Ad Astra - The Alagore War

AA V2 Assiaya, Chapter 18

"Colonel Hackett, I am here to revise my recent report regarding the negotiations with Vagahm.

As reported, we negotiated with Tharnot, the Keeper of Vagahm, to continue our talks inside. However, the talks broke down multiple times throughout the conversation, and we were forced to leave after five hours. Luckily, we were given an extension to continue tomorrow. However, I am no longer confident that we could come to terms.

During the negotiations, it became clear that they were not committed to any of the proposals I had been authorized to offer. The Wood Elf Varitan Yeldan, a former motuia political adviser in the previous Salva regime, believes that the dwarves seek to secure additional deals in exchange for the hostages. While I see Yeldan's perspective, I have my doubts.

Regardless, we will continue negotiations tomorrow; however, that is not the main reason why I am reaching out. I am requesting additional security as the Verliance Aristocracy has discovered our presence, and I believe a show of force will also show that we are not messing around." - Major Smith

March 13th, 2069 (Military Calendar)

Yuplenia Mountain Range Verliance Aristocracy

Nevali Region, Aldrida, Alagore

*****

Seeing that the convoy had suddenly stopped, Natilite leaped off the roof of the command AMTV and landed by the passageway's side door. She then turned toward the Comanche Captain, who was in his rightful place in the commander's seat. The Altaerrie man still looked beaten, and the black eye glared. Luckily, the swelling was slowly healing.

"Why did we stop?"

Ryder leaned out the window and said, "We need to refuel before making the final push."

"Do we have time?" Natilite asked.

"Miller thinks so," Ryder said. "He and Webster think we shouldn't stop once we get to the other side of the mountain, in case the enemy spotted us before. If true, this will be our last chance."

"What do you think?"

Ryder sighed as he glanced away. "I have no idea. I didn't make the journey with you guys, so I am out of my depth. I am not a useful Captain right now."

"Do not state that," Natilite said. "You knew about the mountain port and delayed the Unity long enough to escape. You don't have to be the sword pointer in every situation."

Ryder stared at the Valkyrie and chuckled. "Sword pointer?"

She stared at him with confusion and said, "Yeah. A man in the front of his forces provides direction with a sword. Do you people not have something similar?"

Ryder stared at the Templar before saying, "You made that up. Didn't you?"

The Templar glanced away before saying, "No...."

"Right," Ryder said, finding the situation humorous. "Thank you."

The Captain noticed the team captains exiting their vehicles and removing the final fuel from the back of the Deuce. The Guardians, Minutemen, and RSC removed the containers from the back of the cargo UGVs. The prisoners were jammed into the backs of the three Deuces and two metal wagons.