《Order: The Symbolic's Tale of Telekinetic and Family》


 Chapter 0: Background (Updated)

    The war had many reasons to exist, the Long War it was called. A battle between two factions, The Serete United and the Legion''s Order. They are now known as the Septem People''s Republic and the Legions of the New Order. Historians dated the feud back to the Medieval Period, it is said  even extraterrestrials were involved. Although many disagree with that conclusion. It was said it all started with cruelty and abusive power, but really in the shadows of battles and conflict, there was something much more worth fighting for.


    Back at that period, there were two factions that were once united. They were of the same people who prospered together and fought their advisories together. Now, this could not be proved, but the people had been visited by other beings from another world, not even that, in some ancient stories from the Long War, it is said that the beings were from another dimension. Many can argue these claims were untrue, however there are many old portraits and paintings by artists from that time period showing the people, from that kingdom, being greeted by what seemed like other humans. In one of the portraits, the Beings wore cloak like robes that were grey with a sparkling black, another color as well although it is a dark blur found on the neck and shoulders.


    In the painting, the sky is blue like how any sky would be during the day, but in certain spots in the sky, giant diamonds sit still in the sky with slight blur and darkness in its core. Historians, and enthusiasts of aliens believe they are portals, or gate ways to another place, not quite like ours. The people in the painting seem as if it is normal and all seem calm, giving possible theories that these Beings were not hostile, and came in peace. Many paintings from many different artists drew similar scenes. The Beings were said to observe the humans and understand them. As well with the humans, but not quite understanding much about the Beings. The Beings had abilities humans were not capable of, there were stories of them in flight, abnormal strength, and precision, along with many more. The Beings were organized, and very intelligent. They came in diplomatic manners.


    They had a military, and what seemed like "ambassadors". In some days, the "ambassadors" and military visited, bringing strange artifacts and tools. It is even said very rarely the Beings gave weapons to the people of the kingdom. Also adding that, one of those weapons was very likely to be recorded as probably the first machine operated projectile weapon, though not created by man.


    On another note, no human has ever passed through the other side through these strange diamond gate ways.


    In these past tales, there were some iconic figures. King Hettsford was a notable character, powered by the urge to keep a strong kingdom, grew him to be an aggressive and strong leader. Serete United had its iconic characters aswell, these included the notable seven knights that fought side by side, to end the reign of King Hettsford and his Legion Knights.


    The kingdom was broken into two, with Hettsford''s wanting the Being''s resources and advancement. However the Beings did not slay one human nor take action in the war, they observed exactly how they always did. King Hettsford asked for the Being''s assistance in ending the Serete uprising, but the "ambassador" stated it was not their war. Even the Serete asked for aid, and yet again, they denied. The battles were harsh, and gruesome. Many lost their lives fighting for their success of their own faction. The Beings took note of the battles and events, and took note of seven individuals from the Serete United. They were warriors and fought fiercely with passion alongside each other like brothers. Although they were not related at all, they were family.


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    The Hettsford knights were also fierce fighters, they were loyal to their king. The Beings were amazed at the peasants over throwing the house of Hettsford after many struggles and loss. It had taken much time for them and were in celebration after their victory. Loyal people of the Hettsford kingdom ran off and spread word. They hoped to regain strength and build up an attack to take back their kingdom. The peasants were a tough group for many to attempt to beat. When other kingdoms got word of the fall of king Hettsford, they took the opportunity to strike for keep of the land, and rumored treasure from the Beings. The peasants knew of this and expected such happenings. They were not ignorant people.


    After the defeat of the Hettsford knights, they quickly established order and elected a new king, a fair one. In addition, they had changed the Hettsford colored banners and armor from a dark blue and red outline, to a white and red and black outline. They established a new name, Serete Kingdom. They replaced the old Hettsford symbol of the cross and crown, to the symbol of leadership and cooperation. This symbol was taken out of inspiration  from the Being''s many symbols and wonderful meanings. It appears as the number seven, tilted and crossed with another seven, but this seven is backwards, tilted in the opposite direction.


    The Serete trained all of their battle ready men for expecting attacks, and sure enough they came. Enemy kingdoms came to takeover, but the Serete pushed them back from where they came from. In other times, the Serete would attack other kingdoms, for they were a very strong force. The seven individuals whom the Beings observed were very strong and very powerful. They were a tremendous team and led their knights to victory. The Beings took account of these individuals and were very inspired of their bravery and determination to fight for liberation and proper order.


    After the Serete kingdom was settled, the Beings ceased to show. No one of that kingdom knew why, and certainly no one now knows, however it could mean something. It''s only a matter of time to truly find out.


    Long has passed since then, and the Long War is still raging on. No peace can be found. Only the death of one another can ease the suffering. The Septem or the Legionists.


    Advancements in technology has had its spotlight for the military economy. This is not a war of machines, this is a war of determination. Countless times of land loss and gain, the need to build artificial land has ravaged the oceans of Earth. The world will destroy itself before it finds a solution. The past clued of a brighter future, but for who. James is sought to be one of the seven, destined to return peace for Humanity, and relatives out in the stars of a different time.

 Chapter 1: The next life

    It was a cool, cloudy wet day. Chilling winds flew around the fabric, crusted with mud and tears throughout the uniform. Sweat and blood flowing like streams of water, and sped down to the earth. Faster and faster James darts for his haven. Reaches his point, and off he rode in the moving vehicle, while inside the radios buzz with chatter, both sides of his own and the inside of the troop vehicle. As he stared back at his friend''s grave, he watched in anger and sadness as it became a sinkhole. The explosion coming from beneath the hell house he and his gone comrades had entered, shook the Earth like the long awaited Earthquake and jerked his vehicle violently to its side sending it into a series of rolls and flips. The radio chatter now was more silent than before. White noise, and chopped sentences and requests of help only came through. James could not believe the catastrophe he had just witnessed. The battle surrounding the once main objective had now calmed, and the tears of the sky began to set in.


    Broken, he slowly crawled out of the vehicle, helicopters and dark grey clouds with a light blue dark accented sky fly over him. Other vehicles around him lay damaged with royal soldiers of the New Order limp around and carry the injured to medical transports. Some not so lucky. James witnesses a support carrier unit, M.A.C. (Mobile, Attack, Carrier) , ablaze in flames and crumpled like paper. Half way out, a man, a comrade, lies in flames. Mobile forces and marching men hurry towards James''s position from the distance, from the F.O.B. (Forward Operating Base) James Roy''s heart had been torn. All the training and major advancements in his military career had led to his closest brothers in a resting place no other human had ever dug a grave for, but for he and his comrades alone. Had the mission really been accomplished? Commandent Major Roy of the 3rd Lancer Elite stands with tears dripping from his eyes down to his cut, bruised cheeks and thus the Earth, splashing down to soil. Quitting was always an option for James, but it was not in his nature. Finally, chatter through all the radios buzz freely. Colonel Pesh has gotten ahold of Roy,


    " Commandent Major Roy, I''m glad you got out of their son, but I am sorry about your outfit. You and your team were one of the best our Royal Army had to offer. I am really sorry, but now I got a transport to get you back to the F.O.B. for a briefing for our next objective. We have the squash (Military term for Septem malitia) on retreat on certain fronts. You son, as a soldier for our great army, have done a tremendous duty for our royal lands."


    General Pesh''s voice was coarse and determined, yet passionate and understanding, like a father speaking to a child in trouble. Seconds have passed, and James is silent, the cool breeze and drops of rain fall upon him lightly for it was only sprinkling that day, but it''s presence gave a sad mourning aura. Soldiers around him rush about to secure positions. Some carry the dead and wounded, others fidget with machinery and electronics. A couple of tanks stroll past James towards the sinkhole, then around it. Still James hasn''t responded, Colonel Pesh replies,


    " James? You there son? This is a very important mission!"


    James''s eyes slightly widen, and reaches for his radio, and his eyes become a little more moist and pink than before. James replies," So were my brothers, my family."


    James then quickly yanks the radio out along with its cord loose from its secure position coming from near his neck, down to his back, and last from an electronic device. He stares solely at his broken device, puts it against a wall and strikes it with several emotional blows until it was nothing more but scrap and electronic dust. He now sobs and is enraged with what had just recently occurred. Other soldiers stop for a moment and stare at Roy, their expressions show sympathy and sadness. Although some of the infantry wear military issued bio hazard protective masks from the blown up compound, containing bio hazardous materials. Yet their sadness can still be sensed. Some even whisper amongst each other,


    " that''s Roy from the Lancer Elite!" Or," Shit! Do you know who that is? That''s legendary no-pain James!"


    Commandent Major Roy just walks with a stern sad face, past the soldiers towards the Mayclaire Skyline downtown district. It was a long ways from where he was but he found a way, he just wanted to get out of that miserable place.


    The rain slides, and blankets the walls and floors as it falls from the gray moist sky. People rush about their day, businesses surprisingly still open from wanting customers, and James strolls through the downtown district. He had gotten a ride from a medic transport heading to Mayclaire Genreral Hospital.


    When he jumped on, immediately the sergeant answered,


    " Get off soldier, no cowards aboard. That''s an order!"


    The sergeant quickly realizes Roy''s uniform and quickly responds,


    " My apologies sir. I-I, I thou- ",


    James cuts in,


    " No worries sergeant. You just did what you needed to do. I can''t blame you for your duty, but I am taking this as transportation."


    The sergeant replies,


    " Of course sir, glad of us to help you sir. "


    James sits and thinks of the trouble he could get from his superior officers, although he had the thought of his comrades deeply engraved in his mind and did not care much for his superiors.


    During the trip, the sergeant asked Roy,


    " Are you hurt Sir? "


    James took a little time to respond and said,


    " Yes. "


    The sergeant replies,


    " Where are you injured Sir? "


    James had cuts and bruises all over him. His uniform had been threw war, his face covered with dried blood, cuts and


    bruising. His military issued gloves had been torn and shredded, exposing his naked hand, and from that moment, he just sat staring at them.


    James, with slight anger, replies,


    " No one can fix where I have been injured, it will be embedded in me for the rest of my days, and beyond that. The scars will never go away, the wounds will always stay exposed and burn me. Choices were made sergeant, choices that cause many to never return. These choices were made by our esteemed superior officers. We follow orders sergeant, exactly how you will answer to mine. However people you grow close to, will also grow apart of you. When they are gone, part of you is gone as well. I have been seriously injured sergeant, I have seen my own family killed right in front of me! They followed orders! As did I! "


    James, was clenching his fists very tightly, and his eyes were moist. He paused for a while to get his bearings.


    He came back with,


    " I know you don''t mean any harm. You are just following orders, how a good soldier would. I had to listen and take action. For you sergeant, you have done all you need to. Now what is your name?"


    "Sergeant Backler, 22nd Rescue, Sir." ,


    " I''m thankful for your service Backler."


    The sergeant with a little glee responds,


    "Thank you Sir. It''s a great honor to be in your presence. You have accomplished many tremendous feats I only ever dream of. "


    "Thanks, now how far till we reach the hospital? "


    "We are just turning up to it now Sir. There was a lot of traffic because of the battle at the compound. "


    "Thank you sergeant for the ride, I appreciate it."


    "It was a pleasure Sir. "


    A patient in a gurney, in the medi-transport, said to James with a bit of struggle in his voice, and while saluting,


    "Sir.. "


    James came over the wounded soldier and gently put his hand on the wounded man''s head, then saluted back, then left. Once he reached the hospital, he exited the vehicle. The trip was long and weary, for most of that time, James was mourning for his comrades.


    James was off to his temporary home where they had his unit stationed. It was an apartment complex with really not much taste. It was a simple apartment with one bedroom, one kitchen, and one bathroom. There was barely any furniture, but there was a television. When James had gone through the lobby and passed many people, many of them stopped and looked at him. They had sympathy in their eyes, one gentlemen was even applauding James for his service, but it wasn''t at the right time. Finally James had reached his room.


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.He entered and the automated voice recognition answered,


    "Commandent Major Roy of the 3rd Lancer Elite, active number: 204378, are you present? "


    James calmly replies,


    "Yes, this is Roy."


    The security machine was running its scan, and replies,


    " Welcome back James! "


    "I hate to disappoint you, but I might not be here too long. "


    " Well I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay."


    Said the machine with a little bit of happiness.


    James''s room had a closet where he kept his different uniforms, he stored his Lancer light, ceremonial, casual, and different camo colored. He felt like he needed a new beginning, and a fresh start. All the madness had swarmed him, and he needed a drink. That would solve everything, right? James had gotten rid of his old war torn gear, and went to take a shower. It was incredible how close the battle was to his and his comrades living quarters. He could see the smoke and devastation from his window. The shower was nice and warm, and the warm liquids spread around him like a smooth moist shell. It washed away the dirt, it washed away the dried blood, it washed away the sweat, but it could not wash away his loss of his closest friends. After, he had put on his Commandent uniform, with his Lancer Elite patch and his many other patches of achievements in his military career. That uniform was a rarity, even many superiors had not earned the uniform. James was truly one of a kind.


    As he began his walk through the city towards the nearest pub, he noticed all the people looking at him. He did not care, he had nothing to do with them. He just wanted to get time alone. He wanted to be away from his superiors and and commanding officers. Even though there weren''t many, because Roy had achieved the rank of being able to out rank many in the army, except the High Order Commands of both Secondary and Prime. Still, there were others who out ranked him. And he knew that they would be after him, for fleeing the battlefield and a abandoning his position. Roy was on the lookout.


    Finally, James had reached the pub. A place of song and lost memories. Here, New Order recruits come and drink with their comrades. Sounds of laughter and conversations fill the space of this tavern, then suddenly went dead silent, and the mood quickly became cold, sorrow. All knew what had happened, and they felt Roy''s pain. There was a pause, and Roy was standing a little beyond the entrance, looking at all, and all looking back. The tavern was filled with civilians and soldiers, all enjoying themselves. All on break.


    Finally, a sergeant, rose up out from his game of cards with other cadets and spoke loudly,


    " Commandent Major Present! "


    He was at attention, and all other soldiers quickly rose and went into attention stance. Some were already standing. The civilians, even though they were not apart of the military, stood up in respect, one by one they all rose.


    James looked back at all men, and commands,


    " At ease, gentlemen. "


    Everyone subtly returned to their previous activities, and James headed toward the bar stools. Now the music was back up, people were laughing and having joy, yet the mood was a bit toned down. James was sitting at the bar, checking his I.T. (Information Tablet) for any agendas or goals sent to him by his superiors. There was a message. The message had told James to return to the F.O.B, or Colonel Pesh would send a unit to retrieve him. James knew what that meant. If he disobeyed, he could get into a bad situation. Nonetheless, James stood his ground and wanted to be away from "work. " James sat there, and felt the fine wood on his hands. Soft and cold. He thought about what would come next to him.Will he continue to stay in the military? As of now, Roy wants nothing more, but isolation from terror. The lights were dim, the windows were crisp like ice. The clouds above embraced the sky with open arms, yet, in the distance, darkened clouds and scarred grounds engulfed the Earth. All was fine, for they were all in safety from the battles. Only traffic, and the cold could have done barely any harm to any anyone here.


    The bartender approached James, and said,


    " James. "


    Roy replied,


    " Gary, listen, no need to say anything now. I greatly appreciate your sympathy, but for now, I need to get through this. "


    Gary leaned over, and quietly answered,


    " Fuck James, what are you going to do? Are you on standby? "


    " No, I left the position. "


    "They will be after you, hell, they''re  probably down the street. Listen, I had been in the Elites for years. Things get tough out there. You''ve got to understand, there was a chance this would happen. "


    " Yeah, I know. "


    " So what will it be? "


    At this moment, James would have went with some alcohol to ease his sorrow, but he knew that he would rather stay sane than do something stupid.


    " Water."


    "Ok,"


    James observed the bar as Gary went off to retrieve a glass. He noticed all the cadets on break, enjoying each other''s company. But James knew war changes a man from his original state. Now, a squad of five Order Guards had entered the bar. Gary had returned to James in that process and placed the water in front of him. James was thinking of his next move, he had equipped himself with a U45 Tactical, a specialized pistol the Order Elites had access to.


    James was thinking of using it until Gary told James,


    " Don''t do it, it''s not worth the trouble. Let it play out and I''m sure you''ll get your say in all this. It wasn''t your fault. "


    James didn''t reply, but gave an assuring nod. He then drank all his water pretty quickly and left money to cover his cost. The Order Guards had surrounded him in a half circle fashion, and all in the bar knew what was happening.


    James faced them, and the head Order Guard commanded James,


    " Commandent Major Roy, you are ordered to the F.O.B. For further instruction, precede with us. "


    James stared down the head guard and looked around the room. All soldiers and civilians were watching all that happened. Even though Roy had out ranked many, certain protocols would allow for the order guards to order him under the certain circumstances. Other than that, James would have easily been able to order the guards. Just when James began to head towards the 5 guards, colonel Pesh appeared behind them.


    He said,


    " James I''m not punishing you. I just want to talk to you. Guards clear way! No need to be harsh. "


    James went outside and walked into the chilled air. Sirens were heard in the distance and the rush of people as well. 2 vehicles wait outside, a sedan and an SUV. James and Pesh entered the sedan as the guards got into the SUV. Both vehicles were heading toward the F.O.B. Once there, both Pesh and James made their way to a briefing room to discuss the events of the compound. As they entered the main building the Order Guards retreated to other duties and continued on, while Pesh and James went on their way. Pesh and James walked by many halls and rooms that were once hosted for parties, and weddings, but now had been converted into medical stations, tech rooms, and other things of that nature to help with the war effort to stop Septem militia and Red Bands ( A term for Septem special forces) in the Order controlled districts. Now, there is a Septem nation that fight organized and have their own armies, but here in these sectors, pockets of Red Bands had been deployed to intercept and eliminate key command points and high order officials and to train militia rebel groups within the L.N.O. (Legions of the New Order) territories. James had encountered them earlier at the compound. They proved powerful and dangerous.

 Chapter 2: Interview with Death

    James and Pesh then were lead by an assistant to the High Order of Military Communications, Murden Enderson, but before they could enter, the assistant confiscated Roy''s gun. This gave James a bit of confusion. He lead them to what seemed like a conference room. Before they entered the room, the assistant handed James back his weapon. Both James and Pesh looked at each other in suspicion. They both entered the room, and here, the H.O.M.C. and his advisors were here waiting for James.


    The presence of the H.O.M.C. and his men were bringing down a dense feeling for Roy. The man was a hard man. Though not cruel at first, but a menace underneath. His career brought many to their knees, and crying for mercy. Enderson was a prime leader for the Legion''s Order, and truly was a noble leader for much of the Western coast district territories. Murden Enderson was a strong militaristic figure, for any soldier passing him by would tremble, hoping that Murden would not discipline them. He was a pale man, his face cracked, and his eyes gleaming of unknown darkness. This man was no man. He was a walking, cracked corpse bringing fear to the many who stood before him. Here Stood James, before the Notorious Murden Enderson, waiting to be discharged and punished, for the possible crimes of abandonment and possible treason, for withholding information vital to the war effort. Such crimes are some of the worst of any royal soldier of the New Order could commit. So James stood and waited. Murden was sitting on the opposite side of the table of James, and his advisors were sitting on either side. They were looking at James in a way of more of an observation. James was confused, as to wether he should take a seat or stand his ground, and he hadn''t made his decision yet in a long time.


    Pesh was no longer in the room, he was advised to step out. James was alone, again. He took note of their uniforms, and how iconic it was compared to the rest of the New Order. James heard all the stories about Murden and his accomplishments. He''s also heard the many assassination attempts, many by his own people, so everyone was watched with a close eye that came into contact with him.


    "Make your move."


    Said the HOMC himself.


    "Excuse me, sir?"


    James said in confusion.


    Murden sighed, and pulled out his pistol and shot at James, but missed. James quickly dodged, and was stunned to be shot at by the HOMC himself! What a way to be discharged, He was thinking. Even more surprising, Murden''s advisors did not flinch nor react to his actions. They just all sat there, emotionless, watching James. A couple of guards opened the door, but quickly Murden ordered,


    "Leave us."


    The guards quickly obeyed, and shut the door. James was taking cover behind an overturned table he kicked over when he was being shot at. James remembered his U45 that he had holstered, however would it be wise to shoot, nonetheless even pull it out to the HOMC? James was thinking hardly about this, when finally Murden spoke,


    "Get up, James."


    Said Murden coldly. James was thinking of all the possible outcomes to this situation and thought it best to obey. As James was standing up, BANG! He quickly ducked down, and could not believe he was being shot at again. Once again Murden hollered,


    " Get up, NOW!"


    James made his choice, and deemed the HOMC insane. He un-holstered his weapon and had it at the ready. He quickly stood up and aimed his weapon at Murden Enderson. James remembered his strange ability to manipulate objects and living things with only the use of his mind, but it would be too risky for him for all to know. It could stun the Warclass entirely of the LNO and possibly send James to a rode of uncertainty. He simply could not have that. Still, the advisors had not moved an inch and just watched. James took the time to realize what was going on. His hands holding his weapon pointed at the HOMC with his weapon pointed back at James, and the men at the table not doing anything but just observing emotionless. Was he dreaming? This is a dream, James was thinking, this cannot be happening. Murden''s eyes looked deeply into James, and James was afraid, for they had the stare of death. They were so dark, they were crystal-shined black. Again Murden shot at James but missed purposely. James did not flinch but kept his gun fixed on him. He switched the safety off and aimed for Murden''s head and said,


    "I am sorry sir, but you are deemed too insane to maintain duty."


    James pulled the trigger slowly and waited for the flash, the sound, and the thud. He waited for the great Murden Enderson to drop down to a real dead corpse. He was already seeing his future ahead of him, in jail, death or worse. Whatever it may be, it was because Murden Enderson decided to go insane on James.


    Nothing. Nothing happened. Murden was still standing, still holding his gun at James and smirking in all his glory. What!? Had Murden harnessed the ability of some sort to repel bullets? James thought. Maybe he didn''t pull the trigger, James fired again. Nothing. And again and again, until he realized his weapon was empty. He unloaded the clip, looked down at where the bullets should have been and stared fiercely at the assistant whom which took his gun. The assistant sat there, with a sly smile. James drew his attention to looked Enderson, and began thinking of trampling him and bashing him in, right before he could do that, Murden lowered his weapon.


    "You made your move."


    Murden spoke. His words so desolate, and still. He looked to one of his advisors and the advisor began writing something. James was severely confused at this point. What was Murden doing?


    He holstered his weapon, walked to James, put his hand on his shoulder and said,


    "A great danger has swept across us, you and me."


    James looked solely into Murden''s deep, dark eyes and was still dumbstruck, but soon figured it out the whole ordeal. It was a test. And to his knowledge, he passed.


    "The feeling of being alone hurts. It ruptures us inside. You are in no trouble, I just needed to see if one of Legion''s best still fit for her call."


    "Why?..."


    James said softly. The world was spinning all around his head, flashes of memories jumbled in dark places. He couldn''t bare it any more but he knew that he had to avenge those who had fallen before him. Murden answered,


    "Your leadership was not tainted, and you saved the lives of many. The Legion''s Order greatly thanks you for you and your comrades service. If it were not for you and your men, we would have lost this district and much of the western coast lands to Septem hands."


    James was thinking he was right, had they not storm the place, the Squash would have succeeded in supplying fuel for their war machines for the incoming Septem invaders and possibly gain a substantial advantage over the Order. But was losing his squad, and close friend worth it? Short manned, no back up and with no Intel on the building schematics, they had to breach and clear.


    Murden spoke,


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original."I need you to be strong. I need you to take command."


    James was confused with that statement. Had he meant placing him to another squad or division? No. Murden had much bigger plans for a being like Roy to take command in.


    Setting those thoughts aside, James answered,


    " Sir, I don''t feel-"


    " I need you to be District Commissioner." Interrupted Murden.


    James was shocked. He could not believe what the HOMC had just awarded him. District Commissioner was such an honorable promotion from James''s position. It is selected only for the proven. This position is held by those who would do the out most extreme to protect the Districts and keep foreign threats from gaining hold against the Order.


    "I have given you this role, feeling confident and knowing that you will carry out the Order''s will, and protect it."


    Said Murden. " you know how vital the Western coast Districts are to us, those are the front lines, and based off of your heroic actions and judgement, you are the perfect candidate for the position."


    James stood there, clutching his pant leg. He did not know why, but he felt a deepness in his heart, almost as if something was pressuring his chest heavily. The big windows, tall and iced with outside frozen chill, shined the light from outside. It was like stained glass from a church. The light on the other side was blurred by the window''s frost. I haven''t been to church in a while, James thought. The light was mesmerizing, it was pulling his conscience. How could something so pure, and light be consumed by darkness and burden, James thought. It must be preserved.


    Finally James said," I will take role of District Commissioner of the Region of the Western Coast Districts."


    "Good" Murden said quietly and surely.


    Five years he had been in service for the Order, and quickly did he rise in rank and respect. This was surely a mile stone for James. As their "meeting" came to an end, Murden and his cabinet awarded James the Secondary Command of High Order, which was one rank below the Prime Command of High Order which was found with the league of High Order officials like Murden Enderson.


    "Let''s make it official, shall we?" Murden spoke," James, do you take command of these lands of the blessed Order in defense and prosperity for our people, and do you uphold responsibility for all outcomes for these said Districts, Gren, Farelance, and Spania? In addition to these oaths, do you, James Siloh Roy, seek an end to the Red Reign?"


    James boldly stated," I take full responsibility and I will seek an end to the Red Reign under the call of the Order and its people."


    All of Murden''s advisors and himself stood and saluted James in his upbringing.


    Murden stated,"It''s official, you are High Order District Commissioner effective immediately. An assistant will be informing you on your status with your armies and your own cabinet. Head to debriefing to state the events to the Archive."


    "Thank you sir, I will act to the best of my abilities." Said James.


    "


    That''s it. Put it in the books Shrugs." Murden said to one of the advisors.


    For James to be selected into the league of Prime Command, he would have to be selected by Order Chief Hettsford himself. James was proud to have made it as far as he come, and hopes to succeed both for his well being, and his nation.


    As District Commissioner, James is head of the Western Coastal Districts, formerly ran by DC Nicholas Sarney. He was demoted from his position due to his lack of control and order of his districts, primarily with the infamous incident concerning the south west coast district, Spania. It became anarchy as Sarney gave little attention and control that it needed. Instead of repairing the city from war, and trying to give aid to the people from constant Septem raids, he installed a very strict Marshal law system to keep people from destroying the district or getting out of hand in any sorts. This backfired badly as the people of Spania were greatly willing to help in efforts to rid of the Septem raids.This meant people were treated harshly and as if they were hostile.  The majority population of Spania rioted and reeked havoc throughout the streets. Order officials, and military were all used to keep Spania from being lost, but it was too great.


    Spania is one of the largely populated districts in the West Districts, and the people outnumbered the forces by a large scale. Sarney was in the district at the peak of its chaos and was escorted by Line Sentries. As a shady decision, Sarney used the sentries to buy him time, and left them behind to escape by heli-pick up. Afterwards when he arrived to the district north of Spania, Farlence, he was greeted by Order Guards and the HOMC''s personal Guard. He was then escorted to a conference room in the Central Farlence building, and was quickly discharged and sentenced for his failure to keep the districts in order and jeopardizing the fate of the West D''s (short term for Western Districts). As of the moment, Spania is still an unclaimed district, however, New Order soldiers had made a campaign to gain some ground, and to increase security in the border sections of Spania to keep the rioting mobs from spreading out to neighboring districts that also faired the ill care from Sarney. The old army of Spania, the Spanian Guard, rose up and quickly gained support of the people. They were trying to seize the moment as a chance of independence from the LNO, but still had to repel the incoming Septem. Surprisingly, the Septem PR (People''s-Republic) had not even made an attempt to control the district in fear that they too would get overwhelmed and lose many to the menacing mobs.


    Now it was up to DC Roy to take back Spania, before the Septem have a chance to take it. Septem forces were noted to roam the coast and have secured several bases along the beach-head. In addition to James technically overseeing Spania, he also oversees Farlence and Gren, both north of Spania. Farlence was James''s home district. A lot of land to oversee, but James is assisted by both his own army and advisors in each district. And like other district commissioners, he is also given Line Sentries to protect him.


    "Good then,"


    said James as he received his mark of DC and pins to prove it. As James was walking out of the room he stopped, thought of something mind boggling and asked Murden,


    " Is this how you recruit all your officers?"


    Murden replied," Only to those I find worthy."


    " And those who do not pass?"


    Murden said gravely, looking at James with his eyes of Black Death replies,


    " There are only those who pass, or none to see the light of day again." He smirked slightly.


    James had a thought of what that meant, it could have been not serving under the Order, being demoted, may be even death based on Murden''s reputation, but I guess that is why Hettsford selected him as the HOMC, James thought. He was selected because of his cunning, aggressive actions to better the Nation and its future.

 Chapter 3: From 3rd to District Commissioner

    As James left the conference room, Pesh was leaning against the wall by the entrance. He smirked and said,


    "So, what happened?"


    James looked back into the conference room, Murden was no where to be seen, but his advisors were still at the table all chatting and fumbling with papers and making phone calls. He noticed one of the advisors quite strange, wearing a special coat and shrugging at everyone and continued on with whatever it was they were doing. James looked back at Pesh and said,


    "I''m your boss."


    He walked passed him and Pesh, dumbstruck, followed behind him. Pesh stopped James and asked,


    "Hey wait, what happened in there?"


    James looked at him and said,


    "I was appointed the position DC to replace Sarney." He put on the pin of the DC and all who he walked by stopped and saluted.


    "Holy hell, when will you be integrated into the Secondary Command?"


    "Now. Effective immediately. There was no time to waste, Enderson needed a worthy candidate and selected me."


    Pesh halted, saluted and said,


    "Congratulations, sir."


    "Good, put your hand down."


    "The advancements you''ve made surpass me and all other soldiers I''ve seen. It has been an honor to command you, now I am grateful to serve under you."


    "Thank you for guiding me through the Legion Elitis, you have assisted me greatly friend. I will need you to assist me more."


    "Of course, I''m here to stay."


    "Great, but I have one question for you"


    "Yes what is it?"


    "There weren''t any bullets in my gun. Do you happen to know what happened to them?"


    Pesh smiled, looked to his side and subtly said,


    "Enderson very much likes to test people. I''m just surprised you didn''t use your ''power'' to stop him"


    James halted for a moment, his eyes raised a little. He approached Pesh and quietly said,


    "Somethings should not be mentioned in our times of stress. The enemy is close, you can hear him now"


    The distant sounds of war could be heard. Whistles and booms, faint but audible. James continued,


    "What I can do shall stay unacknowledged, the High Order don''t need another problem on their hands. The least thing for me to do is to reveal my accessibility, and have them worry about a supernatural threat amongst their ranks."


    Pesh knew what James was capable of, very strange, but powerful.


    "I understand."


    "Great, now we need to hurry to the debriefing, we''ve got a hearing to fulfill."


    "Yes absolutely."


    Although James had gotten through a bitter sweet moment, he still had to debrief his actions and Intel on what had happened at the militia compound. It was vital to the Order to spoil the actions of the Septem. For this, James was led to one more location where he would recount the moments at the militia compound. He walked to a section of the facility where a small hearing was organized by the Archive and Confidential Informative Bureau . Pesh was beside him and both sat beside each other in front of the hearing groups. The room was dim, and there were several cameras aimed at James. There was a long table with people with pen or pencil in hand and/or laptops to type for key notes and important info. A woman sitting a little raised from the rest sat in the center and spoke,


    " Former Commandent Major James Roy of the 3rd Lancer Legion''s Elite, now Secondary Command of High Order District Commissioner of said listed districts, Gren, Farlence, and Spania, is here to recount the events at the Septem Malitia compound."


    It was silent, and no breath was heard. James looked side to side, only did he hear the rustling of people outside, and the distant booms of artillery and explosions that shook the building occasionally. The water in the cup that stood before James rippled from time to time, giving a reminder that the world was still at war, and everything did not stand still. My duty, my commitment reached far more than others, but the lives before me had no reason to leave me in our triumph, James thought and continued, I earned my position and the powers that have assisted me shall never reach knowledge of my associates.


    Archivist Janiston Orell spoke," We are ready for the hearing of James Silioh Roy and would like to establish this hearing in and with order."


    This was not a very common thing for James to attend to. He had attended hearings for Archivists and CIB, but this one was much more in depth. The events in which James will recount stand as priority one information. Archivist Orell began,


    "Let us begin now, the Order needs you urgently."


    James nodded slight and surely.


    "Secondary Commandent Roy, upon the gathering of data and information we as the CIB and Archive will receive from you, we ask you that all recounts, witnesses, and/or actions come forth in truth for the sake of our Legionist Order. Do you agree and uphold your loyalty to the Legionist Order?"


    James, willingly replied,


    "I do."


    Immediately the sound of fingers typing and the stride of pens were heard throughout the room. James was amazed at how quickly the Archive inputed James''s response. As soon as they were finished, the Archivians were on stand by for James''s next response. Archivist Orell replied,


    "You may begin."


    James gave an assuring nod.


    He started," It was a cold day for us. We did not feel certainty, not that we always did, but yesterday was different. The atmosphere was thin, the air filled with depth, and all the while, something was strangely churning in my mind. Yesterday was a defining moment for my comrades and I, as we were informed by our Colonel, Lionel Pesh, the task would prove dangerous as it was located by the Septem PR''s base front. Although it was located close to the battle zone, the facility in which our team had to breach and neutralize, had been plotted on our side of the front."


    Archivist Orell interrupted," How many of you did your Elite squadron consist of?"


    James replied,


    " A total roster of 12 Elite including myself."


    Archivist Orell responded,


    "How many of you were killed?"


    James took a slight breath and said,


    " All were killed, excluding myself."


    Orell continued,


    "I see. Can you please explain in detail of this facility in which your team was assigned to breach?"


    "Yes, the structure of this facility was large, three stories high. It was located in the manufacturing sector. The original purpose of this structure was to repair and build oil rigs and other equipment alike."


    "Were there any staff, or employees at work during this event?"


    "No there was not, briefing before the assignment stated that all citizens located near the Septem PR advancement line were evacuated four days in advance back toward Gren."


    "District Commissioner Roy, twelve men is a bit short to clear and cover the whole facility, wouldn''t you agree?"


    "Yes it was overwhelming, however we were assisted by legioners stationed nearby, in threat of the Septem''s advancement. The legioners surrounded the facility and covered all exits, while my team and I infiltrated the inside of the structure."


    "I see. Col. Pesh, who authorized this mission?"


    Col. Pesh calmly replied,


    "This mission was authorized by High Order of Military Communication, Murden Enderson. He and his advisors had discussed threats of Septem Malitia arising in the districts and felt the need to take action before another event occurred similar to the Spania incident."


    Archivist Orell replied,


    "Yes, okay. James, you may continue the events in which took place."


    All was quiet, all attention was focused on James. He adjusted his seat daintily and began,


    "The order was given on the Wednesday of November the 3rd. High Order of Military Communications, Murden Enderson, assigned our Elites, 3rd Lancer, to infiltrate the repair warehouse located in the extracted zone, near the Septem line, on our side. To our knowledge, we knew that Septem militia, and sympathizers had been trekking out close to the opposing side. In doing so they have set up sectors of weapon housing, explosive inventory, and all alike to destroy us, or hinder progress against the Order. In the past month, this became a standard routine daily consisting of breaching many homes, stores, facilities that had once been evacuated, to now consisting of hostile internal threats. However, in our Elite squadron partaking in these operations, we were only assigned to the kind that imposed possible threat of a chemical weapon, or a mass of explosive material, even vital military intelligence between the malitia and the Septem."


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    There was a low boom, and the room shook. Glasses of water, paper, all shifted to the rattling of the structure. The depth of the sound sank the mood of the hearing, and all the while everyone looked ever so worried. Orell said,


    "Wow, it seems this little conflict won''t let up hehe.... Ahem!.. I apologize to all here now  participating in this hearing, it''s an inconvenience to not carry out a formal hearing at this time..."


    An assistant to the head Archivist approached her and had told her something. The Archivist nodded, and the assistant turned to the entire hearing and stated,


    "Sorry for the interruption, a situation has built up on the Septem Advance line near Kkoris advancing heavily into-- "


    The assistant was disrupted by a sudden low booming roar from the distance, the room of the hearing shook, and the faint breaths of fear of concern shrouded quietly among the hearing groups. James as well as Pesh looked at each other in wonder. How did they manage to get this close? Thought James. The shriek of orders and commands echoed through the facilities halls, legionnaires scrambling to active defensive positions. All the while the sound of the low booming roar stayed at a constant, yet erratic, beat.


    "The hearing is now at an end, and will be postponed until further notice, all archivists and CIB members will be escorted by security forces to safer zones in the north east! At once, let''s make this swift!"


    Orell ended on a final note,


    "James, we will regroup to hear your experiences in these recent tragic events, but for now it is not over. Congratulations on your recent promotion to an astonishing District Commissioner. The Order needs you now, go preserve our peace."


    "Thank you, Archivist."


    Said James and proceeded out with Pesh. The booming continued, the floor shook, and the sounds of jets ripped the sky in scoring sounds. As they reached the lot of the complex, James was greeted by a couple advisers of the HOMC, as well as a squadron of his personal guard who stood at attention and saluted upon James''s presence. One of the advisers said,


    "Welcome sir to the High Order of Secondary Command, District Commissioner. No time to waste, we are under orders of HOMC Enderson to establish yourself as the new DC of the West D''s."


    The advisor handed James an informative tablet device, and an APC (Armored Personal Carrier) had arrived for their transport. Outside, the sky was smeared in blues, grays and the depth of darkness arising from near and distant places. Helicopters arose and flew to the struggle within the advancement line. Jets ruptured the skies, as they drew lines in them. The units stationed in nearby barracks loaded onto APCs and trucks to push back the oppressing attack of the Septem. James looked down at his tablet, and noticed that there weren''t really many tasks assigned. The adviser said,


    "It''s best we continue this briefing in the armored vehicle as it would seem most fitting"


    "Yes let''s go"


    Ended James. They entered the vehicle, and with them Pesh, the squadron, and the other adviser. This type of armored personnel carrier was a big enough size to hold all its occupants. The maker of the model did so for VIP purposes across all of the LNO lands. In this case, James was that VIP. Once inside, the adviser signaled for the driver to begin their trip. The vehicle rumbled a bit, and was on its way to its destination. The group were merely casting glances at each other, until finally the adviser had spoken,


    " Oh! I forgot to mention my name. My name is Selper Kyler, chief advisor to the HOMC, and here is Terem Stult, the field diplomat recorder.--


    "-hello-"


    "-- he records events of interest and importance for Enderson. He greatly has influence on our HOMC''s decisions and outlooks. And here, we have some of our very best boys, a group of the personal guard of the HOMC themselves."


    The guards looked with toughness, and smirk, responded with,


    "It''s an honor to meet the legendary James Roy,"


    "Yes very much so, we will carry out the Order''s will till our death. My name is Riley.


    The other four looked to James and responded one after the other,


    "Sten.."


    "Mitchkock, but you can call me Mitch.."


    "Hanid..."


    "Vienen."


    They all looked established, and fierce with their unique uniforms, having a very dark, elite presence to it. Pesh entered,


    "I am colonel Pesh, of the third Lancer Elite, although sadly by this point, I feel as though the Lancer Elite is no more. It''s a pleasure to meet you all."


    James looked in a little sorrow, but drew his attention to Kyler, and said,


    "So what is this new assignment that you have for Pesh and I?"


    Kyler looked and said,


    "This new assignment concerns more of you, James. Pesh I''m sorry but it is true, the Lancer Elite has been disbanded by Enderson after learning of the fatalities of its majority members. Pesh you will be assigned to command over a Legionist company, fourth Brigade, as their leading officer is gone."


    "What happened to him?"


    Pesh asked, Kyler responded,


    "He got shelled."


    Pesh and Roy both exchanged a disgruntled look. Everything was happening so fast for them, but for their careers, it was something expected. Lives come short, and it was very common in this world to not grow too attached to what could have been an everlasting era. For James knew best, Mathew was his greatest friend, and due to the Militia Compound Incident, he lost his life. He and James''s Elite group had passed, yet here he was, still wearing the Lancer Elite fatigues and patch. Something he will hold on to for a while. The APC shook and rumbled during their journey, the booms where still audible and the sound of jets searing the sky gave note of the struggle still continuing in the Septem Advance Line. James hadn''t really noticed till now that they were getting closer to the Advancement Line, and stated,


    "Selper, where are we going?"


    "It seems as though some troops will be needing your leadership, don''t worry this sector of the Advance Line is safe enough."


    Kyler Selper looked at the Gaurds, and said,


    "Riley, Vienen, and Hanid. You three will stay with James, and listen to his directives during this operation. Mitchkock and Sten, you will stay with Col. Pesh and I. Stult, you go along with James and really get a good read on this situation. We need to halt these bastards back. Damn Sarney fucked this up!"


    "Here.."


    Riley handed over to James a few extra magazines for his weapon, the U45.


    "It''s pretty messy out here and this will most likely be of use."


    James nodded. During the ride, James looked out through the slits the APC had near the passenger seats in the rear. He saw smoke, debris, and wreckage. The closer they got to his destination, the more frequent this scene became. He loaded the weapon, setting one bullet in the chamber wondering who will it be first that this bullet will reach. Kyler Selper said,


    "We''re close, get ready for the meet up with the Defense Ordinance teams."


    The three guards loaded up their Evo rifles, and applied their gear. James however not fully equipped as them, stayed firm with his U45 and Lancer Elite fatigues.


    "You sure you don''t need a rifle? or some form of armor?"


    "No, this will be a walk on the beach for me."


    The Guards looked at each other in awe that they were here in the presence of James Roy.


    "We are here! Lets move out!"

 Recurrence 1: By Her

    Bristle and cold the day lay still. Nothing major as we expected, but it was detailed down to the bone. The monument that stood in the center had been there far before me. We focused our attention to screens of progress and nationalism.


    "When are you joining Sil?" She said slightly facing my way.


    A long pause, it was very ominous and the low dull sound came from behind the windows in front of us. The screens displayed behind these windows of a TV establishment.


    Then there was only us. The plaza was empty, the concrete lay underneath our feet, and the distant sounds of city life. I looked at her and I reached out my hand. She caught it, and there we stood closer. We locked our hands together, I looked at her in all her heavenly presence.


    "Iv''e already joined, you know that."


    "I know....... I just want you here with me." She put her self gently on my chest. Her head lay interested on me.


    Early in the morning it was, and I was heading out to Fireside Academy soon. Morning chilled mist surrounded us, like we were away in our majestical place. I looked down upon her.


    "When do you have school, Laun?"


    "Not now, its taking place much later today because of that, um, parade."


    "Right, I have to attend Academy after the parade."


    "Oh are you taking part in the parade? As the youth of LNO and all its might?" She moved in front of me, with a happily smile on her face. We held each other close, I said,


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    "Sadly no, my leading Officer told me he had something more productive to do for me, but the rest of the class is partaking. They will be happy and all macho-like. My leading Officer will probably have do more exercises."


    "More push ups, sit ups haha--"


    "No no... ha.... not like that. Just more scenarios and testing."


    We were gazing each other with wonder, her coat up against my coat, beanie and all. It was cold, it was always cold. But by her, it was welcomingly warm.


    "I love you Sil..."


    We drew close and kissed each other. Everything paused and the feeling of flutters filled me. My arms around her waist, her hands on my elbows. Us alone to embrace each other. We were young, and in love. My future was already certain and I did not want to let her go.


    "I love you." I said, she gently lifted her head from my chest and looked at me.


    "Why can''t you join later? Just stay here with me. I miss my James, my Sil...."


    "I will be coming back for you, but this world is........" I looked in the sky, jets flew. "the world is coming to a certain end."


    I held her close to me, but I continually stared out to the sky seeing its ravenous clouds and unforeseen futures.

 Chapter 4: Rude Welcoming

    "Now let me make it clear, you are, James, to unify this broken unit. Bring up their morale, and take back the headlands of Korris. Everything has been final, and everyone is on deck. This is no stand still not like a few months ago. They are pushing, we need to push harder."


    James looked out to Pesh, and gave an assuring nod.


    "I hope to see you soon friend, watch yourself."


    "I hope so too." The side hatch locked for the APC and the other party were off to the 4th Brigade.


    James had looked around in wonder. It was raining pretty moderately, but by the sight of the clouds, it was certain to get worse. He pulled out his I.T. and got a view of where the Defense Ordinance Unit was positioned. They were not far, for James and his company could hear the gunfire.


    "Lets go."


    The team of five hurried on foot to the Defense Ordinance Team. They bypassed war torn buildings and vacant vehicles. Some pits in the ground had emit smoke of recent shelling. The rain was picking up, and it was getting much harder to tell the difference between rain drop and gunfire.


    "We are close, hold on! We have to announce our presence. They''re probably real antsy, due to their current position."


    They were huddled in a line on a corner of a building. The D.O.U. were located directly west of the building they were huddled by.


    James in motion put his hand out from the corner of the building and hollered,


    ''BLUE-"


    Immediately the chinking of machine guns and rifles began firing and spraying down on James''s position. He backed up hard shoving Riley, Vienen, and Hanid nearly to a stumble. The opposite corner of the wall James and his companions took cover behind lay riddled with shreds of bullet streaks and holes. The dust of the impact of bullets hitting the wall calmed down as the shooters ceased their attack.


    "Fuck!" Exclaimed Vienen as he got up, "They are real antsy alright."


    James slowly approached the edge of the corner and yelled,


    "I would have done the same thing! But it wouldn''t have been wise to fire at your commanding officer!"


    James looked back at the group and they had faces of grief.


    "Blue!"


    "Menace!" Exclaimed the former attacker.


    "We are coming out now! Don''t shoot!...... Please!"


    James slowly moved out from the corner, and the rest followed behind. They continued on to the middle of the street and could see the heavy emplacements the DOU had installed. As they walked towards the emplacements, Riley took note of the severely destroyed wall that stood to their left.


    "They should probably take more consideration in conserving ammo."


    A Lieutenant and his sergeants walked out from the defense emplacements and greeted James. They immediately saluted upon presence.


    "We apologize for that sir! Lieutenant Banks Reporting! We''ve been getting hit hard by militia, and Septem Spec Ops, we''re all just tensed up."


    "It''s ok, at ease. Now please inform me the current situation with taking back the headlands."


    "It''s pretty bad sir. My men are getting killed and they have taken over our resource facilities, Anti Air weapons, and Radar stations located on those headlands. Standard Septem army units have pushed through the beaches in between the headlands. The Spec Ops and Militia is what''s really killing us. Spec Ops units were deployed East of here by air, and the militia have been conducting random attacks with explosive weapons. I believe the Spec Op groups have been supplying the militia. Iv''e noticed they''ve acquired Septem issued weapons and gear, although they thought unmarking them would fool us."


    "How many men you got?"


    "Healthy enough for a fight? 92"


    "How many dead?"


    Lieutenant Banks faced to his left at a pile of body bags, with the Legion banner draped over it. He looked back at James,


    "74 dead."


    James looked around and took note of their base camp. It was degraded, but held up for as long as James was called upon to take command. Some men were limping from ammo to machine gun, many with bloody bandages and distressed looks on their faces. He looked behind himself to notice Riley, Vienen, and Hanid grouped in a discussion with some of the Defense Ordinance troops. A couple of chuckles and giggles, but the sound of rain and distant gunfire captured the mood.


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    He turned back to face Lieutenant Banks, he had a concerned look.


    "but we got about 20 guys MIA out west by Korris headlands. We last heard from them holed up by some Clinic and boating shop. It''s quite industrial there. We don''t know if they''ve been captured or killed, hell they may be holding off. They were originally assigned to set up more emplacements of pillboxes and machine gun turrets but were attacked in the process, so we pulled back and they got caught in between."


    James had the expression of suspicion.


    "Why did you not assist your men caught in the crossfire Lieutenant?"


    "It was chaos. The militia were shredding us from the buildings, we didn''t know where to shoot. I would have gon---"


    "--Lieutenant, I''ve come a long way in this world. You don''t leave your men behind."


    James had interrupted Lieutenant Banks, and it seemed as if everyone grew silent. The tension had built up. Lieutenant Banks stood with a straight, yet worried face. James continued,


    "What you would have done, could have done, doesn''t mean shit to those who are probably being tortured by the Squash at this moment. That''s very dishonorable Lieutenant, get it together."


    James swayed to his left as he spoke those final words, and continued in a hard walk on with Riley, Vienen, and Hanid following behind him. Lieutenant Banks stood for a few moments and carried on away with a defeated look.


    James and company approached an engineer by what seemed like the motor pool of the base camp.


    "Hey I need an update on your wheels, and tracks."


    The rest of the engineers noticed the newly inducted District Commissioner and quickly stood at attention. The sound of a wrench hit the floor with a chime. Upon entering the makeshift motor pool, it seemed as though they were working on some partially damaged MACs (Mobile Attack Carrier) and Prypylon 7s. The Prypylon 7s were a standard tank of the LNO army. They were quick, reliable, and cheap, though they were not greatly armored, they excelled in infantry support and cavalry engagements.


    These Prypylon tanks however were outfitted for defense duties, as they were issued to the DOT (Defense Ordinance Teams). They usually came standard with 76.2mm cannon Autoloaders, but this seemed to be replaced with an 40mm automatic gun. Not as powerful, but still destructive against infantry, and lighter armored vehicles.


    "Ah... 40mm gun?"


    Said James, the engineer responded,


    "Yes sir, anything on the other side of this barrel is gonna have a bad day. 52 rounds per minute."


    "And what of your MACs?"


    "The MACs come standard, with a small bearing turret on top carrying a standard 7.62mm machine gun. But we do have 2 MACs outfitted with RFS (Rocket Firing System)."


    "Good, now what is your name?"


    "Corporal Tanint, sir"


    "I need to know the number of MACs and Prypylons you have."


    "Right, well we have 5 MACs available, and 3 Prypylons. We had 8 Prypylons and 10 MACs but, we''ve been getting hammered badly."


    "Thank you Corporal Tanint."


    The Corporal saluted and went on his way. James and the group stepped out from the garage. The clouds were opening up and the rain was less frequent. They began walking towards the Lieutenant to discuss their plan of engagement.


    "Well at least the rain cleared up." Said Hanid cheerfully. Vienen looked side to side and stood in immediate confusion.


    "Wait." Vienen said, "Where is Terem Stult?!"


    They all stood wide eyed and looked around, James exclaimed,


    "Did he get lost getting over to base camp? How the hell is that possible?"


    "He probably got scared off when DOT were shooting at us."


    James with a sigh, looked down and put his hand over his forehead in stress. The confusion was put on a halt, when the sound of a DOT troop hollering,


    "There''s a sniper!"

 Chapter 5: Dire Plans

    Yelling arose, here and there. Quickly, James and company took position of their opposition. The emplacements were facing upwards toward the figure in the three story structure. The Lieutenant eager to order fire on the sniper, the soldiers cocking back the chamber with the chink and crunch of metal locking into place.


    However, as James faced and looked toward the figure, he noticed that it was in fact not holding a rifle of any sort, but of some sort of long range scope for viewing.


    Terem! thought James, it''s gotta be him.


    "Stand down everyone! Put down your weapons!"


    "One sniper Commissioner? He''s scouting us!" said the Lieutenant, "Lets end the fucker now!"


    James made a quick stride toward the Lieutenant and reached for his collar. He stood, leaning slightly backwards, in shock of the sudden action. James stared into him, gripping his neck tightly. He then said,


    "That ''fucker'' is the very field diplomat to the HOMC himself. I suggest you swallow those recent words with regret and make smarter decisions. I will not tolerate such erratic behavior."


    The Defense Ordinance troops gazed back at James, and they stayed quiet hunkered down with their rifles and emplacements trained on the three story structure. James released the Lieutenant and faced out toward the troops.


    "Stand down. Terem come here!


    And sure enough, it was Terem Stult, poking his head out from a strut on the roof of the building. He looked quickly  down below from side to side at the men below. He then made his way down from the war torn structure.


    "How did he pull off getting away from us?" Said James facing out to his personal guard.


    "He must have been behind all of us heading out over here." Said Vienen.


    "Well being around him for awhile, he tends to set out on his own to establish formality on the situation or mission. He probably wanted a head start." Riley said, looking at others with knowledge.


    It was quiet. James looked out to the rest of the groups and especially the lieutenant.By this point he had let go of his neck and walked forward toward the structure awaiting Tarem Stult to come out. The bliss of the chill air swept over all of them, mixed with the dense soot of the burning from near and far structures. The clouds hung low, the winds were quite strong coming from the breeze of the beach.


    Before, Korris had always been a wonderful place to visit. Many from all places of Aeria came not so much for the weather, but the scenery and architecture. Some of the most magnificent buildings had been constructed here, but sadly in these times, many had lain in waste,ruble, or tainted with the punctures of bullets, smears of ash and blood.


    This place was a port city, a place where many people of different walks of life met and socialized. James had been here a few times, and it was during his course of training with what they called at the time the "Early Elites." From recent events,and due to horrid leadership, the West D''s were in desperate need of assistance.


    Standing out with a strict posture, James observed Terem Stult arising from the ruble of the lower levels of the building. Terem with eager expression to speak, tripped on a row of re-bar in embarrassment. He stumbled back up and stood front and center in front of James.


    "I apologize sir, I- I.."


    "What are you doing Stult?" Said James with a stern tone.


    "I went to get a head start on retrieving that field observation, there was so much to see! There are opportunities of engagement within the closer parts of the shores. There is obvious movement and activity of Septem Sympathizer groups and Septem Spec Ops units. Ships hoarding in supplies are coming in from what I believe carriers out off in the waters. They are supplying their offensive."


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    "Great info, but don''t leave my side without my consent. Especially now since you''re with me."


    "Yes sir."


    James turned around to face all of the Defense Ordinance troops and Personal Order Guards. The wind had picked up a bit and in order, the long coat James had worn flayed and swung to the current. He made his announcement.


    "Today, we attack. Today we take back Korris."


    He walked quickly to the center of the make shift base and made a notion for the Lieutenant to follow, the Personal Guard swiftly followed behind as well as Tarem Stult.


    They reached the table of operations and James began the discussion.


    "Tarem would you please do the honors."


    "Yes sir," Tarem walked closer to the table and placed a hexagonal shaped device in the center of the table. He pushed a particular button of which made the object blink twice in a green light. Out flashed a screen hovering above the table giving a mapping layout of Korris and other sectors.


    "Ah yes, it is here now we make our move. Our first order of business will be to extract out any of those Defense Ordinance troops. We gotta come in hard and fast, pull out quick. We need to recon that area."


    "With 92 available men, our options are a bit limited. We really need to think this one through." Said Hanid while looking out to the others.


    "We aren''t going to need them all. Just enough to get the job done." Said James," We''ll utilize 3 of the MACs all of which are 762''s, and 1 Prypylon. That should be enough. 45 men should handle this well."


    The group nodded and understood the task. James swiped the digital map towards his right to get a view on the headlands.


    "Alright, assuming that the extraction of the missing Defense troops is a success, we carry on forward toward the headlands to take back our installations."


    A few looked at James, and Riley commented,


    "Sir, shouldn''t we gather stable grounding before we push on?"


    "The HOMC hired me for a purpose guardsman, I''ll be making decisions."


    Riley nodded and James continued,


    "Lieutenant Banks"


    "Yes sir"


    "After the extraction, you gather your men and set up defense emplacements near that area to gain ground, in case of counter offensive."


    "In case? There will be a counter offensive, there''s probably a carrier out in the ocean right now shipping to and from supplies, and other tech." Said Tarem Stult," The fog hangs low, especially out closer to the shores. I could not see the carrier itself, but I''m sure of it being there. Aircraft had routinely flown in and out of the fog."


    "I understand Tarem. There will be some form of aerial engagement, which is why my proposed second wave will bring the remaining Prypylons, Defense Ordinance troops and MACs equipped with RFS to continually push back Septem forces."


    "I just hopes this works." Lieutenant Banks stated.


    "It will, and hopefully this redeems you of your questionable actions." Said James with passion.


    James reached out to the center of the table and pushed the button again which made the device retract its digital screen. All six of them stood around the table, and James gazed at all of them for their reassurance.


    "Well then. Lets go."

 Chapter 6: Rain Siege of Korris

    Splash! Splash! Splash!


    Boots stomp on the small collections of puddles. Short panting of breath of these soldiers running through the ruins of Korris. The distant sound of thunder crack and boom. The rain showered down on the streets and walkways, sliding through every crease of roof covers in alley ways. The revving of engines roar as the armored vehicles stride through the wide streets of Korris. Quick shouts from the squad officers, readying their men for the advance.


    "Did you notify the HOMC of this operation, Commissioner Roy?" Terem asked James.


    "He already knew." James said calmly.


    They were in a MAC, an armored personnel carrier, on route to the position of the abandoned Defense Ordinance squadron. They were close to the position of the coastal defense stations along the Korris headlands. Upon saving them, they hoped to continue on pushing forward into the headlands, taking back the coastal defense station. It was a stretch for the Defense teams and for James as well. It was unknown what awaited out in the waters that was supplying the occupying forces.


    "Hold up!" shouted Terem


    He climbed out of the MAC and took position over a bus stop overhang. He kneed down and assembled his observing optics. Hanid, Vienen, Riley, and James took positions around the MAC. The two MACs behind were in halt, James had sent a notion of a pause for further orders.


    "What is it?" Asked James


    Terem focused the lens of the optics. He noticed something shining in the distance. As he zoomed in on the object, he noticed that it was indeed a loading helicopter of Septem origin. As he zoomed in more and allowed the concentrating optics to render, he observed a row of troops stripped down to their shirts and camouflaged pants bearing "D.O.T." on the rear of the shirt. Around them, a mixture of Septem Red Bands and Septem Watch forces were escorting them on to send back to another location.


    Terem turned the optics slightly to the right and allowed the images to render, and grew uneasy and began to feel a sense of denseness. In his view, a building with a crater and a wall blown out had six Defense Ordinance Troops knelt down with a line of Septem Spec Ops with their Sub machine guns at the ready.


    "Terem, Terem..."


    James was trying to get attention of Terem Stult, but he was focused on what was unfolding. The firing squad aimed their guns, a Defense Trooper shouted something in audible, and were sprayed with gunfire. The flashes at the end of the barrels were visible but the sound of the firing had delayed, until now.


    "Stult! What was that!?" James had now been more so curious after hearing distant gunfire.


    "Go.." Terem looked down at James, "Go now! A loading Chopper is taking the Defense Troops somewhere else now!"


    Terem had lain his hand over his eyes and laid back in grief.


    "Damn!" James made a notion for the other troops.


    "MAC driver 1 and 2, you take your MACs and flank from the left behind the Boating Complex. Storm in quickly to have enemy units fire at random."


    "Yes Sir!"


    James ordered as he moved into the leading MAC,


    "Corporal Tanint, take us through, but come in from the right free lane streets."


    "Yes Sir!"


    James radioed the Prypylon crew,


    "Prypylon Commander, you are gonna make a lot of enemies today. Head straight through the main street. You fire that 40 mil like there''s no tomorrow. Priority targets will be enemy armor and emplacements. Avoid hitting any Defense Troops!"


    The Prypylon Crew simultaneously, "Roger!"


    "Move now! Second Wave, prepare to engage when ordered."


    Lieutenant Banks replied, "Affirmative Commissioner"


    Lastly, James hailed Terem through intercom,


    "Stay behind Stult, you''ll arrive with Second Wave."


    "Yes Sir" Said Terem subtle like.


    The vehicles where in a rumbling stroll to their destinations. James''s MAC was driven at a very fast pace, the occupants were being shaken in their seats and the vehicle itself was shredding the debris around it. Inside, the Personal Honor Guards were loading up their equipment. For James, he had been gripping his hands tightly, wondering of what will happen after completing this operation. Would he be a rightful District Commissioner to the Aeria Western Districts? He pondered the thought of how he would engage the dire situation and secure the safety of the Legion''s borders, and more importantly it''s people. Spania was always a hindering event in James''s mind that he will soon have to carry out its liberation. It was a shame he had to clean up the mess left behind by the former District Commissioner, Nicholas Sarney.


    High Order of Military Communications, Murden Enderson, had picked James for a particular reason, more so then what was oddly expressed in their last intervention. This was a very symbolic one at best, which would bring a sense of a strong beating heart in the Legion. An international pride among the Order that will wage a form of a morale increase along and through all branches of the military in the Legion.


    In James''s view, it was a reckoning for those who sought the destruction of his home, his friends..... His family. It was a clear path to avenge those who had wilted in front of him, while he was blessed to sustain more than what his peers where ever able to. Here, sitting by the latch of the MAC, he continuously went through a mental check of how he is able to do the things he can do, and survive the things he had survived.


    How can I withstand bullets with no armor? He thought while placing a hand on his sternum.


    How can I go weeks without sleeping? His breathing was subtle and paced.


    How can I get rid of this imagery of a place I have never seen before? Eyes closed, he rested and adjusted his coat.


    But again the same question arose in his mind time and time again. He held his hands in front of him, almost as if he was gripping something very tightly with his hands in that of a pose of claws. He was gripping at this pose, his hands were vibrating at the concentration of what had gone into his mind.


    How can I move anything without touching them?


    "Woah, what hell are you doing there Corporal?! Drive straight will ya, it would be embarrassing to die in a car accident on the way to battle." Said Riley quite aggravated.


    "Sorry Sir, I uh.... It seems as though I ran over a pothole. I think"


    Corporal Tanint, whom was driving the MAC, was confused as well. He did not see any debris or obstruction in front of the vehicle. The MAC had shifted violently nearly to its side and the occupants were uneasy of it.


    James however, just realized how careful he should be of what he was thinking about. He nearly turned the vehicle himself. He sat with clenched fists, bending the interior metal in front of him.


    "This is Prypylon Commander, we are engaging the enemy, repeat we are engaging the enemy" The radio came through in James''s com-link. The sound of the boasting 40 millimeter guns were heavy pounding from the distance, even inside the MAC. The scattered sounds of small arms fire were rampant as well.


    "What seems to be the situation Prypylon Commdander?'' James asked


    "Light armored vehicles spread throughout the plaza area, infantry seem to have taken positions on the roof tops. and the Defense Troopers are no where to be seen- Damn it! We just got hit with a Kev Missile. Driver swing around that building, we need a quick repair!"


    "Roger!" The driver responded through the radio.


    "We are turning the corner just about now, repair and get back into the fight Prypylon Commander!"


    "Affirmative!"


    As soon as James''s MAC had turned the corner off the free lane streets into the plaza, the battle had unfolded in front of them. James had run up to the driving port, and looked out through the frontal windows and witnessed the destructive power the Prypylon had caused previous to their entrance.


    "Fire away gunner, provide cover and support while we exit."


    "Yes sir." Said the gunner, and immediately the 7.62mm machine gun was ringing and crunching with every round exiting its barrel.


    "Alright line formation, on me." James commanded to the Personal Order Guards and a few of the D.O.T. in the MAC.


    "This is MAC driver 1, we are in position. Occupants are away."


    "This is MAC driver 2, we are in position. DOT forces in the field."


    "DOT Team 1, take the rooftops, flush out remnants of Septem forces that have taken hold there and hold that position to provide support from above." James radioed to the DOT forces, he turned back to everyone else, "Alright, hatch release! Go!"


    The rear doors of the MAC had opened quickly and they had all quickly ran out into the exposed firing that had erupted. Sounds of bullets and consistent machine gun fire were being thrown back and forth in all directions. James and company ran and took cover behind a building missing all floors except for stone and concrete that lay destroyed on the foundation. It was loud, and deafening. Explosive rounds had struck the wall across the plaza to James, where Septem forces were garrisoned.


    "Prypylon Commander reporting in, we have returned to fight." As the tank rolled back into the entrance of the plaza, sending a series of shells into enemy fortifications.


    To James, he noticed an opening in one of the shops in the plaza, and so he signaled the MAC that was relatively behind them to move forward. The MAC approached with its machine gun firing at all targets in its view, and receiving fire back.


    "Ok, when the MAC edges into the fray, you are all going to follow me into that shop." James pointed, "Machine Gunner, you will have the chance to set up an emplacement in that window to lay down hell."


    The gunfire was much louder now that the first wave was engaging the Septem forces. The booming pounds of the 40 millimeter gun echoed through the streets and walls of the war torn buildings. The shouting of the Septem Forces were clearly audible in the distance behind the sound of machine guns and explosions.


    As there was an opening, James signaled for the men behind him to follow. They ran quickly to the shop opening, avoiding getting hit. James and Vienen had already passed the MAC laying down covering fire, but the MAC was struck by a few Kev missiles as Riley, Hanid, and other Defense Troops were nearby.


    "Fuck, Riley! Hanid!" Vienen hollered as he looked back.


    The front of the MAC was set ablaze. The machine gunner had halted its firing, but continued to shoot consistently after a few seconds. James ran back with Vienen and took position behind the MAC. James fired his LE 45 handgun at targets peering out of cover. Vienen unleashed half a clip of his L8 Evo Rifle at a group of Septem Watch. Meanwhile, Riley picked up Hanid off the floor who was a bit out of focus.


    "Come on! Move! GO!" James ordered the rest as he was firing out at the enemy.


    "Corporal Tanint, how you holding up." No response as James asked, "Corporal Tanint!--"


    "--This is MAC Gunner, I believe Corporal Tanint is dead Sir. Ugh, *Cough* *Cough* agh... I''m holding on. It''s getting hard to breathe in here."


    The group of Defense Troopers and Personal Order Guards were lined up in the shop, garrisoned with the guns at the ready. Hanid kicked the shop window and shot a series of bullets at the enemy position. The plaza was in a full battle and explosions were erupting everywhere. Tracer rounds flying street to street, window to window.


    "I can see smoke emitting from that MAC, Sir" Said Vienen, observing the MAC sparsely firing the machine gun.


    "I know, we are gonna get that gunner out of there." He turned to the Defense Machine Gunner, "Alright Machine Gunner, head to the second story and deploy the Gil Gun. Rest of you Defense Troops, follow him up there and clear the rooms. Hanid, you lead with them, Vienen and Riley stick with me.


    "Roger!" All simultaneously stated.


    As James perched down by the shop exit, he took notice of the buildings opposite of them in the plaza. He could see the visible flashes of gunfire and can hear it quite punctually. The flames had calmed down that lay over the front of the MAC. At this point, the machine gun turret above the MAC had stopped firing.


    "Hey turret gunner, how you holding up?" Asked James as he hailed the MAC. There was no response at first.


    "... I.. I''m... can''t." The breathing through his com was quite audible.


    "Hanid, what''s your status with that gun?"


    "Almost complete Sir, ....and.. We are good! Ready to fire!"


    "Concentrate fire on the opposite buildings to us, mainly the Delhi shop and clothing store."


    "Roger, commencing engagement."


    Almost immediately after that com link call, the sound of the high powered rifled turret gave off a deafening storm of large bullets releasing into the buildings and soon meeting the flesh of their enemies.


    "Alright move! Follow me! We are getting that gunner out of there!"


    Vienen and Riley followed closely behind aiming their rifles in any possible direction that the enemy may poke out to shoot them. As they rushed along, the flame-like flower that the Gil Gun was emitting out of its barrel was visible as it blew out of the second story window. A continuous Ching! Ching! Ching! Ching! Ching! was firing at a very rapid but consistent rate, with a slight pause between each shot. As James, Vienen, and Riley made it to the MAC, James attempted opening the rear doors. It had failed, so he climbed on top of the MAC near the turret hatch. He aimed at the gunner hatch with his LE 45 and had fired a series of rounds to weaken the locking mechanism. As he began prying at the latch it began to release. James had pulled the latch with enough force, that the latch bent and flew up in the air.


    "Woah!" Said Riley, as he continued to fire his weapon.


    A lot of dark smoke was blowing out of the MAC so James wasn''t able to see clearly. As the smoke cleared quickly, he noticed a figure slumped over unconscious. He immediately reached in, grabbed him by his frontal jacket and belt straps, and cradled him. Riley climbed to the top of the MAC as well to assist James with the unconscious person.


    "Here, I''ll help you take him down." Said Riley offering his hands.


    But suddenly, Riley''s facial expression dropped to a surprise, as flying figures appeared out of the clouds, looming above in a formation.


    "Enemy gunships approaching Commissioner! Faltas closing in fast!"


    MV Falta Gunships were of the many standard gunship aircraft the Septem forces acquired during the recent courses of the war. They were deadly machines yielding devastating 30 millimeter mini guns and advanced missile systems. They also acquired cluster bomb armaments and in some variants, incendiary bombs. Although they were fairly large in size and produced a lot of noise, they were equipped with strong defense mechanisms. Chaff pods, counter missile warheads, and updated software in hiding from enemy radar.


    "Shit, here take him down. Let''s get back in the shop."


    The group quickly carried down the injured gunner and ran back into the shop, all the while the sound of gunfire and hollering in the distance was on going. This was the breaking point to take back the Korris Headland Defense Stations. When they arrived they laid the injured Defense Trooper down against an overturned table and Vienen began to work on him and heal him of his severe burns, as well with any other injuries.


    "Five Enemy Falta Gunships spotted Sir! Coming in from the West!" Radioed one of the Defense Troops assigned to clearing the rooftops.


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    "Are the rooftops clear?" Linked back James.


    "Yes Sir. Rooftops are cleared, we have an outlaying view of the battlefield. The Korris Defense Stations are in sight and nearby."


    "Good, establish Anti-Air systems on the rooftops to repel the Gunships. Second Wave will arrive soon."


    "Affirmative!"


    James looked down at his LE 45, and noticed that the ammo count was at four then the twelve of a fully loaded magazine. He tucked his handgun back in his holster located in his coat and picked up an L8 Evo Rifle leaning on the wall where other ammo was stored by the Defense Troops. For what were to come next could have very well required it.


    He knelt, pressed against the waist-high window sill and took notice of the other plaza. The sound of the Falta Gunships were getting much louder and the sound of their guns were very audible. Booming and ringing of what almost sounded like shrieks. Two of the gunships alone leveled a two story structure, crumbling it and setting it ablaze.


    "Second Wave move in, Second Wave move in now!"


    "Yes Sir, Commissioner Roy." Radioed back Lieutenant Banks.


    "Both MACs focus fire at the Falta Gunships, with your rocket systems!"


    James looked back to Vienen and Riley.


    "We are going to take at least two of those things out. Come with me."


    Riley confused followed by, Vienen finished patching up the injured Defense Trooper and also followed closely. James ran into the plaza against the shops and buildings. The middle of the plaza lay ridden with damaged and destroyed vehicles, bodies of Septem soldiers and some of his own Defense Ordinance Troopers. As they neared the other side, there was a gap between two buildings large enough for vehicles to stroll through. James leaned against the corner of the wall and peaked out to see the other side. He noticed there to be much less in structures and buildings. However he could see the base that housed the Defense Station Control Center. Most of the weapons seemed to still be intact. He looked back to Riley and Vienen.


    "Sir, this is insane! Those Faltas are basically flying over us, we''re gonna get shredded!"


    "Shut it Guardsman! Follow me. we are gonna get us some tools to deal with this mess."


    Riley stuck with an agreeing gesture and nodded.


    As James was running through the debris and war torn shops, he kept wondering where the other Defense Troopers were. When they had arrived to the battle scene, they were no where to be seen. James thought himself that they had been taken, or had been killed. Both of which were not a good a situation for any of them.


    The group of three had finally reached an area of the plaza that consisted of multiple stairways. James halted and quietly pointed to the ground by the steps. Vienen and Riley observed there to be shell casings of bullets. They looked back to James who gave a notion of approaching quietly up the stairs.


    They began trekking up the steps quietly and delicately. Their guns pointed in all possible positions of engagement. James looked up at the upper floors as he kept ascending, and past those, clouds in the sky dropping rain upon them. A combination of thunder and gunfire was riddled throughout this section of Korris. He gazed around the area as it was quieter here. It was wet, dreary, and very windy. Each step taken with precaution and precision. Every gesture and posture at the ready for the worst. As they reached the higher floors of the structure, voices inside were audible.


    James halted the group. He turned his head back to Vienen, and Riley to see them looking in different directions with their rifles pressed against their shoulders, and soon met eye contact with James. Without speaking a word, James signaled to enter at his command. Both Personal Order Guards nodded with understanding. James approached the stone doorway gently, pressing against the wall and ease dropped on the chatter inside.


    "No no. We need more units here.......... yes... yes I understand, but Sir. Yes I understand, I can hear the gunships overhead. They are performing exceptionally well. Yes, however we''ve only got the assistance of one Carrier Class providing aid off the coast.................... Sir, if they get a hold of those defe-- ... Yes Sir. I understand Major. We''ll get it done."


    To James, it seems as though Stult''s assumption of a Carrier off in the coast was correct. This only meant that the Septem forces were limited, and could mean a victory for the Legion forces.


    He turned his head to Riley and Vienen and gave the order to breach.


    He blinked in a sequence to engage.


    three


    two


    one


    Quickly! James stormed in with his rifle with Vienen and Riley close behind! Upon first glance of the room, there were  nine Septem Spec Ops operatives. James aimed his rifle and fired a hail of bullets and killed three of the men, and slid into cover. Vienen fired precise shots that killed one of the Spec Ops and injured another. Riley, being the last to enter the room, was receiving the fire directed towards James and Vienen, and unloaded into the room while running and pressing behind a series of desks. Bullets were zooming through the room, papers were flying in the air, electronic equipment short circuited, and the noise was deafening with the loud cracks of the rifles shooting at opposite sides.


    James pulled out his LE 45, and slid once more to the other side of the room and fired three shots at one of the individuals. James believed to had killed him when seeing his body jerking back violently by the first two shots and the splatter of blood released from his head, smearing the wall.


    "Fuck you!" Shouted a Spec Op operative, possibly the injured the one, for his voice sounded gargled.


    A series of bullets unleashed on the group of three. After, the firing had paused, the sound of heavy breathing was heard. James looked at Riley, who was across from him loading his rifle. He gave James an assuring nod, and Vienen who was perched by Riley looked over to James.


    Riley and Vienen both rose and fired their rifles in a spray that would put their enemies in cover. Brrrrraaaaat!


    While this is happening, James lunges and leans over the tables, with his LE 45 in his right hand, and shoots precisely at the Spec Ops hiding behind cover.


    Pap! Pap! Pap Pap!


    One surprised Spec Op dropped limp.


    "AAARRggghhh!" Shrieked a Spec Op, struck by James''s gun, "Aaaahhhh-...."  His shrieks were cut off by the killing shot to his chest.


    One Spec Op rose up and lunged at James with a blade! Riley and Vienen had their rifles trained on the individual but could not shoot in risk of hitting James.


    The Spec Op presented a combat stance that James was very familiar with, James held his hands out to repel the lunges. The Spec Op lunged forward to impale James, but met a fatal end. James caught his wrist holding the knife, broke his arm, and kicked his leg to bring him down. In a fluid motion, turned the knife against the attacker and inserted the blade into his neck violently.


    "GGGRRrrrgggg" The Spec Op was gargling in his own blood.


    Pff! Pff! James impaled him twice more to silence him, and dropped his corpse.


    He stood over the dead Septem Spec Ops, with their blood dripping off his hands, and smeared on his coat. The knife had been dropped to the floor, bouncing twice and clinging with the sound of metal. Riley and Vienen approached with stunning expressions of what they witnessed, and made sure the rest of the rooms were clear.


    "Ugh....." Someone was moaning in pain. James looked to see the injured Spec Op that Vienen had shot sitting, leaning against a wall. Riley walked towards him and punched him square in the face.


    "I think that will ease your pain a bit." Riley said as he walked away.


    The injured Spec Op was holding his chest, near his heart of where the bullet had struck him. He was holding on, but barely.


    The injured Spec Op lay head down, taking slow breaths. Riley examined the room for any lingering hostiles and stood by the window to see what was happening outside and down below.


    "The Carrier offshore. Is it your only source of supply?" James asked sternly.


    "......." He stayed silent, and only grunted from the pain.


    "You have an opportunity to respond, I suggest you take it."


    He continued to stay silent.


    James motioned for Vienen and Riley to pick him up. They approached the injured Spec Op and held him in place tightly. James reached down and picked up the knife he used against the attacker, and walked up to the unhinged Spec Op.


    "Is there just only a Carrier?"


    "......." No response.


    James inserted the blade into his chest where the bullet wound was, deepened slightly ever so. The Spec Op was crying out in enormous pain! He was wiggling in his hold, but Vienen and Riley held him tight.


    "Haha.. heeh.. heh.. hmmmp!" He was laughing and crying all at once to try his best to avoid the pain.


    "That was just a start." Exclaimed James.


    He lunged the knife into the palm of his hand fiercely and swiftly! The Spec Op now in agonizing pain. From the palm of the hand, James pulled the knife, with his strength, through his skin, flesh, and bone, splitting the hand in two.


    "AAAAARRgggghhffffuuuuck!" He was out of it now, and he could not stand it.


    "Okkayy... Okay! There''s only the Carrier, and a few other war ships.....hmph!" He was mumbling and sobbing in his own dilemma.


    "Is that all?"


    "Yes. yes yesss.. please.. "


    James looked at both Riley and Vienen for a notion to drop the Spec Op. They did, and he slumped on his knees, on the floor gripping his split hand and crying in pain.


    All the while, the Faltas above were devastating the battlefield. Oddly there was one sounding very close.


    "Check it out Riley."


    Riley ran to the window and peered around, until suddenly a Falta maneuvered in front of the window he was looking through!


    "Shit!" As Riley stumbled back.


    The sound of the Falta was extremely loud, the sound of the rotors were blowing the curtains violently and the room was being filled with fast winds and water vapor. Riley regained balance and walked backwards with his rifle trained on the gunship. The revving of the machine gun was audible.


    "GET DOWN!" James hollered. Riley and Vienen leaped for cover, enclosing themselves behind the stone waist high walls, and other debris that lay around.


    The sound of the machine gun gave off a very loud buzzing noise! The rounds of the gun were shredding throughout the lounge room of the top story structure. Dust and smoke were emitting from the striking of the bullets, glass was shattered and the walls seem to have been tumbling down.


    Riley, laying down tucking his head, noticed the injured Spec Op staying on his knees in agonizing pain before a stream of bullets shredded him into multiple pieces. The firing had halted, and the only sound left was the gunships rotors.


    "Stay down!" Shouted James. He then discreetly crawled to a corner of the room where a large hole was formed on the ceiling. The gunship stayed idle into the missile systems engaged and locked into a firing mode. Quickly James sprang up, and sprinted to Riley and Vienen, whom which were perched behind cover. He grabbed both by their collars and yanked them to the most rear of the lounge area!


    BOOM BOOM! CRASH!


    Half the ceiling had collapsed exposing the outside damp air, and breeze. The floor was partially missing as well, leaving the top floor of the structure in ruins. James, Riley, and Vienen were all on their backs from the shock of the explosions. Vienen''s face was covered in streams of blood, and cuts. Riley''s left arm suffered a severe cut that exposed the bone in his arm.


    "Agh... fuck!" As Riley held his arm tightly.


    For James however, he stood undamaged aside from no major cuts or wounds. James aimed his L8 Evo Rifle on the gunship and began searching for any weakness. It was not possible, until suddenly a rocket struck the side of the Falta gunship from below! The gunship regained balance from the strike and shifted to face what had hit it. Smoke was emitting out of its side.


    "Second Wave has arrived, MACs engaging Faltas, Prypylons taking strategic positions." Radioed Lieutenant Banks.


    "By hell..." Muttered Riley.


    James quickly scanned the room, and under the debris and bodies, found a few Kev missiles and warheads.


    "This is what we need." Said James to himself.


    He picked up the rifle-carrying missile system and inserted a missile warhead into the chamber. The Kev missile was quite a standard to the Septem Special Operatives, whom usually carried it to deal with enemy armor, aircraft, and fortifications. It''s quite reliable, and gives off a decent amount of power, but is heavy to lug around. For James, this weapon weighed nothing.


    "Look at that!" Vienen said to agonized Riley, pointing to James.


    James ran to the edge of the blown out building and aimed the Kev missile at the gunship. He fired and watched the small warhead meet its target, sending the Falta gunship in flames. It began descending rapidly, soon scrapping the sides of buildings and landed harshly in the plaza with a loud crash!


    "We''re seeing the....aghh... the Legend in person Vienen." Riley forced out, dealing with the pain.


    James gazed out to see that the Defense Troops, along with the assistance of the other MACs, were able to knock down two more of the Falta gunships.


    "Lieutenant Banks reporting in, it seems as though the remaining Faltas are retreating West."


    "All Defense Teams, it is confirmed that there is a Carrier Class Sepem ship off the coast of Korris, as well with other possible war ships. Regroup in the Plaza, but stay alert. Defense Troops on the roof, stay until notified. We need eyes in case of another engagement."


    "Affirmative!" Announced Lieutenant Banks.


    James looked back at the two Personal Order Guards and smirked.


    "Wishing to retire anytime soon?" James remarked satirically.


    "Hell no. I''ve not seen action like this, standing by Enderson all the time." Responded Riley jokingly.


    "Agreed." Vienen added.


    "Come on lets go"


    "Yes Sir" Both responded.


    Vienen assisted Riley getting up, as his arm was shredded with a gaping wound. Vienen gave Riley a roll of gauze to cease the bleeding of his arm. they walked side by side with James leading the group. They descended down the stair way which was now partially damaged and almost leaning dangerously to one side.


    "Damn your face is fucked up." Riley acknowledged as they walked down the steps.


    "Thanks." A grief Vienen responded.


    The sounds of gunfire had died down much more by this point, to where the sound of war could have been taken place somewhere else. The sky continually gray and cloudy, the dark, damp stones and the slight breeze of water vapor gave this battle a desolate feel. Also adding the smell of smoke and ash filling the noses of the group.


    dap dap dap.


    The noise of their steps meeting the damp wet floors. Vienen observing the scenery of the battle out beyond the plaza and Korris infrastructure. Riley still gripping his arm, the gauze soaked in his blood. James continued onward, determined to meet the rest of the Defense Teams. That is until they met a gap in the stair way that dropped at least three stories.

 Recurrence 2: All the Way

    "*Pant* *Pant* .....ughh... phew." James wiped his forehead from the little amount of sweat that had built up, he peered up to his Drill Officer.


    "Son, take another lap and you better get here quick, or your ass is grass!" Shouted the Drill Officer.


    "Sir, I''ve ran past the squad five times already." At this point, the rest of the cadets arrived, gasping for breath.


    "Then run another five! I don''t allow any form of bitching in this academy, if you want to be bitching, THEN BE MY GUEST TO CHANGE YOUR GENDER IDENTITY TO A DAMN FEMALE!"


    James remained at attention stance, not even flinching. It seemed as though his tiredness had gone away in seconds, while the rest of the cadets finishing up their second lap, panting heavily.


    "You think your special don''t you Roy.... You think with an attitude like that, you are invincible?"


    The Drill Officer had gotten up into James''s face, and with a quieter tone,


    "I''ll have you running for the hills, Jimmy. Mom ain''t here to save you now, and none of these other disgraceful pile of shits will either. Whatever it is you have, you think you have, shove it and take anything with a palm-full of salt."


    James''s eyes maintaining a view of thousand yards, unhinged.


    "Heh heh... Yeah." The Drill Officer turned to a group of instructors, "Prepare the Fight Circle. We''ll see how tired these fucks will have to overcome to fight each other.... to death."


    The instructors nodded, and they jogged to a complex nearby that was circular shaped.


    "MOVE IT! GET THERE NOW! GO GO GO!"


    The Cadets, including James were rushed to the fighting circle, a place were the cadets were put against each other, and at times, actual Legion Elites. On their hurry to the complex, James took notice of the Academy around him. Fireside, one of the most prestigious academies in all of the LNO territories. The buildings were tall and punctuated with there pointed accents, and the detailed stone engravings and mark of Legion values.


    Everyone around James was exhausted, they had endured extreme conditioning and were put to run as many laps as possible. One lap covered two and a half miles. The cadets ran two, James ran six. A lot of the cadets would glare at James with confusion, with a thought of his existence.


    When they arrived at the arena, the instructors lined up to give the cadets their protective gear.


    "There will be no need for that." Said the Drill Officer walking up behind the exhausted cadets. "We''ll run it in realism, and what they will engage. This is no time for play."


    The instructors agreed, and ushered the cadets into the center of the complex. It was fairly large, with seats surrounding the center circular floor. The cadets entered and stood in formation at the edges of the arena. Above, the ceiling was constructed as a circular glass roof, to match the circular floor and provide light into the complex during the day. The ground was solid, with no form of protection. It was full marble flooring with patterns of the Origin of Legionnis Combat Insignia. The instructors and Academy Deans have stated before that it was to show the strength and cunning that is the Legion Elitis Program. Although, rumors between the cadets have said that it was easier to clean up the blood.


    "We are going to put you in a simulation, much like a real combat situation. Make no assumption, your life will be attempted on. No gear this time."


    The Cadets stared straight forward. They did not move, not one flinch. Neither did James, he just stared in front of himself, taken in the scenery of the glaring spotlight that shone down into the circle.


    "I want to see what you have learned." The Drill Officer said as he looked down upon the group of young cadets, "Dillon Sarpiea..... Dentry Adams.. Center Circle now!"


    Both cadets immediately rushed forward and stood opposite of each other in the center of the circle, just staring into each other. The Drill Officer approached the two.


    "Your forms have been run through many times. Shyaer Kunn, Tikna Two, Wrestling.... All of it." The Drill Officer had leaned close to the two cadets.


    "Begin."


    Quickly the cadets engaged in their combative stances. Peering into each other with fierce expressions, and determined postures. They slowly circled each other, feeling each others motive of movement. Every step they took, striking the reflective-marble flooring, echoed throughout the complex. It was silent and all gazed in the fight.


    Dillon struck first blood! He approached and disarmed Dentry''s leading arm with an upwards blow making him lose his balance. With his other arm, Dillon landed a harsh punch to Dentry''s nose, causing it to stream with blood at a steady flow. An exemplary display of a skillful form, Shyaer Kunn. Stunned, Dentry strided forward, slid and dropped Dillon to the floor swiping his legs in the process!


    Dentry immediately gained upper hand, and continued to beat down on him with both fists, striking painful blows to the body! Dillon finally regaining awareness, countered one of the blows and sent a fist straight for Dentry''s face, forcefully leaning him back on the ground. Dentry was on his back, and quickly Dillon wrestled him until he gained full control. He attempted to choke Dentry till he lost consciousness, but Dentry was very determined, and precisely maneuvered his way to gain some form of freedom.


    Dillon was getting to feel that Dentry would get the better of him, so he stretched out in front of him and with all his strength, punched Dentry square in the face once more, sending his head jerking backwards violently and striking the marble floor with a large collision to the back of his head!


    The fight had ceased.


    Dentry lay on his back motionless, with a forming of dark blood forming around his head. The blood flowed from his nose, streaming down the sides of his face, and soon formed with the blood on the marble flooring. Dillon stood up in pain, and with bruises all around his face and arms. He was panting in disbelief of what he had done.


    "Sloppy... Move now! Move!" Shouted the Drill Officer as he collared Dillon and forcefully sent him aside to examine Dentry.


    The Drill Officer leaned down to check on the idle Dentry. The blood had built up more and it surrounded his head completely. The Drill Officer looked up to the instructors and motioned for them to pick up the limp body, and seek medical attention.


    "You let him get the upper hand on you, Dillon."


    Dillon stood in shame, with blood dripping off his knuckles and large blotches of bruising on his arms and face.


    "You never... NEVER... Let anyone get the best of you. You might as well sell your life away then and there."


    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.The room was silent, and still James and all cadets stood in attention continuously.


    "You are all too precious to be lost to so easily. The Order needs you, and you will answer to it when ready. For now, you are all worthless."


    The Drill Officer walked up and down the rows of Cadets. His boots squeaking and stopping the marble floor. He stopped, turned and noticed James. He looked at him for a while and finally spoke,


    "Ah.. the Special One.... James Roy.. Step forward to the center."


    James saluted, and marched on forward stepping to the center of the circle and stepping into Dentry''s blood. He looked forward at his opponent, Dillon. The Drill Officer approached once more.


    "Now, Dillon you have gained some experience, and quite possibly have earned your first kill."


    He turned to James and in a subtle, yet deepening voice responded,


    "You can run laps all day beating your fellow cadets. You can keep completing your field simulations, embarrassing the other squads. You can do all of that James, but I wan''t you now to prove to your cadets to the Order itself that you are what it is that will preserve the prosperity that makes our Legions ever so proud. So now... show us"


    James looked straight into Dillon, analyzing him. He already predicted his very first move.


    "Begin."


    Dillon and James shifted around each other, anxious, yet determined. The marble floor echoing the sound of the steps and shifts the duo were making. The light peering down from above, emphasizing the fight that was taking place.


    Dillon attempted to strike first blood once again, but failed, as he tried to break James''s stance. James countered the move quickly by stepping over to his weak side and throwing Dillon down to the ground with the arm that Dillon threw forward to strike James. In a fluid motion, James held onto Dillon''s arm as he stayed pressed down against the floor. Half of Dillon''s face was meshing against the little pool of blood that was left from Dentry.


    "Argh!" Yelled Dillon.


    With one foot pressured on Dillon''s neck and his hands gripping his arm sticking upwards, James forced and broke Dillon''s arm!


    "AAARRRrrgg....AAh.!" Dillon was in shrieks now, and was hoping for an end.


    And an end he received. Soon after breaking Dillon''s arm, James swung his left leg fiercely kicking Dillon in the mouth, knocking him out cold. James stood back, unharmed. Dillon lay in Dentry''s blood and soon his own, as blood was flowing out of his mouth. His arm distorted and awkwardly positioned backwards left an awful sight for the cadets.


    The Drill Officer approached with no comment.


    "Take Dillon away." The Drill Officer said, and the instructors placed him on a stretcher and hauled him away.


    "Stan.... Blake... Center now"


    Both cadets approached to the center. James began starting off to the row of cadets and stand attention until the Drill Officer halted him.


    "You''re going no where James... Stay here." The voice was slight and harsh. James looked back in curiosity, and stood back in his former stance. Here, James stood over the blood of two cadets. The two new cadets stood before James.


    "In combat... It will never be a fair fight." The Drill Officer looked down to the two cadets.


    "You both will take on ol'' Jimmy here." He then looked toward James. "


    James.... Impress us." As the Drill Officer walked away.


    "Begin."


    Immediately, Stan rushed forward and kicked at James''s legs! James quick to counter, blocked that kicks and sent a kick to his abdomen sending him back. Blake lunged to beat James down with a series of blows, but James caught the wrist of one of the blows and squared a punch into Blake''s left eye, and a harsh uppercut sending him to slam on the floor.


    Stan regained balance and leaped to tackle James! Having grabbed James, he wrestled him down to the ground. That was until James grabbed greater stability and threw Stan on the floor landing on the marble floor with a harsh landing! Meanwhile, Blake got up slowly gripping his jaw which seemed to be broken. James approached Blake, whom threw another punch. James dodged the punch and sent a painful punch to Blake''s side, having Blake lean over in excruciating pain!


    With Blake stunned by the harsh blow, James sent a fist to his head which rendered Blake unconscious, twitching on the hard marble floor and on the blood of others.


    Stan who was resting on his stomach, attempted to get back up but was obviously struggling. He was stopped when James walked over to Stan who was in a crawl position and tried to regain focus. James with one hand gripping the back of his shirt, and the other palming the back of his head, forced Stan to the ground! His face had smashed hard into the marble floor!


    "Aarrgghmmpphh!" The shouting of pain was muffled by the blood of his own, the other cadets and the floor which he was pressed against.


    James continued pounding his face against the marble floor, with the splashing of blood spreading around with each collision!


    Bam! Bam! Bam!


    Finally, James stopped when he realized Stan had stopped resisting James''s grip. He let go of Stan''s lifeless body which was faced down on a pool of blood. Blake lay on his side unconscious, spontaneously twitching every now and then.


    James just stood before the two bodies. His face was partially covered in the blood of his opponents, his fatigues smeared in red blood all around in different areas.


    "Alright! Alright!" The Drill Officer shouted as he approached the center arena, "We don''t want you killing everybody! Instructors, take these boys away to medical as well. It seems as though we really do have a special one in our midst."


    James looked down at his hands. They were covered in blood and he didn''t receive any pain or injury of his own during the sparing sessions. His expressions were of both determined, and as if he expected such sort of things to happen in a time like this.


    "Cadets dismissed! Head back to your barracks!"


    "Yes Sir!" Shouted all cadets, including James whom was still in the center of the arena.


    As James made his way to the exit of the building, the other many cadets who were in front of him looked at him in shock, and surprise at what they had witnessed. Many whom were closer to James, positioned themselves to be farther away from him, as if they were to be attacked by him. They cleared a path for James, and jogged in formation behind him to the barracks.


    Such a great scene. James leading the pack, smeared in blood of his enemies. His fellow cadets, clean and in order, following behind in astounding inspiration of their top class cadet, James Roy.

 Chapter 7: Not The Same

    "Should we turn back and find another way down, Commissioner?" Vienen asked.


    James pondered looking down, and around the drop. The damage must had been done by the Falta, James thought. The stone where the stair way once was lay in crumbles on the floor underneath.


    "No..... We go down. We have no time to waste." James exclaimed.


    He looked out on the horizon from the high view they were standing. It was getting dark as the sun was setting, and the night lights of the city were spotting more and more as the darkness had spread throughout the main lands. He peered into the hole once more, analyzing it.


    "How do you suggest us to get down from here, Sir?" Vienen asked.


    Riley limped forward, still gripping his blood dripping arm. His face winced at the slightest of pain emitting from his arm.


    "Yes.. Agh.. It''s quite impossible to say the least, Sir. But we can pos--"


    Riley cut off his sentence as he witnessed James leap into the deep hole.


    "SIR! NO!" Vienen hollered as he strutted forward to catch him.


    The sound of something landing was heard, and Vienen turned to face Riley with a stunned expression.


    "What the fuck?!.... What." Riley confused by what had just happened.


    "Commissioner Roy!.... Sir!" Vienen shouted out for James once more, ".......Huh?..."


    As Vienen had peered over, he noticed James unscathed. James looked around him, and soon looked upwards meeting eye contact with Vienen.


    "I''m fine Guardsmen... Don''t be losing your voice now."


    Vienen just stared.


    "Is he...?" Riley asked.


    Vienen turned to face Riley and nodded to assure that James was fine.


    "Jump down!" James hollered from below.


    Both Riley and Vienen looked at each other in confusion, as if James was mad.


    "Sir, i''m sure that you can do incredible things. I''ve heard the tales, and I just witnessed one myself, but.... I''m not like you. I''m very sure I''ll die!" Riley responded in uncertainty.


    "I''ll catch you!" James responded back once again.


    "Sir, it would probably be best if we--"


    "Jump down now! That''s an order as District Commissioner!" James''s voice was seething in impatience and anger. Time was passing and daylight was thinning down to darkness.


    "Riley you should go first... That arm needs to be treated as soon as possible." Vienen in concern, placed his opinion on who would jump first.


    "Okay Vienen." Riley said as he walked past him to the edge of the gap, "That''s a poor way of excusing yourself from dropping dead first."


    "It is so that you may be able to keep that arm." Vienen remarked with a slight smirk, pointing at Riley''s arm with his eyes.


    Riley looked at him with a bit of resentment and looked back into the hole to see James.


    "You better jump now. It''s getting dark, I won''t be able to see you that well." James said to the duo up above.


    "Okay..ugh... woah!--" Riley leaped forward to be in the center of the gap. The gravity pulled him down quickly, the wind coursing around him fast! He fell downwards, still gripping his severely cut arm. He closed his eyes believing that he was going to crash down to his death.


    SSHHHHOOOOOP!


    But instead.... He felt as if something halted his descent almost immediately. He opened his eyes to James in front of him gripping his shoulder and back. Riley was leaning backwards, soon James let him go and Riley regained balance.


    "How...." Riley in severe astonishment said to James.


    James looked up to Vienen, without muttering a word to Riley.


    "Your turn!"


    Riley just stood a little away from James, looking at him. He was completely distracted that he let go of his arm, and the blood from his severe wound flowed down his arm, through his hand and dripped down rapidly to the stone floor.


    Drip. Drip. Drip. Drip.


    From up above, the sound of Vienen''s boots left the edge of the destroyed stairway. The remaining light from the blue and orange sun-setting sky, displayed a dark silhouette with his arms a little raised falling down at a rapid pace.


    Riley stood watching. He watched James leap up at a great height and catch Vienen in mid air! He then guided him safely to the ground, and put him on his feet.


    "How''s.... How.. Sir?" Vienen in severe confusion.


    "Wow...." Riley stated.


    Riley collapsed to the floor and grew very weak. A formation of blood had collected from the drips coming off his arm. The gauze and bandages were soaked in red.


    "Shit."


    Vienen walked quickly over to help him. Riley seemed to be falling under, and couldn''t stand the damage that the severely cut arm was doing to him. Riley had an expression of being completely out of it and was struggling to stay awake.


    "He''s lost a lot of blood, Commissioner. We need to get back to the rally point now to get the Defense Meds to work on him."


    "Okay. We need to move quickly."


    Both Vienen and James picked up Riley, who was mumbling and struggling to get up. With Vienen and James at either side of Riley, they guided him through the ruble and debris.


    The crunching of the crumbled rocks and stones echoed through the now silent battle ground that once took place. Bullet holes and ashes of explosions riddled the Plaza. Windows shattered, structures collapsed. It was a defining scene to what more was to come.


    "How.. H-how can .. You do that, Sir?" Riley mumbles as they continued on through the ruins.


    "Do what?"


    "Go through battle... U-unhinged by....anything.."


    "Determination, Riley."


    They trotted forward, and the sight of the regrouped Defense Troopers were in sight. The bright, beaming lights of the MAC armored vehicles lined up and shone on Defense Troopers coming back and forth, carrying equipment. The Prypylons parked in defensive positions at the ends of the plaza.


    "Nothing less of that."


    Riley had stayed quiet, and his eyesight was dimming. The blood seeping from his arm flowed on James''s left side, covering his uniform.


    As they neared the makeshift D.O.T. camp, a spotlight on one of the MACs glared at the group of three. It was blinding as they halted their advance, and immediately the sound of Troopers shouting to what seemed to be Lieutenant Banks was heard. The sounds of footsteps beat down on the ruble and floor, getting louder and louder as they neared the group of three. Soon enough, a squad of Defense Troopers and Hanid came to aid them.


    "Hanid!" Vienen exclaimed, as he seemed good to see him.


    "What happened to Riley?" Asked Hanid as they placed him down on a stretcher.


    "Falta gunship tore up his arm." James pointing to the red soaked gauze and bandages, "Its cut pretty bad."


    "Alright alright...ya, It''s good to see you guys again." Hanid working with Vienen to rush Riley to receive medical care, "Sir!"


    Hanid quickly saluted, almost forgetting his leader being present. A group of Defense Troopers picked up the stretcher and ran back to the camp.


    "We''ll fix him up."


    James turned to see who stated that, and saw Lieutenant Banks standing by with other Defense Troopers. They all saluted.


    "What''s the situation here." Asked James.


    "It''s cleared out. Septem forces have either been killed, captured, or forced back towards the beach." Banks emphasized his explanation with a moving fist, "I had groups of Defense Troopers go through all areas to ensure the threat has been eliminated. It has, but we still have the headlands containing the coastal defense stations, which where they have probably retreated to."


    James began walking towards the camp. Vienen, Hanid, Banks and the rest of the Defense Troopers followed behind.


    "Where is Terem?" Asked James.


    "He''s in the camp. He''s suffered some injuries during the second wave attack, but he''s okay. Just a little shaken up."


    "And the captured Defense Troopers?"


    Banks did not respond quickly. There was a pause.


    "They.. did not make it."


    James stopped, and the rest stopped. He continued looking forward. The only sounds heard were that of the distant Troopers and the sounds of the cold night wind, coursing through the buildings. It whistled low, and blew the coat of James. The night sky crystal black, with shades of darkened clouds. The moon, now high in the sky, was the night''s sun. Giving a humble light, in the dark of the ruins.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    "They were gunned down a little before we arrived, I''ve concluded. They were lined up and slaughtered."


    It was still silent, the wind flowing through, the low whistle.


    "We have their bodies watched over by the banner. They will receive a proper burial."


    James continued to face forward into the night.


    "But we will get to see that when we arri--"


    "The blood is on your hands."


    James stated, cutting off Lieutenant Banks chatter.


    "The blood of your men. The blood of my own."


    James turned swiftly to face Banks, who was standing behind Riley, Hanid, and a few of the Defense Troopers. Those in between turned sideways, to allow James a view of Banks.


    "The blood of our Legions, Lieutenant. Painted on the streets of our own land."


    Silence.


    It was dense, the mood heavy as no one said anything or made any movements. James looked straight at Lieutenant Banks, then turned opposite of him, and continued on back to the camp. The rest followed, quiet the whole way.


    When they arrived, the rest of the Defense Troopers at the camp saluted James.


    "At ease."


    They all ceased and continued on with their duties. James turned back to face the group,


    "Lieutenant Banks, hail Terem Stult to me. You are dismissed until I address the Defense Teams."


    Banks saluted, and carried on with the Defense Troopers following behind him.


    "Where''s Riley, Hanid?"


    "Right this way, Commissioner." Hanid responded, and began walking to the medical sector of the camp.


    As they walked through the area, injured troopers lay in agony. Some not so severe as others. Bandages wrapped around the heads of many, slings for those with broken limbs. The cry of fear, the shrieks of pain filled the scene. Those who were able enough to pull through their injuries saluted James as he walked passed him.


    James and company neared a table where a couple of Defense Medical Troopers were treating Riley. A lamp hung over to provide light, and the subtle comments between the two were audible.


    "How is he?" James asked.


    "Sir." The two Medical Troopers saluted,


    "He''s doing okay. Glad you brought him when you did. It could have been a lot worse."


    Hanid walked up to the table to witness Riley''s arm torn open. Flesh and bone were exposed, with surgical tools stuck around the wound as the Medical Troopers were treating him. Hanid an expression of worry.


    "Hang in there Riley." Stated Hanid subtly, patting his leg.


    "We''ve given him a strong sedative, so he''ll be out for a long time. Even after we''re done patching him up."


    "Good." James motioned to Vienen and Hanid, "Let''s let them finish."


    The group walked off, while Vienen continued on looking at Riley as they distanced themselves from the table. As the group exited the med sector, James stopped two speak to the two.


    "He''s gonna be fine. He''s trained- you all trained to deal with this." James looked to Vienen, "I mean look at this guy''s face. Hehe.. A direct confrontation with a gunship hasn''t phased you, so Riley will pull through this."


    James remarked jokingly to Vienen''s face. Although the bleeding had ceased, and it had all been wiped away, the cuts and scarring remain. Leaving behind a battle roughened Guardsmen.


    Both Vienen and Hanid had smiled to James''s remarked, in an effort to calm the situation.


    "How''d it go leading the group of Defense Troopers?" James asked Hanid.


    "After you went to take on the Falta Gunship, I had the Defense Teams position the Gil Guns in different areas to provide the best fire support. We managed to cut down a large sum of Septem Operatives, but we took some losses too." Hanid looked up to a building that had moonlight shining through its collapsed sides, and stones, "Those gunships really hammered us. They hammered us real good."


    "Alright then. It''s time for me to address the Defense Teams."


    Both Vienen and Hanid nodded in agreement and followed James to the center of the camp. As he approached, he swiftly jumped ontop of one of the MACs, meanwhile Hanid approached the MAC from the front with Vienen nearby.


    "District Commissioner present!"


    Hanid announced for everyone to hear, and immediately all Defense Troopers halted their duties and reported forward. They all stood in attention, in salute. Hanid saluted as well, along with Vienen who looked up at some of the buildings that the Defense Troopers were garrisoned in, and they too were saluting at attention. It was silent, and all attention was directed to District Commissioner James Roy.


    James looked out to all of them, the wind crisp, and blowing as his coat flowed and hanging lights swayed to the current.


    "There has been a great deal of sorrow on all of us. Our land has been encroached upon, and our very well being had been threatened by inner cells, and the Septem Empire."


    James looked out to the horizon, where the sea held the possible Carrier Class warship.


    "Out there.." James pointing to the see with a facial nod, "out there, they know nothing but blinding commands that lead them to slaughter, like what happened here today."


    All Defense Troopers, Personal Order Guards both stood in inspiration of their leader''s speech.


    "We''ve pushed back our enemies, but they stand not too far aways from where we stand now. We cannot stop, and we will not stop! We will continue on until they cry for mercy, and we keep going until they have been eradicated clean from our lands!"


    Riley walks into the scene with a sling around his arm. New bandages had been placed and he stood at attention, along side Vienen and Hanid. James noticed him as he entered, and looked down to him in assurance.


    "They have taken the lives of our brave fighters, and they have taken the land of our people. As one Legion, out of the many Legions that make up our Order, we will defeat them! We will get back what was rightfully ours!"


    James paused. Looked out somewhere in the clouds. He turned back to his followers.


    "Leadership. The gem of an army, the thing that binds us all together. Side by side against all opposing forces. Previous leadership has failed us. My course of action will not. By Order of Legions, and Decree of our Code, we will be victorious."


    James peered out throughout the crowds of Defense Troopers, watching how determined they presented themselves to be. The fire in their eyes were vibrant, and the mood was a deepening of motivation.


    "Dismissed!"


    "Sir!" All Defense Troopers and Personal Order Guards announced.


    Soon everyone left with a bit more motivation in them.


    James dropped down from the MAC and motioned Vienen, Riley, and Hanid to follow.


    "How you feeling, Riley?"


    "I''m feeling like a million bucks right now, Sir. Those sedatives are still in affect.... Hey, take a look at this."


    Riley shifted down the sling to show where the gaping wound once was. Instead, there were now stitches that lined up from his forearm, all the way up to near his elbow. The fold of skin of where the open use to be, was fleshy but bandaged at the edges to prevent further bleeding.


    "Now you got something to impress the ladies with." Said Hanid jokingly.


    "Or scare them off." Remarked Vienen.


    As the banter ceased, Terem Stult had approached from another part of the camp. James left the group to meet with him. Vienen spoke with Hanid.


    "I''ve seen a lot of shit. We... have seen a lot of shit, but Hanid..... Commissioner Roy is something else."


    "He''s not the same. Not like us.... I can now realize why the HOMC selected him, and selected him quick he did." Responded Riley.


    "A symbol perhaps... Or a destined leader." Hanid looked out to James, "He''s not the same indeed."

 Chapter 8: Closer to My Humanity

    It was dark now. Lights beaming from the make-shift camp where the Defense Troops were located, shone onto the war-torn buildings. The wind gusted around gentle and course as the shore was nearby. Minimal banter between the men was heard, it echoed from street to street.


    Gray ash clouds loom above the tired troopers, with the light of that of the round, bright moon. It gave a natural and genuine light. Crystal-like, and articulate.


    Stepping closer and closer, James came face to face with Terem Stult.


    Stult looked disgruntled by the battle and what had taken place. He had an expression of sorrow, and seemed down in his attitude. This was of obvious notice for James, now that they were standing in front of each other. However, Stult did not meet eyes with James as James looked to him. He hadn''t said anything for a moment, leaving the sound of the surrounding scene take place.


    "I don''t go out much to these things." Stult said.


    He continued to look out, and down from where James was standing.


    "It was something Enderson never really allowed me to experience first hand. It... It was... My experience with this whole war and duties of observing entitled staying by the HOMC''s side, and guiding his opinions towards a victory in battle. But..... seeing those men die so heartlessly..."


    Stult choked up on his words slightly,


    "..Seeing those men lose their lives deepens me, to a place of sadness."


    James lay his arm on Stult''s shoulder, showing a sign of comfort.


    "But."


    Terem Stult looked up to James, with an expression of confidence and teary eyed.


    "I have faith in what we do, with us. And most importantly, with you."


    Terem adjusted himself a bit, and changed his posture.


    "Enderson chose you. Even after a catastrophic event in our nation''s history. But you didn''t let it define you as a weeper, but as an avenger. A warrior, and protector for us. I''m glad I am here with you now so that we may eradicate our enemies."


    James looked to Stult with wonder, and admired the faith he had in him. It was publicly known for James to realize he was a hero to many, but to hear a personal account first hand, and with so much heart, struck him with inspiration.


    "We will eradicate our foes Stult. Your trust in me, and to this Legion, will make sure of it."


    Stult nodded with assurance.


    "I need to notify the HOMC Stult."


    "Of course Sir."


    "The possibility of a Carrier Ship off the coast of Korris is very at this point. Gunships and Supply Craft have been arming the invasion in this area. They could only be returning to refuel and repair at a Carrier Ship. I request for aerial reconnaissance and additional troops, possibly Legion Guard units. Armored units will be needed as well for the final push into Korris Headlands. Brennen Faultner tanks for the final push should be suitable."


    "Yes Sir, the request will be issued immediately."


    Stult saluted and ran off to one of the rooftops where Defense Troopers were stationed, to acquire the best signal to issue the request.


    James sighed slightly and turned back to the main of the camp. He approached a portable housing unit where he would rest. James entered to see a hammock and a stool with a radio.


    Not very tired, James had laid down on the hammock and closed his eyes to get some rest.


    He couldn''t.


    He lay staring up at the egg-white ceiling and just had a blank thought. Still and immobile, the only movements came from the shadows Defense Troopers walking back and forth in front of the portable camp heaters that shone through his window.


    His head turned to the radio, which was currently turned off. So by trying to gain some sleep, James turned on the radio and attempted to fine a station to sleep comfortably to. He switched the nob, station to station, which was mostly static and had made no connections to anything, other than the patrolling Defense Troopers around the camp.


    But suddenly, James had found a station to play something.


    Static at first, but the sounds of what could be heard as sirens playing low and medium tones. Consistently with static playing over it. James very curious sat up now, and listened closer for the odd sounding sirens that were playing through the radio.


    James looked out and through the window to see if anyone else was noticing the station, but nobody had noticed. He quickly turned back to the radio, as the ghoul like sirens were consistently playing until,


    "----s-ss-ss----ss---s---sssss--s-   Thirteen Days -----sss---s--ssss-ss--s"


    Silence, and James sat in wonder at the sound of the radio. The voice sounded inhuman, and sounded more like a voice program. The sirens had played for a little more, until the broadcast was at a full static.


    This must be a code or message by the Septem, James had thought. He got up quickly and ran over to the dispatch center of the camp.


    "I need everyone on board to decipher this message that was just played moments ago. I do not have a recorded message, but a series of sirens were playing with a voice stating ''Thirteen days.'' this is a possible Septem message or code sent to another group, possibly ones nearby. Scan the channels for the message and figure out its meaning.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    "Roger." Said the technicians.


    James stood there and pondered as the technicians quickly took to scanning the radio channels and frequencies for any coded messages. He took off back to his housing unit. On his way back, Stult met up with him. He seemed straightforward of what was to come and had presented himself with confidence.


    "Sir. We''ve acquired what we have requested, the vehicles and support should be arriving shortly. Estimated time of arrival..."


    Terem looked down at his watch quickly,


    "47 minutes. They are arriving from the F.O.B. near the Southern Plain of Mayclaire."


    "This is good Stult, what has the HOMC given us?"


    "Right.... We were fortunate enough to receive six Brennan Faultner tanks, Stratospheric Craft shall provide the images useful to our advance, and Seventh Legion Brigade shall be joining us very soon. Thankfully, Seventh Legion has seen a good deal of combat recently in Frollen. They managed to push back Septem advance to the shores, so they should do fine here. They lost some men, but have a total of two thousand strong and twenty-two MACs."


    "Perfect Stult, you are dismissed."


    "Yes Sir."


    And Terem went on his way to meet with the other Defense Troopers.


    Swiftly he took off, as if he was needed to help somewhere. His mood changed significantly. James stood looking around, playing at his side with his hands, coursing his long coat. The fabric was a bit worn, but still had reminiscing softness of when James had first acquired it.


    A day after graduation.... Initiation... James thought.


    The patches that lay on his shoulders and sides signified a true hero and symbol of the Legions of The New Order. A perfect soldier, perfect icon, perfect human. Tales and rumors had been stretched a bit of what James had done in the past, but many holding true as unbelievable as they may have seemed. It was a shame that they were clouded by so many fictitious stories of James.


    Step and step, James moved forward and entered his housing unit. Staring at the radio now, with no sound.


    He swiftly motioned his hand forward subtly and the radio levitated into his hands. James gripped the audio device, and played with the knobs searching for the channel himself. But alas, it could not have been found.


    Damn station, what did it mean? James thought hardly.


    "Thirteen days..... Thirteen days..... Thir..."


    James repeated the message, and attempted to figure out what had meant behind its broadcast.


    Giving up on the message, James let go of the radio in front of him, and forced it back on the stool delicately.


    Silence, but the sound of the Troopers outside maintained noise. Banter, and the sound of boots crunching the mud, rocks and debris.


    James held his hands out in front of him, and he gazed in curiosity. He closed and opened each finger, one by one, as if he had a new pair of hands. The sensation of being able to manipulate objects without contact, or at least in this case, physical contact, sent chills through James. It was like millions of blunt needles were poking his finger tips and his palms were being pitted with a metal rod. Cold it felt, but not painful. Strange, but not shocking.


    He unholstered his side arm in front of him without touching it. Prickly feelings lay over his hands, and he turned his gun in place, in mid air, inspecting it as it shifted. The chamber cocked back, the magazine was unloaded, and the gun was taken apart levitating. The pieces of metal, springs, and even the laser-initiated round starter was disassembled. The bullets of the gun floating all around James, swaying around in a circular fashion. James smiled and felt its odd sensation, as he concentrated heavily on manipulating all these objects in front of him.


    Suddenly, the sound of knocking on the door was heard.


    "Commissioner Roy, Sir, you are hailed to the dispatch center."


    The pieces and bullets of the gun were still floating all around.


    "I''ll be there shortly."


    James raised his hand up, and formed a claw like pose with his right hand, which immediately brought all parts of the weapon back in one piece almost instantly. The bullets filed over one another quickly in the magazine which James manually loaded back into the gun himself, but manipulated the weapon to cock the chamber and holstered.


    "Chilling this may be, but fine it is. Fine indeed."


    He looked out the window as the sun seemed to be rising. Very early in the morning it was, and the frost of the land had set in.


    James laughed to himself subtly and turned his left hand into a fist, feeling the force of its power flow gently through his body.


    This is my humanity.


    My humanity as I know it, how I''ve always known it.


    He opened the door, and took off to the technicians.

 Chapter 9: Majesty and War

    Distant howls, the bird stone flys. Wailing contempt and the imaginery dust flow by. Step by step into the barren land, with his head on high, gazing through morning¡äs shine.


    Creeping up, climbing Horizon¡äs cliff to beam over into the next day. Shone the distraught of struggle and peace.


    James, walking along a ravaged building stared at its presence. Large caliber shells had struck across the building from the previous engagement. Large holes had been blown through, the size of bowling balls. Beaming rays of sunlight passed through them, creating a majestic sight. Out of something so evil, erects a scene of majesty.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡§Sir.¡§


    James turned to see Terem Stult standing at attention to him.


    ¡§What is it Stult.¡§


    ¡§Our requests have arrived, the Legion Guard and Brennan-Faulnter breakthrough tanks.¡§


    ¡§Excellent¡§


    James walked past Terem Stult to greet the incoming support, ready to take back what was his, and the Legion¡äs