Japan, Central Tokyo, Minister's Office9:12 PM | 19:12 Hours"32 hours passed since Alervon returned from its conference submission."."I would also like to reverse the course of this conversation; I want everyone's attention to understand the gravity of the situation," the senator declared.Despite the rain pouring down over midnight in Tokyo, the city retained its vitality. Locals continued to traverse the streets, traffic maintained its steady flow, and soldiers maintained their watchful presence on every street corner. The entire city lay under the vigilant gaze of the military, with the 12th Regiment tasked with guarding the ministerial building.Within the building, half of the office workers had already departed for the day, leaving only the higher-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister, who was readying himself to enter his office.Despite the quiet atmosphere, the ministerial officers were engrossed in intense discussions. The room was populated by elder statesmen, their voices laden with the significance of recent dramatic events. As the servicemen entered the room bearing dinner for the senior officials, the conversation transitioned between past and present, with the new intertwining with the old. The engagement of the missile cruiser had quite possibly saved their recent progress from being reduced to ruins.Prime Minister Takahashi cautiously pushed open the double doors to his office. Inside, he was greeted by the sight of his administration engrossed in a heated debate. Many of them presented passive and aggressive suggestions, while others were somewhere in between. They spoke with frustration, offering various outlandish ideas to address the situation.As he stepped into the room, the men in front noticed his arrival. Word of his presence quickly spread among his colleagues, and a hush descended over the room as Prime Minister Takahashi took his seat. The atmosphere gradually shifted from one of tension to a more composed and respectful tone as all turned their attention to the leader.It appeared that the developments in the northern region were beginning to draw attention. Seated around the roundtable were several key figures, including the Chief of Staff, the highly regarded 4-star General Kenji Daisuke, a veteran with a distinguished history from the Sino-Taiwan conflict, and a few surviving generals who had witnessed and served in the fourteen wars that had taken place in northern Japan.The Prime Minister had a sense that something significant was on General Kenji's mind, considering that the general typically doesn't attend major events like this. Seeing these prominent figures gathered in person, it was evident that they had crucial insights to share regarding the situation. It had been four weeks since their last large assembly, which followed the recent transfer of power months ago, with Prime Minister Takahashi taking the lead. The presence of General Kenji at this meeting seemed to bode well for their discussion.Before addressing the pressing matter with General Kenji, the Prime Minister turned his attention to his secretary, who had brought forth two folders, one from the Navy and the other from the civil sector of the government. He chose the first one and began reviewing the recent information. After examining its contents, he shifted his gaze back to the parliament and conveyed the following:"We are all aware that we have been grappling with a recent issue that has surfaced over the past two weeks and has become even more pressing, correct? I'd like to discuss this matter to resolve it."He continued, "We have received reports of numerous phone calls from various foreign embassies here in Tokyo, and it seems that many of them are in open opposition to our recent policies. What's more, we are facing mass protests and riots as a result of these developments."Takahashi and the Vice Prime Minister exchanged weary sighs upon hearing these recent events. The situation seemed overwhelming, especially considering that many were sceptical about the legitimacy of this "transfer." This scepticism was not limited to Japan's population but also extended to their ally, the United States, which faced a similar problem.Takahashi recognised the need to establish communication with the embassies to assuage their concerns and help them acclimatise to this new environment. However, this task was easier said than done. Gathered intelligence revealed that a significant portion of the population had grown distrustful of the government. This was hardly surprising, as an island nation attempting to explain a sudden relocation following a catastrophic earthquake that claimed hundreds of lives faced inherent challenges.The situation was further complicated by reports from the United States, where President Thompson had described it as worse than hell due to the surge in gun violence that occurred within a month of the country's transfer. The challenges were immense, and finding a way forward required careful consideration and strategic diplomacy.Picking up his pen from the table, the Prime Minister contemplated his words as he gazed back up at the assembled senators in front of him."The good news is that immigration to Japan is significantly more challenging than trying to enter the United States itself, so I fully expect this protest to subside within a matter of weeks, at most.""However, the bad news is the economic impact of the transfer and the recent cessation of all merchant activities. Our currency is beginning to lose value, and it won't be long before Japan faces severe economic hardships; people will starve."The senators indeed recognised the troubling reality. With the absence of the Chinese and most trading partners, the prices of even basic food items had begun to skyrocket, posing an escalating financial burden on the average working-class citizen. This, in all likelihood, would result in widespread unemployment, further exacerbating the challenges Japan is currently grappling with."Japan will not be able to endure this situation; we have only a few months before it deteriorates beyond the condition of Venezuela," the Vice Prime Minister somberly remarked."I suggest that we implement a programme to ration consumer goods for Japan's population, akin to what the British did during the 1940s and the 1980s," the Vice Prime Minister proposed."I agree; I say we can take a page from the British playbook," he continued, "as they had considerable success with such measures. By doing so, we may secure the long-term survival of Japan."Prime Minister Takahashi nodded in agreement, adding, "We will draft a proposal outlining the rationing system and other measures to avert potential issues."The senator took note of the proposed rationing programme before returning to the matter that General Kenji Daisuke had wanted to address earlier. He shifted his attention back to the 4-star general, pleased that the Prime Minister had acknowledged him, and he handed the general a folder containing information about the recent operations in northern Japan.General Kenji cast a glance at the folder, recognising it as a military document, complete with his signature and stamp. The Prime Minister's gaze returned to the General."In general, you've been quite busy with paperwork," the Prime Minister remarked. "What's the latest situation in the northern prefecture?"Kenji Daisuke smiled, as many fortes had occurred to him since the transfer."Plenty, Prime Minister, but I'll only discuss what we managed to intercept."Handing a folder to the Prime Minister, General Kenji Daisuke gave him pictures of the radio waves being intercepted by their equipment, with one large photograph showing the entire Sakhalin island."Ah, Sakhalin and the Kuril islands; the Russians were a pain in the ass... What about it?""About a day before the prime minister, radar detected a lone aircraft, 20 clicks from the Sakhalin island, that was rapidly entering airspace at Wakkanai. We had intercepted the aircraft, but surprisingly, we had landed on an airbase for which this Russian aircraft was transporting. They had notified us that the unit guarding the Sakhalin island had been overturned by a force they had revered before.""They had been sending distress signals back to Moscow for the past few months, but no response was received. As the Russians appeared to be losing control over the defence of Sakhalin Island, a representative arrived at the airbase in Sapporo, requesting a summit," General Kenji explained.
After hearing the idea, some people at the table started to move towards the report, saying that the Russians needed assistance. It's ludicrous to hear, and there's no need to bring it up when the Russians are bound to starve to death if they aren't given the opportunity to have mutual exchanges and then suddenly show up here and request help.
"It is highly unlikely that the Russians in the Khailin Islands would request our assistance. Those tyrants will merely grant permission to seize the Kuril Islands, even in the event that Russia ceases to exist. Why on earth ought we to assist them at all? They nearly attacked the northern Rebun island during the Sino-Taiwanese War."
One cabinet member asked out.A few people looked at General Kenji, questioning the veracity of his account. He merely scowled back at them, displaying a sincere mentality. Given his statement, Prime Minister Takahashi contemplated the gravity of the situation. This news was significant and had the potential to draw the attention of international powers. The silence in the room and the intense gazes of his cabinet members only underscored the magnitude of the moment. He fixed his gaze on traditional Japanese artwork, allowing himself some time to consider a solution."Is the island being invaded? Interesting," Takahashi mused. "Less than four hours ago, we received reports that one of our warships had an aggressive encounter with a large vessel."It was clear that something substantial was unfolding. Hoping that they could manage this situation as best as possible, Takahashi turned his attention to the senators and stated, "Prepare a representative to attend the summit. Additionally, inform President Thompson about the recent invasion incident on Sakhalin Island. Perhaps the United States can assist in addressing this matter."After conveying his instructions, Prime Minister Takahashi received a respectful bow from the Senate. His gaze then turned towards the rest of his cabinet, with particular emphasis on General Kenji."The Northern Army must be prepared for any eventuality, including a potential attack. We need the entire region to be vigilant and ready for any hostile actions that could threaten our homeland. With this threat approaching our mainland, our priority is to maintain order and protect our home against these aggressors. General Kenji, we'll identify and deal with these individuals," Takahashi declared.It was akin to a king addressing his troops before going to war, and he was well-suited for this role, having been a soldier during the Japanese Civil War. His strong military background and pro-democratic ideals positioned him as a staunch opponent of the Chinese.General Kenji nodded with a smile; there was no opposition to these orders, and the rest of the cabinet members had little to add.As the hours passed, it was getting late; the clock was creeping past midnight, signalling a new day. Japan was determined to continue its path as a global power, while the United States grappled with internal conflicts, keeping them preoccupied. Time marched forward, and Japan had no choice but to adapt to the changing world, making its way into this new era.• • • • •United States of America, White House, Capital City, Washington4:21 AM | 04:21It was an unusually early hour for an emergency meeting, but considering the gravity of the situation, President Thompson had arrived at the White House. The loud rotor blades of the presidential helicopter descended onto the White House's front lawn; the streets were quiet, and the sun had yet to rise.As President Thompson gazed up at the midnight stars, the powerful chopper's engines gradually quieted. The sight was awe-inspiring, and he was momentarily entranced by it. Then, returning to reality, he began walking toward the main entrance, flanked by a few officials who exchanged small talk.This moment was a far cry from the last time they had witnessed the Night Before Earth."The Japanese government contacted the Defence Secretary regarding an incident in the Alervonn Sea." President Thompson began walking down towards the main gate beside him as he shone a flashlight to reveal a massive satellite image. The picture was of low quality but clearly showed a significant Japanese vessel engaged in combat against an invading force.President Thompson's expression displayed his deep concern and frustration as he listened to the unfolding situation."What action have we taken in response to this incident?" he inquired.The senator responded, "Thus far, Mr. President, we haven't taken any direct action. We received a report from the fleet in the area, and they confirmed that no visual contact was made aside from Japanese vessels and local fishermen. The 7th Fleet's Carrier Strike Group indicated they were not in the region and provided confirmation of their presence in Guam during the time of the incident. Moreover, the rise in hostilities involving this entity known as the 'Aetesian Empire' has raised concerns for the Japanese. They are seeking a response from you, Mr. President."President Thompson regarded the situation with a mixture of disappointment and concern. The prospect of aiding the Japanese in such a way wasn't without its challenges, but it was necessary for the future."Inform Prime Minister Takahashi that we are willing to assist in this matter," President Thompson instructed. "I'm committed to ensuring our influence in this new world, or whatever they're calling it. We must be there for the United States and protect against this Empire."The senator duly noted the president's request as they entered the main door of the White House. The group of impeccably dressed individuals moved gracefully through the revered corridors of the White House. The gentle illumination of the night lamps cast a serene ambience, and the echo of their well-shined black leather shoes resounded in the historic building. At this early hour, only a handful of dedicated nighttime janitors and the occasional Marine were present within these sacred walls.The well-dressed group leisurely made their way through the tranquil and deserted hallways when they unexpectedly encountered Senator Hawkings entering the White House."President Thompson will be arriving shortly, and I kindly request that an early morning breakfast be prepared," the senator conveyed to those in his group.Following these orders, they emerged from the main entrance, where the president awaited. He stood tall, though the early hour had cast a fading shadow over his visage. The senator greeted the president with courtesy and without haste."Good morning, Mr. President," the senator greeted President Thompson. "Preparations have been made for your breakfast and your morning brew. Where would you prefer to have this meeting?""The office will take action; notify whoever is in charge to show up at 5:30 and ensure that we have operations prepared," President Thompson instructed as he made his way towards the left wing of the White House. The Senate promptly noted his request.As Thompson walked towards his presidential office alongside his legislative colleagues, he suddenly felt a heavy impact on his chest. Though he remained composed, his cabinet members noticed his discomfort and concern."Are you alright, Mr. President?" one of them asked with worry."I'm okay," he replied, "but I'm feeling some pain in my chest, although I don't think it's anything serious."Understanding the president's directive, everyone proceeded into the presidential office. The cabinet settled in, allowing the president some time to reflect on the events of the previous day. It seemed more sensible to wait for everyone to have their morning coffee before delving into the day's discussions and deliberations...The president's smile was a reflection of his gratitude towards his cabinet, who stood by him through the six challenging weeks since their country was unexpectedly transported into this unfamiliar world.As President Thompson gazed at the midnight stars, his expression conveyed a mix of contentment and optimism for the future, extending beyond his current term. The Vice President joined him, offering a concerned glance as he gently tapped the president's shoulder."Is there anything troubling you, Mr. President?" The vice president inquired in a calm and caring tone."Not particularly," President Thompson replied. "However, considering the current situation, I do have some concerns about what negotiations may entail in the future, Vice President Frederic. With November on the horizon, I need to prepare for other plans for our nation. I'm considering drafting a bill to be presented in the House of Representatives that would allow us to launch initiatives aimed at both domestic and foreign audiences. It's quite a task to imagine."Twenty minutes elapsed before a soft knock echoed on the front door of the presidential office. With a quiet but purposeful demeanour, a White House aide entered, carrying a silver tray laden with an assortment of filled coffee cups. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee permeated the air as the cabinet members, armed with their respective reports and documents, readied themselves for the forthcoming discussion with the president.Vice President Frederic assumed the role of the initial reviewer. With a sense of urgency, he navigated through the departmental reports, seeking insights into the current state of the United States. His eyes darted across the pages until a particular section grabbed his attention—an issue that warranted immediate attention. Without hesitation, he moved swiftly across the room to confer with the president, eager to address the concern.As Vice President Frederic delved into the paper report, it detailed a recent influx of refugees originating from North America, specifically from Canada—a former NATO ally. The report contained vivid images depicting the US Border Patrol detaining individuals, a sight that struck a chord of shock and surprise among the officials. These individuals appeared markedly different, resembling what could only be described as beastmen—a sight entirely unprecedented. The fact that this was being extensively covered in the New York Times added even more gravity.The surge of these so-called invaders entering the US from both the North and South was escalating into a significant issue, stirring concerns among the gathered officials."I'd like to hear your thoughts on this matter, Mr. President." Vice President Frederic addressed President Thompson. "The mayor of Detroit reached out to me directly concerning this issue. According to him, the Ambassador Bridge that once connected to the other side of Canada was destroyed during the transfer. Now, on the Canadian side, there's a demolished bridge, and individuals—these 'beastmen,' for lack of a better term—are attempting to cross from that side to ours.""What's the primary concern we're facing with these refugees?" President Thompson inquired. In response, Vice President Frederic highlighted the main issue associated with these "invaders.""Senior officers from the US Border Patrol and law enforcement officials from San Diego to Washington have encountered a language barrier. These immigrants, or rather 'prospective residents' in this new world, speak a language that surprises us—Latin! It's unexpected, considering they don't communicate in Spanish or English, but instead, they speak Latin!"The cabinet members engaged in brief discussions among themselves, grappling with the implications of the startling report. It had been over four decades since anyone in that room had spoken Latin, making the prospect of communication with these newcomers an arduous task. Furthermore, managing them, particularly as many resembled typical homeless individuals from Los Angeles, presented a significant challenge. President Thompson himself pondered how to rectify the situation. However, he realised the limited options available to him. The detachment between the US and these newcomers meant that convincing either side that cooperation was for the greater good would be an uphill battle, despite his earnest efforts.President Thompson took a sip of his morning coffee and turned to Vice President Frederic, expressing his plan."Given that Secretary of State Lacy Norman isn't present, please convey to her that I require her to develop a proposal or concept to address the border situation we're facing."Vice President Frederic acknowledged the president's request regarding Secretary of State Lacy Noman, yet he swiftly diverted the conversation away from the internment issue, indicating that the state secretary could handle it. Instead, he steered the discussion towards the military predicament, specifically focusing on the Army's problem.Chief of Staff Abraham John and the other cabinet members arrived promptly. President Thompson emphasised the need for early morning submissions, particularly regarding Army and Air Force matters, as he hadn't received substantial updates from the Department of Defence on these issues.Appearing as the Secretary of Defence was Alex von Scregger—a charming, bald individual standing at 5'10. He sat among his fellow cabinet members, casually sipping his morning brew in the presence of the president. Von Scregger, a former three-star general in the United States Air Force now serving as the Secretary of Defence, promptly directed his attention towards the president, acknowledging some pressing concerns brought to his attention. The first issue was from the Navy.The United States Navy (USN) has been facing some significant challenges since the transfer occurred. There have been ongoing issues, particularly with the fleet stationed in the Middle East, which had been involved in prior conflicts, notably during the Israel war against Hamas."Mr. President, the Navy's assessment of the losses incurred during the recent transfer is grim." The Secretary of Defense's voice weighed heavily in the room."Our forces have suffered devastating blows. We've lost three critical amphibious assault warships—the USS Essex (LHD-2), USS Portland (LPD-27), and USS Pearl Harbor (LSD-52). This loss has crippled our ability to execute crucial amphibious operations, resulting in the depletion of marine air wings and a significant portion of our Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) onboard these vessels. Adding to this, the USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), a vital cruiser, met its end, as did the entire Carl Vinson Strike Group. And that's not all. Our submarine service has taken substantial hits, not to mention the multiple navy air wings stationed abroad," the Secretary of Defense's words hung heavily in the air."Mr. President, to put it bluntly, the state of our navy is dire—more dire than we could have ever imagined," the Secretary concluded, the gravity of the situation sinking in across the room.The loss of these warships goes beyond mere military assets; they represent a significant symbol of American power projection and strategic capability. The US Navy, with its numerous bases stationed across the Middle East and beyond, had a substantial presence in the old world it once controlled. The impact of losing such crucial vessels extends far beyond the military realm.The enormity of this loss would surely reverberate across the media and the population. The US Navy was apprehensive about the reaction once this information was made public, choosing to remain silent until an official announcement could be made."Additionally, in the aftermath of these substantial losses within the US Navy, it's been projected that we'll experience a significant manpower shortage. Reports indicate an anticipated estimated 10% reduction in personnel from both the Marine Corps and the Navy due to these devastating events. Alongside the loss of ships, a considerable number of aircraft from carriers and helicopters were also compromised. This situation could severely undermine our capabilities in handling foreign affairs," the Secretary of Defence elaborated, highlighting the far-reaching impact of the losses suffered.Thompson, taken aback by the revelation, acknowledged that considering the circumstances, this outcome wasn't entirely unexpected, especially given that only the Japanese remained alongside them in this world. "What would the cost and timeline look like to reinstate our military capabilities?" he inquired."Realistically, we're looking at approximately a decade," Alex responded. "Regarding the Navy, we're in the process of constructing three new carriers and two assault ships, along with integrating new destroyers and implementing a frigate programme. By 2035, we aim to restore it to its former glory.""Is there a possibility of speeding up the reconstruction of our Navy?" He asked.President Thompson's question took Alex von Scregger by surprise. Leaning in, he studied the detailed figures in the fourth section of the comprehensive USN report spread out before him. With a furrowed brow, he absorbed the current status, numbers, and projections. The president's inquiry echoed in the room, and after a brief pause, Alex shifted his attention back to Thompson, considering how to convey the complex information he had just taken in."If you're thinking of speeding up the rebuilding of the US Navy within a five-year timeframe, estimated at around 23 billion dollars, we could bring back into service several mothballed ships," Alex von Scregger explained. He continued, listing the assets available for reactivation: "We've got four non-nuclear aircraft carriers in reserve since the Sino-American war, three capital battleships, some recent AEGIS missile cruisers, and plenty of transporters to fill the gaps in the Navy's fleet."Refurbishing these warships for the navy posed a significant expense; convincing Congress to add these vessels to the fleet during the country's crisis was a challenge. Thompson, with his background navigating the seas, understood the crucial role the United States played as a global superpower. Scanning through the extensive list of warships in reserve, from Pearl Harbour to San Francisco, he noted a diverse array—ranging from recently decommissioned Ticonderoga-class missile cruisers to steadfast Spurance-class vessels and even a few aircraft carriers. Yet, what intrigued him most were the battleships of the Iowa and Kitty Hawk classes—aged and unexpected, still in reserve despite surpassing the half-century mark."If my memory serves me right, we reactivated the Iowa and Kitty Hawk classes during the Sino-Taiwanese War.""Absolutely. They came into play after the loss of CV-67, or USS John F. Kennedy. Despite the Navy's heavy reliance on nuclear-powered carriers, these vessels served specialised functions. Given the ongoing budget constraints in the Navy, utilising them as temporary warships until the newer ones fully replace them seems feasible."It adds up—the navy was virtually wiped out during the conflict, and the US has been grappling with robust anti-war sentiments ever since the Chinese invasion. He reasoned that persuading Congress might pose challenges or even draw negative responses, prompting the need for a persuasive rationale. Scanning through the document, something catches his eye: the battleships, particularly the renowned Iowa class battleship and its lesser-known counterpart, the USS Kentucky. He shoots a glance back at Alex, a hint of intrigue in his expression."USS Kentucky, huh? I've heard she went through a rough patch during the Israel-Hamas conflict."
"She did indeed. She came back with some commendations, gaining recognition as a rather effective ground and air support vessel. While she's no longer engaged in battleship-to-battleship combat, her new role involves aiding marines and engaging aircraft. Currently stationed in Pearl Harbour after undergoing repairs, she stands as the sole battleship among the four that remains operational.""If memory serves correctly, the USS Iowa faced an incident involving her second turret, leading to an early decommissioning. It's been about 30 years since the Navy last utilised the ship, and its current state isn't optimal. Repairing a vessel like that poses a challenge, especially considering that no one currently in the Navy has prior experience operating such a ship. While the battleship holds symbolic significance, the operational and maintenance costs would be considerable, given that it requires the second-largest personnel count."The Navy's predicament could be dealt with by Alex von Scregger. Swiftly, he scanned through the report, then turned his gaze towards Scregger."Secretary Scregger, please check in with the Navy. See what other ships are available for immediate service. We need to prepare for the upcoming proposal concerning those larger vessels. Additionally, I'll inquire about the Army and the Air Force.""Striving for a 600-ship policy akin to Ronald Reagan's could significantly bolster our advantage for the US. However, considering the current circumstances, let's focus on thorough research for now."With the naval report set aside, save for a handful of concerns about the army's loss of certain foreign bases in Europe, Alex von Scregger grasped the directive. The army required rebuilding efforts, and the armed forces likely needed to replenish their depleted stocks of equipment."After the transition, Mr. President, both the Army and the Marines conveyed significant losses in their overseas deployed personnel and equipment.""Upon deeper investigation, it became apparent that we had lost a minimum of 5,000 armoured vehicles, including highly specialised equipment, alongside a personnel toll of at least 50,000 soldiers encompassing both the Army and the Marines."The revelation was jolting: At first, many cabinet members were taken aback by the extent of the losses following the transfer. They had presumed a lesser toll, but 50,000? That number surpassed expectations. Given the current state of affairs, the prospect of rebuilding such a significant count seemed daunting for the US."The Air Force is facing a precarious scenario, making it challenging to ascertain the necessary steps forward. Numerous aircraft have been lost in the Middle East and other regions, spanning fighter forces and drone-operating units."Thompson contemplated the staggering toll: fifty thousand lives lost and potentially two to three hundred aircraft gone, despite the bulk of the US Air Force being domestically based. The nation's external reach was the linchpin of its superpower status, and with these losses, the path to rebuilding seemed arduous. Convincing his people to support the effort without appearing authoritarian would prove a formidable challenge.As he turned towards the Vice President and Alex Scregger, Thompson pondered deeply, tapping his pen thoughtfully on the table. "Can we feasibly rebuild our armed forces within five years?" The notion seemed somewhat impractical, but the urgency to fortify their military capabilities drove the consideration. Surveying the faces around the cabinet room, he sought signs of agreement—perhaps not an ideal timeline, but one that might just be achievable."If memory serves me right, the silver lining lies in the fact that a substantial chunk of our foreign-based equipment remains within the confines of the US—spread strategically across Guam, Hawaii, and even Puerto Rico. Though it's a long shot, there's a faint possibility that some of our assets might have found their way into the new world, although the odds are slim," he reflected, acknowledging Scregger's report with a weary sigh."Congress might not be keen on tapping into our reserves for the armed forces' reconstruction. My focus needs to pivot towards rebuilding the nation and maintaining order, especially now with the recent surge in looting incidents and the tide of anti-government protests, all stemming from the policies I've recently enacted."Exhaustion etched itself across his face, evident as the clock's hands neared 6:30. Alex yearned for a moment's respite and glanced at the time. Sensing the imminent conclusion of this succinct session, he found a fleeting appreciation for its gravity. Turning his attention back to the cabinet members, alongside his executive assistant, he spoke."We'll adjourn this discussion for now and reconvene in four hours."Grateful for the president's decision, they expressed their appreciation before exiting the presidential office, sensing his need for a brief respite. However, Vice President Fredric and Alex Scregger lingered, seeking something more from the President."What's your primary focus, Mr. President?" they inquired. However, as the President gazed beyond the confines of the US capital, a sense of being put to the test pervaded his thoughts. Despite this, he remained attentive, reclining slightly in his chair before responding succinctly."Maintain our authority and our power."Subsequently, Scregger and Fredric exited the entire office, allowing the President some solitude to ponder the state of the new world and the substantial financial losses detailed to him. The path to reconstruction would undoubtedly be challenging and time-intensive, yet they harboured confidence in their ability to achieve it.• • • • •Island of Jienaro, Aisha Dynasty, 4th regional conference,November 18, 1773| 2:23 PM | 14:23 |Amid the gathered assembly, she stood, a serene facade masking the whirlwind of unease within. His unexpected appearance jolted her from her composed state. They were meant to be in separate spheres, and his sudden presence sent a shiver down her spine. His smug smile, etched with an unnerving intensity in his gaze, sent ripples of discomfort and apprehension through her. It felt as if his piercing stare was a deliberate invasion of her thoughts, leaving her trembling and uneasy in his presence.A hushed tension enveloped many of the attendants; even the most prominent figures, unprepared for this unexpected turn, stood as motionless as statues while whispers among top officials began to murmur."The Prince of the Aetesian Empire has arrived!"The room erupted into a flurry of murmurs and conversations, shattering the once-quiet ambience. Amidst the stir, Prince Gourmet broke the uneasy silence with his voice."Your Majesty, Queen Savannah! I do not appreciate the message brought to me from my capital, declining my institution of marriage for your daughter! And now, facing you at this very moment, I ask for your opinion on not accepting my invitation."The prince's words sliced through the air, his tone a sharp edge against Queen Savannah's calm demeanour. Her posture shifted, a subtle but palpable reaction as if a threat loomed just beside her, unsettling the poised grace she usually exuded."Such a foolish Emperor seeking my approval for a political marriage to benefit the Alervon Kingdom? How dare you speak to me in such a manner after annihilating your family for the sake of the throne? Lady Sevtap, if she were still here with us, would have disowned you for sacrificing everything for the Aetesian Empire!"The prince could only respond with a smug look, his hands raised as if dismissing her anger with a mocking laugh."Princess Elizabeth was already prepared for the marriage, and yet you, Your Majesty! What turned our potential into superpowers? And you shattered it because you deemed it right for Alervon to stand independently! We presented you with an opportunity, and you destroyed it, Queen Savannah. Consequences will arise for your actions."Prince Gourmet arrived, flanked by his Secretary of War, Caspian Draco. Despite Draco's white hair, his appearance remained strangely young and devoid of emotion. He handed her something, and as the weight of the paper settled into her palm, her heart quickened its pace. It was unmistakably a declaration of war. Clutching the papers tightly, she turned her gaze back towards the young prince, a mix of shock and determination flickering in her eyes."There are two options: a defeat you can't possibly win against, or a submission you can choose to take! The latter sounds far more appealing, allowing you to retain your crown while living out your days in the tranquillity of my prison, Your Majesty! Time is ticking!"A smug expression crept over the prince's face, sending a wave of apprehension through everyone in the conference. Shocked and unprepared, the prominent figures could only watch in dismay. Ambassador Senaero Kim found the situation embarrassing and swiftly called for security, realising the gravity of the escalating tension.A while later, Lady Caroline emerged from behind Queen Savannah, her countenance revealing both disappointment at what she had witnessed and a disinterested glance directed at Prince Gourmet.
"My lord, I am Caroline Yarrow, an ambassador and representative of the Republic of Jylon! Cease your pursuit of the Alervon kingdom issue at once, or brace yourself to halt the shipment of weaponry you've been purchasing from our nation."Savannah, the queen, hearing Caroline, says, "But why?!" Her voice carried a tone of betrayal, as though she had been shot in the back. It was shocking to witness her dismay, for she had never fathomed that they would be the primary reason behind the colossal shipment of weapons travelling to the Aetesians for the past five years."Have the Aetesians been purchasing weapons from the Jylon Republic? Why, Ambassador Caroline?" The queen's inquiry held a mix of surprise and disbelief."I'm sorry, I just discovered this has been happening for the past 5 years."Upon learning this revelation, Queen Savannah was devastated and rendered speechless. The weight of the news hung heavily upon her, while in the background, the faint sound of Prince Gourmet's giggling added insult to injury. Caroline, upon finding out, shot a cold look in the direction of the prince, almost as if she hadn't heard the announcement or had chosen not to acknowledge it. Amidst growing despair, the tension in the room heightened.To Prince Gourmet, it was disgusting for a woman to speak down to a man, and he didn't like it. He turned back to March Remington because, despite her position, she is still merely a half-breed of a beast-man, a plague that must be removed from this world if humanity is to flourish."Your ambassador is threatening to withhold the weapons I am sending to my nation. Remington, you had assured me that you would be representing Jylon!""I apologise, My Lord. There were adjustments to the arrangements that I took a secondary role in, but that doesn't mean that future initiatives can't be changed."The last thing Remington conveyed to him was a subtle disapproval, a restrained yet unmistakable sound of dissatisfaction, a mere "Tsk." His gaze then shifted toward Queen Savannah and her cabinet members, noting the collective sternness in their expressions. Sensing the tense atmosphere, Caspian Draco stepped forward to voice the prince's thoughts."Queen Savannah, you need to respond promptly. Failure to do so could have dire consequences."He replied with indifference, but the queen shot him a furious glance. With a sudden surge of anger, she tore the paper in front of her, shredding it on both sides until nothing remained but the confetti of torn pieces falling to the ground below."Your documents hold no value!"Caspian Draco observed their declaration being dismissed, acknowledging her response before turning back to Prince Gourmet. Even he, the prince, was taken aback by the queen's reaction. Knowing well that she wouldn't acquiesce easily, he clenched his teeth tightly and let out a sharp, unsettling laugh. Suddenly, a chained woman emerged from the rear door, holding an orb, and displayed something to the queen.It unveils an illusion—an expansive fleet bearing the flag of the Aetesian Empire, advancing towards Capital Sollan. The sheer magnitude of the illusion reveals Prince Gourmet's true intentions, provoking uncontrollable laughter at the conference in response to the shock he instigated."My forces will ensure you grasp the consequences of your actions, Your Majesty! You alone bear the blame for this historical occurrence. This will serve as a cautionary tale for any ruling queen attempting to control her kingdom.""And I'll make sure that Princess Elizabeth will be able to feast her eyes upon every inch of my body!"As he continued to laugh, the conference and its attendees were astounded and shocked to witness the ruling leader of the Aetesian Empire act in such a manner, despite the submission of the top leaders of the 4th civilization. His true colours were revealed, leaving the gathered representatives helpless; attempting to retaliate against the Aetesian Empire seemed futile and reckless. The queen herself, mortified, began tearing up her documents, overwhelmed by the unfolding events. Even some of the royal guards of the Alervon Kingdom were taken aback, with a few pointing their rifles towards Prince Gourmet in a mixture of shock and uncertainty.As tensions escalated, Royal Guard soldiers appeared behind Prince Gourmet, their rifles aimed squarely at him. Gasps reverberated through the attendees as the startling scene unfolded, prompting everyone present to instinctively distance themselves from the brewing confrontation.Quickly, Remington shouted to Caroline Yellow, "Madame Caroline! Get out of here before you get shot!" A frantic voice pierced the chaos.In response, personal guards for the Jylon representatives rushed in and swiftly seized the ambassador. As onlookers watched in shock, Alervon found themselves isolated at the centre, their Cartesian counterparts standing solely with Prince Gourmet and his entourage."For her, Your Majesty, we will take the honour of executing her this very moment!" The royal guards bellowed, their rifles aimed directly at Prince Gourmet. However, the prince merely chuckled at the attempted display, raising his hands in a gesture inviting them to take a clear shot."Kill me if you dare, Your Majesty! But even with my death, the purge my troops have initiated today will be the last thing you witness. The successor following me will leave you with nothing if you dare to take my life.""On your orders, Your Majesty, please give the command!" The captain shouted, seeking direction.However, amidst the chaos, many attendees refused, some imploring the queen to call it off, while others closed their watches, a sign of their refusal to participate."Lady Savannah," an attendee rose to address her. "Please, this will not end well for either side, including you.""Queen Savannah! Stop this nonsense immediately! This is not how we intended this to end!" Another voice cried out from within the crowd, filled with urgency and concern.As Queen Savannah observed Prince Gourmet's smug expression, a glance to her left revealed Ambassador Senaero Kim, visibly distressed. Beside him stood Ambassador Caroline, both wearing expressions of concern, urging her silently not to make a mistake.She placed her hand on the barrel of the royal guard's rifle, gently lowering it, as she whispered to her soldier, "We will not."The shock of the missed opportunity to eliminate the prince of the Aetesian Empire was palpable. His survival only fueled his laughter, his final words carrying a chilling tone."You may have seen the brighter side, Queen Savannah! But this will be the last time we'll see each other eye to eye ever again. Our forces have already departed for the capital, and it would be better for you to join my forces within my fleet since we would be killing two birds with one stone to visit your small Kingdom."The prince's unexpected, confident declarations left the queen shaken. His odd response to the situation perplexed him; he hadn't anticipated any reaction to his admission of attempting to purge their capital's residents. The confusion was mirrored in the prince and his entourage. However, the queen's unexpected reaction followed suit; she began to laugh uncontrollably, her laughter echoing through the room until her gaze settled back on the prince."Our country will not be purged by your soldiers, for two nations have pledged to protect our independence in the regions of the Griffin."The queen's assertion didn't sway the prince, who responded mockingly, his disbelief evident in his tone."Talk of 'Transported Nations' coming to your aid is nothing but fiction and a fairy tale! Even the Jylon Republic won't aid you now, as we've already conquered and controlled the lands of Griffin. Whatever you say will be dismissed as nonsense, and no one here will believe it.""But it's true!" she retorted. "Once your forces land in Sollan, even if you exterminate my people, support will come for our cause. You'll witness who you truly are—a coward hidden behind strong but subservient followers to the Thurmifiman Empire!"Growing visibly more agitated, the prince's patience wore thin as he prepared to depart the conference. He turned back to glance at Queen Savannah and her parliament, his annoyance evident."But would I have to deal with these nations?" he quipped in a jesting manner. However, the queen responded with a calm smile, saying, "Japan and the United States of America, to be precise. Best of luck."Her words caused a stir in the conference room, drawing everyone's attention. These names were entirely unfamiliar, stirring a sense of anticipation. If her claims were true, it heralded a seismic shift—a harbinger of the beginning of the Aetesian Empire's downfall in the coming weeks.