Reincarnated with a Military System in Another World

Chapter 189: Princess Elara's Trip to Akarios

 n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Princess Elara stood at the edge of the Elven clearing, her eyes widening slightly as she gazed at the machine before her. The Blackhawk helicopter, with its sleek black frame and powerful rotors, loomed large against the backdrop of the towering trees. It was unlike anything she had ever seen an invention of pure human engineering, made for war and travel in a way that her people's magic could never replicate. The metallic beast roared, its blades slicing through the air in rhythmic rotations, creating a strong wind that tugged at her long silver hair.

Behind her, her trusted advisors and royal guards stood at attention, waiting for her command. Their expressions mirrored her own curiosity and, perhaps, unease. Magic had always been their way of life. Seeing such raw mechanical power was foreign to them.

"This is... impressive," Elara muttered, more to herself than anyone in particular. Her voice was calm, but there was an unmistakable note of curiosity woven into it.

She had heard of human machines before, of course. But seeing one up close-feeling the pulse of its power through the very ground beneath her was something else entirely.

"Your Highness," one of her guards stepped forward cautiously. "Are you certain about this? These human machines are... loud."

Elara smiled faintly, glancing back at him. "This is how they travel. How they fight. We must learn their ways if we are to ally ourselves with them. Besides, the invitation has been extended, and we will honor it."

With that, she stepped forward, her hand brushing the side of the Blackhawk as she approached its open door. The cool metal was cold and unyielding beneath her fingertips, so different from the warm, natural feel of the magic-infused materials she was used to. She paused for a moment, then nodded at the pilot, who stood nearby, awaiting her.

"Welcome aboard, Your Highness," the pilot said with a respectful nod. His voice was barely audible over the constant hum of the helicopter, but his words were clear.

Elara inclined her head politely before stepping inside. The interior was simple but efficient -every piece of equipment seemed to serve a purpose, every control designed for practicality. She noticed the seats were made for battle-hardened soldiers, not for royalty. The helicopter itself felt like a warrior's tool, built to withstand the harshest of elements and challenges.

Her advisors followed her inside, one by one, exchanging uneasy glances as they strapped themselves into the seats. The Elven guards, however, remained outside, reluctant to board the human machine. Elara understood their hesitation, but she had already made her decision. Once seated, the door slid shut with a firm clank, sealing them inside. The sound of the rotors intensified as the Blackhawk began to lift off the ground, the sensation causing her to grip the armrests for a brief moment. The world outside shifted, the trees and earth growing smaller as they ascended into the sky.

Her heart quickened as she looked out of the window. The forest below was vast, its canopy of leaves stretching endlessly beneath them. The sensation of flight was entirely different from any magical means of travel she had experienced-there was no gentle floating, no connection to the elements. Instead, it was raw, mechanical force, propelling them through the air at a speed that left her both awed and unsettled.

"Fascinating," Elara whispered under her breath, though the sound was lost in the din of the helicopter.

The flight was unlike anything she could have imagined. Her kingdom's magic allowed for gliding through the skies, wrapped in enchantments and spells, but this-this was different. It was almost violent in its efficiency, cutting through the wind, ignoring the forces of nature that her people had always revered.

The human way.

She glanced at her advisors, their faces pale as they gripped their seats tightly. She smiled inwardly at their discomfort. These machines were foreign to them, but to her, they represented the future. If their alliance with Vincent were to succeed, they would need to embrace both magic and technology-two forces that could, together, become unstoppable. After what felt like an eternity, the helicopter began to descend, the sprawling landscape of Akarios Island coming into view. From her vantage point, she could see the military infrastructure that had been built-towers, roads, and fortifications blending with the natural terrain. It was a place of power, clearly designed with both defense and innovation in mind.

The Blackhawk touched down smoothly, its rotors gradually slowing as the landing pads came into view. Elara felt the subtle jolt as they made contact with the ground, her senses still buzzing from the experience. As the door slid open, the roar of the helicopter lessened, and the scent of saltwater and fresh earth greeted her.

She stepped out onto the solid ground of Akarios Island, her eyes scanning the impressive landscape before her. Humans and dwarves bustled around, working together in ways she had never thought possible. Advanced machinery and weapons were being tested, blending seamlessly with the natural elements of the island.

"Welcome to Akarios Island, Your Highness," a voice said, cutting through her thoughts.

Elara turned to see Vincent approaching, his gaze sharp but respectful. He was flanked by several of his officers, including Colonel Brandt. The island's defenses were evident all around them, showcasing the might of the forces under Vincent's command.

"Commander Vincent," Elara greeted, inclining her head in acknowledgment. "Thank you for the invitation. I must say, I am impressed with all the things that you have in here."

Vincent gave a nod, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "I'm glad you find it impressive, Your Highness."

"Didn't I tell you not to address me so formally?"

"Oh...I forgot, Elara," Vincent chuckled. "Now how about you and I have a talk in my office." Vincent gestured towards the command center in the distance, his smile widening slightly as he walked beside Princess Elara.

"Lead the way," Elara said.

The silence between them was comfortable as they approached the large doors of the command center. Vincent opened the door for Elara, and they stepped inside, the cool air of the facility contrasting with the warmth outside.

Vincent led her to a private office, a more intimate space where they could discuss matters without interruption. Once inside, he gestured for her to sit, and she took the seat gracefully, still surveying her surroundings. The walls were adorned with maps of the region, as well as detailed plans for defensive measures and weapons development.

Now that they are in his office, it was time.