GATE: Task Force Guillotine

Chapter 9: Siege of Italica Conclusion (Rewritten)

Formal Family Castle, Italica

March, 29, 2028 07:18 (29th day of the Crescent Moon 638)

Pina sat by a large, ornate window, her gaze distant as she looked out over the quiet town below. The soft light of the setting sun cast a golden glow over her, highlighting the intricate details of her regal armor. Her shoulders slumped, the weight of the metal adding to the sense of melancholy and introspection that filled the room.

"It's strange," Pina murmured. "We should be celebrating. The town and the people are safe... but why does it feel like a defeat?"

Across from her, Hamilton sat in silence, her expression mirroring the solemnity of her princess. She met Pina's gaze with quiet empathy, understanding the weight behind her words.

"It's because we've seen what lies beyond our world's capabilities, haven't we, Princess?" Hamilton said softly. "Their power... It's overwhelming. We fought with all our might, yet in the end, it was their strength that turned the tide."

She paused, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and resignation. "I thought we were prepared. But facing them... it was like trying to hold back a tide with our bare hands. Our victory feels hollow, overshadowed by what we've witnessed."

Pina nodded slowly, her gaze still fixed on the horizon outside the window. "It's as if our struggles and sacrifices weren't enough. Like we were merely bystanders in our own battle, watching as others determined the outcome."

She shifted uncomfortably in her armor, the weight of it becoming more pronounced as the reality of their situation sank in deeper. "Our people look to us for leadership and protection. How can we guide them when we ourselves feel... powerless?"

A soft voice broke the silence. "Princess Pina, Lady Hamilton, I understand your feelings. But shouldn't we also be grateful for what we have achieved? The town is safe, our people are unharmed. Isn't that what truly matters?"

Myui stepped forward, her youthful face showing relief rather than the somber introspection of Pina and Hamilton. Her words were gentle, yet there was a subtle edge to them.

Pina's eyes narrowed as she turned to face Myui, her frustration rising. "Grateful? Grateful for what, Myui? For standing helplessly while others fought our battles? For being shown time and again how insignificant our might is?"

Her voice rose, echoing through the chamber. The golden light from the setting sun caught the fire in her eyes, illuminating the depth of her frustration and anger. She pushed herself to her feet and began pacing, her armor clinking with each step, adding to the tension in the room.

"We are leaders! We are supposed to be the ones protecting our people, not relying on outsiders! How can we face them with pride when we know it was not our strength that saved them?"

Hamilton's expression wavered, torn between agreement and concern. "My lady..."

Before she could continue, the heavy wooden door creaked open, drawing all eyes toward the entrance. Grey stepped inside, his presence commanding immediate attention.

"Princess Pina, Lady Hamilton, Countess," he said, his voice calm and measured. "The leaders of the otherworlders have requested an audience with you."

The room fell into silence. The weight of Grey's words hung in the air, causing a shift in the atmosphere. Pina's anger momentarily dissipated, replaced by a mix of curiosity and apprehension.

She turned to Grey, her mind racing. "They want to meet with us? Now?"

Grey nodded, his gaze steady. "Yes, Your Highness. They wish to discuss the recent events and the future of our alliance."