't fix what I'm gonna do to your face~

Zorzal then falls over on his back and Shino jumps on top of him and begins pummeling the shit out him. While she does that I and probably a few others grin at the sight of the Blonde Bastard getting an ass whoopin. Zorzal's face has now become swollen, bloodied, and bruised from Shino's total ass whoopin.

Zorzal:*muffled* Please stop, that's enough. 

Shino gives him one big punch and gets off him. I get my pistol out and approach the prince with Itami and Anthony as he whimpers like a whipped dog.

Me: Let's try this again.*points pistol at Zorzal's head*

Itami: Okay, Your Highness.*point Deagle at Zorzal's head* You still haven't answered my question.

Zorzal continues to whimper I almost feel sorry for him... Nah.

Itami: 'Scuse me? What was that?*cocks the hammer down*

Anthony: Couldn't understand you without any teeth. But then again we could just kill you-

Suddenly, a Warrior bunny girl with white fur, long waist-length silver hair, bright red eyes and slave clothes runs in front of us and shields Zorzal. Special Forces marked her as 'No kill'. Tyuule, (テューレ Tyūre) former ruler of the Warrior Bunnies. And Zorzal El Caesar's sex slave.

Tyuule: Please...

Anthony: AH!*fires his pistol near her ear*

Itami:... What the fuck was that?!

Anthony: She fuckin startled me ok! I wasn't expecting her!

Me: SHE WAS WALKING IN FRONT OF YOU!!!

Anthony: I KNOW, BUT I WAS DISTRACTED OK!! I DIDN'T MEAN TO SHOOT NEAR HER!!!

Shino: THAT DOESN'T MAKE IT BETTER!!!

Anthony: WHAT GAVE THAT AWAY, HER POPPING OUT OF NOWHERE!?

Mina:*wanted to be included* WHY ARE WE YELLING?!

Itami and Anthony: SHUT UP MINA!!!

Zozral:*muffled* Wha re yo doin Thulae?

Tyuule: Do not kill the prince.

Itami: You saying that to me or to God? Because that's the only one saving you now.

Tomoe: I'm sorry, but considering he enslaved two citizens of Japan and the United States, beaten said citizens,  and attacked us to no end. I'm gonna disagree with you. He needs to pay. NOW.

Tyuule looked like her fear raised up.

Itami:*sighs* Your Highness, I'm going to ask you one more time. Did you kidnap more people from the other side of the GATE?

Me: I suggest you answer the question, unless you're ready for round two.

Noriko: Where's Hiroki? What did you do to Hiroki? The two of us were taken from Ginza together!

Anthony: Answer you Bastard Child.

Zorzal:*muffled* Some of the prisoners... were sold into slavery. But beyond that I don't know.*keels over*

Tyuule:*gasps* Your Highness.

Tyuule kneels and tends to Zorzal and now all eyes are on the Emperor now.

General Towson: Emperor Molt, I believe the formalities can wait. Until after our people have been found and freed. And Princess Pina, I expect that we'll be hearing from you on this matter, yes? About the whereabouts of our people and their safe return. In the meantime, we'll be investigating how many were taken. Let's go everyone.

I holster my pistol, Shino gives Zorzal a quick kick in the balls, and we begin to leave keeping our eyes on the survivors when the Emperor suddenly speaks.

Molt: The soldiers of Japan and America are certainly strong. But I fear you also revealed a tremendous weakness.

Did this motherfucker call us soldiers?

Khan: What weakness?

Molt: You are hindered by a crippling love for your people. Ultimately, it could create much suffering in the future.

You're right, it could create much suffering in the future, for you. It brands you a war criminal in the eyes of the law. And a criminal who does not deserve the considerations afforded to an enemy in war, as well as branding you a monster in the eyes of the public. You've basically gone and turned anything we do against you into a necessary and proportional response.

Molt: We have already seen large and advanced civilizations grow brazen in their power... Only to be hacked down and slaughtered by barbarians.

David:*muttering* And our world has had civilizations fall due to the vanity and complacency of their leaders.

Molt: I'd keep that in mind if I were you.

Sugawara: That weakness of ours... happens to be our national policy. And to protect it and our people. We have the JSDF and close allies the United States of America and our new allies Russia and China. So I ask, would you like another demonstration?

Molt: Hmph. No, we can't resist your advanced firepower. You may begin the peace negotiations whenever you wish.

Tomoe: Molt, as I'm sure your are very well aware... That peace is simply a time to prepare for the next war. Our nation and our world outside that GATE has been forged with a long history of blood, much worse than your Empire has endured. So keep THAT in mind.

Damn straight.

General Towson: That will be all for now.

I give the Emperor an armed salute and I leave with the rest. We get outside the Palace and discuss what to do next. I stand aside to think about what just happened and how we should we respond to this. I see Shino approaches me.

Shino: You, Bro.

Me: I just saw Towson and Takahashi killed about over a dozen guys in cold blood... a another day in the office for me. How about you?

Shina: I'm okay.

She smiles at me.

Shino: Thanks for looking out for me.

Me: Anytime.

As this happened, we overheard Sugawara and General Towson talk about the situation.

Sugawara: General, do have any advice on how should we respond?

General Towson: We should retaliate. They need to be know the price of their actions. If by the Prime Minister's and President's order, I'd have this whole place carpet bombed like Vietnam... But that's a bit overkill for now until we review the CCTV and traffic cam footage of the Ginza Incident. So,*points* a precision airstrike at that building.

Mesha: The Imperial Senate. That's a good start. That way every Senator, Noble, and even the Emperor will know the equivalent of divine retribution for their actions. Send them all a clear message.

Sugawara: And what message is that?

Tomoe: I come in peace...

Khan: I didn't bring artillery...

Mesha: But I'm pleading with you, with tears in my eyes...

General Towson: If you fuck with me, I'll kill you all.

Damn...

Anthony and Ann:(in English) Damn Dad... that's a pretty dope message.

Svetlana: Our rides here.

The rest of 5th Deep Recon came along with a extra Cougar HE 6×6 for General Towson, Sugawara, Mesha, Tomoe, Khan, Noriko, and Ann. Everyone was surprise to see the two. Redrick and Kurokawa quickly went up to them to treat their injuries. 

Kurata: Hey guys. What the hell happened in there?

Itami: Let's just say things are about to get intense, Sgt. Kurata.

The air outside the Imperial Palace was thick with tension, a stark contrast to the formalities of moments ago. The team moved with precision and efficiency, loading up into the Cougar HE 6x6 vehicles. The atmosphere in the vehicle carrying General Towson, Sugawara, Mesha, Tomoe, Khan, Noriko, and Ann was particularly heavy, a mix of relief at the reunion and the weight of what had just transpired.

As we drove away from the palace, I found myself glancing over at Shino, who was seated beside me. She was staring out the window, lost in thought. The adrenaline from the encounter was still coursing through our veins, but the reality of what we had witnessed was beginning to sink in.

Shino:*softly* Do you think... we'll really have to follow through with that?

Me:*sighing* I don't know, Shino. But General Towson's right. They need to understand that we're not just here to talk.

Anthony, who was seated across from us, chimed in, still fuming from the earlier confrontation.

Anthony:*grimly* They crossed a line when they took our people. Whatever happens next, they brought it on themselves.

Mina nodded in agreement, her expression hardened by the events.

Mina:*determined* We have to show them that we're not playing games. They need to understand the consequences of their actions, or they'll keep doing this to others.

The vehicle hit a bump, causing everyone to jostle slightly.

Me: Hey Kurata. Watch how you driving this.

Kurata: Sorry, sir. Still getting used to driving this.

David:*next to him* Just watch what you run over. And it'll be smooth sailing.

Williams:*at the back* Good thing the VIPs are in the middle of this convoy. We coming up to the base now.

Lance-Corporal Benjamin Williams' POV

I opened up the top hatch where the .50 is to check the surroundings just incase. I was deployed to Afghanistan. So I know when shit pops-wait who hell is that by the guard post?

I took out my binos to get a zoom in and see a person in a black robe holding a crystal? Hold on... what if...

Oh...

OH GOD NO!!!!

Me:*completely terrified* EVERYONE, GET DOWN!!!!

3rd POV

*BOOOOOM!!!*

A massive magical explosion goes off under the MRAP Maverick, Itami, Mina, Shino, David, Kurata, and Williams are in sending the vehicle flying off to side as it rolled a bit and landed on it's side.

Everyone else in the convoy stopped immediately at the sight as dirt and destroyed MRAP parts flew and landed everywhere.

USMC MP:*shocked* S-sound the alarm!

JSDF MP:*shocked* R-right!

The base alarm goes off as Kurokawa, Sarah, Han, Svetlana, Rory, General Towson, and a few of 5th Recon rush to the damaged MRAP.

To see Williams looking surprisingly unharmed from the close explosion as he was pulling out mildly injured but in one piece Maverick, Itami, Mina, Shino, David, and Kurata.

Maverick: Ah shit... Thanks Ben.

Shino: Yeah... Thank-

Shino gasps in shock covering her mouth and Itami and Maverick jaw dropped seeing Williams. Why?

Williams: What's you guys?

Because half of his face totally demolished. Even showing his skull, missing right eye and brain. You can still see the muscles inside his skull moving when he looks around.

The others arrived to see Williams new look.

Williams: Why are you all looking at me like that? Crap, did something hit my face? Man my wife is gonna-

Williams suddenly stops. Then falls down. His adrenaline wearing off and succumbing to his deadly injuries and dying on the grass.

Lance-Corporal, Benjamin Williams. At the age of 24 years old. Is killed in action. And the first active trooper from Earth in the Special Region to die.

Anthony: Oh fuck...

Maverick's POV

Me: Oh God... Ben...

I said as I stared at what was Lance-Corporal, Benjamin Williams.

The blast had been catastrophic, tearing through the convoy and leaving a scene of devastation. As the dust settled and the alarms blared, the gravity of the situation began to hit hard. Lance-Corporal Benjamin Williams, once a reliable and steadfast member of our team, lay lifeless on the ground, his injuries a grim testament to the violence that had just unfolded.

I stood there, frozen, as the medics and other team members rushed to the scene. The shock was palpable, a heavy silence hanging over the area as everyone took in the sight of Williams’ mangled form. His face, or rather, the remnants of it, was a harrowing image that would haunt us all.

Anthony, who had been so full of rage just moments before, was now visibly shaken, his expression a mixture of anger and grief. Mina’s eyes were wide, her face drained of color. Shino stood nearby, tears streaming down her cheeks as she processed the loss of someone she had just been talking to moments ago. The weight of our mission and its consequences were hitting us hard.

Me:*softly* Goddammit, Ben. You were a good man.

I felt a surge of anger and sadness as I looked at Williams. He had been an integral part of our team, a brother in arms, and now he was gone. The implications of this loss were enormous. Not only had we lost a valuable marine, but this also marked the beginning of a new level of conflict. The enemy had struck a decisive blow, and we would need to respond with the full force of our capabilities.

General Towson, who had been surveying the situation with a grim expression, approached the scene. His demeanor was steely, but the anguish in his eyes was evident. He gave a quick order to his team to secure the area and ensure no further threats were present.

General Towson:*voice firm* We’ll make sure his sacrifice wasn’t in vain. Everyone, fall back to the base and regroup. We need to assess the situation and prepare for whatever comes next.

The team moved with a renewed sense of urgency, the loss of Williams a stark reminder of the dangers we faced. As we regrouped and prepared for the next steps, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this was only the beginning of a much larger conflict. The Special Region had just witnessed its first real taste of the fury and determination of the forces from Earth, and it was clear that both sides were now fully committed to the fight.

We moved to the base, each step heavy with the knowledge of the price we had already paid and the sacrifices yet to come.

Chapter Text

The Officers of 5RT:

USMC Captain Maverick Kuribayashi

JGSDF 1st Lieutenant Yōji Itami

USMC 1st Lieutenant  Sarah Lockwood

USMC 1st Lieutenant  Anthony Towson

USMC 1st Lieutenant  David Fernandes

US Army 75th Ranger 1st Lieutenant Mina Takahashi(still not back in Delta due to actions and mental health)

The Officers of 7DRT:

PLA Captain Han Zheng 

Russian Army 1st Lieutenant Svetlana Herzog

The enlisted of 5RT:

JGSDF  Sergeant Major, Sōichirō Kuwahara.

JGSDF  Master Sergeant, Tetsuya Nishina.

JGSDF  Sergeant First Class, Akira Tomita.

JGSDF  Sergeant First Class, Mari Kurokawa.

JGSDF  Sergeant First Class, Shino Kuribayashi.

JGSDF  Sergeant, Takeo Kurata.

JGSDF  Sergeant Azuma Higashi.

JGSDF  Leading Private, Tou.

JGSDF  Leading Private, Daisuke Tozu.

JGSDF  Leading Private, Wataru Katsumoto.

JGSDF  Leading Private, Hayato Sasagawa.

JGSDF  Leading Private, Hitoshi Furuta.

USMC Master Sergeant, Henry Smith.

USMC  Gunnery Sergeant, Michael Hill

USMC  Corporal, Millie Sanchez.

USN Petty Officer Third Class(PO3), Samuel Redrick.

USMC  Private First Class, Diamond Backer.

USMC  Sergeant, Antonio Menendez.

USMC  Lance-Corporal, Dewayne Thomas.

USMC  Staff Sergeant, Elijah Jones.

USMC  Sergeant, Noah Brown.

USMC  Lance-Corporal, Benjamin Williams(RIP).

USMC  Sergeant, Lucas Garcia.

USMC  Private First Class, Maria Green.

USMC  Private First Class, Raymond Davis.

The enlisted of 7DRT:

Russian Spetsnaz GRU  Warrant Officer, Alexandra Vladimir Häyhä.

Russian Army  Sergeant Major, Ivan Reznov.

Russian Army  Junior Sergeant, Sasha Fuchs.

Russian Army  Senior Sergeant, Mikhail Kuznetsov.

Russian Army  Sergeant, Nikolai Volkov.

Russian Army  Sergeant, Yuri Petrov.

Russian Army  Junior Sergeant, Tanya Pavelovna.

Russian Army  Corporal, Yuri Sokolov.

Russian Army  Corporal, Alexei Petrov.

Russian Army  Corporal, Viktor Ivanov.

Russian Army  Private, Mikhail Voronin.

Russian Army  Private, Daniil Kuznetsov.

PLA Second Class Master Sergeant, Wang Lei.

PLA  Third Class Master Sergeant, Cho Yan.

PLA  Third Class Master Sergeant, Zhang Wei.

PLA  Master Sergeant, Liu Yang.

PLA  Master Sergeant, Zhao Hong.

PLA  Staff Sergeant, Li Wei.

PLA  Corporal, Chen Long.

PLA  Private Upper Class, Wu Ming.

PLA  Private First Class, Liu Ren.

PLA  Private Upper Class, Yang Hao.

PLA  Private First Class, Hu Jie.

PLA  Private First Class, Zang Xia.

So that's the main cast for now. See ya next chap!

Chapter Text

Date: March, 2024

Maverick's Pov

Alnus Hill: Liberty-Prime Base, outside the Base Hospital

After the loss of Williams, we took Noriko and Ann to the base hospital where a medical team is waiting for them and also myself, Itami, Mina, Shino, David, and Kurata to give us a full check. Yanagida and the generals were waiting there as well at the time. General Towson, Sarah, Han, Svetlana, and I gave a full report and... the news of Lance-Corporal, Benjamin Williams death.

After that, the base and the Russian/Chinese base were on lockdown, a curfew was made, and patrols were tripled with guard dogs and and HUMVEEs with either Mark 19s or M134 Miniguns. 

But man... after two weeks and all that. It still feels like it was yesterday.

Right now I and others were just discharged from the hospital. Hazama and Baker gave us along with the rest of all the Deep Recon and Surveillance units four weeks off.

Mina is still with Noriko to keep the girl company and Anthony is with Ann.

It was when Yanagida and Mina told us the the Noriko's family was looking for her in Ginza, and they were killed during the attack. Things just keep getting better and better don't they, the Docs did some blood work on Noriko when she asked Mina, Mrs. Takahashi, and Itami if she could call home. For her mentally, they gave her a half-truth, saying that they haven't set up a civilian phone line and they had to keep her under quarantine for a while. We to tell the others to keep it quiet about Noriko's family for now.

She and Ann did came out their rooms with an IV hooked to their arms to thank us again for saving them.

Right now I sat on a bench and started fishing in my pocket for something that use for situations like this... and pull out a carton of Newport cigs and a lighter. I open the box and pull out a cig. I light the thing and start puffing away. This is the first time I smoked one since Afganistan and the last time was a year before.

I'm not a heavy smoker but when things get rough, I have a cig or a stick of gum.

??: Hey...

I look to my left to see Itami.

Me: Hey...

Itami: Mind if I..?

I nod my head as Itami took a seat next to me. I offer him a cig and he didn't ask nor denied it as he took a stick and I gave my lighter to him as he lit the cig and started puffing.

I noticed that Itami hasn't shaved or cut his hair in a while. He looks more like a homeless dude than a soldier. I can't talk, I didn't shave and cut my hair either.

We both felt like shit, hell I'm surprise that we haven't went AWOL after all the shit that's happened.

Itami: We've been through alot huh.

Me: Yeah, the day we landed here. I'm surprised you didn't transfer out of here like a good amount of the JSDF did on the first couple of days here.

Itami: True. As we aren't experienced like the Americans or Russians. But then again, we had a lot more time than you did. But, it wasn't just because I wasn't scared, or didn't have a family. It was... a feeling that I just can't shake. Like this place had a purpose or something. And if you don't mind me asking, what was your reason for staying here?

I took a long drag, the nicotine buzzing through my veins. I let the smoke fill my lungs, enjoying the rush. I let out the smoke.

Me: When I was 15. I saw a documentary about the Vietnam War, the one with the Tet Offensive. You know, the one where the VC launched the most important battle of the entire war and the one that really changed how the US fought in that country. Well, when I watched that. I thought about those soldiers and marines in those rice fields and urban cities fighting a guerrilla war. And that's the exact same thing we're somewhat facing here, just replace the Cong with the Saderans. And it's just... I'm not going to leave my buddies, especially now after what we've been through and the people we've lost.

Itami: Speaking of the people we've lost. I heard from Yanagida and Ant that the generals and even PM and American, Russian, and Chinese Presidents are looking into footage of the Ginza incident of anymore people like Noriko and Ann who were captured and taken. From CCTVs to traffic cameras. And cell phone footage from destroyed phones to working ones. They're even checking security feeds from any businesses, public transit, or even schools and hospitals. They're going to do anything to find our people.

Me: And how long will that take?

Itami: They probably done and they are now viewing it. We did get an actual count of how many Civilian casualties... 10,346... both Japanese civilians and foreign tourists. It espesally took long to ID the corpses due to some being burned, crushed, or digging in a dead wyvern's stomach. They had to check dental records, DNA, or the lucky ones with intact facial features. Some of the bodies had parts or chunks missing from being eaten by the Wyvern. The worst part is, it's not like a bomb explosion. Those people didn't die right away.

I sighed, leaning back and taking another drag.

Me: Shit...

Itami: Yeah... and they're also investigating the attack on us, especially the death of Williams. You spoke with his family?

Me: I have. His pregnant wife back stateside told me and I quote, "He's not coming home, is he." and broke down crying. And I told her that her husband is a hero and what he did and I didn't give her a second thought. But while crying she did tell me and I quote again, "Ben would've wanted to see his son or daughter to be born. To be safe. To have a future. Thank you. I'm not angry at you or the military. I'm thankful for the life that Ben and I made.". After that. She hung up.

Itami: What about the rest of the unit and 5th Recon. Are they gonna be okay?

Me: They are, or maybe, and that's the best thing we can hope for. I sent Kurata to Italica along with Thomas.

Itami: I understand sending Kurata to Italica because he has feelings Persia and she has feelings for him. But why Thomas?

Me:*takes a drag* Apparently, he has feelings for the other Formal Clan maid Aurea.

Itami:*raises brow* The maid with a happy-go-lucky personality, always seen with a smile on her face, and as a medusa her most notable feature is her hair which is made of snakes? That Aurea?

Me: Yeah. It took me an hour and a half to let that sink in to my brain. She does have a short stature so I guess he's into shortstacks.

Itami:*trying to lighten the mood* Isn't your half-sister Shino a shortstack?

Me: *glares* Don't talk about her like that. She's 5'1 yeah, but that don't call her a shortstack in front either her, me, and probably David.

Itami: You're right.

Me: Speaking of relationships. Why did you and Risa divorced?

Itami: Well... she married me not out of love, but rather for mutual convenience.

Me:...

Itami:...

Me:...what type of bullshit did you just mew out your mouth?

Itami: It's the truth, okay. And we've both realized that a relationship between the two of us would never work out.

Me: Oh, and why not?

Itami: Because our personalities don't match, we have different hobbies and interests, and...

Me: Why the fuck did you marry her then?

Itami: Because... because I thought she was the one. But... we realized that wasn't true.

I slap Itami upside his head and give him a big piece of relationship knowledge even though I'm not married yet.

Me: You here you otakufucker. When did you too meet?

Itami:*rubbing head* From a lower school class at-

Me:*cutting him off* Less details on where you got your smarts at. At that time, how did you felt?

Itami: I was in a trance.

Me: Okay. Did she make you feel like you wanted to hold her, touch her, kiss her, make sweet love to her, and even have kids with her?

Itami: Uhm... yes, but-

Me: And when you two got divorced, did you still feel the same way for her?

Itami: No, not anymore.

Me:*raises an eyebrow* Don't you fucking lie to me. I seen your desk with a picture of you two.

Itami:...

Me:...

Itami: Yes.

Me: Now tell me, do you still feel the same for her, not from before, but now?

Itami:...

I waited for him to answer. Itami stared at the ground, deep in thought. His eyes were filled with uncertainty.

Itami: Yes.

I nodded, having confirmed what I suspected.

Me: It's not over. You two just need time.

Itami: But Risa and I have moved on with our lives.

Me: Quit lying to yourself, Yōji. So, tell this 30 year old, Japanese-American, US Marine Corps Captain how you really feel about Risa. Go ahead. I'm 100% listening.

Itami: Ah fuck it. I still love her. I still fucking love her! Is that what you want me to say?!

I put my arm around his shoulder.

Me: Then tell her, idiot. You'll regret it for the rest of your life.

Itami: Yeah... your right. After I realized that the way of life I have is giving me problems.

Me: You and most of the Corps.

Itami: And after nearly dying by a magical IED at the cost of a brother-in-arms.

Me: May he rest his soul.

Itami: I decided that I only have one life to live and it's a short one. So, I've been trying to live my life more meaningfully and make the most of it.

Me: Good.

Itami: So, after I get back to Japan after everything is over. I'm going to head to Risa's place-

Me: Buy a ring.

Itami: Right. Buy a ring, then head to Risa's-

Me: Also buy the latest douijn. Uncensored.

Itami: Okay true. Buy a ring, buy the latest douijn, then head to-

Me: Get flowers.

Itami: Yeah. Buy a ring, buy the latest douijn, buy flowers, then head to-

Me: Buy a box of condoms.

Itami: I wasn't going to say that.

Me: Then buy liquor.

Itami: Alright. Buy a ring, buy the latest douijn, buy flowers, buy liquor, then-

Open my mouth but Itami stops me.

Itami: SHUT THE HELL UP AND LET ME COOK DAMMIT!!!

I gave a smirk and a thumbs up realizing this man grew a pair.

Itami: ANYWAY!! Buy a ring, buy the latest douijn, buy flowers, buy liquor, then to head to Risa's place, confess my feelings, propose-

Me: And if she says, "Yes"?

Itami: Well then we'll-wait her place doesn't have a bed. Know any good Love Hotels near her place?

Me: Wait what? No, but I suggest a trip to Vegas.

Itami: That would be perfect.

Me: Okay, continue.

Itami: Alright, so buy a ring, buy the latest douijn, buy flowers, buy liquor, take a trip to Vegas, propose, and if she says yes, then go to a Love Hotel.

Me: Or, do all that. Take her to Vegas, get married at a chapel, get drunk, then have sex in the limo.

Itami: That sounds good too... Wait, why a limo?

Me: Well, it's tradition.

Itami: For who?

Me: Tourists.

Itami: Why?

Me: Tradition.

Itami: Why?

Me: For luck, man.

Itami: Oh.

Itami's Pov

A few seconds passed and Mav spoke up again.

Maverick: You'll probably end up with a kid after that, you know.

I nodded in agreement.

Me: Most likely.

Maverick: Well, there are plenty of people and organizations around the world that would help you if you were struggling.

I sighed, knowing that Mav was right.

Me: I know. I was just... scared, I guess.

Maverick: Scared of what?

Me: Of not being able to provide for my family.

Maverick: I understand.

Just then, Mina-san and Anthony showed up.

Me: Hey you two. How are Noriko and Ann?

Anthony sighs and he along with Mina take a seat between Mav and I.

Anthony: Ann is getting better. Just like her brothers, father, sisters, and mother. She's a strong girl. But I hope her mental state isn't damaged and I pray that she can move on after everything that happened.

Me: That's good to hear. And what about Noriko?

Mina: She's getting better too. The medics said she can start eating normally, but slowly. But still, it's a step in the right direction. They also said that if she's up to it, she can move back home in a week. Although...

When looked down with a sad expression which is rare for us.

Maverick: It's her family, isn't it.

She looks at her fellow Japanese-American.

Mina: Yes, it's her family. She has no idea that her family died and that family's home had also burned down due to failing to turn off electronics, leaving her without any property or shelter. If she learns about these things, Noriko fell into a nihilistic depression, losing nearly all will to live.

That's something I would never want to happen. I would die for the girl, I would die for anyone in the unit, and I would even die for Risa.

Me: And the brass wants to keep the news quiet until we know who else is taken by the Saderans, if they're even alive.

Maverick: Yes. And that's the reason why I told her the half-truth of a phone line not being setup, not that she can call home.

It was then David ran up to us.

Anthony: Sup Dav. What's the rush?

David shows us a CNN Breaking News report on his CAT smartphone.

David: The United Nations and almost every country on Earth is pissed off. The deaths and the names of the captured are there for the world to see. And it's not just Americans and Japs that were taken.

Me:*knowing well enough* Oh no...

David: That's Yōji. Russians, Chinese, Koreans, few Indians, few German, Filipinos, Canadians, a few Brits, Australians, Brazilians, a few Vietnamese, a few Indonesians, some Polish, some Italians, a few Argentines, and some Chileans. About over a thousand in total. And the names are here.

Mina: Let me see.

She reads the names and saw that Noriko Mochizuki and Ann Towson was labeled as 'Found' with a few names as well, but mostly Japanese citizens and the other foreigners.

Mina: We may have a problem.

We all look at her.

Mina: The UN wants Japan to have more troops from different countries here, but denied it saying and I quote. "We already have a international Task Force. It's called ourselves with our Special Forces, the Americans with their Special Forces and their Marine Corps, the Russians with their Special Forces and army, and the Chinese PLA. What more of a 'UN' Task Force you can think of?" Say what you guys want, but Prime Minister Morita just said "Hold my cowardice" as he drops this ball on the UN of all things.

David: I also heard the US is planning on launching satellites and drones to look for the captured and the Saderan Army's movement.

Me: That's good. Wait a minute. With satellites...

David: Means we get use our full arsenal.

Anthony: So let's dig it while we can. Because the light just turn motherfucking green.

3rd Pov

Two days prior

Alnus Hill: Liberty-Prime Base, General's Office

Lieutenant General Kōichirō Hazama, representing the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Forces (JGSDF), Brigadier General Jackson Baker, representing the United States Marine Corps (USMC), Major General Maksim Volkov, representing the Russian Army, and Lieutenant General Khan Wheng, representing the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Sat along with Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Kōji Sugawara, USMC 5-Star General Anthony R. Towson, Russian Navy Admiral Maksim Mesha, and Chinese Senator Khan Wheng.

Tomoe Takahashi had to head back to Japan to get Noriko affairs in.

We see US President Dirrel, Russian President Zyuganov, Chinese President Dong, and Japanese Prime Minister Morita who were videoed called by them to also see the footage of The Ginza Incident/Battle of Ginza.

General Towson's face hardened when he saw a CCTV footage of Ann resisting and fighting the Saderan soldiers.

President Dirrel's face was grim when the video footage changed to show the death of American and their children.

Chinese Senator Khan Wheng was angered at the sight of her niece and a 15 year old child being treated so savagely and her niece was beaten for the most part.

Russian President Zyuganov and his people were saddened at the deaths and the treatment of the children.

And Morita, he was both sad and angry. Witnessing both his people being brutally killed, raped, captured, or forced into slavery. He was especially disgusted at the sight of a 14 year old girl being gangraped.

The men and woman watched a group of the Saderan Army was dragging away a group of female teenagers and women to the GATE.

President Dirrel:*in anger* What is this... This is inhuman.

Sugawara: Sirs, this is the reason why we sent the footage.

Morita: How is the girl(Noriko) now?

Hazama: She is doing okay, Mr. Prime Minister. But she will stay here until she can come home.

Morita: Good.

Dirrel: We'll send more Marines and equipment to Alnus Hill and Italica.

Admiral Mesha: And is the rest of the going to find out?

President Dong: Let them know. Hell, even let the United Nations know! Because the Saderan Empire didn't just fully wake up the Sleeping Giant and the Resting Samurai.

He refers the "Sleeping Giant" for the United States of America. And the "Resting Samurai" for Japan.

President Zyuganov: But they also fully waken and angered the Dragon and the Bear.

He refers the "Dragon" for the People's Republic of China. And the "Bear" for the Russian Federation.

General Towson: Yeah. And all four will be filled with a terrible resolve.

Baker: That's Earth for ya. We hate each other most of the time.

Hazama: But give us a common enemy and we'll put all differences aside a work together to take them out.

Dirrel: Exactly.

The room was thick with tension, each leader and military commander acutely aware of the gravity of the situation unfolding in front of them. The footage of the Ginza Incident played on repeat, showing the horrors inflicted upon innocent civilians, both Japanese and foreigners alike. It was undeniable evidence of the atrocities committed by the Saderan Empire, and now Earth’s greatest powers were forced to reckon with this brutal reality.

President Dirrel:*gritting his teeth* This will not stand. We can't let this go unanswered.

Morita: Agreed. My people are calling for justice, and the international community is waiting to see how we respond. *pauses*We need to ensure the captured and enslaved citizens are rescued, and the Saderan leadership held accountable.

President Zyuganov: This is no longer just Japan’s problem. The Empire has crossed a line, and they have kidnapped citizens from all over the world. We need to respond as a unified front.

President Dong: The People's Republic of China stands with you. We'll bring the full weight of our military and resources to bear on this Empire. They will not go unpunished.

Admiral Mesha: This war will now be fought on Earth’s terms. No longer will we hold back. Every tool at our disposal is now on the table.

General Towson:*nodding grimly* Then we will hit them where it hurts. We have satellite technology that will map out every stronghold, every hidden base, and every movement they make. If they're using civilians as bargaining chips, we'll extract them.

Brigadier General Baker: *looking at the other leaders* We need to intensify operations across the board. More troops, more equipment, and we need to secure these GATEs permanently. No more letting them catch us off guard.

Morita: The world is watching. We can’t afford to show weakness. This isn’t just about protecting our citizens; this is about ensuring the Saderans know that the world beyond their Empire isn’t theirs to conquer or abuse.

The conversation continued with each of the leaders agreeing to escalate their involvement. The footage had done its job. The atrocities were undeniable, and the Saderans’ arrogance and brutality had made Earth’s response inevitable.

Back to the present

Maverick's Pov

As I sat outside, still puffing away on my cigarette, the news from David hit like a ton of bricks. The sheer number of countries affected, the international response being set in motion, and the reality that this was now a global issue was sinking in. What had started as an isolated incident had turned into a unifying cause for Earth’s major powers.

Anthony leaned back on the bench next to me, processing the same information. His hands clenched into fists at his sides, but his voice remained steady.

Anthony: We’re not just fighting for our people anymore, Mav. This just became something much bigger.

Me:*nodding slowly* Yeah, we’re in it now. And the Saderans are gonna learn what it means to piss off the entire world.

Mina and Itami, who had been listening quietly, exchanged glances before Mina spoke up.

Mina: We can’t let this break us. If we give up now, those people… those names on the list, they’ll never see justice.

Itami:*determined* We’re gonna get them back. Every single one of them.

Anthony: And after that? We’re bringing the fight to their doorstep.

I took a final drag of my cigarette before flicking it away, watching as the smoke curled into the air. The world had changed, and we had a long road ahead of us. But now, united with the rest of Earth's nations, we had the strength, the will, and the fury to see this through.

Me: Damn right, Anthony. Let’s show the Saderans exactly what Earth is made of. pauses Let’s make Williams proud.

As the sun set over Alnus Hill, casting a red hue over the horizon, we stood together, ready to face whatever came next. The gears of war were turning, and Earth was preparing to unleash its full might on the Saderan Empire. There was no turning back now.

Meanwhile somewhere else.

3rd POV

Holy deity realm for the Gods and Goddesses of Earth

The Wolf God saw the Samurai God who before had armor that was damaged and rustic as if he hasn't fully "awaken" in years. Now looked as he was back then(WW2) with armor that was polished, clean, and sharp.

Along with them was Big Brown Bear God wear a clean winter coat and a ushanka. And a long Red and Yellow Chinese Dragon Goddess.

All four looked towards Amaterasu and the big G himself, God.

And behind the four were many other deities from different religions and culture from Earth.

Samurai God: "The time has come."

Wolf God: "I agree."

Big Brown Bear God: "I concur."

Chinese Dragon Goddess: "Me too."

The four had their eyes glowed with determination and power.

Wolf God: "It is time to once again fight for our believers."

He said as feels the souls of many Marines of the past and present flow in. Including Williams.

Samurai God: "I agree."

He said as feels the anger, hate, and sadness of the souls of many Japanese past and present.

Big Brown Bear God: "We are united under a single purpose."

He said as he feels the determination and will to fight for the freedom of his people from the souls of many Russians past and present.

Chinese Dragon Goddess: "As it should be."

She said as she feels the will to protect her people, and her people's culture, art, and beliefs, the souls of many Chinese past and present.

The deities gathered in the holy realm of Earth, their presence a symbol of unity across all cultures and beliefs. The Samurai God, Wolf God, Big Brown Bear God, and the Chinese Dragon Goddess stood side by side, embodying the combined will of humanity’s past and present. Their glowing eyes reflected the determination of their believers, mortals who had once fought for freedom, honor, and justice.

Behind them, the legions of deities from various religions and cultures watched in solemn silence, understanding the gravity of the situation. This was no ordinary moment in history; this was a call to arms that transcended time and space.

Amaterasu:*addressing the gathering* "The mortals have called upon us, whether they know it or not. Their faith may waver in these times, but their spirit remains strong. They are united as never before, and we shall answer them."

God, standing with the deities of Earth, nodded gravely. His aura, though calm, was filled with divine power, a reminder of the sheer strength he wielded.

God: "The Saderan Empire has violated the sanctity of life and enslaved those who walk in our light. They have forgotten that the gods of Earth are not absent, and we do not turn a blind eye to injustice."

The Samurai God clenched his sword tightly, the memories of past wars flooding his mind. He had seen his people rise from the ashes of defeat, their resilience unmatched. Now, their honor was on the line again, and he would not stand idle.

Samurai God: "The Empire will learn the price of their arrogance. We will remind them why the mortals once looked to us for guidance in battle."

Wolf God's growl echoed through the realm, his feral gaze sharp with purpose.

Wolf God: "Their time is over. The warriors of Earth are coming, and with them, we shall bring the wrath of every soul who has ever fought for freedom. Let the Empire know: the gods of Earth protect their own."

Big Brown Bear God nodded, his deep, rumbling voice resonating with the unshakable strength of his people.

Big Brown Bear God: "We are not conquerors. We are defenders. The Saderan Empire will face the united will of those who cherish freedom, and they will know the cold fury of those who fight for what is right."

The Chinese Dragon Goddess coiled gracefully, her eyes blazing with the power of her ancient heritage. She had seen civilizations rise and fall, but the spirit of her people remained unbroken.

Chinese Dragon Goddess: "Their culture will tremble before the might of those who have embraced the future. The wisdom of our ancestors, the art, the knowledge, and the strength we have cultivated for millennia—this will be our weapon. The Empire will fall, and the world will know peace once more."

As the four deities declared their intent, the other gods and goddesses of Earth stirred. Thor from the Norse pantheon hefted his hammer, Zeus clenched his lightning bolt, Odin stroked his beard in thought, and Bastet sharpened her claws, all preparing for the inevitable.

Amaterasu, standing next to God, smiled as she gazed upon the gathered might of Earth’s deities.

Amaterasu: "Our mortals are strong, but they will need our guidance. This war is theirs to fight, but our presence will give them the strength to see it through."

God raised his hand, his voice echoing through the realm, commanding the attention of every being present.

God: "We will not intervene unless absolutely necessary. But know this—should the Saderan Empire push too far, should they threaten the very soul of Earth, we will unleash the full might of our wrath. Until then, let the mortals prove their worth. For in their hands lies the future of both worlds."

The divine assembly nodded in agreement, their resolve unwavering. The time had come for Earth to unite, not just in military might, but in spirit, faith, and purpose. The Saderan Empire would soon face the full weight of a world determined to protect its people and values.

And behind the deities, the souls of the fallen, including Lance-Corporal Benjamin Williams, looked on with pride, knowing their sacrifice was not in vain. Earth would fight back, and with its gods watching over, victory was not a question—it was a certainty.

Chapter Text

As the title says, how you guys and gals like the story so far?

Like even from the recent chapters to the character development.

Sure I can hop on Reddit see what they think on r/gate, but I like to here your voices... well... comments. You get what I meant.

For Wattpad readers: 👉🏾

And for Archive of Our Own readers: 👇🏾

Have a good day/night!

Chapter Text

Date: April, 2024

Maverick's Pov

Alnus Hill: Liberty-Prime Base, outside the Base Armory

After the news of the captured civvies, higher ups gave us the green light to use our full ahem... arsenal.

Well since Japan, US, Russia, and China began to take the Saderan Empire Threat seriously. They Armed us troops with Latest Firepower and Weaponry to give us more edge. Like Japan equipping the JSDF with the Howa Type-20s, Type 18 bulletproof vests, H&K SFP9-Ms, Minimi MK3s, Sumitomo NTK-62s, Type 10 MBTs, and Type 90 MBTs. US with our M27s, M4A1s, M17s & M18s, M16A4s, FGM-148 Javelins, M202 FLASH, FGM-172 SRAW, the M45A1s, Benelli M1014s, OKC-3S bayonets, SCAR-Hs, SCAR-Ls, and some weapons from the Army like the XM7s and XM250s along with a few M1A2 Abrams SEPv4s, and NASA sent and launch three satellites. Chinese with the QBZ-191s, QBZ-03s, Type 88s, and QJY-201s. Russia with AK-12Ms(Update version), AK-74M UUKs, AK-15s, AEK-971s, RPK-74Ms, PKP Pechenegs, and KS-23 Shotguns.

Also, due to the Saderan Threats being taken seriously by Major powers. Defense & Aerospace Corporations like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Mikoyan, Sukhoi, Mitsubishi, Kawasaki, Sumitomo Group, Komatsu, Bell Textron Inc., M7 Aerospace LP, RTX Corporation, Northrop Grumman, Norinco Group, General Electric, General Motors, etc. of the respective nations have been boosting its production capability after each Government order more Weapons, vehicles and/or Aircraft for the War effort.

And the new armaments and vehicles they gave us were put to use as we had a few patrol missions.

Right now, me, David, and Anthony were putting the new weapons to use by using a SAW, and M202 FLASH as we and others were training on them.

David was using an SAW and M202. Anthony was using a M202. While I was using an M203.

Anthony was doing an accuracy check on his M202 while me and David were taking a rest.

David: I gotta say. These weapons are still awesome.

Me: Yeah. And this is only the beginning.

David: Really?

Me: Yep.

David: So we'll be able to get the rest of the armaments.

Me: You got it.

As I rested on the bench, watching Anthony carefully aim his M202 FLASH at a distant target, I couldn't help but marvel at the sheer destructive potential of the new weapons. The sound of David's SAW (Squad Automatic Weapon) firing earlier still echoed faintly in my ears. The introduction of these advanced systems had already transformed the dynamic of our operations, giving us a clear advantage against the Saderan Empire.

Anthony:*yelling over his shoulder* Hey Mav! You think this thing's good for close combat, or just fireworks?

Me:*grinning* Depends. You planning on cooking marshmallows or obliterating an entire squad?

David laughed, leaning back on the bench with a satisfied sigh. His sweat-drenched face was a testament to the effort he'd put into the training session.

David: Man, I've never seen a flamethrower and rocket launcher hybrid like that. Whoever designed it? Genius. Psychotic genius, but genius.

Me:*nodding* Yeah, the M202's gonna be a game-changer. Just don't get too comfortable with it. These babies aren't forgiving if you screw up.

Anthony fired another shot, the fiery projectile streaking across the sky before slamming into a metal target in the distance. The resulting explosion was deafening, a plume of smoke rising like a mushroom cloud.

Anthony:*lowering the launcher with a smirk* Now that's what I call a statement piece.

David:*clapping* Damn, Ant, remind me never to piss you off.

We all shared a laugh, the kind of humor that came from knowing the stakes were life and death. Despite the levity, the tension of recent events lingered in the air. The new weapons were a clear indicator that our nations were no longer holding back. It was all-out preparation for war.

Me:*serious now* These toys are nice, but don't forget why we're here. This isn't just about the firepower. It's about making sure the Saderans think twice before they try anything like Ginza again.

David:*nodding* No kidding. After what we've seen, they'll need a reminder of what modern Earth can do. And we're the ones delivering it.

Anthony joined us on the bench, wiping the sweat off his brow with a rag. He looked at the M202 in his hands, then at us.

Anthony: You think this'll be enough, though? The Saderans have magic, numbers, and their gods. Even with this firepower, they're not exactly gonna roll over.

Me:*leaning forward* They won't have a choice. We've got technology centuries ahead of them. And from what I've seen? Their gods are just as worried as they are.

David:*raising an eyebrow* You think the gods are scared?

Me:*smirking* Oh, I know they are. Heard from some brass that even the Falmart deities are starting to sweat. They've never dealt with anything like Earth before.

Anthony: Good. Let them sweat. Maybe they'll back off before we have to level their whole empire.

David:*grinning* Wouldn't that be nice? But until then... we've got some fireworks to perfect.

We all stood, ready to continue the training session. Despite the uncertainty of what lay ahead, we knew one thing for sure: with these weapons, we weren't just soldiers anymore. We were the embodiment of Earth's resolve, a message to the Saderan Empire that their time of unchecked dominance was over.

The day was winding down and "Retreat to the Colors" was playing on the loudspeakers Itami, Anthony, and I were heading to Division HQ to report. And we see Yanagida is waiting for us just outside with that smug look on his face.

Yanagida: Hey you three.

Me: Oh lord...

Anthony sighs deeply.

Itami: Ugh... what do you want now?

Yanagida: I have something I think should tell you three.

Itami: You never have any good news, Yanagida.

Me: I gotta write a report to Washington and Tokyo so make it quick.

Yanagida: You'll regret it if you don't hear it... Towson, Kuribayashi. It's regarding a certain dark elf.

Wut?

Anthony:*blinks* Wut?

Timeskip to Alnus Hill, Tavern/Bar

Yanagida had informed us about Yao, Ant and I told that dark elf we'd help her. But it looks like she couldn't wait so she caused a little trouble while we were at the capital... so Yanagida brought us to the tavern or bar and explained it to us.

Delilah:*puts drinks on table* Here you go fellas.

Itami: Thank you ma'am.

Me: So? What did you wanna talk to us about?

Yanagida: While you three were away, we were approached by a very interesting visitor. Asking if we could kill a flame dragon for her.

Me: Do what now?

Itami: Hold up we can't-

Anthony covers his mouth as we both see a wide grin on his face. Oh crap. That is the look of any Marine that seen the 1998 TV commercial demonstrating the obstacles and hardships of becoming a US Marine. He probably saw as a kid in the early 2000s given that he was born 1996.

Anthony:*grinning* Hol up there my nigga, let's hear this gentleman speak.*removing his hand*And we, by "we" I mean Mav and I met her a before we went to the Capital. She said that the dragon destroyed her village in the Schwartz Woods and caused a number of casualties.

Itami: I see, so it destroyed her home village like Tuka's. Of course that's a real tragedy, but her request was denied by the Generals, right? What else is there to talk about?

Me: I agree with Itami here. What else is there to add.

Yanagida: There's a little more than that, you three.

Me: Go on, spit it out.

Yanagida: According to the woman, the dragon showed up within the territory of the Native State of Elbe. And as you three, mainly the Americans and Russians know. Elbe is an area that is apparently rich in oil deposits. As well as very large uncut diamonds.

I can almost hear the sounds of a slot machine spinning and rich OIL company CEOs drooling.

Itami: O... k..? And I'm suppose to give a fuck?

Yanagida: How'd you like to go on a scouting mission?

Me, Anthony, & Itami:*raised eyebrow* Huh?

Yanagida: And just like before it's the kind of mission that offers you a great deal of freedom. You'd be able to take actions outside of the initial scope.

Anthony: You caught my full attention now.

Me: Now hold on Ant. What are you saying glasses?

Yanagida: Look I'm just saying... that you might find yourselves on other side of the border... and you might encounter a dragon. And you might have to kill it and... bring back few samples. If something like that were to happen, I doubt there'd be too much trouble.

Itami: The hell there would!! You weren't there! You never saw that damn thing, okay and we did!! It was goddamn terrifying! Look, if it's an order, then I'll follow it, I don't have much choice. But if I do have a choice, I'd rather we all live. Towson you don't say a word as neither you, nor Fernandes, nor Takahashi was there. I know you three are badasses and fearless, but they're limits.

Me: I hate to say this, but I agree. The UAVs and sats scan the terrain in that region. It is full of valleys and mountains similar to but not close is like a mix between Switzerland, Utah and California. If we send in a large force into neutral territory it could look like an unwarranted invasion. But if we send in a small team without support the dragon could bottleneck them and wipe them out.

Itami: Besides. If you send me, I'd be dead before I'd even have a chance to fight back.

Me: Same here.

Yanagida: You don't want to go because it's dangerous, and you think the higher ups are asking too much?

Anthony: Okay after thinking clearly I see what Mav and Yoji are saying. Plus, Mina took up guard duty to watch over Noriko so there's that.

Yanagida:*snooty chuckle* You might want to pay a visit to your blonde elf friend.

Me, Anthony, and Itami:*confused* Tuka?

Timeskip to the Alnus Hill Residential Area

We headed to Tuka's room and we find Rory and Lelei standing in front of Tuka. She sits on her bed crying when we walk in.

Itami: You okay, Tuka? What's the matter?

Tuka looks at Itami with tears in her eyes.

Tuka: Father!

She suddenly hugs Itami really tight while Anthony raised a brow.

Tuka: Papa!

Itami:*stammering* U-Uh, Tuka!?

Oh lordy, no...

Tuka: You see he DID come back! Can't believe you would take such a sick joke that far!

Anthony:*concerned* Tuka?

Tuka: You're not going to believe this. You know what she said? She said... she said that you were dead! She told me that were killed... by a flame dragon.

Mine, Itami's, and Anthony's eyes widen.

Me: Tuka, look at me.

She looks at me.

Me: Who am I?

Tuka: Your Maverick Kuribayashi.

Anthony: And me?

Tuka: Your Anthony Towson... why would you two ask such silly questions?

Rory: Okay... who's standing right here?

She points to Itami.

Tuka: Why my father of course.

Me, Anthony, and Itami: Ah shit.

Anthony: Lelei can you uh... pacify her.

Lelei uses her magic and puts Tuka to sleep... oh man, how did things go from bad to worse?

Lelei: This will allow her to rest for a while.

Me: Alright. Can we get an explanation on what happened?

Rory: It was Yao.

Anthony: Oh Christ...

Rory: That's right, Tony. Yao told Tuka the truth. The truth that we've all been trying to avoid this whole time.

Lelei: And because we never did, Tuka never stopped looking for him.

Me: Oh dang...

Rory: She's been wandering aimlessly around town. Sometimes forgetting to eat, or sleep. So every now and then... we've been using this spell to help her rest.

Itami: Buddha above...

Me:*pissed off* Where the fuck is Yao at now?

The five of us confronted Yao about further traumatizing Tuka. Ant brought David along the way and brought him up to speed. He too was pissed off.

Itami: Why would you tell her that, Yao?! We've been very hard to handle this delicately as possible! What you did was totally uncalled for!

Yao: Oh? It was uncalled for was it? All I did was tell her the truth. I understand that you four men are especially caring towards her and your other friends here. That you're both extremely loyal leaders, and that you're willing to break a few rules in order to protect them. Well knowing that fact, I decided to take advantage of that.

David: Are you fucking kidding me lady?! There are lines you just do not cross! And that was one of them!

Yao: Don't speak to me like a child!

David: I think we should woman.

Yao: I went to your people and asked them to kill the flame dragon! I begged them for their mercy! I offered them anything they could could possibly want in return! But they... but they turned their backs on me and the people of my village. They told me you can't do it! But then... a few of them also told me something else. They told me your group might help! That is why I broke her heart! And if you want to save her. You must tell her father was murdered by a flame dragon. And exact her revenge for her, so what are you going to now man in green and men in Black and Green?! Are you going abandon your friend?!

I my rage burn as I, Ant and Dav stepped forward, but Itami stops us.

Yao: If it were a person and they had killed the ones you loved...

That made us freeze.

Yao: You would hunt them down to the ends of the earth and make them pay for what they've done. But this is a flame dragon isn't it? The rules aren't the same! No one can just go out there and catch it. No one can punish it. How do we seek justice? Where do we focus such anger? Where am I supposed to direct this hatred for the thing that took the ones I love?!

We just stand there angry at her but we don't know how to respond while Yao has tears streaming down her face and falls to her hands and knees sobbing. I pity the poor girl but she took it too far.

Yao: I know I'm being selfish, I know that. I'll give you anything, I'll give you everything. My heart, my soul whatever it takes. I just thought... even if you did it for her, my people could be saved as well.

Anthony: Okay enough with the tears, anymore drama and everyone's gonna think were putting on a weird show for Pornhub or Rule34.com.

Me: Wait what? What the hell you jack-

Anthony: None ya business and my browser history is clean. Lelei, Rory go back to your rooms. Itami, Kuribayashi, Fernandes, go check on Tuka.

Me: What about her?

Anthony's POV

Me: I'll take care of her. Now go.

Itami, Mav, David, and the others leave me alone with Yao. I walk up to her as she still on her hands and knees still crying, she looks absolutely pitiful. Not the first time I seen a woman cry. While informing them of a loved ones death.

Me: Get up, Yao and stop the water works.

She rises to her feet while rubbing her eyes.

Yao: You said you would help me?

Me:*sighs* I told you that I would vouch for you, but I also didn't promise you anything else.

Yao: What's going happen now?

Me: I don't know. But all I can tell you is that you fucked up big time. While you weren't wrong about Itami and Kuribayashi, you went too far in pushing Tuka over the edge. What she has... can kill more people than any sword, arrow, spear, or gun ever could.

Yao: How do you know? And... what do you mean she has that "can kill more people than any sword, arrow, spear, or gun ever could"?

Me: Because I've known people with it and I have it too... I'll arrange some lodging for you but after that you're on your own. And to answer your last question... she has Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD for short. It's a a mental health disorder that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event.

Yao: And you have it too?

Me: Yes.

Yao's teary gaze lingered on me, her confusion and guilt evident. I took a deep breath, knowing this conversation needed to be as direct and transparent as possible.

Me: Yes, I have PTSD too. It's not something you get over easily, and it’s certainly not something you cause deliberately in someone else. What you did to Tuka? That’s like breaking a dam that barely held back a flood. You didn’t just make her face the truth—you drowned her in it without preparing her.

Yao looked down, clutching her arms as if trying to hold herself together.

Yao: I didn’t mean to hurt her... I just... I thought it was the only way to make you help me.

Her words carried a tinge of regret, but her desperation was still the strongest emotion in the room. I took a step closer, softening my tone.

Me: I get it. You’re desperate. You lost your people, your home, and probably everything you cared about. But you crossed a line, Yao. And now, instead of helping you willingly, we’re cleaning up the mess you caused.

She flinched as if my words physically struck her. I didn’t hold back because she needed to understand the gravity of what she’d done. After a long silence, she finally spoke.

Yao: Can it... can Tuka be helped? Can you fix what I’ve done?

I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck.

Me: She can be helped, but it’ll take time, patience, and the right approach. PTSD doesn’t just go away, Yao. It becomes a part of who you are. The best you can do is learn how to live with it and manage it. For Tuka? That means slowly guiding her to face reality, not shoving it in her face like you did.

She nodded hesitantly, her eyes wide with a mix of fear and hope.

Yao: And you? How did you... learn to live with it?

That question hit me harder than I expected. Memories I’d long buried bubbled to the surface: the screams, the explosions, the unbearable weight of guilt for the ones I couldn’t save. I pushed the thoughts aside and focused on the present.

Me: I’m still learning, Yao. There are good days and bad days. But I’ve got my brothers and sisters in arms, and they’ve got my back. That’s the key—having people who understand what you’re going through, even when you don’t have the words to explain it.

Yao’s expression softened, and for the first time, I saw genuine remorse in her eyes.

Yao: I... I didn’t know. I’ve heard of warriors breaking under pressure, but I thought it was a weakness of the body, not the mind.

Me: It’s not weakness. It’s survival. What we see, what we go through—it’s more than anyone should have to handle. But we handle it because we have to. That’s why we’re still standing. That’s why I’m still standing.

Yao nodded slowly, her gaze dropping to the ground.

Yao: I’m sorry. For everything. I just... I didn’t know what else to do.

I gave her a small nod, acknowledging her apology, but not entirely forgiving her just yet.

Me: Apology accepted—for now. But actions speak louder than words. If you want to make this right, you’ll help us fix what you broke with Tuka. And after that, we’ll talk about the dragon.

Her head shot up at the mention of the dragon, her eyes wide with determination.

Yao: You’ll... help me? You’ll fight the dragon?

Me: One thing at a time, Yao. First, Tuka. Then, maybe, we’ll talk about the dragon. But understand this—trust is earned. You’re at the bottom of the ladder right now. Climb it carefully.

She bowed her head deeply, her voice trembling.

Yao: I understand. I’ll do whatever it takes.

Me: Good. Now get some rest. You’re gonna need it.

As she shuffled off to the lodging I arranged for her, I stayed behind for a moment, letting the weight of the conversation sink in. Helping Tuka was going to be a challenge, but if we didn’t, Yao’s desperate plea for help might only be the start of our problems.

God help us all.

Chapter Text

Date: April, 2024

Maverick's Pov

Alnus Hill: Alnus Hill Village ,  Tavern

After Itami went to check on Tuka, she continued to believe that Itami was her dead dad. Itami decided to indulge in her delusion for several days now. Taking her shopping, picnics, etc. all while wearing her dad's clothes including sleeping with her... in a literal context. I and a few others personally don't think it's helping. We have a mission tomorrow in the Imperial Capital so I decided to meet Mari at the tavern ahead of everyone so we could try to have a date around here. We got a table and I got our drinks and brought them to her.

Me: Here you go, sorry it's not much of a date.

Mari: Thanks, and it's no problem. I'm happy I get to spend time with you. So how's Tuka been?

Me:*sighs* From what Itami told me, she's suffering from a delusion brought on by Post Traumatic Stress.

Mari: Guess you'd know all about that.

Me: You're talking to a guy who recently lost his stepdad, but is also serving in his third war now.

Mari: And how have you been?

Me: Me? The night terrors have gotten less frequent... thanks to you, Mari-san.

Mari: *smiles*  I'm glad I could help, but how do you handle your stepfather's death and your PTSD?

I sigh deeply.

Me: I forced myself to confront the reality that he was gone and that there was nothing I could do about it. But it still hurts, you know I haven't talked to my Mom since Tokyo. As for my PTSD. I have my good moments and I have my bad moments... you've seen them first hand. I've have seen this disease turn solid Marines, Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, and even ex-Special Forces guys into blubbering messes. Some turning to drinking or drugs to cope with it... some even committing suicide. It is why a high number of Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan veterans turn to those.

I get depressed thinking about it when Mari reaches over the table and grabs my hand.

Mari: Do you regret not going home when you could have?

Me: I have a lot of regrets, but here are some things I don't regret. Joining the Corps, coming here, fighting with my half-sister, being apart of 5th Recon, seeing my other half-sister... and being with you.

Mari: *smiles* I'd glad I'm with you as well, though I wish we didn't have to hide it.

Me: *grabs Mari's hand back* Tell you what, when this next mission is over... we'll tell everyone.

Mari: Really? Everyone?

I nodded.

Me: Yeah and whatever happens, happens okay.

We got lost looking into each others eyes when the others started showing up including Itami and Tuka and we immediately let go of each others hands and acted like two troopers having drinks.

Mari: *giggles* Guess the date's over.

Me: Yeah. I'd better get going, I have to double check my gear for the mission tomorrow.

Mari gets up and walks up to me and leans into my ear.

Mari: *whisper* I'll visit you later~

I feel my ear and face turn red hearing that, I look over to see Itami still wearing Tuka's dad's clothes. I wish he would stop indulging in Tuka's delusion, but I'm not going to bud my nose in it. I finish my drink and leave to go check on my gear while everyone enjoys themselves.

Timeskip with a flip

The walk back from the tavern was quiet, but my mind was still buzzing from the conversation with Mari. Telling everyone about us… That’s a big step, but honestly, after everything we’ve been through, keeping it a secret felt stupid. If anyone had a problem with it, well, they could take it up with me.

I pushed open the door to my barracks room, flicked on the light, and sighed as I took off my vest and set it aside. The upcoming mission in the Imperial Capital weighed on me, but what weighed on me more was Itami and Tuka.

Me: That dumbass is only making things worse.

I get it—he wants to protect her feelings, to keep her stable. But this wasn't stability. It was prolonging the inevitable. She needed help, not a crutch.

I sat on my cot, pulling out my rucksack and checking my gear for tomorrow. I went over my M27 IAR, checked the optics, the weight of my mags, my sidearm, and a few other pieces of kit. Everything was in place. Everything was set.

A soft knock at my door made me pause. I frowned. It was late.

Me: Come in.

The door creaked open, and in walked Mari. She was out of her combat gear, wearing a simple long-sleeved shirt and cargo pants. Her long hair was loose, giving her a softer look than usual.

I blinked, surprised.

Me: What are you doing here?

Mari smirked, stepping in and closing the door behind her.

Mari: You said we'd tell everyone after the mission. That means we still have tonight, right?

She walked toward me slowly, her arms crossed, eyes gleaming with something between affection and amusement. I exhaled through my nose, feeling the heat rise up my neck.

Me: You really picked a hell of a time to drop by, Mari-san.

Mari: Well, you always look so stressed before a mission. I figured I’d help you relax.

I swallowed hard, watching as she casually sat down beside me.

Mari leaned her head on my shoulder, and for a moment, all the stress, all the battles, all the tension just faded away.

Mari: You really should take care of yourself, Mav. You’re always looking out for everyone else, but who looks after you?

I let out a quiet chuckle.

Me: Well, seems like I got a volunteer.