Here I am, once again, as the song goes. Anyway, this time we're gonna see the meeting with UNSA Headquarters in Geneva. But before we go to the HQ, we're gonna see our heroes visiting around the city and seeing what they can do there, as well as learn the beginnings of Human expansion into space.

To Guest 3: Well. I had to do it somehow, right?

Anyway, let's depart for this.

Chapter 11

,,The meeting in Geneva"

July 11, 2150

10:11

Earth's orbit

RNS Dwight D. Eisenhower jumped out of hyperspace over the Humanity's homeworld. Crew of the ship went off of their positions, as they had nothing to worry about over the safe planet. Egon looked around and nodded.

"Okay, call for Ester and the others."he ordered.

One of crew members nodded and left the bridge. Few minutes later, Ester and her group entered the bridge.

"Wanted to see us?"Ester asked.

"Yes I did. I wanted you to know, that we will stay on Earth's orbit, until you want to come back to Angier Prime and to Special System."Egon replied.

"Okay then."

Ester turned to the Falmart natives and smiled.

"Well. Please meet Earth, the planet Humanity was born on."she said.

They then looked through the window and looked at Earth. They were amazed, seeing, that it's even bigger than the Angier Prime. But what was most breathtaking, was the way it was divided in two, with one half, specifically Europe, Africa and Middle East, being blue and green, while other was covered in shadows of night and lighted with millions of lights. Pina and Bozes just couldn't stop looking at it.

"Amazing…"Pina said."But why one side is dark and other light?"

"This is how it is."Dora said."Sun can't light up both sides of the planet at the same time. So half is night and half is day."

Two Imperials looked back at the planet. Actually, they never thought sun can light up only one side of the planet. So when there is day in the Empire, there is night on the other side? It seemed to be very interesting.

"And this is our Home Fleet."Dora said, pointing left.

Falamrt natives looked in that direction and saw a number of UNSA ships, both big and small, with a several Nashini, Chakdrik and Shakayan ship. There also were ship with markings of numerous smaller states.
"Why do you need such strong defense?"Bozes asked.

"Well. From all capitals Resistance had, Earth is the only one under our control. We can't let Holies just come in and take it. This is why we keep Home Fleet as powerful as possible."Yuko explained.

"Anyway, let's go. Dropship will take us to the surface."Ester said.

Everyone nodded and started leaving the bridge, to make their way to the elevator, which took them to the hangar. There, they got onto the dropship and again secured themselves with harnesses.

"So I guess another such ride awaits us, like on Angier Prime?"Rory asked.

"Yes."Suvi said.

Dropship then started to take off and flew out of the hangar. Next, it started to set up in position for flight towards the surface.

"Entering atmosphere in ten…nine…eight…"pilot announced.

"Okay, prepare for another pressure."Dora said.

Pina and Bozes grabbed their harnesses harder, as if this could stop them from being pushed into seats.

"…three…two…one. Entering atmosphere!"pilot ended.

Again, they were pushed into seats as dropship started flying at full speed towards the planet's surface. Soon, flames again started engulfing the ship. Although it was second time, Falmartese were still uneasy, just waiting for the flames to get into the ship. Shaking also appeared again.

After five or so minutes, ship stopped to shake and flames disappeared. Pilot started to even the ship's flight and passengers could get out of the harnesses.

"We're now flying over Alps."pilot said."Please, enjoy the view."

Falmart natives looked at the screens, which were now showing snowed mountain tops, which soon started to change for more forested area, until it was changed into the urban panorama, as ship started to come to land on Geneva Spaceport. It touched down and started opening the back ramp.

"Well, here we are in Geneva."Ester said, standing up."Let's go."

Group then made their way out of the dropship and inside the spaceport main building. At the same time, they looked at the panorama of the city. As they noticed, city didn't had so many skyscrapers like Terhis City, but few were visible. Most of the city was made of smaller buildings made of brick.

"These buildings look more like Italica…But these glass towers are there too. It's amazing how they managed to connect it."Pina thought.

Group then made their way out of the spaceport building onto the street, where they were greeted by a man in black suit and having Indian appearance, standing next to the black car. He approached them and saluted.

"Agent James Sanjrani, UNSA Intelligence and Counter Terrorist Agency."the man said.

"So you are the one responsible for taking care of us during our stay on Earth?"Ester asked.

"it's gonna be me."the ICTA agent replied."Until the meeting, you're gonna be under my protection."

"And how long before the meeting at HQ will start?"Yuko asked.

Sanjrani pulled up his sleeve and looked at his watch.

"It's gonna start around 14:00. So until then, you can show our guests around the city."he said, pointing at the Falmartese."So, please feel free to do what you want. Me and my agents will be walking after you in hiding."

"Okay, thank you."Ester said.

ICTA agent nodded, got into his car and driven away, leaving the group to their own business. But surely, there were agents around, keeping an eye of them. In cases of security, ICTA was always serious.

"So…what are we going to do?"Tuka asked.

"Show you around the city."Ester replied."There are several places we would like you to see. So follow us."

And thus, the showing around Geneva started, as White Squadron members showed Falmart natives parts of the city.

Their first stop was the alley filled with shops, boutiques and stands. Whole alley was filled with people entering and exiting the shops with or without something what they just bought. Falmart natives watched them in surprise, as they didn't cared that there is a war going on.

"Why people are so calm? They should be terrified, that war is going on."Pina stated.

"As long as the war don't reach Earth, they don't care and try to live their lives as before. I wonder what would they say, after fighting in this war for a bit?"Dora said with irony sounding in her voice.

As they walked up the street, Rory suddenly stopped and gave amazed gasp. When everyone looked at her, she literally had stars in eyes. And what she was looking for, was the outfit pretty similar to hers, with only difference being it's colors, as this was white, not black.

"Well. Seems like she liked it."Suvi stated, seeing as Rory literally pulls Ester inside of the shop.

"I don't think Ester expected that."Yuko said.

Few minutes later, Ester and Rory exited the shop, with Rory having a bag in her hand.

"Isn't you allowed to wear only your Apostle outfit?"Lelei asked.

"You always need to have some change, right?"Rory replied.

Before they left the alley, Ester managed to lose around five hundred Euros, as Tuka now had some new T-Shirts and jeans, while Lelei bought several books, mainly scientific and historical. Pina and Bozes, on the other hand, found interest in more 'mature' literature. Or more precisely, a one genre which they bought in local Manga shop.

"Hm. Seem like being close to us only made them capitalistic."Ester stated, looking into her wallet."At least I still have five hundred more Euros."

"Yeah, they simply pumped you up."Yuko said.

Ester just sent her heavy look.

Their next stop, was an older model of AATIS gun, which was turned into the tourist site. Once they reached it, Falamrtese were amazed by the sheer size of this giant cannon. But well. Dora said, that this is Earth's 'Iron Shield' responsible for shooting down ships like Heavy Cruisers or bigger. No surprise it was so big.

After paying at the entrance to the AATIS, the group was allowed o enter the upper balcony and see how the city looks from there. From there, they had a perfect look at Geneva. Pina was amazed, that although being similar to Italica, more that to Terhis City, Geneva was also bigger than Sadera.

"Can I know, how old is this city?"Lelei asked.

"First town was built here around 10th century B.C., so over three thousand years ago. Since then, city grew to be what you see now."Ester replied.

"Three thousand years? Sadera itself is only over one thousand years old!"Pina thought in disbelief, looking back at the AATIS barrel behind them.

But she should expect that. They were ahead of Falmart for over 1500 years.

After visiting the AATIS, it was time for their last stop. Ester told them, that they're gonna see how Humanity set it's foot on other planets, marking the start of their interstellar expansion. And honestly, they were keen on seeing how all of this started.

Currently, they were entering a building, which was built on top of a hill. Inside, they were greeted by numerous photos of people in uniforms and destroyed cities. Over the entrance was sign saying 'Always remember'.

"What is this place?"Tuka asked, looking at the photo of Berlin burned to the ground.

"It's Museum of the 1st Tertan War."Ester replied.

"Wait. I thought, that these 'Tertans' are your allies."Pina pointed out.

"Now. If not the Holy Order, we would never ally with them."Dora said.

"Now, let's go. We're gonna show you, what we're talking about."Yuko said.

Group then went in the direction of silver door at the end of the corridor. Ester opened the door and they entered inside a giant, spherical room.

"Why do you need empty room of this size?"Rory asked.

"Just sit down and wait."

The group sat down at the chairs, which were in the room and waited for what was about to happen. Few seconds later, whole room was covered in darkness.

"What's happening?"Pina asked.

But answer was delivered in form of a holographic line in the air.

"Welcome."line said, as it waved.

"Lelei, can you translate again?"Rory asked.

"Of course."Lelei replied and started translating."This place was created to ensure the memory of these, which perished in the biggest conflict Humanity ever experienced. A war, that marked the start of new era in our history. Let's begin."

Then, line disappeared and different holograms started appearing. This time, they showed soldiers from various eras of history, since the Sumerian times, thought ancient Greece and ending at the 22nd century. Among them, Pina and Bozes noticed a soldier wearing armor strangely similar to the ones worn by Saderan Legionaries.

"Humanity saw numerous wars."Lelei translated."Starting from the empires of ancient Mesopotamia, through great Roman conquests, all the way to World War 2. But none of these conflicts was as big as the 1st Tertan War, which became the biggest test of Humanity's strength."

Holograms then returned to the one showing American Marine from 2019.

"Everything started in the year 2019. American satellite sent on Titan, biggest moon of Saturn, vanished. All biggest space agencies around the world tried to explain this event. And when they found out, whole world was filled with dread."

This time, holographic image appeared, showing the Saturn and Titan. And over Titan, hundred of little dots could be seen.

"These dots you see here, is a fleet of over five hundred Tertan warships, which stopped over Titan for last preparations. After this information was given to United Nations Security Council, world greatest powers, America, Russia, China, France and United Kingdom, decided for the joint nuclear strike at the enemy, once they appear over the planet. This happened even faster that they expected."

What happened next, was whole room changing into the Earth's orbit. Pina knew it they were still in one room, but now, this room changed into space and under her feet, she could see Earth.

But then, she noticed a little distortion. Then another. And another. Soon, five hundred Tertan ships started to materialize over the planet's orbit. Princess could then take a good look at them. They all were black, with red markings on their hulls. It made them emit aura of dread and power.

Then, hundreds of small lights started coming towards them from Earth's surface. Numerous flashes of light appeared, signaling Tertan ships being destroyed.

"Nuclear strike was a success in most part, as out of five hundred ships, two hundred seventy three, including their flagship, were destroyed. But, this didn't stopped them to from starting a carpet bombing campaign."

Holographic ships then started firing their guns and missiles at the Earth's surface. Numerous impact lights could be visible, as cities were razed to the ground.

"Within the first week of war, first Tertan bombardments devastated Asia, killing 500,000,000 people with one swift move and destroying cities like New Delhi, Beijing, Pyongyang and Bangkok, killing the countries leaders and governments."

Tuka gave a small gasp of disbelief, hearing how many people died in just one week. Pina and Bozes listened to this with even bigger disbelief. 500,000,000 million people killed just in a matter of one week.

"After this happened, first landing crafts started descending onto the Earth's surface and soon, Tertan infantry set foot on the planet."

Image then changed from Earth and it's orbit to something else. It showed the Tertan Marine in it's full black armor with red markings, keeping riffle in his hands. Pina immediately felt fear, seeing this creature straight from the Underworld.

"First battles took place in Asia, but continent was quickly overrun and fights reached Europe and the Old Continent soon again saw true war, which last time happened over seventy years prior."

Map of the world then appeared in the air. Asia was already marked in red, while the free areas were colored in blue. But as Falmartese could notice, Europe, as well as smaller continent in the corner, started to fill with red at fearfully quick pace.

"These Tertans are monsters…"Bozes said.

"And now are our enemies as well."Pina noticed.

Lelei continued translating:

"By the end of 2020, Europe, Asia, South America and Australia were lost, leaving last bastions of mankind in North America and Africa. Situation looked dire with every battle, no matter if lost or won."

The room then changed into literal battlefield. Falmartese looked around and saw ruined buildings and everywhere, bullets, missiles, shells and lasers were flying, as united Human forces engaged in fierce fight against Tertans. One of Human tanks got hit by a plasma shell fired by Tertan tank and was literally blown sky high. Because all projectiles were holographic, when they hit Falmart natives or White Squadron members, they simply flew through them. Yet, even without that, the Falmart natives, except Rory, were shocked and terrified by the sights of war that almost destroyed mankind.

"So much death…"Pina whispered.

"And in only one year."Ester said.

Projection of battle vanished, to be replaced by another world map. This time, orange dot appeared over every occupied continent.

"But after four years of war and loosing more and more lives, we managed to find the way how to battle Tertans on equal terms. As Human researchers discovered, all Tertan vehicles, from cars to tanks, as well as their heavy weapons, have connection with so-called 'Control Ships' placed over each continent. Such ships were used to make sure that all vehicles work. This is why they became the top-priority targets."

Another hologram appeared. This time, it showed group of people in flight suits standing at the background of jet fighters.

"This group of people are elite unit, created to destroy Control Ships. Long Range Strike Force. They volunteered to perform long-range air attacks on the Control Ships. Soon, they proven their worth and soon, Australian and South American Control Ships were destroyed, disabling Tertan heavy weaponry and allowing Human armies to push into occupied lands."

Soon, on the world map, two out of four orange dots disappeared and blue, representing Humans on the map, started spreading into South America and Australia. Around, photos of Human soldiers leading columns of Tertan prisoners and celebrating victories appeared around the world map.

"Not waiting long, Humans went straight for it. LRSF performed more attacks and soon, all of Control Ships were gone, what let Human forces land troops in Europe and Asia. They started pushing East and Westwards at the same time, squeezing Tertan forces. Seeing how bad it goes on the ground and fearing the worst, Tertan fleet, instead of fighting, left Earth. Leaving millions of Tertan soldiers alone, with disabled vehicles and heavy weapons, while Human had everything working as before."

Next photos that appeared in the air, showed Tertan forces kneeling in front of Human troops, Human soldiers sitting on the ruins of Moscow and Tokyo and great celebrations in surviving Human urban centers.

"War came to an end on April 15th, 2025 with capitulation of last Tertan troops on Earth, after their last bastions in Moscow and Tokyo were captured and liberated, ending the times of occupation for their citizens. From ten million soldiers put to fight by Tertans, only two million survived and became prisoners on Earth."

Falmart natives watched as these photos hovering in front of them. Numerous destroyed cities and hundreds of body bags, soldiers during fight, Tertans surrendering.
"1st Tertan War became the most deadly war in Human history. Over two billion people died, with billion more crippled for entire life. Infrastructure and industry ceased to exist. Earth soon experienced a period of energy crisis and hunger. People, both civilians and military, wondered, what the future will be like."

Reader then again stopped. But when he said again, his words were filled with something, what seemed to be proud.

"But this war also had it's pluses. Thanks to it, Humanity learned, that they aren't alone. Mankind showed, that in hard times, they can unite and fight for common cause, showing this numerous time during war. Joint counteroffensive tried by India and Pakistan in 2020. Arrival of Polish armored division during Siege of Dresden to aid Russian and German troops. And joint operations in the first half of 2020s. But the most important thing was, that Humanity now had a common cause. To hunt down Tertans and repay for what they did. This is why we reverse engineered their technology and started our own conquest of space. Thanks to resources we collected from other planets, we rebuilt Earth into what is it now."

Photos then disappeared and were replaced by two emblems.

"In years following the war, two global organizations were created, to ensure peace between Earth's nations. First of them is United Nations Space Alliance. It was created as a first true armed branch of United Nations, allowing people from around the planet to join and fight for Humanity. Second, was Solar Alliance Treaty Organization, alliance of Earth's nations, ensuring peace between them and canceling all hostilities. All world decided, that instead of fighting each other, they need to search for Tertans in the vast Galaxy, and repay them for what they done to our home."

Everything then ended, as lights again lighted up in the room. Falmartese had a lot to think about. It was hard for them to believe, that Humans in this world were literally at the verge of extinction.

"They're incredible. They were almost completely wiped out…yet they managed to come out on top and protect their planet form enemy far more superior. And even then they were more advanced than us! Now, they lead an alliance of races against what they created…What can we do to stop them?"Pina thought.

Ester and other White Squadron members stood up then.

"Well. Hope you like this little history lesson. Now, you know how we ended up in the position we're in now."Ester said.

"And to think, that you were almost completely wiped out…"Tuka said.

"Easy. Humans are highly adaptive to every situation."Dora said.

"Okay, let's go. We have some more places we would like you to see."Ester said.

"But I wonder…If this was 1st war, then what about 2nd?"Lelei asked.
"We thought second war with Tertans in 2110. It lasted three years and during it, Tertan Empire collapsed and changed into Tertan Federation, which we all know today."Suvi said.

The group made their way out of the 1st Tertan War Museum. But as they walked down the hillside, they didn't even noticed a hooded figure standing behind the building and watching them form the distance. After they were gone, the figure reached under it's jacket.

"This is Number 9. Targets are still on the move."he said.

"Understood, Number 9."voice on the other side of communicator said."Keep a track of them."

"Yes, sir."

Figure then followed the Falmartese and White Squadron. At the same time being observed by the agent of ICTA.

Four hours later…

After four hours, Falmart natives visited all the most recognizable places of Geneva, from the old city, through St. Pierre's Cathedral and the UNSA-SDF War Memorial, ending at the Flower Clock. But, of course, the end of this had to come, as now, they were standing in front of United Nations Space Alliance Headquarters building, which at the time of war with Holy Order served as Resistance Headquarters. Everything they bought was given to ICTA agents sent by Sanjarani, which promised to get them aboard Ike.

Most noticeable part of the building, was literal forest of flags in front of it. As Lelei noticed, some of these flags were pretty simple, having only two color bands, while others were more complicated.
"So this is the Human Senate?"Pina thought.

Ester led them inside and the group found themselves in an enormous hall, where more flags were hanging on the walls. But White Squadron members stopped next to another wall and saluted, with serious expressions on their faces.

"Peace to the Fallen."they said.

Falmartese looked at the wall and saw row of marble plates, with some words written on them. Lelei looked towards the top of these plates.

"In memory of people who died in UNSA-SDF War."she read."It looks like these are names of people, who died during the war between Earth and Mars."

"I wonder how long they had to clean after SetDef made Earth their little sandbox."Rory said.

"Don't be harsh. From what Ester and others said, this war was one of the bigger ones in their history."Lelei pointed out.

Falmart natives then followed Resistance soldiers and stood with them at the registration, behind which a woman was taking care of papers and writing in the computer.

"Good morning, we…"Ester said, but stopped.

When the girl turned towards them, Ester became speechless. Woman behind the desk had long brown hair tied in a bun, with pair of glasses in red holders. When she saw Ester, she was clearly surprised too.

"Penny?!"Ester exclaimed.

"Ester?!"woman shouted.

Suvi, Yuko and Falmartese looked at this with confusion.

"They know each other?"Rory asked.

"Yes. Penny is Ester's older sister."Dora replied, making Suvi and Yuko wide eye.

"Ester have older sister?!"they both exclaimed.

"Yeah."Dora said.

Meanwhile, Ester managed to break the silence between her and her sister:

"What are you doing here?"

"Eh…"Penny said, scratching back of her head."You know. You have to get self sufficient, right? So I joined army too."She then looked at Flamart natives."But from what I see, you had better adventures. I landed as a desk worker here in Geneva."

"Trust me. You have the better job."Ester said."But now. We came here because of the situation in Special System."

Penny nodded.

"Of course. It's about to start. Go to the meeting room. All nations' representatives are already there."

"Thanks. Let's go."Ester said.

Group then went in the direction of the said room. They stood in front of a door, which opened before them, letting the group inside.

Pina looked around the room. It was enormous and housed hundreds of seats, all of which were occupied. Except of Humans, which dominated here, she saw also aliens, including Nashini, Chakdrik, Shakayans, Modrans and even Tertans. But there also was a number of other alien races, like race of four-legged, but two armed creatures covered in white fur, fish and bird-looking humanoids and several more she couldn't describe. Numerous cameras were also placed in the room, transmitting the event all across Resistance controlled space.

"Because this is in fact military facility, you will be questioned by military commanders from various Resistance members."Yuko explained.

Group then made their way to some of the seats prepared for them. They sat down and waited for what was going to happen.

"Please, stand up!"someone said.

Everyone in the room started standing up, so Falmartese did it too.

"The meeting will be led by Roman Volgradov, UN General Secretary and UNSA superior. He will be accompanied by leaders of Resistance Great Five: Matriarch Haxaria Novit of Chakdrik Collective, President Moa'Likra of Nashini Republic, Queen Kalisa Nagrif of United Shakayan Kingdoms and President Hemilin Nequxorop of Tertan Federation!"the same person said.

Soon, five persons entered the room. One of them was a Human in middle of his forties, with short black hair and glasses, dressed in black suit. He was followed by Chakdrik woman, around eight months old (A/N: If you forgot: Chakdrik live up to twelve months), which had white dress and hood on her head, as well as something in her arms. As Pina looked closer, she noticed, that it was a little Chakdrik child. Next was Nashini, dressed in elastic suit colored in black. After him came Shakayan woman, dressed in red dress and with gold tiara on her head, what looked strange compared to her low posture and chubby body.

And finally, Tertan president. Instead of Tertan armor, he was dressed in suit with red markings and gas mask on his face. This allowed everyone to see two rows of black, empty eyes, which formed 'V' shape on his face. Pina and Bozes felt thrill, when president looked in their direction.

As the clock showed the 14:00, the conference started. General Secretary stood up and walked to the microphone.

"We will now hear the witnesses. First on the list, major Ester Barkhorn of White Squadron."

Ester stood up and walked to the podium.

"Who want to ask first question?"Volgradov asked.

"I."a Tertan woman said, standing up.

"Colonel Jofra Hareqi of Tertan Defense Force."announcer said.

Tertan came up to another podium and stood in front of Ester. Next, she pulled a tablet with information on it. More precisely, the number of Coda villagers and how many of them died.

"I will go straight to the point."Tertan colonel said."Why 150 refugees from the Special System, which had to be defended by Resistance forces, was killed by Dangerous Creature A-class referred to, by Humans, as 'European dragon'?"

Lelei leaned towards Dora.

"Why does she seems so negative towards Resistance?"the mage asked.

"She's one of Isolationists. A group of Tertans, which wanted to not join the Resistance and stay isolated from the rest of the Galaxy."Dora explained.

Lelei nodded.

Ester looked around and saw all the military commanders looking straight at her. She took a deep breath and looked at the microphone in front of her.
"Well"Ester started"maybe because the dragon was so strong?"

Some murmurs then came through the whole room. Colonel Hareqi just scoffed at this response.

"How can you be so calm about it?"she asked."Don't you feel responsible for that? I heard, that your team led the evac."

"Of course I feel bad because of that."Ester replied."I just say, that we had no resources."

"So you say that Resistance is responsible!"Hareqi said."Good! Maybe this will make president leave the Resistance and show them all, that Tertans are still as powerful as during the Empire!"

But much to her dismay, Ester shook her head.

"No, we didn't had enough firepower."she said."Our 12,7mm rounds were bouncing off it's armor. Even lasers fired by private Nogara didn't made any impression of him. Only 50mm shells and missiles fired by fighters managed to do anything. If not that, we would be eaten alive."

"Colonel Hareqi."a voice said.

Everyone turned their attention at the voice's owner. It was no one other, than Matriarch Haxaria Novit herself.

"After killing the dragon, private Wexer Nogara gathered samples, which were sent to analysis. What are the results, professor Yonati?"Matriarch asked.

Another Chakdrik, this time male, nodded and looked at his datapad.

"Of course, your Glorious Majesty."he said."My team made all research on the samples from Special System. And according to what we got from the sample, the so-called 'dragon' had scales hard as Genran Tungsten, which can be found only in Genran System and is the only material known to be resistant to laser fire. Hadadrians use this mineral to build their Super Battleships armor. The beast also had ability to breath fire, what literally made it flame breathing Super Battleship. It's impossible to not have casualties while fighting such thing."

"Thank you, professor."Volgradov said."Colonel Hareqi, you have anymore questions?"

"None."Hareqi replied.

Tertan turned around and returned to her seat. She looked in the direction of president, waiting for him to say something, but Tertan head of state simply sat there, listening to the everything.

"Now, representative of Planetary State, Republic of Hergran IV, general Oswald Martinez."General Secretary announced.

"What is Planetary State?"Pina asked.

"It's like Mars. In this case, entire planet is a country. There are also System States, so entire independent star systems. There are dozen or so of them in UNSA and SATO."Dora explained.

Then, a man in gray military uniform based on the US Marines Corp, came to the podium. He corrected his collar and hemmed.

"I have a question for witness Lelei La Lalena."general Martinez said.

"Witness La Lalena."Volgradov said.

Lelei stood up and walked up to the podium, replacing Ester. Mage looked at the Hergranian general and nodded. At the same time, everyone in the room were surprised how young she actually was.

"This should be easy."Martinez thought."Excuse me, but do you speak English or any other of our languages?"

"Yes. I learned some of it."Lelei replied."I also know some words in Nashini, Chakdrik, Shakayan, Spanish and Russian."

"Okay then."Martinez hemmed again."I heard, that you live in the Refugee Camp in Fort Terhis. Are there any inconvenience?"

Lelei analyzed this question for few second, before she replied:

"I don't know, what you mean by 'inconvenience'. If you mean that not everything is comfortable, then it's problem of us all."

"Let me change the question then."general said."Is there something you don't have there?"

"Well. I have clothes, food, shelter, work and the spiritual needs. Every condition is met and soldiers take care of what we need."

"Do you think that Resistance forces in any case are responsible for these 150 victims?"Martinez referred to the question of Tertan colonel.

"No."Lelei simply replied.

General nodded and simply walked off the podium.

"I have nothing more to say."he said.

"Good. Another questioner, colonel Stephen Hightower of United States Marines Corp."General Secretary announced.

American colonel walked up to the podium and looked on the witnesses. His eyes landed on Tuka.

"I would like witness Tuka to answer my questions."he said.
"Witness Tuka Luna Marceau."announcer said.

Elf stood up and stood behind the podium, together with Lelei, which had to translate. Hightower looked in some of his papers and nodded.

"First of all, can you tell us something about you."American asked.

"Of course."Tuka replied."I'm an elf from the Lodo Forest clan, daughter of Hodoru."

"She's true elf?"someone asked.

"Holy shit, true elf!"another military commander whispered.
"I never thought I would see one…"Icelandic Coast Guard officer said.

The reaction was almost the same all around the world and Resistance controlled space, as everyone just couldn't believe, that they were now seeing real elf. And female to that!

"I know it's rude"Hightower said"but are these ears real?"

Lelei translated and Tuka nodded.

"Yes, they are."Tuka replied.

She moved her hair and moved her ears a little. Immediately, flashes appeared, as reporters started making photos.

"Everybody calm down!"General Secretary ordered.

"So, miss Tuka, was there any problem, when Resistance forces dealt with the dragon?"Hightower continued to ask, when everyone calmed down.

"I don't know, I was unconscious then."Tuka said after few seconds.

Hightower sighed.

"Okay, thank you."he said."Now…"

Colonel started looking at the witnesses and his eyes landed on Rory this time. A small grin formed on his face.

"Black clothes and veil. This is probably funeral outfit. Perfect!"Hightower thought."Witness Rory Mercury."

Rory casually stood up and walked to the microphone. She had a small smile under her veil.

"What's your name?"Voldragov asked.

"Rory Mercury."Rory replied calmly.

"Please, describe your life in Refugee Camp."Hightower asked.

"It's really easy."Apostle said."When I wake up, I live. Pray. Take lives. Pray. And at night, I sleep."

After this response, Hightower, as well as numerous other commanders, both Human and Alien, felt a bit uneasy. Some started looking in different directions, others grabbed their necks like somebody just put knife to it, while others asked if they can leave the room for some time. General Secretary Volgradov nodded and soon, twelve military commanders left.

"Let's continue."he said.
"Take…lives?"Hightower asked.

"Yes. I eat. I kill. I make sacrifices for Emloy…Various stuff."Rory said.

"Oh come on, why is she talking so casually? It seems like I need to play the open cards as fast as I can."Hightower thought again. He sighed and decided it's the best time to ask this."Let me reform this question. It seems, like you lost someone important. Do you think Resistance soldiers are responsible for this?"

"Why so many people say so bad about Resistance?"Bozes asked.

"Not everyone like it's existence and I'm not talking about Holies. When you look at all of the Great Five and several other members, you always would find, that they all have some bad experience with each other from the past. All members of Great Five, for example, and maybe except of us and Nashini, fought each other at least once. UNSA even fought Chakdrik and Shakayans. But only in local wars."Yuko said.

Bozes nodded.

"She said she don't understand the question."Lelei translated Rory's response on Hightower's question."Her family…"

"According to reports"Hightower cut Lelei"although in result of dragon's attack one forth of refugees died, there were no victims or wounded around the Resistance soldiers! The ones supposed to protect you even with their own lives put the refugees at risk, right?"

Hearign this question, Rory stopped for few seconds. American grinned, thinking that he hit the spot.

"Yes! Got it!"he thought."Please tell us, what you really saw! Show us the true face of this alliance of last chance!"

"Are we sure he isn't Holy Order sympathizer?"Suvi asked.

"We can't be sure for one hundred percent."Dora replied.

But instead of this little exchange of words, whole building fell silent, preparing for Rory's response. Apostle started slowly opening her mouth, making Hightower only more amused by this scene.

But what happened next, was something nobody expected.

"ARE YOU INSANE?!"Rory exclaimed at the top of her lungs into the microphone.

This connected together sent a feed back around the room, which forced some Humans and aliens to cover their eyes. However, some more unlucky races, which were more sound-sensitive, had this problem, that this wave literally made their eardrums explode or their brains got seriously injured. Soon, some medics came into the room and started taking representatives of Jeralians, Om'per-dori and Luko, three most sound-sensitive races in the Resistance, out of here to make some check ups.

Hightower shook himself from the shock and looked at Rory, which now looked at him with annoyed expression.

"What the…?"he asked.

"I asked if you gone insane, colonel Hightower."Rory said, taking off her veil."Or should I call you 'little boy'?"

This sent waves of surprised gasps.

"Wait, you know English?"Hightower asked.

"Yes, Nashini, Chakdrik, Shakayan and Tertan too."Rory replied, making representatives of these races look at her with surprise."You want to know, how they fought the dragon, yes? They gave their best! They surely didn't used the refugees as their shields and they fought from safe distance. But let's start from this, why soldiers shouldn't have care for their own lives? I'm surprised, that you of all people ask this question, colonel. You should know, that if they die in meaningless way, who would protect the people, sitting behind the lines and only giving orders, little boy?"

Hightower was already starting to boil inside. Everybody could see his left eye blinking form frustration.

"They fought the Flame Dragon and not only survived, but killed him!"Rory continued."You should start form praising them. Besides, you all say, that one forth of the refugees died. It's not true. Ester's team saved three fourth. If you don't understand this, maybe you should just leave the army and go hide somewhere. And I honestly feel sorry for soldiers serving under your orders. They"here she pointed at Ester, Dora, Suvi and Yuko"managed to do something, nobody could. That's my answer for your stupid question, little boy."

"Little boy? I'm thirty eight!"he exclaimed."I fought in eight out of ten most bloodiest battles of this war! I saved more people, both civilians and my subordinates, that you ever do! So I should tell you, that you should have more respect for the older people, little girl?"

"You speak to me?"Rory asked.

"Yes!"Hightower exclaimed."I don't know how it looks in Special System, but here, on Earth, we teach our children to respect the elder!"

Ester's eyes then saw Rory's hand slowly moving towards the ribbon with which she tied the rag covering her axe. Pina and Bozes noticed this too and turned to Ester.

"We need to stop her!"Bozes whispered.

"Or this place will become second Italica!"Pina added.

"Holy fucking Christ!"Ester said.

She quickly rushed to Rory and grabbed her hand right when it started untying the ribbon. She sighed.

"General Secretary!"Ester said."I think colonel Hightower made grave mistake!"

At this moment she understood, that it was truly a grave mistake.

"Why do you stand in my way?"Rory asked, but Ester ignored her.

"Behave!"Ester told her in English, pushing her away.

"What do you mean, major?"General Secretary asked.

Ester sighed and stood on the podium again.

"Well…I know it's hard to believe, but Rory Mercury is the oldest person in this room."she said.

Immediately, another wave of whispers and murmurs came through the room. It was at this moment, that Hemilin Nequxorop, the Tertan President, stood up.

"Oh, really?"he asked with visible Tertan accent."Even older that me at the age of 421 years?"

"Yes."Ester said.

Pina and Bozes immediately forgot about Rory and looked at President.

"Is he really that old?"Tuka asked.

"Yes. Tertans age slowly. Oldest Tertan that ever lived died at the age of 1479 years."Dora replied.

Meanwhile, Hightower just crossed his arms.

"Oh, really? Then how old is she?"American colonel asked.

"Nine hundred sixty one."Rory replied.

Surprised gasp filled the room. Even Tertan President was taken aback by this. She was at the same age as his grandmother! Yet this Human girl looked at at least twelve or so. He needed to quickly send Expeditionary Force on the other side to support rest of Resistance and make research.

"I need to make a call…"President Nequxorop said and walked out.

"Nine hundred…"Hightower whispered."And how old miss Tuka is?"

"One hundred sixty five."Yuka replied.

Hightower then moved his eyes at Lelei and gulped.

"Please don't tell me…"he said.
"I'm fifteen."Lelei said.

Room was then filled with hundreds of sights. Lelei the stood up and walked up to Ester.

"Ester, change with me."she said.
"Huh?"Ester replied, but she moved.

Lelei stood in front of the microphones and cleared her throat.

"Let me explain this."she said."I'm a Human. We live for sixty to seventy years. We make the majority in our world. Tuka is and elf, which are long-lived. Additionally, she belongs to very rare kind, which lives for almost eternity. Rory was a Human too, but when she became Demigoddess, her body stopped aging. After one thousand years, her kind leaves the physical form to become spirits and then, gods. Something like 'life span' doesn't apply to her."

Aliens and Humans alike looked at each other after what they heard. Colonel Hightower just was unable to say anything else.

"Colonel Hightower, is that everything you had to say?"Volgradov asked.

"Y-Yes…"Hightower replied and walked off the podium.

General Secretary nodded and stood up.

"With this, I, Roman Volgradov, General Secretary of United Nations, declare this meeting over."he said and he, as well as other members of Great Five left the room.

Military commanders started standing up too. With every second, colonels, generals and marshals were making the room empty.

"Well, that was pretty stressful."Ester said, swiping sweat off her forehead.

She was then hit by Rory in her belly.

"Hey, what's that for?!"she asked.

"For stopping me, that's for!"Rory replied.

"I just didn't wanted you to massacre them all! Some of them were our field commanders! And stop speaking Saderan! We know you speak English!"Ester exclaimed.

Rory just scoffed and walked away.

"Let's just go. We should already get back on Ike."Dora said.

"Indeed. Let's go, everyone."Ester said."We need to report on the ship."

With her words, group made their way out of the room. Outside, military commanders were also leaving the building and getting into their personal transports, which arrived to take them back to their ships or units.

"Major Barkhorn."a voice called.

Group turned around and stood still. As for now, group of five persons was approaching them. More precisely, the leaders of Resistance Great Five. President Nequxorop was back with them.
"Sirs!"White Squadron exclaimed and saluted.

"No need to salute."President Moa'Likra said."We just came here, because we were informed about two representatives from beyond the Gate, which wanted to meet with us."

In that moment, all five leaders looked at Pina and Bozes. The two gulped and nodded.

"Yes. We wanted to meet with you and talk about the current situation."Pina said.

Lelei translated.

"Well then."Queen Kalisa said."Follow us."

And with that, group followed the leaders of Great Five.

Half an hour later…

UNSA HQ Conference Room

The meeting was taking place in HQ's Conference Room, where everyone sat behind a long table, with Falmart natives and White Squadron on the one side and Great Five on the other.

"Well then. First of, who do we have pleasure to speak to?"President Nequxorop asked.

"I'm third princess of Saderan Empire, Pina Co Lada."Pina said.

"I'm Bozes Co Palesti, princess' loyal Knight."Bozes said.

Lelei translated.

"Good."General Secretary Volgradov said."First of all, I want to tell you, that this isn't going to be official peace conference."

"I'm aware of that."Pina replied.

"Well then."President Moa'Likra said."As you know, Resistance and Saderan Empire are in state of war. And my first question is the one that probably appeared in everyone's heads: why?"

Pina looked at other leaders and knew, that they actually want to know the same.

"My father, emperor Molt Sol Augustus, wanted to expand borders of the Empire to get new slaves and resources."she replied.

Moa'Likra nodded.

"According to reports we got from our forces in Special System"Queen Kalisa said, taking a datapad"you often make conquest of neighboring lands only to get more slaves. Is that right?"

"Y-Yes…"Pina replied, unsure where was this going."Expeditionary force had to scout the area and see how hard the conquest would be."

"And tell us. Does every conquest looks the same?"Matriach Novit asked."You attack everything that moves and take survivors as slaves?"

To say that princess was surprised by this question was understatement.

"What are you suggesting?"she asked."Empire just brings civilization to uncivilized barbarians living outside of it."

"I should object that."President Nequxorop stated."Official recordings tell otherwise."

Pina tilted her head, don't knowing what this 'president' meant.

But she soon got her answer, as Volgradov pressed something on the table and a holographic window appeared in the air. On it, Pina saw squad of Marines moving up the street. In front of them, crowd of people was running away from number of legionaries, which were slashing their swords left and right, killing men, women and children alike. In one moment she saw wyvern flying down on unlucky civilian and simply biting him in half. It was at this moment that Marines opened fire. On other recording, she saw people's heads on spears and numerous bodies around. Next she saw photos, showing rows of black bags and soldiers clearing the bodies and leading prisoners.

Princess was just terrified by these sights. She saw that these people were clearly terrified, running for their lives. And legionaries of her father were simply doing whatever they wanted with them.

"Major Barkhorn here"Matriarch said, pointing at Ester"herself reported that she and her soldiers saved a young girl from being raped by six of your soldiers. One of them already did it, thought."

Pina and Bozes then looked at Ester, Dora, Yuko and Suvi. And much to their horror, instead of their friendly attitudes they were showing by the whole travel to Solar System, they saw simply disgusted expressions. The four shook their heads.

"These recordings and photos were made by soldiers which defended Terhis City. On that day, five thousand two hundred people died, not only Humans, but also Nashini, Chakdrik, Shakayans and number of other races. To it, retreating members of what you call 'expeditionary force' took hundreds of slaves with them. Because of that we had to send our forces on the other side."President Moa'Likra said.

Suddenly, a child in Matriarch's arms erupted with cry. Everyone looked at the little ant-like face wrapped in white material.
"Excuse, I think we have certain circumstances here."Matriarch Novit said as she stood up."Little Havedia needs something to eat. I will leave you now."

Chakdrik woman approached the door and exited the room, followed by everyone's eyes.

"Why did she even brought the child here in the first place?"Rory asked.

"In Chakdrik culture, mother have to take care of her child for first one and a half month. After this time, child becomes self sufficient and can go it's own way."Dora said.

Volgradov cleared his throat.

"Okay then. What do you want to say now?"he asked.

Pina, on her hand, just couldn't throw the images of massacre in Terhis. By her whole life, she was told that Empire is the incarnation of justice, civilization and happiness and legions are needed to fight the dangerous barbarians which pillage, kill and rape women. But now, she saw the same legions doing exactly the same things as barbarians should.

"According to what we managed to find out, each of legions is often led by experienced leaders right?"President Nequxorop askd.

"Yes…"Pina replied bluntly.

"So it should mean, that all these commanders and soldiers sent through the Gate knew exactly what they were doing."General Secretary Volgradov summed.

"It's tradition for expeditionary forces to be led by experienced units."Pina said.

"Expeditionary? It didn't looked like that in my opinion."Queen Kalisa stated."And trust me. Normal expeditionary force would just scout the area and return to allied territory."

Princess gulped. She looked around. Except of Bozes, everyone else were looking at her with somber expressions and she could see simple fires in their eyes. Especially in case of Dora, which was stroking her knife.

"So. What will you say?"General Secretary wanted to know.

"What…What do you want?"she finally said.
"Isn't that obvious?"President Moa'Likra replied with question."We want to bring everyone in Imperial government, it means Emperor and all his buddies, to justice. And take back the people that were taken from us."

Both Pina and Bozes were now in complete state of fear. But also in state of disappointment. By their whole lives, they were told that Empire is the only thing that Falmart needs. A bright light of civilization in the sea of barbarism. A country, that brings only good things to people in it and which saves them from all the outside dangers.
"We will help you."Pina said.

"What?"Ester asked.
"Yes, what?"Bozes asked too.

"We will help you bring my father, the Senate and my brother to justice. They should pay for what they did to your people. As well as helping you find everyone taken as slaves. This shouldn't even happen to them and you."princess explained.

To say that Great Five leaders, White Squadron and Falmart natives were surprised was understatement. They simply widened their eyes and looked at Pina for few seconds.

"What brought that change to you, huh?"President Nequxorop asked.

"Lies of my father."Pina replied."He told me that without Empire, barbarians would bring chaos to Falmart and start years of horror for the continent's inhabitants. But now, you showed me the true nature of Sadera. The nature of pillaging and expansionist Empire, nothing else. I say it with great sadness, but nor I, nor my Knights should help in bringing more pain to the people that don't deserve it."

"Your Highness…"Bozes tried to say.
"Silence, Bozes. I made my decision. Since now, we're not part of any Saderan structure."Pina stated and sat down.

By few seconds, nobody could say anything. This was actual surprise even for Pina. But she knew, that it was right. Even if she will be declared traitor, she couldn't serve the nation which existed not to bring peace, but only to wage war. However this war will go, she now hoped that Molt, Zorzal and all senators which were cheering for the attack on world beyond the Gate will be met by fate which was appropriate for them.

Finally, General Secretary Volgradov smiled and stood up.

"In that case"he said, pulling his hand to Pina"I'm honored to welcome you in Resistance Alliance."

"Thank you."Pina said, standing up too.

She grabbed Volgradov's hand and shook it. Everyone looked at this with smiles on their faces. Except Bozes, which started to think about her superior decision.

Meanwhile…

In the other building, on the other side of the road, a lone figure stood in the window of one of skyscrapers. The figure looked down the scope of sniper riffle and watched the whole conversation taking place in the Conference Room. He wondered what was it all about, as at the end, that woman from another world and General Secretary shook their hands.

"Bright Back, I have target in sight."the figure said.
"Do you have a clear shot, Number 16?"Bright Back asked.

"Yes. As Number 9 said before UNSA tracked him down."Number 16 replied."Open fire?"

There was a moment of silence on the Bright Back's side. Number 16 waited.

"Take a shot."Bright Back said.

Number 16 didn't said anything. He just looked down the sight and without hesitation, pulled the trigger.

XXX

Cliffhanger! I know, people not like them, but hey. Anyway, chapter done. Tell me, you haven't expected Pina to turn her back on Sadera and join with the Resistance? I mean, there are stories where she does join the other side and fights against her father, but hey. It might be more interesting. And I know the part with history of 1st Tertan War might have not been most interesting, but i wanted to show how Humanity started their star conquest, as I said in the beginning.

Anyway, I have nothing much more to say, so I can only say see you soon!