• Date: September 29, 2173


  
• Time: 2:00 PM


  
• Location: Her Majesty's Royal Castle


  

  ''Your Majesty, My Saintess...''

  ''...I come before you to report the device's location and the invader.''

  Lumiere stated as she stood before the masses of elves. It had been two hours since she had left her fellow priestess to slow down the alien lord so that she could report to the kingdom. Upon her arrival fifteen minutes ago, she immediately rushed to meet the Saintess and the Queen.

  ''Then, tell us, priestess. Where is the device and the invader?''

  Asked Her Majesty, as she had been eager to know where the accursed alien and its device had been this entire time. Behind her was the Champion of Elvania and the Hero of Eldrant, whose companion was seated on his shoulder. At the same time, the blade spirit, Sarroth, stood beside him.

  ''We have located the invader and the device on the ruined Udel Village.''

  The young priestess spoke, sending a wave of surprise through the chamber. No one had ever imagined that their hated foe would hide in plain sight, especially in a place the hero and his companion had already visited. Murmurs began to erupt as the masses of elves conversed with themselves about the report given to them. Thus promoting Queen Gabriella to raise her hand, instantly signaling to them to shut it.

  ''Continue.''

  Some were displeased with the revelation, but Lumiere continued with her report as she inhaled and exhaled, a sign of her exhaustion as she pressed her body to the limit to give insight about the invader.

  ''The worst has happened...''

  ''...The invader's device has trigged its third stage.''

  A pause spread through the chamber as horror filled the faces of every elve present. Even the royal sisters were not spared, their expressions marked by shock and fear. The realization that the Kaynian Lord had done something that now threatened their world shattered whatever hope remained in their hearts.

  ''By the Pantheons...''

  ''...Lady Vee. What are the repercussions of this?''

  Turning to the A.I., the Queen sought answers about what would happen next. Meanwhile, the super soldier and his partner remained unfazed by their enemy's actions. Though concerned, they knew that the third stage of the device had rendered it immobile, making it possible to deactivate.

  [The third stage of the device would construct the necessary pillars needed to complete itself. Meaning it's creating the parts to successfully open a wormhole that would lead to your world...]

  [...Though let me ask you a question, priestess; when you discovered the device, did it have a ring of blob-like structures around it with tendrils siphoning resources from the ground?]

  This time, it was Lumeire's turn to be shocked as the hero's companion described what she had seen. The ring, the ten blobs, and the tendrils that conveyed materials to the blobs were all part of what she witnessed. It was as if she was listening to someone who knew how their enemy's device worked, which she was correct.

  ''Yes, Lady Vee, but how do you know?''

  [Well, it's because those blobs are the pillars I mentioned, and if they were to be completed, Eldrant would face the wrath of the Kaynians in full force.]

  Another revelation from the hero's trusted companion sent a new wave of fear through the group, as each detail about their enemy's intent only deepened their growing sense of helplessness. However, not everyone succumbed to fear and hopelessness. The Queen and the Saintess stood valiantly, trusting that the A.I. would devise a plan to drive the invader out of their world.

  [However, the construction of these "pillars" is not immediate. It takes at least twenty-four hours before they are ready for activation, giving us a chance to strike and deactivate it before the Kaynian Lord can summon reinforcements...]

  [...Your Majesty, the only way to stop the Kaynian Device is by manually deactivating it. And to do that, we need to attack the invader with your kingdom's military. With the combined efforts of my partner, the champion, and your people, could your planet's future be safeguarded.]

  Thus, the trust they had given to their savior's companion was rewarded, and the Queen knew what she had to do. To save the world from their hated foe, she had to support the hero and his cause, which she was willing to do. However, there was one problem.

  ''While I agree that we must unite to defeat the lone invader. There is one problem that I must point out...''

  "...My kingdom's military is spread too thin. And with the device requiring only twenty-four hours to complete its construction and activation, it would be impossible for me to assemble an effective fighting force to stop it."

  Her Majesty explained—it would take a day or two at best to prepare an army or fleet capable of waging a proper war. However, the A.I. had in mind something smaller and more effective at combating the alien lord.

  [We don't need a large force; we need a small team of elite combatants to assist my partner and me in deactivating the device.]

  Vee suggested and immediately made sense to the Queen of Elvania what she meant. Mobilizing the entire kingdom's military would be slow and unnecessary; a small elite force of high elves would be more efficient and easier to assemble. This approach was more practical, as their immediate goal was to stop the device from activating, not to kill the invader.

  ''Hmm, quite an idea, Lady Vee, but who shall lead such a force?''

  Gabriella questioned it, though the answer was clear to everyone—only one individual was worthy of the task. From the A.I.'s perspective, Commander Adelard was the ideal choice, having led riders before and being well-suited to command the proposed "elite group" to counter the alien lord and his plan.

  [I would suggest Commander Adelard, as he has not only faced the Kaynian Lord but also has an impressive record of leading wyvern riders into battle. I believe he would suffice.]

  Upon hearing the hero's companion's praise, all attention turned to the champion, who stood silently behind Her Majesty. In all his years of service to the kingdom, the commander never imagined he would be chosen to lead a force against their most hated foe.

  ''Very well...''

  ''...My champion, do you accept the burden of leading this elite force against the invader?''

  The Queen turned to her fabled champion, declaring Adelard the most vital to aiding the hero and his companion in saving their world from ruin. But it also gave him a chance for vengeance as the death of his subordinates still haunted him after all this time. He swore the invader would pay, even if it cost him his life. Revenge for his fallen riders.

  ''By my honor and duty, I will accept.''

  The Lord Commander bowed deeply, fully accepting the burden placed upon him. With the group's leadership chosen, the question remained—who would serve as its members? After all, their primary goal was to aid the Hero of Eldrant in deactivating the device. Turning to Marshal Eugene, Her Majesty asked about his expertise.

  ''Now that a leader has been chosen to aid the hero and his quest. My marshal, who would be the members that make up this elite force?''

  Hearing their Queen's question, Eugene and her assistant Delphine quickly identified several candidates to face the lone invader. To ensure success against the alien lord, the group would need a diverse cast of combatants from across the kingdom to cover any weaknesses. Within seconds, the two knew who would join the effort to save their world.

  Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

  ''Allow me, Your Majesty...''

  "...These are the candidates who will assist the hero and his companions."

  The marshal then used her magic to project a three-dimensional image of three key individuals she and her assistant had in mind. The first was a ranger, the second was a spirit, and the third was a wyvern rider. Their names, records, and expertise were laid out before everyone.

  ''From the esteemed first army of our kingdom, meet Military Guard Ranger, Hector.''

  While showcasing the first combatant, the champion was intrigued by the idea of working with the legendary ranger of the first army, as he had heard of his exploits long before becoming champion. The image of the ranger, Hector, was displayed before the masses, dawning his signature armor. Behind him was an arsenal of bows and medals showcasing his long service.

  *Straight Bow*

  *Recurve Bow*

  *Reflex Bow*

  *Decurve Bow*

  *Deflex Bow*

  *Compound Bow*

  Then, what followed next was the list of bows that the esteem ranger was proficient at, and it seems that he was an expert on all of them. Even the A.I. sitting on the Ghost's shoulder was surprised that an elven soldier could be so dedicated to his work, mastering every type of bow armament. Of course, mastering one craft wouldn't solve their problems, but it is nice to have him by their side.

  ''This ranger has mastered everything related to archery as he's been credited with several hundred, possibly a thousand, confirmed kills. He has been instrumental in shaping our ranger training and improvement efforts through the years. From logistics, bow designs, and tactics. This ranger has been the inspiration for everything...''

  ''...Thus, he would fit the role of a marksman and aid the hero from afar with his skills.''

  After introducing the first member, the marshal quickly presented another key individual for the elite force against the alien lord: a frame unit wielding its omni-staff hammer in a striking pose. However, there were two images: the first showed the frame unit, and the second presented the spirit operating it.

  ''Let me introduce Catherine. A member of the once premiere frame unit team, Lancer. She was its sole heavy hitter. If it wasn't clear due to her omni-staff hammer in the projection. Team Lancer was unique due to their expertise in hunting dragons. However, their exploits and achievements would be stomped when they met the likes of the black dragon.''

  Then, an image of the deceased ''black dragon'' appeared, revealing its massive size, comparable to a corvette airship. Surrounding it were three frame units, all damaged beyond repair, with Catherine at the center. Her frame unit was scorched with burn marks, and her omni-staff hammer lay broken. Afterward, the projection shifted to a close-up of the frame unit spirit; her facial features spoke of loss, pain, and sadness.

  ''As you can see, the black dragon was defeated, but only through the sacrifice of the three members of the Team Lancer. Leaving only Catherine as the sole survivor of her team...''

  ''...Though I admit that she hasn't taken any mission besides being an instructor to future frame unit spirits. However, when she learns of what's at stake, she will be forced to aid our cause.''

  Finishing the second member's introduction, Marshal Eugene quickly proceeded with the third and final member. The image immediately shifted to reveal a wyvern rider—not just any rider, but one with whom Commander Adelard had a past rivalry.

  ''I believe the champion knows of this one, but to those that don't allow me to introduce Wyvern Rider Pauline. The only elve who could compete with Commander Adelard in skill, magic, and experience, she ranks second to the champion, making her a must-have for the elite group.''

  With everything assembled, only one question remained: how would they transport themselves to the invader's location and the device? This, exactly, was the thought that Her Majesty had when she saw her marshal dematerialize the projection before everyone.

  ''Now that the members have been selected by the marshal. They would need a reliable, nimble airship to aid them in their mission...''

  ''...Colonel Delphine. Do you have something in mind?''

  Answering Her Majesty's question, Colonel Delphine would lend her knowledge of Elvania's vast array of airships. When it came to the Naval Guard, she had a comprehensive view second only to the marshal. Thus, the colonel knew which to offer, as only one vessel in the First Fleet was so decorated and beloved—one worthy of carrying the champion, his elite group, and the Hero of Eldrant himself.

  ''I believe the Javelot, the lead ship of the Javelot Class Light Frigate, is the ideal choice. With its stellar record, skilled crew, and quick speed, no airship suits the mission better than the Javelot.''

  The Javelot, a three hundred-thirty-seven-meter-long light frigate, was equipped with two turrets, each fitted with three mass drivers. It also featured four anti-air turrets near the bridge and two hangar bays just ahead of the main reactor and engines. The airship is also considered lucky, having survived several events that could have destroyed her. This earned her the nickname "Lucky Vice" due to her extraordinary ability to survive hits that could have destroyed other frigates.

  ''Very well, does anyone want to add something before I adjourn this meeting?''

  None answered the Queen's question. This meant that everyone was on the same page and understood the severity of the situation. What was left to do was dub the operation before adjourning the meeting.

  ''If no one will speak up, then I shall name my champion's mission Operation Tip of the Spear!''

  

  
• Date: September 29, 2173


  
• Time: 4:00 PM


  
• Location: Fae Military Headquarters


  

  At the docks of the Fae military complex stood the Ghost Operative Tale, with the young elve, Joan, before him. Since the Queen had anointed Operation Tip of the Spear, the sole survivor of Udel Village was determined not to be left behind by her savior. This left Joan feeling powerless, unable to persuade the operative to stay.

  ''Do you have to go?''

  She asked the kneeling super soldier as she stared at his emotionless helmet. Though intimidating to some, for Joan, it was nothing but a thing that hid her savior's face. There was no fear in her mind or heart about him, but there was only sadness.

  ''Yes, for your world to be safe. I need to do this, for everyone and you...''

  ''...That's why you can't come. It's too dangerous, and I am unsure whether or not I can protect you from the Kaynian Lord.''

  The Ghost answered, his voice ever so blunt and calm. Of course, he was unaware of this, relying solely on his gut feeling to communicate with her. Still, he was struggling as he was foremost a living weapon before a communicator, but progress was being made.

  ''But what if-''

  ''Don't worry.''

  Placing his armored hand over the child's shoulder, Tale gave his word. Naturally, Joan would be shy due to the response given to her, and her body shriveled as she embraced the cold and smooth offered.

  ''I will return, I promise.''

  ''Do you mean it?''

  Upon hearing her savior's assurance, the young elve extended her pinky finger toward him. In return, the operative was confused about the recent development before him. However, his A.I. partner, noticing the emotional distress through the neural interface, immediately sprung to his side to explain what was happening.

  [Tale, you must return the gesture by holding her pinky with your own.]

  ''What does that signify?''

  [It means that you have created a pinky promise. A traditional gesture most commonly practiced among children involves. The locking of the pinkies of two people to signify a promise.]

  Heeding his partner's advice, the Ghost adjusted himself before locking his enormous finger with her, causing Joan to smile in return. Unbeknownst to the super soldier and the young one, a certain blue avian observed as their interaction peaked. Although reluctant to show emotions, one individual noticed the ever-silent avian.

  [What's the problem, little guy?]

  Appearing before the avian, Vee tried to coo her way into its personal space with her silver tongue. In response, the blue avian merely looked away from the blue avatar of the A.I., making an attempt at distancing itself from her.

  [Oh my, bottling up one's emotion doesn't get you anywhere, mister.]

  Vee stated as she sat close to the avian, who was still looking away. Though not for long, Terwa let out a sad chirp, pretty much signifying the fall of the facade placed by him. Remembering what happened when the Ghost Operative disappeared, his master was devastated beyond measure, and it made him sad also.

  [I know, but we have no choice...]

  [...Terwa, please take care of Joan while we are gone. Can you promise me that?]

  Though reluctant to agree with her, the blue avian would comply by nodding. Back with Joan and Tale, the young one couldn't hold back her tears before her savior. Letting go was hard but necessary, and she hoped he would return.

  ''Promise me that you'll return, okay.''

  ''We will. At the end of this day, we'll be back together...''

  ''...I promise you.''

  Suddenly, Joan leaped forward, wrapping her arms around the Ghost's torso in an unexpected hug. The display of affection surprised both the operative and his A.I. partner. But she wasn't alone in showing emotion—Terwa, the Blue Avian, extended his wings, gently enveloping the front of the operative's helmet.

  ''Be strong, Joan.''

  ''I will.''

  Releasing her embrace, Joan watched as the super soldier stood back to his full height. Meanwhile, behind them stood Isabella, the Saintess of the Pantheon Church. Before returning to Fae, the Ghost had asked her a favor: to care for Joan in his absence, to which she agreed. Of course, it was painfully clear to the Saintess that he wanted the best for the young one.

  ''It's time to return to Gian, Joan.''

  ''Okay.''

  Taking one last look at her savior, Joan gazed at his shining black armor. Then, turning away, she held onto the Saintess as they walked together. Meanwhile, Tale could watch as the child he had protected left with the Leader of the Pantheon Church.

  {Are you alright, master?}

  ''I am.''

  {Shall I inform my daughter's champion that you have said your goodbye to Joan?}

  ''Yes.''

  Proceeding to the docks of the military base, he was greeted by the Javelot, the lead ship of the Javelot Class Light Frigate. Seeing the airship up close was impressive, almost strangely reminding Tale of the A.F.E. However, this vessel was designed to navigate a planet's atmosphere, not space. Approaching it, he was greeted by several crewmen of the light frigate; following them, he was eventually led to the wardroom where the champion and his fellow elves were meeting.

  ''Greetings, Hero of Eldrant!''

  One of the elves stated excitedly, standing firm and saluting to the operative as if he were an officer, which he was not. As soon as their eyes met, Tale recognized the individual as a ranger—not just any ranger, but Hector, the esteemed ranger of the first army.

  ''Likewise...''

  ''...Commander Adelard, Ghost Operative Tale reporting, sir.''

  The operative turned to meet the commander and introduced himself, but only for him to receive a gesture, signaling him to stand down. He complied by lowering his salute, though he wondered if his action was inappropriate, knowing Adelard outranked him.

  ''Hero, I was informed by Lady Sarroth that Joan is under the care of the Saintess?''

  ''Affirmative.''

  ''Very well, let us get onto the matter at hand...''

  ''...Priestess Lumiere here has been assigned as our guide to her fellow priestess over Udel Village.''

  Hearing her name called, the young priestess approached and bowed to the hero, a gesture of gratitude for being the only one who could save them from certain doom.

  ''Greetings, hero. I have been assigned by the Saintess to guide you to my sisters' last known whereabouts and the invader's device.''

  ''I assume your Saintess want us to recover their bodies?''

  ''Yes, as it is most certain that they have perished from the likes of the invader. It would give me and the Pantheon Church comfort if we were to retrieve their remains.''

  ''Understood...''

  ''...Commander Adelard, where's our drop point?''

  Moving back to the commander, Tale was eager to know where they'd stage an assault for Udel Village. Upon hearing the hero, Adelard utilized projection magic and created a three-dimensional image of the forest near the ruined settlement.

  ''The Javelot will drop us in the forest, about a kilometer from our objective. From there, we proceed on foot. If we find any remains of the priestesses, we will signal the light frigate to retrieve them before continuing...''

  ''...However, if things turn south, the Javelot will provide aerial bombardment, but we'll save that for last.''

  Tale nodded; the airship would be perfect for destroying the device if deactivation was not an option. Meanwhile, the others in the room patiently waited for the champion and the hero to finish. Though he doesn't know it, the elves he will work with are zealous about the prophecy.

  ''Also, allow me to introduce the elves joining us in the mission...''

  ''...That there is Hector, Spear Two. Beside him are Catherine and Pauline, Spears Three and Four.''

  The appointed members for the mission stepped forward as their names and code numbers were announced, offering light bows in greeting. However, they were not the only ones present. In the last row stood the familiar pink-haired elven doctor.

  ''Besides Priestess Lumiere, Doctor Amour is coming as our leading healer.''

  Noticing the shy doctor, Tale simply nodded at her, fully aware that when they faced the Kaynian Lord, casualties and fatalities would be inevitable on this mission.

  ''It is a pleasure to meet you all.''

  The elves either smiled, nodded, or were mesmerized by the sight of the Hero of Eldrant. Never in their lives had they thought that their childhood idol would accompany them. Hector was the most excited out of them all to fight alongside the hero.

  ''Alright, enough pleasantries. We have a mission to accomplish...''

  ''...Crewman!''

  Immediately, the elve near the entryway came to the commander's side. However, the Ghost couldn't help but notice the trembling posture of the elven crew member. He remained unaware that the elve's trembling was because of him and the group of elves he was associated with. Each one of them was a legend in their own right.

  ''Yes- Yes, Lord Commander!''

  ''Inform Captain Pouvoir to start the engines and head to our destination.''

  ''I shall relay your order, Lord Commander!''

  To Be Continued.