The Journey of Enlightenment has come to an end. It ended with a ball held in the Imperial Palace, which where the Imperator and the relatives of the Imperator live. The size of the palace is as large as the Central Government Complex and as twice taller as Burj Khalifa. Of course, this place was to accommodate the relatives of the Aurelian line. It comes as a shock to many, that the Aurelian line has hundreds of thousands of descendants, each carrying the superior genome of Aurelian. However, due to the War in Heaven, many of them died. Alas, out of the 200,000 relatives, only 70,000 were left including the new additions. And 25,000 of them are serving as Governors while the rest are either successful entrepreneurs, or commanders of the Militarum, which kept the Aurelian supremacy intact.
It was an event of grandeur, much more than the visitors have seen in their life or during their journey. Of course, this expense is made by the collective contribution of the members of Aurelian, and not a single penny was used from the Imperial Treasury.
This left a clear message to Piña and many of the visitors to this party. That despite the freedom of the people that the Imperium gives them, they can without a doubt, change the Imperium as they wish. The Aurelians are the top 1% of the entire Imperium. Powerful, wealthy, and competent in their duty to the Imperium. They control every aspect of the Imperium, they have limitless control of the Imperium. Yet despite the power, they didn't abuse it. Which was baffling to world leaders. The Aurelians, by default, are an oligarch of power. Yet despite that, they never betray the trust of the Imperium or the Imperator.
Once the visitors have returned to Falmarra Prime, and to their respective nations, the Imperium has become the major talks of the world beyond Alnus GATE. The news crews that documented the entire journey have just released their footage to the public, and it was an outstanding view and scenery.
The scientists have begun conversing and discussing what they have learned, and what knowledge needs to be updated. The influential content creators that have managed to get a seat for the Journey began talking about their experiences in the Imperium. Every media outlet, talk shows, and even individual podcasts are talking about the Imperium. And the sources cannot be refuted. After all, more than a hundred thousand people were able to make the journey, with valid recordings of their experiences, it is hard for people to call it a hoax.
Everything about the Imperium was discussed. From their level of technology, to be able to conquer not just the stars but also nature to terraform a planet was an outstanding feat. From their level of military, to be able to have hundreds of thousands of starships and billions of soldiers. Their healthcare, their welfare programs, their education, and the many races lived in harmony, it was something that the people of Earth never imagined before. It goes so far, as people began to adopt the beliefs of Aurelian, believing that it was the best version of humanity. And it was just as hoped for the Imperium, so that the people can open their eyes and their minds, and do what is right for humanity.
As for the leaders of the world, they were in a difficult spot. Sure, their scientists have learned something from the Imperium, but they weren't able to negotiate any kind of deal with the Imperium. And they can't force it either, lest the Imperium decided to ignore them completely. It wasn't helping that people of their nation began to adopt Aurelism, as they began their political move on the populace to spread the word. Aurelism becomes fungi to the nations, and they can't scratch it either. Some leaders even go so far as to adopt it themselves, and with the support of their people change one's national ideology to Aurelism.
Back at Falmart, Piña returned to Sadera. Everyone was wondering where she could have gone with her retinue, she disappeared for more than a week, and she in response said that she was gathering intel on both enemies of Helnus and Alnus. Of course, it was a ruse.
Piña has deliberated upon the Saderan Senate of the enemy. Their enemy's generals, their manpower, what was their motive, and the things needed for the enemy to field such force according to the standards of Sadera. Piña was seen as a courageous woman, who dared to spy on the enemy and was regarded as a hero. In truth, all the things she spouted were the things that both JSDF and the Militarum allowed her to tell.
Retiring to her palace, she was already exhausted as it is. Her body ached, especially her lower bottom as she was sitting too long. It has been five months of excruciating work, all the preparation that she needs to make sure her plans go well.
"Another hard day?"
She looked at the person who said it and saw her assigned liaison and aide, Mr. Owen Smith. According to the Imperium's reports, Mr. Owen is a man of diligence, and punctuality while also able to be the most laid-back person of his entire batch of the Imperial Academy graduate. He served in the Militarum, before taking a life of diplomacy. He has been staying at her palace ever since she arrived, as his duty is to be another aide of her and relay orders from the Imperium.
"You know how it is, Mr. Owen. Now with my status as a hero of the Empire, I've been getting marriage proposals left and right from the many nobles." Piña complained.
"Anyone interesting?" He asked as he walked beside her.
"Not really. Well, I admit there are some good-looking ones. And some beneficial ones to any noblewoman." She said. "Unfortunately, they are not my type."
"Is that so? Or is it that none of them, is Young Master Lucius?"
Piña had to choke on her saliva, her face beet red and all flustered up. Mr. Owen looked at her with an amused look on his face, smirking annoyingly as well. And to her dismay, her retinue was the same as they giggled seeing their beloved princess all flustered.
"S-Shut up! Jeez! I thought you were here to help me, not to tease me every time you have a chance." She complained while her face was still red.
"I am multipurpose, Madam Governor. I am to be your aide, your liaison, and your friend." He said. "And friends tease each other that makes them flustered."
"Consider this the payback from the Gods when we were in Sankai Rokaku, my lady," Bozes said.
"And how you were so enraptured by the charming gaze of the Young Master when you two danced on the ball... Like the paintings of Da Vinci, as they say. Don't deny you have feelings for him, my lady." Hamilton joined in the fun.
Pinã could wish she could bury herself, every time with Owen, she was always teased about Young Master Lucius. And she can't do anything, because her retinue always sided with him.
Then she looked back to what happened back at the Ball. Truly, a ball befitting the most powerful dynasty in the entire Galaxy. She had to admit, all Aurelians were attractive as if they were crafted by the gods, handcrafted to be angels.
Yet, her eyes are on Lucius. Her heart was elated, it feels it could burst every time she thinks of him. Especially when they danced, her scarlet eyes only see his blue, enraptured, and charmed by the Young Master. They danced away that night, and it was a beautiful dance too. It was a trance she hoped to recreate.
"Enough of the teasing. Now, about the luncheon? With Senator Cicero?"
Piña was brought out from her daydream and was about to answer him.
"It is tomorrow. Madam Governor will have the luncheon by tomorrow. You will attend as well." Hamilton said. "Then you and Madam Governor will have a dinner party with Count Dussie, and in between will be a meeting with Lord Shandee. I hope everything is going well on your part?"
"Cerberus soldiers already infiltrated the city since noon. They are well hidden, and will always be around Madam Governor's vicinity so that they are able to defend her." Owen said. "If anything goes awry, all Madam Governor do is call them through the earpiece that will be given tomorrow."
"And what about the progress of my eldest brother, Zorzal?" Piña asked.
"It is going as planned. Our people have already infiltrated his palace. It is as you say, he is a vile man. He doesn't even bother to hide his sex slaves." Owen said. "The sooner we get rid of him, the better."
"Agreed. What about that other variable, Tyuule was it?"
"We are in progress in contacting her. And it appears that she is also having her own plots despite her being a slave. Many of our operators have reported a slight trace of energy similar to that of Psionic energy which you refer to as Mana, coming from her cell." Owen said. "You said she is a captured queen of the Voglians that was made to be Zorzal's personal sex slave. Is that correct?"
"Indeed."
"Then perhaps she is plotting to exact revenge on him. Possibly trying to tear the Empire asunder."
"We'll leave her machinations be. I have no intent in saving the Empire anyways, all I want was to save my people. And the plague of my people is the Empire." Piña said. "Still, continue contacting her. We might be able to cooperate and bring down my father and brother."
"Understood, Madam Governor."
••••••
Owen found himself eating the food that was presented to the guest. He's now in the residence of Sen. Cicero, feasting the food along with several lesser nobles with their partners and families along with Pinã, and the new sudden addition, Sugawara from Japanese Foreign Affairs. He was sent from Alnus that night, as per agreement from the Young Master to allow the Japanese to have what is theirs, compensation. While they still lived in the Roman era, Owen has had to admit that the food was superb.
"You were right, I might need an extra stomach to eat all this. The food is superb." Owen said.
"I told you. This is one of the many things I wish to preserve and save." She said.
"You might need some stomach medicine, Mr. Owens. You're eating like you never eat before," Sugawara commented.
"A force of habit. I was in the frontier of the last war, and it was a necessity to eat everything in case the enemy attacked." Owen explained.
"The War in Heaven is really that bad, huh?" Sugawara asked sympathetically.
"You don't know the half of it. That war is a taxing war. I volunteered to join the Militarum and resigned when the war was over. There are times when the Custodian Forces have the advantage, and there are times when we are cornered by sheer pressure and numbers from the enemy." Owen said, his face turned stoic and emotionless. "One of which is the Battle of Kalaksha Prime, a battle I personally fought in. The Planet's control was split evenly between the Custodian and the Ravernals, as well as the orbit above as our fleets kept on assaulting the enemy for years. The enemy always have reinforcements coming, and so did we, which adds to the lengthy battle. While the navy fought on, we fought on the surface with everything we got. The stalemate caused the battle to evolve into trench warfare. It's WWI all over again. And with the navy can't help as the turning point, we were stuck. I lost many good friends there, comrades, brothers in arms. It took the battle five years, and it was the longest five years of my life."
Before anything to say about it, the commotion became even livelier, as the host of the party arrived. He was already surrounded by many of the guests, trying to win his favor and good grace.
"Cicero La Martos. Head of the Martos Clan. The Martos clan has been one of the Empire's most important families throughout its history, and he has tremendous influence within the Senate. Though one of the Hawks, he's one willing to talk." Piña said. "After the annihilation at Alnus and Helnus, the Empire's army is rebuilding itself. All the while the Senate is split on which of two directions they should go."
"Let me guess, Imperial Faction that remains loyal to the Emperor and wants to gather every available force they can get their hands on under the Emperor's authority. And the Senatorial faction that wants peace and wants to curb the Emperor's powers as he started this whole shebang, is that correct?"
"Indeed. They want the new military to answer to the Senate so that it might be used... to persuade both Japan and the Imperium to return beyond the gate peacefully." Piña said. "That is the main goal, essentially. In other words, the Doves will work with us. Although they will do what is demanded by Japan, it will need additional effort to... ' persuade ' them to follow through the Imperium's will."
"Still, I seem unable to follow what Japan gains in this." Sugawara wonders. "Yes, we would have our demands met, but the planet will eventually belong to the Imperium. While we have already arranged an agreement, Is there any word of assurance that our demands are met, Mr. Owens?"
"Have no fear, Mr. Sugawara. The Imperium will keep our end. Economic Cooperation will eventually be formed between us, you will have your rights to exploit natural resources as agreed three days ago." Owen said reassuringly. "Just remember the boundaries we set up, and we'll be just fine. Don't want to invoke the attention of the Custodes."
For the last five months, and ever since the Journey of Enlightenment, Japan has begun proactively making relations with the Imperium. It was relentless hard work, to make sure that Morita's cabinet can guarantee that Japan and the Imperium can go into a sort of agreement. Many times they tried to appease and strike a deal with the Imperium, and time again they failed. Most of the time because Japan has literally nothing of value to trade over.
However, three days ago, it all changed for the better for Japan. Morita has struck a rather controversial deal with the Imperium, and only his cabinet knew of the deal. With economic cooperation between the two nations and the right to share the exploit of Falmarra Prime, Morita's cabinet will promote and endorse Imperium's beliefs to the general populace. It was a deal that the Imperium couldn't refuse, and a deal that many have foreseen. Of course, Morita and the majority of his cabinet are now in favor of the Imperium's values after the journey. And it is his desire to join the Imperium.
It would take a decade or two for Japan to fully embrace Aurelism, and embrace the Imperium by estimation. But, two decades is a short time for the people of the Imperium. Maybe even sooner, if an event arose to their need. Of course, the Imperium has set boundaries that the Japanese government must follow if they want to exploit the natural resource there. While it would look bad for a sovereign nation to submit to another nation's demands and terms, this is the Imperium. An interstellar nation that wields extraordinary power, one that many would consider to be foolish to deny, even though the Imperium is being nice about it and is willing to renegotiate.
"Great. Now all we need to do now is to meet the noble. But, I take it that will take a while, seeing so many people are paying their full attention to him." Sugawara said.
"True, but most girls are paying attention to the both of you," Piña said.
"What do you mean by that?"
"Oh, you dense child. Do you not notice the lusting glances the young girls here are giving us?"
Sugawara then paid more attention, and it was as said. Many of the young ladies are looking at them with such adoration and lust, so much so it creeps Sugawara out.
"You two are lucky, the girls seemed to look at me with envy and hate," Piña said. "Then again, they would be if I was taking the attention of two of the most handsome-looking men in their entire life. But, I've seen more handsome in the Imperium."
"Yeah, a certain someone named-"
*THWACK*
Owen writhed in pain, Piña just kicked him hard right in the shin with the pointy end of her shoe. Owen tried his best not to cuss, as it would draw attention while Sugawara sweatdrops as he saw the two.
"Anywho, we have a lot to do so I am going to get Lord Cicero's attention. Just be ready when I signal you two over."
While the two waited, again they were pestered by the gazes of the many ladies in the party. Some even tried to make their move, only to find a dead end as the two declined their advances.
A man approached the two, one they were familiar with as he was a part of Sugawara's staff.
"Princess Piña is calling you over. We have a private audience with the Lord Cicero and his lady wife." He said.
Both men simply nodded, as they followed the man to where the meeting is supposed to happen. They eventually find themselves in front of a door that is guarded by Lord Cicero's own soldiers. They were allowed entry, and they found themselves in a spacious room where the two assumes that Lord Cicero handles his guests more privately.
"Lord Cicero, these two fine gentlemen are Lord Sugawara and Lord Owen. Lord Sugawara is the special ambassador from Japan, while Lord Owen is the special ambassador from the Imperium." Pinã introduced them to Lord Cicero.
Lord Cicero is an old man with natural blond short hair, his body posture is that of a man who has seen his fair share of battles, looking strong and rather robust. His wife is a rather big woman, she looks to be prosperous considering how big she is. Not that both men wanted to make fun of her, they were simply making an observation of things.
By the looks of it, they are already committed to each other, seeing how they are still married. Usually, noblemen with power like Lord Cicero would want to pursue someone younger and with vigor. It's a sign that they need to take notice, there are a lot of variables from one's standing.
"Greetings, Lord Cicero." Both Sugawara and Owen greeted.
"Forgive me, 'Japan'? 'Imperium'? I have never heard of such countries before." He said. "What is it like?"
"Let me see... two of our nations are beautiful countries, with four seasons, forests, and clean water," Sugawara said.
"Water, you say?" Cicero said nonchalantly and unamazed, while his wife could be seen holding a stifle of laugh, obviously making fun of the two. "It must be a country with great natural beauty."
You have no idea... Piña thought to herself.
"We've brought some items from our countries as gifts," Owen said. "We hope you'll accept them."
Sugawara's staff began to push a trolley filled with ornaments and accessories. In which all of them are in the double, with the difference that the sword of choice for the Imperium was a Scimitar.
It made the old senator gape his mouth in surprise and awe, to see such quality work made. He inspected the swords, and each made him truly in awe by the quality of it.
"My apologies, your countries seemed to be possessed of talented craftsmen." He said. "And yet, I've never heard of Japan and the Imperium before. Where is Japan and the Imperium?"
"Of course, you would not know. After all... The Empire is at war with them, the other worlds beyond the GATEs." Owen said.
Both Cicero and his wife were beyond shock, the envoys of the enemy have arrived before them.
"Princess Piña?!! What in the gods' name are you thinking?!?! Even if you're a princess, this is an act of treason!!" Cicero said. "Guards!!! Guards!!! Seize them!!!"
The door opens, although the one who came from it is not what Cicero expected. Not one of his guards, but a devil in black, just like the description of the 20,000 men who were left of the Helnus Annihilation.
"Soldier, is the estate secured?" Piña asked the devil, who by Cicero's ear seemed foreign.
"Indeed, Madam Governor. As you ordered, the estate is secured. The armed guards are all neutralized. Some of us already posed as the guards, to their dismay." The devil said.
"Good. Keep an eye on the guests. If they attempt to leave the premise, let them be. We must maintain secrecy for the time being." Piña ordered.
"By your orders, Madam Governor."
The devil left the room, and the room was left with an uncomfortable silence. Well, it was uncomfortable for Cicero and his wife.
"That, Lord Cicero, is one of the best soldiers of the Imperium. One of the many in this estate that already defeated your armed guards." Owen said. "Which means, we have you under our custody. Your guests, your servants, everything you have, and there is nothing you can do. Except, you listen to what we have to say."
Lord Cicero was stumped, he didn't know if what Owen said is true or not, but he doesn't want to risk it. He had to swallow his pride, for the sake of safety.
"...Fine... Before that... Why? Why princess? What do you gain from this?"
"Simple, Lord Cicero. The Empire is failing. Even before the whole mess my father made, the Empire is already rotting from the inside. It has been plagued by corruption, and injustice because of the power many have abused. The arrival of the Imperium and Japan only speeds up the entire process where the Empire is sure to crumble." Piña said. "It just so happens that the Imperium gives me a choice, a choice to save the people. The Empire is sure to crumble, but its culture and people will live on. That is why I side with the Imperium."
"Even so, there's always a chance for the Empire to be better. Why must you forsake the Empire?" Cicero asked her again.
"Are you taking me for a fool, Lord Cicero? I have seen the truth of the Empire. I assure you, the Empire is nothing but the shadow of righteousness it once was. And in any case, there will be no chance for the Empire to survive or even win against the combined might of the Imperium and Japan." She said. "The Empire is doomed, and I must be the one to preserve many of our people from certain destruction. Now, I ask you to cooperate and listen to what we have to say. All will be explained in due time. And I assure you, my choice to follow through with the will of the Imperator is the right choice."
Lord Cicero was perplexed. He doesn't want to believe it, but his guards are all veterans that he had personally hired, all of them are skilled warriors. To have them all defeated in a short time is no small feat, meaning they are all-powerful. And by the Princess's words, she is adamant about keeping her belief in the enemy.
"... What is it that you want?"
Sugawara passed him a piece of paper. When he opened it, it was a picture. The picture was so real, he couldn't believe his eyes. More to that, it was his nephew, who seemed to be in chains and is guarded heavily by the same devils. But he was confused, he sent his nephew to Alnus, yet the devils are from Helnus.
"Your nephew is within our custody, thanks to the prisoner transfer of all Saderan prisoners from the Japanese government. With him, is another 21,000 men who we have captured and made prisoner." Owen said. "Princess Pinã has already offered to end this futile resistance of the Saderan Empire against the Imperium and Japan, and in exchange, we will release the prisoners. Including your nephew."
"And in exchange, we wish you to either stay out of the way or assist us in our effort to end this 'war'." Piña continued. "I am going to deliver this news to the Dussies, their relatives are also still alive."
Cicero weighs on the situation. At one point, his nephew will be released. Along with the rest of the prisoners, and the end of the war. On another point, the Empire will sure to cease to exist. It was a hard decision for a man like him. And one thing left unquestioned.
"Is there anything else you wish of me?" Cicero asked.
Piña smiled, she knew Lord Cicero is a smart man. She turned to Owen and signals him something. Owen understood what she meant, and pulled out a scroll as large as his forearm from the bag that he carries around. He passes it on to Pinã, in which she opened the said scroll.
"By the Will of the Imperator, the Galactic Imperium hereby demands that House Martos, the ancient house of Sadera swear allegiance to the Imperium, to Piña Co Lada as the Governor of Falmarra Prime and Falmarra Sector. To swear allegiance to the Young Master of the Imperium, Lucius Aurelius. To swear allegiance to Augustus Aurelius III, Imperator of the Galactic Imperium, Overlord of Half of the Known Galaxy, Head of the Galactic Custodes, and Lord Protector of all Species. As well as to swear undying loyalty to the People of the Imperium." She read a part of the contents within. "That is what was demanded of House Martos by the Imperator. Now, what say you?"
"And what if I refuse?" Cicero asked.
"Then this will be the very last time we will ever speak," Piña said ambiguously.
Cicero knows the meaning. He looked to his wife, asking her for guidance. With a shaky nod, she stands to whatever her husband decides without even saying it.
"Very well, I swear allegiance to you, Princess. And to the Imperium as well." He said. "I'll be happy to do what you ask, and I hope you will remember my nephew..."
He bent down on his knees, as Piña gives her hand for him to kiss. That is how nobility in the Saderan Empire vow allegiance, and now House Martos's fealty is secured.
••••••
HELNUS CENTCOM
Drowned in a sea of workload, Lucius stretched his aching muscles. He has been working tirelessly since 3 AM, and now it's already afternoon. All he did was review requests and reports coming from the men. Starting from additional resources to be allocated to Italica, to recon reports of slave camps across the empire, and another request of resource allocation to the development of the town near the CENTCOM itself.
He was supposed to have the work cut out some for him, as is the purpose of having his friends come along in the first place. But, he already promised them a vacation, and he had given them months of vacation for them to enjoy. The day after tomorrow would be the day when his teammates will return to active duty.
Sipping a cup of coffee, he began daydreaming as he had no other thing to do. His mind began to wander around until it latched on to a specific memory. The ball in the Imperial Palace.
He remembered everything clearly, despite being quite under the influence of alcohol. Especially, when he asked Piña to dance with him the entire night. Truth be told, he had no idea why he had asked her to dance. But he did so anyway, maybe it was because of the influence of his Psyche.
That Psyche of his tends to stick its psionic nose to his business, and at times he was annoyed by it. And because he was a bit under the influence, his Psyche could have just influenced him to dance with Piña. That, or he was just drunk. It would be hypocritical of him if it was, considering he always berates those who got drunk during service. Then again, his dancing with her wasn't a bad idea.
He remembered her sweet smile, adornrd on her face for as long as they danced. How she was bashful the entire time, flustered as the distance between them was almost none existent. To be that close, and this time it wasn't forced like the last time in Italica, is a pleasant vibe.
"Yeah... it wasn't a bad idea after all..." He muttered.
But his daydreaming was cut short, as his holo-comms went alive.
"Young Master, forgive me for intrusion."
Lucius looked at the man who contacted him, it was Major General Zheng, the man he assigned as liaison to the JSDF.
"Yes, Zheng. What is the matter?"
"A request, Young Master. From Lieutenant General Hazama himself. I have him with me if you wish to speak to him." Zheng said.
"Get me the Lieutenant General. It's better off that we speak eye to eye." He said.
Zheng bowed, as he moved from the projection. And in his place, Hazama walked in.
"General Lucius, I hope I didn't intrude on you on anything important," Hazama said.
"I was just sorting out my work, Lieutenant General. If anything, you just pull me another few minutes of rest. What is it?"
"Well, a few months ago we received a strange request from a representative of the Dark Elves. She came to us asking for help, in eliminating the Fire Dragon that has been terrorizing the civilians here." Hazama said. "While we want to help, we simply cannot authorize a hit order on the dragon itself without the approval of either the Prime Minister or Diet."
"I have received reports of the sudden influx of civilians arriving in both Italica and Helnus Town, seeking refuge from the Alpha Class War Beast," Lucius said. "Indeed, the Fire Dragon has become a thorn, and we have just conducted a search for the beast just recently. So far, we haven't got any luck in searching for the beast."
"We have information about the beast, although I will ask for a request. Even though we have confirmation of the beast, the Prime Minister and the Diet still don't allow us to conduct any actions against it. And I don't think we will have any clearance any time soon. And to the fact that the beast is located somewhere in the Elbe Kingdom," Hazama said. "Which is why, I wish to deliver you my request. On behalf of the JSDF in Special Regions, I ask you to eliminate the beast."
"Even though we are planning, I don't think that's all you wish to relay to me, is it?" Lucius asked.
"Indeed. Itami has asked for permission to eliminate the beast alone. His motive is that the elf, Tuka Luna Marceau, is currently in an unstable mental state. Due to the fact her father was killed by the Fire Dragon, and thus considers Itami as her long-deceased father." Hazama said. "I was thinking that Itami should be allowed to join, along with those who join him. I know it's a bit selfish of us, but it would help a lot."
"Nonsense, General Hazama. It is within the moral mission of the Militarum to help those in need. I'll see to it that a strike force is to be sent to deal with this threat." Lucius said. "If that is all, I wish to return to my duties."
"Of course, I shall leave you to it. Thank you again for accepting my selfish request."
The transmission was cut off short, leaving Lucius alone with his work once more. He continue to do his job until every single one of it was done. He also had the time to arrange a strike force to rendezvous with Itami in Alnus and eliminate the Alpha Class threat. However, he was reminded of something far more important. He used his holo-comms once more, contacting a certain someone.
"Young Master, what is your command?"
"At ease, Owen. I just want to ask you about the current situation. How are things with the new Governor?" He asked.
"She is committed to the job, and she is showing great promise. She had manipulated the many nobles of Sadera needed for her plans, she is as expected." Owen reported. "We just secured the cooperation of House Dussie. And many more to be 'persuaded'."
"Good then. Is there anything I can send you to help?"
"Well, firepower. Princess Piña is planning to house a feast in the coming days. It's a front to conceal the true meaning, which is to showcase firepower. While the firepower we currently have is adequate enough to scare the nobles to shit their pants, I was wondering if we can get more gear. Like a Thor APC, or Centurion MBTs." Owen explained. "That is if you allow us. It would really 'persuade' those nobles even better than what we have."
"I allow it, say how is our outpost in Sadera?"
"Both our forces and the JSDF have faced resistance from the local gangsters, one of the crime families thinks they're some hot shit. Well, they are when we turn them with our plasma rifles, they certainly become hot shit, or whatever what's left of them." Owen reported. "Ever since then, we had no other hostile encounters in the slums. And the rest of the crime families are very cooperative, scared shitless, and always get out of our way."
"Good. Everything is going as planned. The situation is going in our favor thus far. Send my regards to the Governor, you all have done well." Lucius praises.
"You are too kind, Young Master. We're simply doing our job."
"And you're doing excellent work. Keep at it. I'll leave it to you now, I still have some work to do."
Owen simply nodded, and the transmission was cut off shortly. Truly, the situation is in the favor of the Imperium. With Japan endorsing Imperium beliefs, Piña's plans are going smoothly, things seemed to be looking great on his part. But not so much on the rest of the galaxy.
It has been five months, and the war between the Galactic Sildor Coalition and the Resufitors Allied Suns seemed to never end. Nations still flock to either side, swearing their support for one against the other. The Imperium has been busy deploying their numerous Classis in hopes that their intervention ceases hostility, as any Interstellar Navies of many nations would be foolish enough to engage the Imperium Navy.
Last he heard the Imperator and the High Command of the Militarum have enacted their strategy, to force the two warring factions to their knees. As many in the Galaxy are dependent on the usage of Hyper Lanes, they have decided to enact a total blockade of various Hyper Lane chokepoints systems in order to slow or completely disable the mobility of belligerent forces from ever reaching their destination. And since the Imperium doesn't rely on Hyper Lanes, it would be easy for the Imperium to reach and blockade them. But, this tactic would surely need quite the budget to maintain, which means that his budget in dealing with the Saderans would be decreased and reallocated to where it is more needed. Not that he minded, especially with the Assault Legions already in the progress of construction of their bases. He was more upset, that the two warring factions remain insistent on killing each other and destroying many lives rather than making up for the past. Despite the Imperium being one of the most powerful nations there is, and the largest compared to the rest, it is not plausible for the Imperium to simply take over the galaxy, while it is the easiest to enforce order it's not necessarily the greatest idea as it would severely hurt the economy.
As he was just finishing the last, another transmission was received to his holo-comms. And this one is what Lucius had hoped to hear the progress. The comms projected a woman. Blond hair tied into a ponytail, wearing a white coat with a greyish-white uniform, a uniform assigned to scientists.
"Dr. Isabella, I take it you have something for me?"
"Indeed, Young Master. We have made a breakthrough in deciphering the anomaly in Rondel. It is as suspected, it is a supercomputer." She said. "However, the origins of this device you will not find it nicely with you as I did with many of my colleagues. The Supercomputer in Rondel, is Ravernal in design."
This is a piece of shocking news. Sure, they have suspected they will meet anything Ravernal-related in this system. But to encounter it on Falmarra Prime of all places? And if a supercomputer belonged to the Ravernals here, what was the purpose?
"Are you certain?" Lucius asked.
"Indeed, Young Master. We have confirmed it to be so, and we have uncovered some of its secrets. We have detected an underground facility beneath the Great Library of Rondel." She said. "We have yet to uncover the ways to enter the said facility, but it wouldn't be long until it is revealed to us."
"Correct me if I'm wrong, but the Great Library of Rondel, along with the entire city was founded by the local's gods?"
"Indeed, Young Master. La and Elange, twin siblings gods of Learning and Knowledge." She said. "Legend says that they possess knowledge beyond any mortal or gods have, it also said that the first thing they built was the library."
"I see. Then the twin 'gods' must have discovered something. Considering it is a Super Computer, they might have used the device for their own use." Lucius said. "Continue in your research, Dr. Isabella. Report to me any updates you have."
"By your will, Young Master."
The transmission was cut off and left the Young Master in confusion. If the Ravernals even bother to place a Super Computer here in Falmarra Prime, then something important might've happened here eons ago before the whole War in Heaven. Or during the war, yet they tried to erase any records about it. In any case, the importance of Falmarra Prime doubles as he began to take in the information. The Imperium will figure it out anyway, one way or another.
••••••
The day on which the feast has arrived. Everyone is doing their part to their utmost ability to make it perfect. The diplomatic team from Japan under Sugawara is in charge of the culinary, and everything there is to the feast. If the feast is a success, then by default it will give them a good light in the eyes of the nobles. Sugawara's team was also assisted by maids from Italica, courtesy of Marchioness Myui and some of Piña's own retinue to help.
While Owen's team, they were in charge of the real purpose of the meeting. A company from Alnus has arrived with their equipment to showcase the head nobles, their rifles along with 81mm Mortars. While on the Militarum's part would be Plasma Rifles, 81mm Plasma Mortars, PATGMs with their Pila Launchers, and thanks to the authorization from the Young Master, one Thor APC IFV variant and one Centurion MBT. Owen had also arranged for the JSDF to give them some of the vehicles they use like the Toyota High Mobility Vehicle, the Komatsu LAV, and the Type 74 MBT for demonstration use. Of course, the JSDF agreed under the condition that observers are to be sent to the site and they are to be fully compensated, to which Owen agreed by the blessings of the Young Master.
All preparations are completed hours ago, and now all they need to do now is to wait for the guests to arrive. After an hour of waiting, the first of the many arrived in droves in their luxurious carriages. And with that, the feast began as the nobles enjoy themselves in the food and the drinks provided. It comes to their pleasure that the service, food, and scenery are all perfect for them.
"Everything seems to be going well, Madam Governor," Owen said.
"Indeed. Everything is as planned." Piña said. "The nobles are enjoying it, which is a good cover. Say, how goes the demonstration? Is everything ready?"
"All set, Madam Governor. We can just invite the important ones right to the back." Owen said.
"How about my brother? Any news of him?" She asked again.
"No news whatsoever yet, but that man is under heavy surveillance. He can't even throw a booger without us knowing." Owen said.
Piña nodded, everything is as she wanted. She planned it out, for every outcome, for every possibility, and with the bitter experience during the Italica fiasco, she's more wise in playing her cards.
"Still, I am more surprised that House Formar sends only human maids," Sugawara commented.
"This is the capital, after all. Humancentric, racist, and prejudiced society. One that will be one of the things that will bring the Empire down." Piña said. "This is what I want to change. If not, forget the Empire collapsing, the people will die eventually."
"I see. I guess It's no surprise that the nobilities are all humans."
As the trio wander their thoughts on the state of the Saderan Empire, they were caught off guard by a call.
"Lord Sugawara!"
All eyes are on a teenage girl, 12 years of age. A very short girl, her hair is tied up into twin tails, and she has big eyes. The girl seemed to be out of breath, as it appears she was just running to their position.
"Me?"
The young girl attached herself to Sugawara, as she wraps her arms around Sugawara's left arm, holding it close to her barely developing chest. She looked at him with those big eyes of hers, with determination, which Sugawara find hard to figure what she was determined on.
"My cousin's been showing off her pearl necklace to me. So I can't enjoy the party at all!" The young girl said. "I'm feeling very frustrated, Lord Sugawara! Isn't there anything you can do?"
Just as Sugawara was about to answer, she was immediately snatched away by a lady, not much younger than Sugawara.
"Stop that. Lord Sugawara, please forgive her rudeness. Sherry, don't cause trouble!" The lady reprimanded her, which seemed to be her mother who was followed by a man who seemed to be the father.
"They're with the Tyueri family. They're related to Marquess Casel, leader of the Doves Senators." Piña told them whispering.
As the family began to walk away, Sugawara followed, which amused both Owen and Piña.
"Please, wait a moment," Sugawara called out.
The family turned, while the parents seemed to be curious, the girl named Sherry seemed to be surprised by his gesture.
"Please, don't scold your daughter," Sugawara said, as he approached the young girl and placed a hand on one of her shoulders. "Lady Sherry, you mustn't cause trouble for your parents. If you're a good girl, I'm sure you'll receive a good present. Without a doubt."
He said as he smiled warmly at her, which caused a reaction Sugawara did not expect. She was elated, and a small hint of blush can be seen on her cheeks. She breaks free of Sugawara's hands, curtsied, and rushes away. Seeing the situation was somewhat Sugawara wanted, he returned to the other two.
"My, you're quite the seducer," Piña said. "She'll soon get a Japanese pearl necklace that'll make her cousin jealous, correct?"
"It would be nice to have a connection to Marquess Casel. After all, we all want this war to end." He said.
"Yeah, but there's something you miss," Owen said. "Did you see the look on her face?"
"Hm? What about it?" Sugawara asked, completely oblivious to what he had done.
"Oh, you dense twat! You seriously didn't realize?!"
"Wh-what do you mean?" Sugawara asked again, still oblivious and confused.
"She fell in love with you. And with what you promised her, she becomes more enamored by you." Piña explained. "Now, she truly believes that you will eventually marry her when she is of age."
"Surely you jest..."
Sugawara looked at the girl again, and her eyes meet his. She became bashful, a blush visibly seen on her cheeks.
"... Oh crap."
"Oh, crap indeed. Now, I better call the police. We got ourselves a lolicon here." Owen teased.
"I-I'm not a lolicon!" Sugawara denies it, embarrassed about what he just did.
"Say, what's the come of age in the Imperium again?" Piña asked.
"Every planet differs. Depends on the Governor or the Planetary Leader." Owen said.
"Well, Mr. Sugawara here might just marry her after all," Piña said. "As my first act as Governor, I will have the come of age of civilians in Falmarra Prime to 16 years old!"
"Congratulations, Mr. Sugawara. You are the first man in the entire Imperium and Japan to marry a minor."
"C-can you two just stop teasing me about it?!" Sugawara said as he was beet red. Unbeknownst to him, Sherry was still keeping her eyes on him, and she takes it differently.
Both Piña and Owen are having a laugh, as Sugawara was annoyed, and embarrassed.
Time passes by, and the trio now are in an open field where it was rather far away from the party. The JSDF was the first to demonstrate its firepower. The invited nobles are all influential within the senate. Many of them are Doves while there are also some Hawks. But with them as well, are observers for the demonstration from the Imperium. As a line of soldiers aimed at the dummies wearing Legionnaire armor with shields, they began to fire semi-auto. Each time they fire, the armor and shields shred apart like a piece of paper. After they were done, the nobles were left dumbstruck.
"What do you think? This is the power of the Type 64 Rifle-"
The instructor was surprised as Senator Cicero pounced at him in terror and desperation.
"Sell it to us! No, how do we make these?" Lord Cicero began to rant away.
"How many of these 'rifles' do you have?" Count Dussie joins in, as do many other nobles.
"I-I can't tell you the details, but each soldier has one." The instructor said.
The nobles were shocked. If each of the 10,000 JSDF soldiers has one, they can decimate any encountering Legionnaire.
"Next, I'll show you the mortars." the Instructor said.
As the men below began to ready themselves, the nobles again were caught in shock. If the equipment is that big, so will the damage it will cause.
"Half Load!"
"Half Load, Ready!"
"Fire!"
The booming sound of the mortars hurts the ear of the nobles, and Piña does too as she wasn't accustomed to it. Soon, an explosion happened much farther, farther than a regular bowman could reach with their arrows. And with that scale of destruction, it would surely decimate any legions coming.
Cicero began to imagine what would happen next. These weapons of destruction were used against the capital. Without so much effort, they could level the capital with ease. He looked towards Piña, he understands why she would turn to the enemy. But something was amiss, Princess Piña swear her allegiance to the Imperium. And this is the JSDF, not the Imperium. He wondered if the Imperium would be much more deadly and destructive.
"Now, comes the demonstration of the Militarum of the Galactic Imperium."
Soldiers from both JSDF and Cerberus began preparing for the demonstration. The first one will be the Plasma Rifle, and to the surprise of the nobles, there are three different dummies placed for each soldier to aim. One was their own legionnaire armor and shield, the second was a full armor the nobles have never seen before, and the last was the armor that the JSDF wore.
After it was placed, a group of Cerberus soldiers lined up and aimed toward the dummies.
"Half Output!" The instructor yelled. "Fire!"
The rifles spew out small energy blasts from the nozzle, and to the nobles, it was as if seeing a mana blast. The blast was continuous, and it melt all armor they fired upon. Their armor, the full iron armor, and the armor the JSDF wore. All of them, melt into a liquid mess, and the Cerberus didn't stop until the armor before them is completely annihilated.
"That is the power of our humble Plasma Rifle, the APR-10. It can generate heat over 20,000° Celcius, enough to melt tungsten or any material in that matter, or in other words, enough to melt the Fire Dragon's scales for each shot." The Instructor for the Cerberus explained.
"Excuse me, are all soldiers of the Militarum mages?" Count Dussie asked. "Because to us, it seems like your soldiers just cast out a mana blast."
"No, our soldiers aren't mages. We don't have magic to begin with. What you witness just now, is pure work of science. Every soldier has it, and they are well equipped." The Instructor said. "Let us continue on to the demonstration."
Now, it's the 81mm Plasma Mortars to be in action.
"Half Load!"
"Half Load, Ready!"
"Fire!"
Again the booming sound of the mortar reverberates with the spectating nobles and observers from the JSDF. Soon, an explosion happened in the same spot. Only this time, it was much greater.
"The Plasma Mortar is an enhanced version of a regular mortar. How it works is that the projectile is infused with plasma energy, which we can't tell you what energy it was since it is classified. The infused projectile enhances the power of the explosion, making it an even better killing machine." The Instructor said. "Continue on to the vehicles!"
Then many personnel of the JSDF parked their armored vehicles away on the field, while some placed the dummies again. Only this time, in a much larger number. Then, out came the Thor APC, and everyone was in awe to see it. The nobles are baffled, the iron carriage floats, something that only magic could do, yet they deny using any magic at all.
"This is the Thor APC, a vehicle that we use as a form of secure transportation for our soldiers. These babies are also equipped with plasma weapons to counter enemy assault. The one before you is an Infantry Fighting Vehicle variant, designed specifically to eliminate enemy infantry." The instructor said, as he then activate the comms. "Iox 1-2, commence demonstration."
The turret of the gun swivels, as the Thor APC began to open fire at the dummies. Both the observers and the nobles were baffled by the sheer fire rate. To the observers, they might as well be equipped with an equivalent of a CRAM. Then the turret swivels towards one of the armored vehicles that was parked very far and fired on it. The vehicle exploded and went into flames, shocking those who spectate.
"Now, we continue on to the Centurion MBT."
The Centurion emerged, and it was a spectacle to see such grand machinery.
"The Imperium has developed a way to make hover vehicles a reality and a way to make a hover fighting vehicle a possibility. While many of you can assume that Tanks to be made hover would have difficulties in terms of aiming, well you are correct. This is why the Militarum R&D has remedied this problem, and every fighting vehicle we have is equipped with state-of-the-art stabilizers which allow our vehicles to fire accurately." The instructor said. "For the Centurion, we have a 120mm smoothbore main gun, and two plasma turrets on the side to deal with infantry. Iox 1-1, commence demonstration."
The Centurion was given three kinds of targets. One APC, One of the MBT, and several more dummies. The Centurion fired its main gun against the APC, and it demolished it in one shot. To the surprise of the Observers, there's no recoil whatsoever. Then to the MBT. The Centurion fired at the strongest armor of the MBT, and still, the MBT was demolished. Then the dummies, it was dealt with quickly as quickly as the APC did.
"When our soldiers don't have a Centurion MBT or a Thor AT variant in their ranks, our soldiers rely on portable anti-tank missiles to dispatch the enemy armor. One of our greatest is the Pila Launchers, which we will demonstrate now."
A Cerberus rushed with a Pila Launcher, accompanied by his teammate. He stopped and aimed at the last MBT belonging to the JSDF. He fired it and destroyed the MBT with one shot.
"Our soldiers needn't worry about their weapons being used against them, as the Imperium has taken steps to prevent them to happen. Especially with the Pila Launchers." The Instructor said. "Our armor vehicles can withstand countless assaults from the Pila, all thanks to the Stronghold Active Protection System. Which is a series of protection mechanisms that will ensure our armor vehicles are near indestructible."
Several soldiers rushed with Pila Launchers and their Plasma Rifles, and they began to pummel the two armor vehicles at the same time. After some time, the armors remain standing strong, without a scratch.
"The Stronghold APS can deploy a thin yet indestructible layer of energy shielding, which means the Plasma Rifles couldn't damage it. Nor does kinetic projectiles at the maximum caliber of the same one the Centurion has, which means a Centurion cannot be used to destroy another Centurion." The Instructor. "These armaments, these weapons of war before you, are the best the Imperium could offer its soldiers. And this as well is the many winning factors of many of our wars."
Cicero was out of words, he was beyond shock. He already imagine the damage of these weapons if it was used against the new army of the Empire. Not just the army, but the entire cities of the Empire. The forces in Helnus can trample them with ease, and the forces of Alnus can't even stop them. He looks to Piña, her eyes filled with determination. Now he understands. These foreign powers are too much for the Empire to handle, and they only still alive and free is because they are still lenient and gracious. And it just so happens, that the Imperium claims the entirety of the Empire through their princess.
"Now, do you understand gentlemen?" Piña asked as the nobles turn their attention to her. "The Empire is lost. From the beginning, we have lost. And the Imperium has promised me to change for the better. The Imperator will allow you to retain your lands if you submit to the Imperium. So I ask you the same thing I have asked you before. Would you serve the Imperium?"
The nobles were uncertain, they don't know what to do. Or to be correct, they don't know if it's the right thing to do.
"Let me ask you one thing." One of the nobles asked. "Comparing the JSDF to the Imperium, which is stronger?"
Piña looked to Sugawara, as he gives her a nod, allowing her to answer.
"The JSDF is mighty, and there are mightier nations beyond Alnus GATE. But the Imperium, they are much stronger. They claim to be strongest because they are the strongest." Pinã explained. "Even the nations beyond Alnus rallied against the Imperium, the Imperium would still demolish them with ease. That is the Imperium, a true powerhouse. A true superpower."
They look to the listening Japanese, all seemed to acknowledge what Princess Piña have said. Then what she has said, is the truth.
Hearing her answer, the first one to kneel was Cicero, then Dussie, then every single noble knelt. They were powerless. They can't even fathom the power the Imperium has if the JSDF they have no chance against will lose against the Imperium.
"We swear fealty to the Imperium." They all said.
Everything was according to her plan. Until a whisper came to her ear.
"Zorzal is approaching," Owen whispered.
"It appears we have an unwanted guest, gentlemen. The Cerberus will escort you back to your estates, we will meet again soon." Pinã said.
As the nobles were escorted by the several Cerberus soldiers, the rest are cleaning up the gear and equipment. They disintegrated the wreckages, leaving no trace besides the charred ground. Zorzal must've been sent by Count Marcus, after all her meetings with the nobles aren't so subtle, all the things that were kept secret are the true contents of her meetings. But no matter, this has been a great day. A day that deserves to drink Champagne imported from Mother Terra herself. Yes, she's going to enjoy that solitary celebration.