Central Calendar, February 4th, Coastal City of Cartalpas, Holy Mirishial.
As one of the most bustling port cities of the Holy Kingdom and the premier civilization hub, Cartalpas boasts a unique blend of fantasy architecture intertwined with 1940s-50s constructions, strategically positioned as thoroughfares for civilizations to interact. What makes Cartalpas particurly special is its cool and picturesque coastal area, making it a vibrant hub for trade, maritime transportation, and services.
The serene scenery envelops the heart of Cartalpas, with a line of eateries, cafes, and the most upscale shops near Piassate Square.
In an upscale café overlooking the seafront, young diplomat Philme enjoys a new coffee blend with Ambassador Aegidius Michels from the Kingdom of Agartha. Ambassador Michels, usually sporting gsses and a cssy gray vest, holds a recent bestseller while Philme, also a young diplomat, with her dark brown hair, dressed in an off-shoulder white outfit resembling a flower, and delicate round gsses, wears thigh-length jeans suitable for their leisurely outing on their day off.
Having been friends for two years through diplomatic work, both are well acquainted. The shared coffee outing prompts onlookers to specute that they're a couple on a romantic day out, while they engage in lively discussions about global politics and their daily lives.
"The Holy Kingdom recently mobilized a colossal fleet to rescue a Mithril-css ship, didn't they, Miss Philme?" Michels asked, jovially gazing at the details in his book.
"Hmm? They must be facing a crisis if mobilizing the entire fleet is deemed crucial, as even I am unaware..." Philme replied, gazing out at the sea. Diplomats like them were unaware that the Holy Kingdom's fleet had been defeated by a mid-tier nation from Earth.
"Are they fighting sea monsters, perhaps?" Michels chuckled.
"What nonsense are you talking about?" Philme gave him a stern purple-eyed stare.
"You seem serious, alright. Let's not dwell on unreliable specutions. Oh, by the way, have you heard about the presence of the nations that visited Rodenius?"
"...you're kidding me? As a diplomat like me, not knowing would be pointless. So, do you want to discuss why they're continuously sending rge cargo ships loaded with strange equipment there?"
"Well, it seems like they have some agreement with Rodenius. From the fgs, the one I see most is a red fg with five stars, representing the three major countries in Rodenius. They're called the People's Republic of China, according to the spies from your country and ours," Mirishial and Agartha have regur spies in nearly all countries worldwide; the Holy Kingdom invests in espionage to prevent technology leaks and eliminate any threat to the Holy Kingdom. Central civilization nations in the region share information based on cooperative interests.
"Furthermore, I was surprised to be shown the shapes of those ships by the spies; they're so illogically massive, like rectangur blocks. I wonder how enormous they are in reality," Michels eagerly awaits witnessing them firsthand instead of through pictures. Intelligence agencies in the central region share networks, with a few exceptions that don't align with the Holy Kingdom's interests.
Moreover, neighboring countries with good retions with the Holy Kingdom are authorized to purchase civilian technology equipment, and in some special cases, they have the right to buy military equipment or sometimes even receive technology transfers. Therefore, Agarthan spies may possess their own cameras, especially in the case of Qua Toyne, where they were provided with military radar equipment in exchange for maintaining cndestine conditions with the Holy Kingdom.
"A massive ship... a transport vessel, I suppose, given its sheer size, as you mentioned, it could be spacious inside to accommodate rge equipment. Maihark port is probably designated for their transport ships; it's simply designed even for our Holy Kingdom warships to dock there," remarked Philme.
"You're indeed a clever girl. I've heard rumors about Rodenius' infrastructure gradually changing; it's not a drastic change, but enough to make my spies excim. They reported that those devices are involved in construction work, seemingly for civil projects," Michels commented.
"I noticed that too. I was surprised to see images of newcomers wearing attire and carrying weapons simir to ours, albeit with camoufge gear that closely resembles recent upgrades to our military uniforms. They wear hats with strange symbols on them, which I believe represent their forces." Philme then presented covertly captured photos from Holy Kingdom spies, depicting individuals of varying skin tones dressed simirly but armed with different weapons.
"I've never seen such dusky models before. However, judging from these technological features, their military capabilities might surpass those of powerhouse nations like your Holy Mirishial," teased Michels.
"Oh, if that's the case, our Holy Kingdom wouldn't be the center anymore, and we still don't know how their other forces' technologies fare. It's ughable to think they could encroach on the Holy Kingdom's position," replied Philme, furrowing her brows upon hearing that. The thought of her nation being usurped by external forces was unacceptable, especially when it challenged her sense of national pride.
"Onto the next topic, it's been weeks, but Mu hasn't delivered any shipments to the Central Region. If they no longer transport food, they're undoubtedly breaking agreements with central nations," Michels stated.
"Why bring that up here? It's not worth caring about," she replied, surprised and disinterested in matters concerning Mu.
"I disagree. Agartha imports a considerable amount of food from Mu. To abandon that agreement and resort to purchasing inferior food from neighboring countries is akin to descending into hell," argued Michels.
"That only confirms that you haven't acclimatized to the food of the central region," Philme chuckled pyfully. Their conversation continued until a sound reverberated from the sky.
RRRROOOOAAAAARRR x2
"What on earth?" Michels expressed his displeasure as the tranquil moments of their rexation were disrupted by the sound coming from Elpacio-3.
Distance 250km off the coast of Cartalpas
A formation of 3 Alpha-3 aircraft, commonly known as Elpacio-3, flew in a V-shaped formation.
"We are conducting approach maneuvers towards an unidentified fleet, Over," the lead pilot on the Elpacio-3 jet spoke with a tense demeanor.
"Copy that, defensive protocols have been authorized; you are cleared to engage if the mysterious fleet exhibits hostile intent, Over." the command center at Cartalpas Air Base responded. It was the first time such defensive protocols had been issued, leaving the pilots feeling uneasy.
A prolonged silence ensued as the Elpacio-3 pilots continued their approach. It wasn't because they disliked conversation, but rather because they needed to focus on identifying the mysterious fleet. At this moment, the pilots were still unaware that the legendary Zeroth fleet had been defeated by the Kingdom of Maroc.
The roar of the Elpacio-3 engines reverberated, echoing in the ears of the pilots and igniting their hearts. It was as if reminding them that this time, the enigmatic adversaries were not merely uncivilized outsiders. Adrenaline surged through their veins, sharpening the senses of each pilot exponentially.
"CAPE-75 and CAPE-89, perform a sweep of the area" CAPE-12 ordered CAPE-75 and CAPE-89.
"Copy, wing commander" the two pilots responded to CAPE-12's orders. They began conducting environmental checks, ensuring they weren't taken by surprise during their maneuver.
"Report, no sign of enemy aircraft" CAPE-75 reyed back to command.
"Everything's within control; we can rex now," CAPE-12 breathed a sigh of relief. Flying at over 18,000 feet and skimming above the clouds below provided them with a buffer against surprise attacks.
Amidst the clouds below them, two F-18 Super Hornets shadowed the movements of the Holy Kingdom squadron. The fighter jets maintained a distance beyond the visual range of the Holy Kingdom aircraft, each equipped with AIM-9 and AIM-120 missiles ready for combat.
"This is Gamera 5-0, we have locked on target and await further orders from the carrier," the pilot stated in a cold tone, the AIM-120 missile locked onto its target. The Elpacio-3 pilots might not even see the enemy before they were destroyed; fortunately, that hadn't happened yet.
"Gamera 5-0, this is Officer-in-Command aboard CVN-69, requesting a peaceful approach to the Holy Kingdom aircraft as previously pnned."
"Copy that, we will comply with the directive, Gamera 5-0 out." The two F-18s no longer concealed themselves in the clouds and began to emerge before the Holy Kingdom aircraft.
RRRROOOOAAAAARRR x2
Despite the American jets trailing behind, the Holy Kingdom squadron remained oblivious to the approaching threat. The Holy Kingdom pilots remained stoic, paying no heed to the reflections on their aircraft's rearview mirrors. The F-18s loomed behind like specters in the sky, gradually closing the distance with the Holy Kingdom squadron - unaware that they were being trailed.
Hearing what sounded like strange jet engines, CAPE-12 spoke up with an uncertain tone, "Huh?? CAPE-75, check your engine status."
In response, CAPE-75 checked the parameters and condition of the engine, "CAPE-12, engine status shows normal cooling, all parameters are good."
"Is there anything unusual with the engine, CAPE-12? Take a look at the rearview mirror," CAPE-75 continued. CAPE-12 complied and gnced at the rearview mirror on the Elpacio-3. Behind CAPE-75 was not bck smoke or anything from the engine; it was an aircraft with a dominating figure, flying closely behind the Elpacio-3.
While CAPE-12 reacted, CAPE-89 also gnced behind. What hit them wasn't bck smoke or anything else, but two F-18 Super Hornets flying dangerously close behind them. The entire Elpacio-3 squadron panicked, paying the price for their own carelessness.
"Enemies! How did none of us notice until now?!" CAPE-12 excimed. The Elpacio-3 pilots didn't know what to do in the face of enemy fighters trailing behind them. The F-18 pilots realized they had been detected. They began communicating with the three Elpacio-3 aircraft.
Gamera 5-0 spoke up in Hebrew, "This is the air force unit under the naval fleet command of the Atntic Command, We observe your approach to the fleet, please state your identity and purpose!"
"It seems they have no intention of attacking us, CAPE-12," CAPE-89 concluded based on the words of the F-18 pilots. Immediately after, the other two pilots breathed a sigh of relief, this time they were spared a visible encounter.
Regaining composure, CAPE-12 radioed, "We belong to the Royal Air Force of the Holy Kingdom! And currently, we want to know the purpose of your fleet's approach to this country!"
In response to the question posed, Gamera 5-0 replied, "By order of the President, the aircraft carrier fleet USS Dwight D. Eisenhower has been tasked with establishing diplomatic retions with the Holy Kingdom, and both sides are to resolve the crisis with Maroc."
"Maroc? Weren't they the aggressors in the previous incident in the Holy Kingdom waters?" CAPE-12 thought to himself. Without further ado, CAPE-12 responded, "Understood, we will report this information to the high command, the decision-making authority will rest with the Royal Family of the Holy Kingdom."
Both sides had a close encounter without firing a shot, and the dialogue unfolded smoothly as expected by the Atntic Command.
The Aircraft Carrier Strike Group 2, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower
Standing before the radar screen alongside the radar officer, Commander John Govender focused intently on the five blips. Two F-18 Super Hornets and three Elpacio-3 aircraft were flying together. A junior officer approached and addressed him.
"Admiral John Govender, the Gamera Group has successfully established contact with the opposing side, and we must await an official announcement from the Holy Kingdom," the officer reported.
Admiral John Govender had dedicated his life to the Navy since the Vietnam War, and now he had risen to command Carrier Strike Group 2.
"I see, things should be easier for us from now on. Send this information to the White House," he said with a bright smile.
The United States of America would establish diplomatic retions with the superpower New World nation named Holy Mirishial, paving the way for America's comeback in Europe, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsu.
While waiting for the announcement from the Holy Kingdom, John Govender engaged in conversation with the diplomat assigned to him, Andreas Kortig, from the US State Department, who had previously served in European countries. Kortig had just stepped into the command center when Govender initiated their dialogue.
"Well, we're almost there, Kortig," Govender remarked.
"Alright, ever since the four permanent members agreed to deploy the aircraft carrier for negotiations on behalf of the United States, I wonder how things have been progressing here, Admiral?" Kortig inquired about the progress of the mission Govender was leading.
"The F-18 squadron is approaching the Holy Kingdom's fighter group, and we're awaiting an official response from them. Oh, and did you prepare the diplomatic documents?" Govender asked Kortig in return.
The response was a nod from Kortig, accompanied by his words, "Everything is almost ready, just awaiting your approval, John."
John replied, "To pass the time, let's discuss the Holy Kingdom's failure against their ally, Maroc. Since yesterday, the US Ambassador to Maroc sent me basic information about the casualties and other details. I'll delve into the casualties on both sides. And, I have a video directly from this recent battle."
"So, what's the estimated casualty figure for the Holy Kingdom against Maroc?" The diplomat awaited the results from the Admiral.
"The total for the Holy Kingdom is over 4,000 sailors, including injured, killed, and missing Holy Kingdom officers, while Maroc only had an F-5 hit by a few enemy rounds. After this battle, Maroc had a hard time working to rescue all survivors and prepare shelter for those Holy Mirishials" he said, then took out his phone and pyed a clip showing the battle between the Holy Kingdom and Kingdom of Morrocco. However, it seemed like a one-sided battle because the Holy Kingdom Navy couldn't intercept Maroc's EXOCET cruise missiles.
It seemed Kortig wasn't surprised by the battle's outcome after watching the footage. "Technological disparity truly makes a difference. This is like a battle between a WW2 navy and a modern navy."
Images of the Mithril warships helpless against the barrage of missiles filled the screen, and they continuously fired shots in vain to intercept Maroc's missiles. Furthermore, Kortig questioned what had captured this battle, "Oh, I'm also curious about this, what did Maroc use to record this?"
"Their most effective and best tool right now is the UAV Bayraktar TB2. I'm sure of it because only it could reach that area to conduct reconnaissance and record the entire battle," he expined.
"In my mind, I was already thinking about that UAV," the diplomat wasn't surprised by the Turkish UAV.
While they were conversing, a communications officer approached Admiral John Govender and reported, "Admiral John Govender, the Holy Kingdom has accepted the proposal to establish diplomatic retions with us, and they will provide coordinates and request our presence there as designated. The coordinates have been confirmed, and we are awaiting your command."
Temporarily setting aside their ongoing conversation, Admiral John Govender bid farewell to diplomat Kortig. He turned his head towards the vast blue sea ahead, "Have those pilots provided all the necessary information to the Holy Kingdom? In that case, we accept the coordinates they've designated."
Central Continent, Holy Kingdom, Capital Runepolis, Albion Castle
In the office of the Emperor of the world's mightiest nation, the room was meticulously decorated in a sophisticated style, with feng shui elements bringing the room to life like a forest. The walls were crafted from wood and granite, softening the ambiance, while green foliage and sunlight streaming in through the windows added vitality to the atmosphere.
Emperor Milishial VIII, dressed in a white ensemble like a sage, was working through his paperwork, much like any other individual, for being a king did not exempt him from duties. This was a responsibility passed down through generations of Holy Kingdom emperors. Guards were stationed outside the room to ensure security.
After several hours of work, he stood gazing at the cityscape of Runepolis from the window when there was a knock on the door. A royal guard entered, announcing, "Your Majesty Milishial, someone from the government wishes to meet you."
"Allow them in, as per my command," the Emperor replied.
The guard bowed. "Understood, Your Majesty," before stepping back to allow the visitor in. It was the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Percs, accompanied by his secretary. Though nearing 60, Percs seemed youthful compared to the Elven Emperor. The wooden door closed slowly behind them, reciming the space for the room.
"You're here to report, aren't you, Minister of Foreign Affairs Percs?" the Emperor inquired, seeming to anticipate Percs's purpose.
"Yes, Your Majesty. I am here to report on recent events and emerging issues," Percs replied, attempting to navigate the oppressive atmosphere before the world's most powerful man.
In the room were four sofa chairs and a rectangur table suitable for a meeting. The secretary pulled out a chair for the Emperor, who took his seat, while Percs settled across from him. The secretary began pcing papers on the table.
"Today, the Holy Kingdom's radar forces detected and tracked a massive steel fleet at sea, and we have deployed our forces to investigate," Percs began.
"And what are the results of the investigation?" the Emperor inquired.
"The fleet has been identified by the Royal Air Force as the United States of America, a newly emerging nation, and we have yet to determine their exact location. However, they seem to possess jet engines simir to ours... Nonetheless, these newcomers have proposed establishing diplomatic retions with us. What is your decision, Your Majesty?" Percs then presented some photographs captured by their pilots, curious about the Emperor's response.
Intrigued by the prospect of engaging with newcomers who may represent advanced civilizations, the Emperor responded, "United States of America? Very well... I accept their proposal. Arrange for the establishment of diplomatic retions with the United States."
"Yes, Your Majesty, in addition, we have also detected unusual signs across the continents, such as Rodenius where new nations are emerging and maritime routes are extending to the third civilization zone, which is currently undergoing disruptions due to various issues I have listed in the report." The minister then handed the paper to the Emperor to review.
Facing this issue, the Emperor responded, "Hm... This is a critical matter. There are too many concerning developments occurring across Elysia. We will need assistance from relevant departments, and a meeting will be convened soon. All mysteries will be unveiled. Percs, help me convey this message to the remaining departments," expressing concern over the information presented by Percs.
Before completing the report, Percs continued to inquire, "Yes, Your Majesty, but there is one more question I have for you. Do you have any knowledge of recent developments regarding the Zeroth fleet?"
The Emperor was puzzled by the minister's question. "Yes, have you noticed anything unusual?"
In response, Percs answered, "Of course, Your Majesty. I have received reports from the Office of the Minister of Defense Livio Gutil instead of multiple sources. Please forgive me, but I suspect something led to only Livio Gutil reporting on the events on the front lines instead of multiple sources, especially since assuming the position after Schmill Pao, who was injured and is currently in intensive care after the fighting bull"
Faced with Percs's suspicions, the Emperor replied, "You are entitled to your suspicions as you have evidence. Regarding this matter, we will address it ter with Livio Gutil."
After being reassured, Percs seemed less worried. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I have reported all the important updates for today. Since there are no further issues to discuss, I shall take my leave," standing up and bowing to the Emperor before exiting the room.
The next morning, in the Holy Kingdom, in the port city of Cartalpas
Tarso Lauro, a young man of about 27, a human wyer practicing at the military court, resided in a seaside apartment in an 8-story building near the shore. On a typical morning, Tarso woke up and went to brush his teeth and wash his face.
He wore his pajamas and stepped out of his room. The room was spacious enough to make him feel comfortable and not cramped. In the living room, he turned on the TV, a cssic 1960s-style set with rabbit ears on top. Digital devices like TVs were quite advanced in the Holy Kingdom, where Mirishialians had a demand for entertainment and daily news. It was no surprise that he had one in his apartment.
"What's on for kids? The faces of those actors give me the creeps," he grumbled with irritation. Then he switched to the news channel.
"Ah, this is Mirishial News Today," he said as if he had just satisfied himself, turning up the volume. Instead of sitting to watch the news, he headed to the kitchen, which faced the living room, grabbed a cup and a bag of coffee, and started making it while the news was on air.
"Good morning to all viewers in the Holy Kingdom. Our station updates all events happening across Elysia. I'm Sabato Fradel, your host," introduced a blonde Elf man with a face resembling that of a German.
Meanwhile, Tarso finished making his favorite cup of coffee, took it in hand, and sat on the sofa opposite the TV. Taking a sip, he appeared rexed, with the morning light streaming into the room from the balcony.
"In recent days, there have been many changes occurring across Elysia. Mysterious nations have suddenly appeared, disrupting transportation between continents. Well, let's hear from this businessman," the screen then shifted to an MNT employee interviewing a bearded businessman. "This is an MNT reporter in the port city of Lamelha. We will interview a few sailors about the appearance of these mysterious nations."
The reporter approached. "Hello, sir. In recent days, have you encountered any mysterious nations?"
The man replied, "Yes, indeed, Miss Reporter. Myself and the sailors have encountered iron ships flying mysterious fgs, and they can speak our nguage or the nguage of the Mu people. Fortunately, one of us knows the nguage of the Mu people and has been able to communicate with these strangers."
"Ah, can you describe the ships and the people on them?" the reporter asked.
"They are courteous individuals dressed in what I believe to be uniforms on steel ships ranging from small to rge, and it seems they have fgs of green, white, and red," he said, sounding surprised.
The screen then returned to Fradel. "Do you see, everyone? Things seem to be getting crazier with rumors of over 100 new nations appearing in recent days. But the next piece of news will make you even more surprised," he said, with an exaggerated expression. Fradel was famous for his exaggerated expressions, so he was no stranger to the people of the Holy Kingdom.
"Haha... this guy's quite lively, huh?" Tarso chuckled.
"As of today, the Holy Albion Court has announced that we will establish diplomatic retions with a new nation, one of which is named the United States, and they are heading to the port of Cartalpas. If any of you are citizens working and living in Cartalpas, look out to the sea. You will all be surprised by a foreign fleet anchored there! Aren't they newcomers to the superpowers?" Then the image of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier appeared, along with other ships escorted by Holy Kingdom destroyers, heading to the port.
Surprised by the new information, Tarso excimed, "What? Really? Gotta see this for myself," as he stood up with his coffee cup and walked out onto the balcony.
The sunlight called into his eyes, making him squint. Opening his eyes and looking out to the sea of Cartalpas, he witnessed a massive fleet like an army marching toward the port city of Cartalpas, with Holy Kingdom fighter jets circling above. The sight sent shivers down his spine, the first time a fleet looked entirely different from the surrounding nations was docking.
The meeting of the two superpowers of the opposing worlds would change the entire order of Elysia afterward, marking a new development for Earthlings on Elysia.
