Gate: The New Empire

Chapter 6: Diplomatic Talk and Progress

The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon as Itami's squad prepared to leave Italica. The earlier tension with the knights had subsided, but the atmosphere was still thick with uncertainty. Pina Co Lada, the imperial princess, had insisted on joining the JSDF forces back to their headquarters. With her were Bozes, the captain of the Rose Order, and Darth Vader, whose presence cast an imposing shadow over the small group.

As they mounted their vehicles, Itami took a moment to assess the situation. The battle had been won, but the war against the Saderan Empire loomed large on the horizon. Itami's mind raced with the possibilities that lay ahead, especially regarding the fate of the Saderan Empire and its future relations with the JSDF and Galactic Empire.

"Are you ready, Princess?" Itami asked, strapping on his gear.

Pina smiled, her determination shining through. "I am. We need to resolve this conflict, and if that means standing alongside you, then I shall."

With a nod, Itami motioned for the squad to move out. The journey began, the convoy of armored vehicles rumbling along the dirt road that led from Italica to the fortified base of Alnus Hill. The setting sun painted the sky in shades of orange and pink, a stark contrast to the weight of their mission.

As they traveled, Pina rode alongside Bozes, who was quiet and observant. The knight kept her eyes on the road ahead, her hand resting on the hilt of her sword, ready for any unexpected encounter.

"What do you think of them?" Pina asked, glancing at the JSDF soldiers. "Do you believe they will accept my offer for peace with the Saderan Empire?"

Bozes shrugged slightly, her demeanor still focused. "It's difficult to say. The JSDF are warriors, and their experiences may have made them wary of our intentions."

Meanwhile, Vader and his troops rode a few vehicles ahead, his cloak billowing slightly in the wind. His presence was both a comfort and a source of fear. Pina couldn't help but wonder about his true nature and the power he wielded.

"Princess," Vader's deep voice cut through her thoughts as he slowed his vehicle to match her pace. "Your proposal for peace is admirable, but it may not be as simple as you hope."

Pina's heart raced as she faced him. "What do you mean, Lord Vader?"

"The Saderan Empire has a history of aggression and ambition. They may not accept terms of peace readily, especially when backed into a corner. If we are to forge a path forward, it must be one where they understand the futility of resistance," he replied, his tone calm yet foreboding.

"Are you saying that violence is the only answer?" Pina asked, her voice rising slightly.

"It depends on how the Saderan Empire reacts to our advances. It is unforgiving," Vader said, his gaze steady. "Only through complete surrender can they be spared from further destruction."

Pina's expression darkened. "You would annihilate my people?"

"I would bring order," Vader replied, his voice unwavering. "The Galactic Empire is not without its principles. However, the survival of your empire depends on your willingness to adapt and accept the new reality."

Bozes shifted uncomfortably in her seat, looking between Pina and Vader. "This is a lot to take in, Princess. We must prepare for the worst and hope for the best."

As the convoy continued down the winding road, the scenery shifted from the quaint landscapes surrounding Italica to the more fortified terrain closer to Alnus Hill. Pina watched the soldiers of the JSDF as they moved with a level of coordination and discipline she had never seen before. Their vehicles, armored and mechanized, seemed like metal beasts to her eyes.