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Chapter 14: Superpower Diplomacy

  February 6, 1639, Carrara Forte Military Port, Port City of Cartalpas, Holy Milishial

  Carrara Forte, a prominent military port in Southern Holy Milishial, once the proud anchorage of the illustrious Zeroth Fleet, now welcomed a new set of distinguished guests.

  The soldiers of Holy Milishial were taken aback not by the sheer size but by the advanced technology and formidable appearance of the newly arrived ships at Carrara Forte. The fighter jets on their decks seemed more sophisticated and rger than even the most advanced aircraft in Holy Milishial's arsenal.

  The convoy of Holy Milishial's government officials entered the military port, their white vehicles reminiscent of the Soviet GAZ 12 ZIM from 1955, stopping in front of the American aircraft carrier. Stepping out were high-ranking members of the Holy Milishial cabinet, underscoring the gravity of this unprecedented diplomatic engagement with a powerful nation from another world. Their presence alone emphasized the importance of this encounter, despite their limited knowledge about the United States of America.

  "It's fortunate we arrived just in time. Look at that fleet! Interestingly, they didn't send battleships but rather an aircraft carrier," the Deputy Minister of Defense remarked with interest.

  "The sheer size is unimaginable. Even our Rodeus-css carriers pale in comparison to this behemoth. The sleek curves of their jets, along with other equipment on board, are astonishing. There's so much to discuss regarding this carrier and its fleet," Foreign Minister Percs expressed his amazement.

  Holy Milishial's smaller ships escorted the massive aircraft carrier to dock. Soldiers swiftly connected a gangway to the carrier, an unfamiliar task facilitated by the assistance of American sailors. Within minutes, the bridge was set up, enabling smooth boarding.

  Despite the hasty and modest decorations at the port, a red carpet was rolled out, and a band was present, indicating the Emperor's high regard for this diplomatic event. Holy Milishial usually did not welcome nations outside the civilized realms with such formality, highlighting their selective diplomatic approach towards advanced nations.

  The honor guard descended from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, followed by diplomat Andreas Kortig and his entourage, carrying several briefcases. They walked down the red carpet fnked by solemnly arranged soldiers. The sounds of drums and trumpets filled the air, resembling a grand festival. Kortig surveyed Carrara Forte, noting the remnants of warships after the Casabnca ptform battle, before directing his gaze towards the Holy Milishial delegation.

  "In the name of Emperor Mirishial, we are honored to welcome you. I am Foreign Minister Percs. May I know your name?" Percs inquired.

  "On behalf of the United States of America, we appreciate your hospitality. I am Andreas Kortig," he responded, extending his hand.

  "To initiate our diplomatic discussions, we invite you to join us in the car," Minister Percs said. The two diplomats entered the same vehicle.

  The convoy of white cars began to move, leaving the military port. As they exited Carrara Forte, they were surrounded by journalists, photographers, and onlookers. Fshing cameras lit up the vehicle carrying the American diplomat.

  "What has drawn such public attention to this diplomatic mission?" Kortig wondered aloud.

  "Your fleet has captivated the citizens of Cartalpas. It seems the U.S. fleet has overshadowed even the fame of the city's president," Foreign Minister Percs responded in Mu nguage.

  "You speak English... or rather, the Mu nguage?" Kortig asked, surprised.

  "Yes, Mr. Kortig. In diplomacy, knowing more than two nguages is crucial, and it has helped me ascend to my current position," Percs replied.

  "It's excellent that we can start our conversation without any nguage barrier" Kortig remarked.

  Percs smiled, "That's a good thing. So, I'm curious what is the official nguage of your country?"

  "We have a diverse range of nguages, but most people use English for their daily communication and work" Kortig expined.

  Intrigued, Percs asked, "English, the nguage of Muan? Your country must have a significant number of immigrants."

  "Well well, indeed, many have become U.S. citizens through various means, primarily through global educational programs or by moving to work and live in America. We have policies and benefits to attract talented individuals worldwide to our free country," Kortig said proudly. Kortig, whose family immigrated after World War II, took pride in his German-American heritage and his nation's inclusive policies.

  Aware of Percs's probing interest, Kortig knew that Holy Milishial might oppose the U.S. in the future. His goal was to project America as a formidable and civilized nation, deterring any foolish opposition.

  "There's no denying it. Your nation appears generous towards immigrants, offering significant benefits. While it poses some risks, it makes your country a dream destination for many. A multicultural nation indeed. May I ask, where is your country located?" Percs queried.

  "It's quite a fantastical tale. We were transported from our home pnet to this one..." Kortig admitted hesitantly.

  "Hmm... several nations have experienced such dispcement, though typically only a few. From what I understand of your envoy's visit to Rodenius, over a hundred nations have been relocated here," Percs responded seriously, indicating the profound implications of such events.

  Kortig, taken aback, he's asked, "Percs, have there been other nations dispced in the past?"

  "Our records mention Eimor, once a mighty empire, and Annonrial, which also housed an empire. Both were dispced simirly to Eimor, yet they vanished without a trace, leaving behind no remnants. While these are considered legends, we ck concrete evidence despite oral traditions," Percs expined.

  Unsatisfied with the answer from Percs, Kortig decided to ask further "So, Did your nation's Holy Milishial contact those Annonrial or Eimorian?"

  "We did establish a retionship with Eimor officially. Unfortunately, with the Annonrial, our government doesn't see any benefit in establishing diplomacy with them. There is a list of why they not going to start diplomacy with Annonrial, but majority come from their poor technology, also the distance between Holy Milishial and them" Percs said.

  Kortig was left speechless, inundated with questions. But he knew his immediate task was to learn more about this unknown nation.

  Sensing the unease, Percs shifted the conversation, "In our Holy Nation, we primarily use elemental stones to power society. They are a versatile and valuable energy source. What energy sources does the United States utilize?"

  "Elemental stones? Are they fossilized elements with varying properties? How does this car operate?" Kortig wondered internally.

  "We use oil, coal, fossil fuels, and other sources. Your nation relies on elemental stones instead of other potential energies. Isn't that a bit limiting?"

  "You may not be aware, Mr. Kortig, but our government is actively diversifying our energy sources. Exploiting a single energy source will inevitably lead to its depletion. Our Emperor has foreseen these future challenges and is addressing them at the root," said Foreign Minister Percs, his words carrying the weight of strategic foresight.

  Kortig found soce in Percs's pragmatic response. As he gazed out of the car window, the streets of Cartalpas unfolded like a paradise, impeccably clean with towering trees lining the roads. The city's vibrant activity was reminiscent of the bustling cities of the 1950s on old Earth.

  Percs broke the silence inside the car, his voice cutting through the contemptive quiet. "I am eager to learn more about your world, Mr. Kortig. Would you indulge me?"

  Kortig, composed, replied, "Our world can be summarized in two words: chaos and conflict."

  Percs's eyes widened in surprise. "What leads you to describe your old world in such terms?"

  "Our old world experienced the relentless sound of gunfire every few years, with perpetual pain and suffering. You would not want to live in such a world," Kortig expined. His candidness might paint a grim picture of Earth's inhabitants to the Holy Milishial superpower, but he spoke with unfiltered honesty.

  Despite Kortig's stark description, Percs remained unfazed. "Your world indeed sounds harsh. I regret hearing of your hardships. Nevertheless, we are nearing our destination for diplomatic talks."

  The journey of humanity has always been marred by warfare. In stark contrast to the peaceful Elysia, Earth was a battleground of human conflicts. The adage, "Where there are humans, there is war," rang true, a scenario Elysia had yet to fully comprehend with the arrival of Earth's people.

  After several minutes, the white convoy of Holy Milishial arrived at the diplomatic venue—a government building facing Fabroli Square.

  In front of the building, soldiers stood in formal attire. The President of Cartalpas, Sansone Cesaro, awaited the American delegation, dressed in a blue suit, exuding dignity on the red carpet alongside an elegantly dressed individual in a striking white suit. Behind them stood Saul Rotunfa, the Minister of Economy.

  "Here they come! Our new guests have arrived," President Cesaro excimed, his excitement palpable.

  The white cars came to a halt, and soldiers stepped forward to open the doors. Out stepped Foreign Minister Percs, followed by diplomat Andreas Kortig and his team.

  "Welcome, esteemed diplomat from the United States, to the great Holy Milishial. I am President Sansone Cesaro of Cartalpas, but you may call me Cesaro!" President Cesaro announced warmly.

  Kortig, standing tall, replied, "It is an honor to meet you, President Cesaro. I am diplomat Andreas Kortig. We are in awe of the generosity of Holy Milishial." The two men shook hands firmly, cameras capturing the historic moment.

  "I am Evans Troy, assistant and fellow diplomat accompanying Mr. Kortig. It is a pleasure to meet you," Evans said, performing a courteous bow that left a favorable impression.

  "I am Philme, a diplomat of the Empire. It is a pleasure to welcome you," Philme added, her words carrying a refined elegance.

  Diplomat Kortig turned his attention to the waiting Minister of Economy, Saul Rotunfa. "Greetings, could you introduce yourself?" he inquired.

  "Certainly, I am Saul Rotunfa, the Minister of Economy. It's an honor to meet you, Mr. Kortig," Rotunfa responded with a warm smile.

  Acknowledging the introduction, Andreas Kortig replied, "Likewise, Minister Rotunfa. It is an honor to meet you. I look forward to engaging in an in-depth discussion about economic matters with you."

  "I have been anticipating this conversation, Mr. Kortig," Rotunfa replied, his eyes reflecting a blend of curiosity and professional interest.

  Nearby, an MNT reporter stood poised before the camera, her voice steady as she spoke. "Today, in the capital city of the port of Cartalpas, we welcome an unprecedented visitor, the United States of America. Holy Milishial has never before encountered a nation with such advanced technological prowess in its fleet. Could this signify the emergence of a new superpower on the global stage?"

  The camera panned to capture the grandeur of the occasion, the red carpet, the formal attire of the officials, and the dignified exchange between diplomats. The atmosphere was charged with the weight of historical significance and the subtle undertones of strategic maneuvering.

  The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, a blend of political maneuvering and genuine curiosity, setting the stage for a complex and nuanced dialogue between the representatives of two powerful worlds.

  TwoBrothers Bar, Port City of Cartalpas, Holy Milishial

  Acquired from three seafront corner buildings overlooking the square, the TwoBrothers Bar has long been a haunt for notable figures. Known for its historic architecture and nostalgic ambiance, it also boasts signature drinks that have become emblematic of the pce. Its pricing caters to both ordinary citizens and the elite, making it a well-known spot among the residents of Cartalpas.

  Inside the bar, men are intently watching a live broadcast on MNT. Their focus is on the unfolding scenes: first the colossal fleet, now the diplomat from the mysterious nation.

  An elderly man speaks up with fascination, "They must undoubtedly be a superpower, though I'm no military expert. But oh! Look at those ships; they can't possibly be from the Second or Third Civilization areas! Even their aircraft are rger than ours."

  "The sudden arrival of this fleet in Cartalpas is strange, isn't it? Just when Holy Milishial deploys a rge fleet to the seas... And you can compare their aircraft from such a distance? Ridiculous!"

  "Oh no, they could be connected to the appearance of mysterious nations calling themselves Italy, France? They all have steel ships, and there are rumors of over a hundred new nations."

  "Don't forget the rge fleet approaching Rodenius. It's unfortunate we have no further information on that..."

  A drunken old man wearing gsses bangs the table, "Isn't it absurd? If they were there, we would have known. But we have no record of their existence throughout history!"

  "This must be a grander scale of the legendary national shift events!"

  "Based on what evidence do you make that childish conclusion?" he retorts, dismissing the theory.

  "My conclusion may be childish, but do you have any expnation for the United States' appearance?" he counters.

  Flustered, the old man stammers, "Well, uh... alright, you win this time!"

  "Hey, have you ever seen a channel with that name? Or am I mistaken?"

  "What is it?"

  He points at the screen, "I saw the cameras with the letters... CNN on a red background?"

  "I know a bit of Muan, but I have no clue about that name... MNT or Otaheit Times I might recognize," he says, shaking his head.

  The argument heats up in the bar, with the patrons debating the United States and its implications. The topics revolve around military and political issues, with no interest in economic discussions as they have no information about the U.S. economy yet.

  A winged Annonrial, sitting quietly in the bar, is glued to the TV. Dressed like an ordinary Holy Milishial citizen, he wears a discreet earpiece. No one in the bar pays attention to him as he leisurely sips his cocktail.

  He brings a badge close to his mouth, whispering, "The United States has begun the process of establishing diplomatic retions with Holy Milishial..." It's a sophisticated communication device for Annonrial Federation spies, disguised as an ordinary badge.

  "Copy that. Continue updating headquarters," comes the subdued response from the other end.

  Runepolis Capital, Command Headquarters of the Royal Mirishial Military Forces

  In one of the most powerful institutions on Elysia, decisions are made by the top generals of the world's leading superpower. Each directive from this center reverberates across the seas. The Royal Military's base is located in a heavily militarized zone in Runepolis.

  Defense Minister Livio Gutil was distressed over the impending meeting between the United States and the Empire. "They must be connected to our significant naval engagement in the Eastern Seas. It's too coincidental for such a formidable fleet to arrive here merely for diplomacy. If they reveal our losses, I'll have to flee immediately."

  Gutil had been negligent, endangering thousands of Holy Nation sailors. He knew that the Zeroth Fleet had been decimated and the cost was catastrophic. Should this news reach the Emperor, his life would undoubtedly be forfeit for his incompetence.

  "Get me a private car out of here," Livio ordered his secretary. Running away might be cowardly, but his survival was at stake.

  Secretary Rettrian, a senior officer of the Empire and Gutil's conspirator after the defeat in the Casabnca Sea, replied, "Yes, Minister Gutil. They will be here in five minutes... But where will you go? We can't ensure the secrecy of your escape..." He quickly began packing up the office.

  "The Royal Intelligence will act once I'm gone. Secrecy buys us time. And remember! Silence everyone until we can no longer cover this up. I authorize the elimination of anyone who disobeys!" Livio didn't hesitate to sacrifice his subordinates, knowing his actions were wrong but feeling he had no choice but to flee.

  "Understood, Minister of Defense Livio Gutil... My sincere advice is to surrender. Otherwise, we'll dey as much as possible," Rettrian responded with a remarkably calm demeanor.

  "Surrender is suicide! Dey as long as you can. After that, do what you must. I just want to stay alive!"

  Rettrian maintained his calm facade. "But understand, we will charge you with all the crimes once this is exposed. The bme will fall on you, understood?"

  Gutil cut him off, "Fine, I'm leaving!" He hastily grabbed his suitcase and left the room, pushing through the door towards the side exit.

  In Rettrian's thoughts: He's abandoning everything—wealth, power? Schmill Pao was a fool to entrust him with such authority. The secretary's quiet sigh reflected his frustration with Gutil's incompetence.

  At the side exit, as Rettrian had arranged, a car awaited. The driver took Gutil's suitcase and stowed it in the trunk while Gutil climbed into the back seat.

  "Get me out of Runepolis, and head straight to the city in the southeast!" Gutil barked.

  "As you command, sir," the driver replied. The sleek bck car started and sped away from the military base in Runepolis. Thus, Gutil began his desperate escape from the impending legal repercussions.

  50 km South of the Port City of Maihark, Qua Toyne

  A survey team consisting of five individuals, including two geologists, a young botanist, an armed driver, mostly Chinese nationals in their twenties, and a local from Qua Toyne, were conducting a geological survey in a region believed to contain valuable minerals. The clear blue sky dotted with a few clouds created a picturesque, almost dreamlike scene.

  The botanist, Yin Donghai, asked, "Are we there yet?"

  The armed driver, Wang, replied, "Almost. Luckily, the roads here are just good enough for a vehicle like ours to navigate!"

  Their vehicle traversed the pins, heading towards the southern forest. According to directives from the Chinese Communist Party, Chinese nationals in Qua Toyne were engineers, workers, and professionals unreted to the socio-economic sectors. They were now tasked with conducting a geological survey.

  Geologist Ren LongYe began listing their objectives, "Our mission is to find aluminum and other minerals in this forest, as well as to explore potential energy sources."

  "Isn't that all for industrial use?" Gong Shan asked, puzzled.

  Ren LongYe responded, "Indeed. We're also tasked with identifying potential energy resources in this area. Our country is aiding Qua Toyne in accessing energy, which helps both them and us. After all, electricity is a cornerstone of a modern economy."

  Gong Shan replied, "But isn't it too soon to be assisting them like this? Aren't we vioting United Nations mandates? Besides, Qua Toyne isn't even a UN member, let alone part of the WTO."

  Ren countered, "You speak as if you doubt our leaders... Focus on our task at hand; our superiors can handle the rest." His firm tone silenced Shan.

  Upon arrival, the team disembarked from their Dongfeng EQ2050, a Chinese-made vehicle reputed to surpass the original Humvee in performance. The local Qua Toyne member was impressed by the vehicle's comfort and luxury.

  Breathing in the fresh air, Geologist Gong Shan admired the scenery, "What a beautiful forest, isn't it?"

  The local Qua Toyne guide replied, "Yes, Mr. Shan. This forest, Finadar, sustains over 14 nearby vilges with its abundant resources."

  Everyone donned their specialized exploration backpacks. Botanist Yin Donghai asked, "So, who will stay to guard our vehicle?"

  "There's no need for a guard," Wang, the armed driver, replied.

  Yin was puzzled, "Why not?"

  Wang tapped his QBZ-191 rifle twice, "This isn't a toy! Anyone who messes with our vehicle will end up in hell. Why are you so slow to understand, Yin?" His tone was both arrogant and confident.

  "Exactly. Any damage to the vehicle will be traced back to the culprit. Besides, we have cameras installed, and we can't afford to leave anyone behind," Shan expined, though his logic seemed tenuous, it reassured Yin.

  Yin Donghai was left speechless by their expnations. With nothing more to say, Ren LongYe urged, "Let's move. Time is money, and standing here won't help."

  The team agreed and began their trek into the forest. Their path was retively smooth until they entered the woods. The local Qua Toyne guide led the way, clearing the path.

  "This ecosystem is remarkably diverse, unlike anything on Earth," Gong Shan marveled at the vibrant, varied environment.

  Ren LongYe added, "Indeed, the flora here ranges from common to rare species. Some pnts are simply breathtaking."

  Yin Donghai pointed excitedly at a tree ahead, "Look over there!"

  "Hmm? It's just a tree with a big trunk," Wang responded dismissively.

  "No, my friend, that's a Sigilria! It was thought to be extinct for 300 million years! Discovering this could open new avenues in our research," Yin excimed.

  Wang remained unimpressed, "Impressive, but we're here for geological surveys."

  Gong Shan, annoyed by Wang's attitude, retorted, "Are you trying to pick on him? It's a good thing we're not in China, or you'd be livestreamed and shamed for bullying."

  Ren LongYe, scanning the area, announced, "I think I've found some minerals!"

  Suddenly, there was a rustling in the nearby thick bushes, catching Wang's attention. "Everyone, fall back!" He aimed his rifle towards the noise, ready as a well-trained soldier.

  The team retreated, tension rising as the rustling grew louder. Emerging from the bushes were four strangers, not monsters or attackers.

  A burly man with a thick beard, wearing military attire and sungsses, emerged. "Chinese people here?" he excimed in English.

  An Australian man named Mike, armed and following closely, added, "Is that a ding-dong?"

  Wang, recognizing the Westerners by the fg on the burly man's shoulder, replied aggressively in fluent English, "There's no room for racism here. We understand English, Australians! What are you doing here?"

  Gong Shan mocked, "Looking for McDonald's? Sorry, none here. You should head elsewhere."

  The burly Australian retorted, "What did I do to deserve that, snt-eyes? Go back and eat your bugs. Didn't your government notify us of your presence in Rodenius?"

  "Not yet! But you... you won't have American protection in this new world. Australia will soon be part of Greater China, hahaha!" Wang's reckless outburst left his team speechless.

  Hahahahahaha x4

  Amidst the ughter, one of the Australians jeered, "Look at this! This guy's a complete idiot, how pathetic!" Their mocking ughter infuriated Wang, the armed driver, who lunged forward but was restrained by the Qua Toyne local, despite not understanding their words.

  Geologist Gong Shan intervened, "You've embarrassed us enough! Step back immediately," and ordered the others to pull Wang back as he seethed with rage.

  Finally, the Australian geologist Doris Cane sighed, "At st, a conversation with someone who actually has a brain." However, they were taken aback by the Chinese delegation's response.

  Geologist Ren LongYe took a deep breath and decred, "We arrived here first! We, the Chinese, advise you Australians to leave immediately. There's nothing left here for you to exploit!"

  His words revealed not only his ambition but also the broader intent of China to cim all resources for itself. This bold decration, made without hesitation in front of the Australian delegation, shocked them. What began as casual banter had escated into a tense standoff.

  The Australians were baffled by Ren's audacious cim. Doris Cane retorted angrily, "You Chinese are always the same! What proof do you have that this forest belongs to you?" This left the Chinese delegation momentarily unsettled.

  Quickly, Gong Shan retrieved a Chinese fg from his backpack and pnted it firmly into the ground. The fg fluttered arrogantly in the forest.

  Taking advantage of the moment, Ren LongYe smirked and procimed, "Now this forest belongs to China. We have all the evidence needed to accuse you of trespassing."

  The Qua Toyne local, not understanding English, asked, "What are you all discussing?"

  The Australians quickly and urgently informed the Qua Toyne local in Hebrew, "They're ciming this pce for China! Look at their fg!"

  The Qua Toyne local, realizing the situation, excimed, "You're trying to seize this area? We won't allow it!" In a fit of rage, he kicked the Chinese fg into the mud.

  This act of defiance infuriated the Chinese. "How dare you! Arrest him for desecrating the fg of the People's Republic of China!" Wang shouted. The Chinese rushed towards the Qua Toyne local.

  The Australians quickly pulled the Qua Toyne local towards them. "Are you seriously trying to arrest him for opposing China's cim to this forest?" Helbert Slint, a burly Australian, retorted.

  "You Australians don't understand the ws of our nd! Hand him over now!" Gong Shan demanded angrily.

  Mike, an Australian, replied with a challenging tone, "So, you're just Xi Jinping's pdogs, huh? What will you do if we don't hand him over?"

  The Chinese delegation was momentarily speechless, seething with anger. They huddled together and began whispering. Then, they pulled out melee weapons from their backpacks, knowing that if negotiations failed, violence was the next step. Opting for knives was a strategic choice to avoid escating the situation further than firearms would.

  A Filipino-Australian at the back grabbed his radio in a state of panic, "They're pulling out spears from their backpacks?! Are they really geologists? Damn it, we need support at the Finadar Forest!"

  The Australians also drew their melee weapons, primarily daggers, which, though less advantageous against the Chinese meat cleaver-tipped spears, would suffice for defense. The confrontation quickly turned physical as the Chinese charged towards them.

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