And so, after the firepower of three full companies had been unleashed, along with the efforts of more than a dozen psychics, the Ringworld's first formal battle came to an end. Thanks to the marines of the Blue Star Commonwealth and the Galactic Empire fighting side by side, they had successfully eliminated a gigantic beast—part organic creature, part machine—that had lain hidden for who knew how many ages, at the cost of six dead and eighteen wounded.
This battle was proof enough that the friendship forged in blood and fire during the two nations' yearlong "War of Judgment" on the New Continent was unbreakable and indestructible. It would never be erased by a few minor changes in the world!
That had to be the case.
Reinforcements from both sides arrived at the scene fifteen minutes after the battle ended. Along with the troops came sizable technical teams.
Since the mechanical monster had been cleanly sliced in half down the middle, there was little concern that a sad little squabble might break out over who got the spoils.
After the technical teams from both sides had exchanged a few sanctimonious pleasantries—"We should keep in close contact," "If you're short on equipment, we have plenty," "We should have the alchemy department help preserve it for research," and "Once we're done with our samples, we can trade"—they each took their half and went their separate ways.
Four hours later, an initial report on the capture and destruction of the strange ancient creature was sent to the command staff of both sides.
"...So it really is roast meat?" On board the Fire God Aiyan, Admiral Veronlio Farrell stared at the head of the science department who had brought him the report, his expression saying, "Do you think it's hilarious to mess with me?"
The