"Mono/Dialogue"

  'Inner thoughts'

  Narration

  [Message/communication apparatus]

  Date: August 646 AU

  Location: Supreme Command HQ,???, Regalian Autarchy

  POV: Narrator

  “Let us begin the 1st Post-war and Post-Transference Inter-Branch Coordination Conference.” The Commander Regent spoke from his seat with a piece of authentic Crusaderan cigar between his fingers, courtesy of an excess luxury item confiscated from NIIO’s supply depot. He sat on the seat reserved for highest highest-ranking officers along the circur table. He dons a uniform that mimics the style of Grand Autarch herself, and he is one of the only few allowed to do so.

  He is not alone, of course, to his right would be the Regalian Autarchy Armed Forces led by the recently chosen Supreme Field Marshal Titania Rhycelia. Her staff are noticeably younger-looking, but they all bear the grizzled look of those who have seen hell. Naturally, this would be the first time for most of them to attend this, arguably, the meeting for the highest profiles.

  On the left would be the Navy led by the venerable Supreme Admiral Jin Dougs. The Old Supreme Admiral brought his closest confidants and staff to attend the meeting, the st few Old Guards were with him. His staff are meticulously checking all the necessary documents while he still has to deal with several non-sensitive documents with a cigar to savor while waiting.

  Finally, in front of him would be Supreme Sky Marshal Reynard Hector with subordinates, colleagues, companions, and staff that has been rigorously exchanging notes, an eclectic mix of old and new. Otherwise, he seems to be more rexed and slipped in one or two random conversations.

  Other general staff and guards are also doing their duty around the conference room. Regalian military structure had been undergoing reforms time and time again. The current iteration would be their newest structure, established just shy of 15 years ago. There was a rather fantastical idea to create a space branch, but it was shelved thanks to the escation of the Regalian – VIpR War into the 20th Global War.

  “I shall begin with understanding what we know of this world. While it is true that at the moment the nguage barrier still presents problems to us, we managed to gather general knowledge for our perusal.” His subordinates distribute the necessary documents on the table. He motioned them to start reading it while he expined.

  “This world is named Ionar. Made up of 5 Great Continents filled with nations and factions to form a power structure. The world is made up of not just humans but the many races that we thought to be mere fairy tales.”

  “We need to tread carefully with these races, not just for our safety but also theirs.” Dougs offered his opinion on it. He has misgivings about interacting with the New Worlders, but he knows that fellow humans could be just as cruel.

  “Indeed, dimensional incursions had brought with them unusual or foreign creatures that resembled humanoids.”

  “I guess our caution to vet the settlers with those possessing a much more flexible tolerance paid off. It is just a shame that it slowed our colonization progress for the richer archipego.” Hector said while eyeing the scowling Supreme Field Marshal. She seems hell-bent on scrutinizing these races.

  “While it is a fascinating topic, I propose we move forward on the next topic at hand.”

  He presented several satellite images, at first, they saw nothing wrong with them; just usual rural vilges… Before it finally clicked. They are baffled understanding the sheer discrepancy between the presented images. Such as the first page is just typical idyllic vilges, but the next is a high-renaissance town that adopts steampunk aesthetics. It is not every day they would see musket-armed infantry transported with a steam train or its equivalent.

  “It can be assumed that this rigid hierarchy was enforced by differences in technological prowess.”

  The three sports have varying expressions. Rhycelia grinned seeing the differences of technology and her mind soon churned with ideas and possibilities to move their army with a huge room for creativity. Dougs frowned instead, a part of him put them immediately behind his mind and skim through the document. Hector is taking his time in understanding its content, he even made time to discuss it with his staff.

  “These are taken without much time g and from the same world, correct? How come the first one shows civilization from roughly 500 years ago, and the st one seemingly be tethering on the 17th Global War?”

  “We have yet to ascertain the reason. I do have a conjecture to share, however… namely that this world disparity is a deliberate one.”

  “A type of interference that might pgue their ocean and thus hamper the spread of technological advancement?

  “Or mayhap circumstances more esoteric in nature.” The attendees and their staff exchange some opinions regarding this phenomenon. Unless the natives are just that capable in withholding information or their racial conflict intensified to such a degree, as another reason, no one should be able to limit the speed of progress. Many well-meaning folks have their discoveries, inventions, and creations repurposed and proven to be viable tools to sustain violence.

  “Worrisome… Our world was pgued by a constant need for an Arms Race. Ornean had fought one another for so long that the moment anyone gged too far usually signaled the worst to come. I wonder, has this world rarely faced a dimensional threat?” Dougs posed his query, the same frown still etched on his face.

  “That is one such possibility, yet there would be little reasoning to back our hypotheticals without proper investigation. RAIO had been moving all around the clock, and there were incidents of personnel falling ill from overwork.”

  “It so, then we must tread carefully. There is a fine line that separates brave fascination and brazen foolhardiness. I found the distance between continents as a problem that needs solving from a doctrinal base, for example.” Hector focused on a visible problem, a problem that is under solving.

  “Quite, it would be prudent of us to refrain from making hasty judgment. Thus, we must adapt to what we have been presented efficiently and then act accordingly. With dimensional incursion seemingly a non-existent headache now, we could better concentrate our effort to go full-speed in recovery.”

  “By all accounts, this world is a mess.” The Supreme Sky Marshal dropped the picture back on the table. It was an image of summary execution done not with guns but by letting the captives bleed slowly from their wrist or limbs. He pondered back on Cylene’s efficiency compared to this senseless cruelty.

  “For one, I see nothing wrong with this mess, I daresay we could exploit this situation to an unprecedented degree.” Rhycelia scans between images with purest fascination, seeing cavalry charges blunted by a line of muskets. The hazy smoke seems to bring her to a time before hers came to pass. Of course, she knows that war is not just about bombing their enemies to oblivion.

  “If we acted without caution and believed ourselves to be superior, who knows what sort of disaster shall befall us, that is without a doubt. Additionally, I know for a fact that invincibility is a costly concept to maintain.” She was about to make a scathing remark about someone, but refrained from doing so.

  “Indeed, it is not hard to dismiss them as mere primitives, but we all know that a sharp stick is still a sharp stick. It can kill, and when coupled with humans’ penchant for violence, we will have a nasty cocktail of surprise.” Kennedy motioned to the nearby staff for more cigars on his side of the table.

  “Another matter would be how differently we were treated by the local wildlife.” They read through reports on how ships carrying only Regalian tend to be avoided or generally treated with disinterest. The ones carrying New Worlders, be they their guest or prisoners, are soon swarmed by these creatures, depending on how many are onboard. Forcing the fleet to bst their sonars repeatedly.

  “They ignored every vessel that does not carry prisoners or New Worlders? Lord Commander Regent surely knows the existence of the probable culprit, no?”

  “I do have one in mind.” Kennedy offhandedly answers, it is not something too hard to understand when the proof is avaible. A projector was shown repying a recording on how the New Worlders are conjuring metaphysical phenomena such as fming balls, bdes of wind, and even spears of ice.

  “It has been confirmed by Grasdivis stationed to monitor those Arganean, RAIO agents who had tirelessly done their duties, and many more. Magic, or metaphysical phenomena, indeed exist.”

  “Are we in a world filled with those nutjobs, spiritual puritans, and pin madmen that could not be reasoned with? Hmph, made my job easier then.” Rhycelia scowled, her disgust made clear.

  “We are not certain at the moment, Lady Supreme Field Marshal, but I concur… the existence of metaphysical phenomenon had almost become a taboo topic ever since the tragedy that has fallen amidst the 17th Global War. It is a problem that needs to be addressed, not shunned.” Hector pcated her, and she refrained from showing too much of her bias.

  “Moving on, the information we had gathered was the location of our homend. It is under an umbrel term of Aquysor Fastharad or the Forgotten Ocean.”

  “A very self-expnatory name, no wonder we met nothing but monsters and abominations. I was once worried that this new world was so hostile that no civilization could flourish, or we had gotten stranded in a prehistoric era.” There were no further comments on this matter, which is why the Lord Regent continued to the next topic.

  “As for dates and months, I should have brought up this topic first, we found strange and not necessarily alien calendars. There are 2 of them, one based on a very familiar standard and the other based on seasons.”

  “Could you expin them?”

  “This world has the same calendar as ours. Dates, names, down to the very minutia.” Everyone, except for him and his men, exchanges bewildered gnces or btant blinks.

  “… A world with the same months as ours, but… let’s focus on why it is the New World’s calendar? Surely there’s a reason and as an aside, we need to decide on what to name it or just adopt Ionar without making much of a fuss.”

  “Certainly, but Her Grace has yet to raise her voice on the matter, but regarding your previous question, there were what locals called otherworlders. Anecdotes of old cimed how these people always came from a world called ‘Earth’… I do not know if that’s another coincidence to have a pnet called such a simplistic name, but it is what it is.”

  “They were summoned to this world?” Rhycelia asked with disbelief, could it be that someone or something was the cause of their transference? Does it mean that they could be sent away at any time? So many questions, so few answers…

  “According to local myth and anecdotes, yes. There were many, sporadic, and not necessarily a force of good. However, it most famously pertained to seven individuals and they were granted titles of God’s Monarchs.” He paused.

  “We are still verifying with our colborators, but we did manage to affirm that these God’s Monarchs introduced inventions not too far removed from ours; the calendar to this world was one such thing. We had attempted to prove and understand its validity based on the pnet's true rotational period… and it is perfectly aligned, a year is 365.25 days. ” There are so many things they wish to ask, but it feels like a headache-inducing can of worms.

  “… What would be our current year?” Dougs spoke on behalf of them all.

  “It would be… just a second… it would be 1919 and we confirm that we are on the same month and date as well.” The three exchanged even more confused gnces along with their staffs. These kinds of things unearthed many potentially problematic socio-economic outlooks.

  While verification and intel gathering are ongoing, it is fair to assume that coincidence might not be coincidence, if at all. This could provide a historic example from Orneas to help them navigate this New World. Questions such as how much power do the clergy, merchants, and nobles have to keep their power? How far would their reach be regarding trades? Was there any big heresies or reforms? So many questions that will keep Foreign Affairs busy for months if not years, and these people can’t be happier to not have to deal with that… yet.

  “At the very least, we won’t have a challenging time getting used to the two. So, I’m grateful.”

  “I don’t think that would answer why inert satellites are orbiting the pnet… Then what about the second one?” Rhycelia decides it is better to expedite discussing this topic.

  “It was done very primitively; all four seasons heralded the change in their calendar. They have no names for these days either.”

  “That doesn’t make sense, weather and climate could be very whimsical to put it nicely. It would cause many problems, such as confusion in making decisions based on time and lining up logistics for military matters.”

  “I concur, Lady Supreme Field Marshal.” After concluding a few minor topics or issues, Kennedy turns his attention to the newly appointed Supreme Leader of the Regalian Army.

  “We shall continue with hearing the Army’s progress for demobilization.” Kennedy and the 2 supreme commanders turn their gaze to the newly appointed supreme commander of the Regalian Army. Rhycelia cleared her throat before starting her part on the meeting.

  “At the moment, we have successfully downsized the army from 10 million personnel to 3 million. The newly demobilized soldiers had been redirected back to civilian lives with more than 70% already finding employment.” She uttered with conviction while ying thick yers of documents on the table.

  “Those were the frontline soldiers, the supporting elements are demobilized much slower, especially the engineers and paramedics, of which the former are needed to help the rebuilding effort while the tter care for our people suffering from more temperate region maises. Of the 28 million supporting personnel, only 5 million have been returned to the civilian sector.” Rhycelia flipped on her document.

  “There has been a pervading concern for demobilized servicemen of being unable to readjust to civilian lives.” Her unspoken cue naturally was understood. However, for database and note taking, Kennedy must crify.

  “On what ground?”

  “On the ground of realities on the field. Such as if we based it upon reports from our spies sent overseas to monitor NIIO’s discharged personnel.” Hector and Dougs trade knowing gnces; she meant one thing: PTSD.

  “Reports of particur concern such as outbursts of violence and excessive drug abuse, even worse than recorded 17th and 18th Global Wars. Other suffers personal fears, negative readjustment to civilian life and community function, and cultivated numbness to death cause alienation by the wider popuce, just to name additional examples of mental instability.”

  They nodded at her words. Truthfully, such a horrific situation where soldiers (even if they are enemies, they could respect their tenacity in the contest of arms) are met with scorn back in their homend. Veterans left homeless and forced to scrounge a living via underworld employment, a rise of substance abusers, and even violent outbursts resulting in casualties.

  Many cases were compounded and reported… many more were hidden, else it can and will induce increasing prejudice. These are soldiers who bled and fought. Forget a hero’s welcome, most are beyond fortunate not to have a rotten vegetable thrown at them.

  She further eborated that Regalia is also pgued with such problems.

  According to her colleague in the Health ministry, 5 out of 10 soldiers harbor increasingly dubious outlooks when interacting with the locals because of the war. 6 out of 10 civilians show worries because instances of soldiers getting violent and going mad left a sting, negative impression.

  As if they don’t have enough problems, concerns of growing xenophobia on all yers of Regalian social strata against the outside world are on the rise and stifle eagerness to make contact with the outer world when an internal organizational survey was subtly conducted. It was telling that the war had induced such a trauma that gunboat diplomacy gained support. From the Foreign Ministry.

  While it is not as extreme with NIIO’s discarded and shunned veterans, the effects were quite severe nonetheless. Regalian Autarchy had fought a defensive war against the world that turned on them, which made the people more accepting of circumstances, but worries and fears are human nature. Being born in Tenebrea only pronounces that quality more.

  “Hmm… continue.”

  “Thus, the Army shall initiate a program. This program shall be aimed at alleviating such concern while giving them more opportunity.”

  “That would be?” Hector leaned forward with interest, the Army always has stronger ties with the Air Force. That being said, he could be considered as one of the Old Guard; he wishes to see how Rhycelia would tackle the problems on her pte.

  “The demobilization and rehabilitation program shall be rebranded, expanded, and appropriated with the upcoming colonization effort. At the moment we theorized it to be voluntary, but with Her Grace’s encouragement, there shouldn’t be any shortage of applicants.”

  “How are you going to organize such a massive undertaking would be my concern, and do you have a model for example?”

  “A fair query. I believe we used to have a force and command structure for the Foreign Legion?”

  “Correct, and what would you propose?” The Commander Regent takes a deep puff of his cigar. He seems carefree, but she knows it is anything but.

  “I devised a pn for a change in territorial defense force by incorporating the core tenets of our defunct Foreign Legion, namely the 4 values shall be rebranded into integrity, indomitability, independence, and intelligence. These legionnaires are sted for overseas deployment that would accommodate their potential families in the near future. The Army aims to spread out our roots and enhance our cim on colonial ground. Of course, because we had yet to make an official comment, it is possible to conduct trials and understand the enormity of rge scale colonization.”

  “Logical and ambitious proposal, quite the reflection, but how are you going to make the soldiers interested in such a program? The idea of colonizing would surely be a novelty for Regalian, as our colonies were found only on SIEZ at a very limited number and under harsh conditions. We have no actual tempte to base ourselves on.” The Supreme Admiral asked with a harsher tone. Putting the soldiers’ families on the frontline would be the least of their list for interests. He paused briefly.

  “Another concerning problem would be the matter of security. The Navy is stretched out as is, with the Maritime Guards pulling double duty. Not mentioning our long list of facilities to rebuild exacerbates the problem. Surely you would not overstep to advise us to produce gunboats, would you?” A jest, but his tone is clear.

  “My resignation would be the preferable choice over introducing discord during this dire time. Allow me to reiterate, Her Grace had given her blessing for Regalia as a whole to embark and cim free territories in the name of rebuilding. It is one thing if there are inhabitants, but so far we found none when we don’t consider the 5 continents to the West.”

  “We had been trapped in this continent for so long, the idea of a whole new world to explore would be a great stimulus.” Hector could see the logic in her thinking, but he was very skeptical of its efficacy. It feels like the Army is just trying to dump its problem away by skirting around ideas and calling it something else.

  Rhycelia noted his skepticism, and she couldn’t fault him. She continues to eborate on a point that might entice them to see the merits of her idea.

  “We have millions who have lost their old life, starting fresh and assured by the government would not only be a boost to legitimacy but also impress a steady recovery to be a matter of time.” The Supreme Field Marshal let the word sink in. Dougs understood her idea.

  “A busy industry is a healthy one, and when we take into account the many factory workers left with nothing to do, the st thing we want is to impress upon them that they would lose their livelihood. Keeping the flow for supply and demand is a costly affair, but nothing is more dangerous than people losing hope and confidence in us as their governing bodies in charge of security. Even a btant illusion is better compared to the slightest signs of anarchy…” She nodded at his deduction and continued where she left off.

  “The anarchic part has been quelled by Her Grace’s dispy of confidence towards the future. It is only fair that we keep the opus going, aided by and with the Autarchs busy in tidying up their sectors. Stimuting the people with choices to settle the New World and build up a fortune should distract them from the grim reality on the domestic front.” Kennedy knitted his brows; her implicatory statement both intrigued and concerned him.

  “Correct me if I am wrong, Lady Supreme Field Marshal… all these ideas… did you wish to make use of the masses' adoration of our Grand Autarch to quell dissatisfaction? Are you trying to encourage votile emotion to suppress logic? I found this contradiction problematic.” The Old Supreme Admiral said with an equally baffled and impressed tone of voice. She is new in her office, and is already being this bold. No wonder she is one of Simon’s protégés… for better or worse.

  “I see nothing wrong with her proposition. The Autarchy needs all it could muster and utilize to rebuild swiftly, and to keep up our momentum would be the most preferable course of action. Of course, circumstances could derail our pns, but nguishing on our urels won’t make them go away either.” Hector decides to give her the benefit of the doubt. Although he would be inclined to side with Dougs, her proposition was too good to pass.

  “Your confidence and vivid creativity might be grounded upon how our Grand Autarch would move. Surely you did not imply wishes to superimpose your idea on her ideal?” For the first time, an emotion flickered through her face, her eyes hardened, and her teeth gritted tight through pursed lips, but she kept her expression otherwise stoic.

  “I’m afraid such arrogance is beyond me. My Loyalty lies with Her Grace, and I’m a simple cog in her design. It is merely my fervent belief that proactivity is what we need, unless Her Grace stated otherwise. No such comment is avaible for reference.”

  “Please correct me if I’m wrong, dear Supreme Field Marshal, it seems like Her Grace is more to you than even to me… was she a Deity to you?” Kennedy presses on. He knows when someone lies, and he's sure that his hands would always be faster. Not to mention Grasdivis is on his side, second only to Cylene.

  “A god, was it? I’m not afraid to denounce such a notion and I found such an unhumorous drivel to be in poor taste, Lord Commander Regent…” She scoffed incredulously, more than a bit offended by his words.

  “I would not dare entertain such a bsphemous idea. God is real, yet he was silent… but that was equally incomprehensible because I was taught that mortals could never comprehend such a being’s will and what was imposed. Thus I cared not for which higher power that is be, but I would be eternally grateful for sending Her Grace to Regalia… A thousand and a hundred years, and she stood tall. She is no god, heavens no…, she is the answer.”

  ‘The fact that Rossa isn’t reacting proves that there are merits in Rhycelia becoming a Supreme Field Marshal… I need to watch her closely. It takes a small misstep to solidify a cult and ignite a craze of zealotry.’ That’s Kennedy’s assessment of her. The other two stayed silent; their suspicion rose, but the only one who could convict her without red tape had yet to say anything.

  “To reiterate, please perish the thought, Lord Commander Regent. I only wish to make the most out of Sir Steel’s teaching. The Exil- pardon me, Auxiliary Force Chief Executive Officer and I were, and still are, his protégés. It would besmirch his honor if I performed inadequately.” Changing the topic, she signaled her staff to share her documents with the other branches.

  “From the first through seventh page, it is not a secret that the 20th Global War had severely affected how war was fought.” The three men peruse the document differently. Kennedy read it briefly before passing it to his staff. Hector doesn’t read it too deeply because he is more interested in her words. Dougs made sure to read every bit of information in it, along with deliberating with his subordinates for input, before reaching an understanding.

  “I need to remind the gentlemen present that these foes of ours were used to offensive war tens of thousands of kilometers away from home… They had a clear enemy, they had a clear objective, and they had little to worry about their supplies dwindling… Yet how come did we not surrender after 10 years of grueling war? How come we are not exhausted? Surely we are at our limits? Why? Because they had a legitimate foe that could not be put down with bullets so willy-nilly in most cases.” They turn to the next page to show rows of people with colorful signs with peace symbols.

  “Said legitimate enemy? Their own people.”

  The three nodded solemnly. The war was certainly odd compared to the previous war that killed billions. Especially for Dougs, who was a mere sailor of a corvette during the 18th Global War, he remembered how different it was back then. Men died in droves, and the general mood was that of a blithe indifference. There were pushbacks and riots, but Regalia is a bit… unique in that regard.

  The status quo changed with the advent of ICBM, and perhaps that is why fears of a lengthened total war were constantly shadowed by Mutually Assured Destruction via worldwide Nuclear Catastrophe. It doesn’t matter who fired first or what moral high ground they have, simply because a dead world would be their fate. Ornean’s descendants would pay for their ancestors’ folly, if anything could be salvaged that is.

  Further compounding the Anti-War movement, NIIO has been performing so terribly under abnormal weather due to the SIEZ anomalous streak. There have been reports from RAIO that widespread anti-war protest for fear of nuclear retaliation and a nonsensically high level of casualties further blunted their nd offensive because manpower is scarce.

  The document highlighted the situation and incidents that have been developing all over the ground war fronts. Soldiers, most likely conscripts, were documented to be murdering their NCOs and officers who were too glory-hungry.

  Other reasons made situations worse, such as mounting frustration with the war that has gone on for too long, made drug and alcohol addiction a critical issue. Entangled, bedraggled, and crowded frontline command with overpping operations between multiple nations. Cases of soldiers shing out due to homesickness, and so many more.

  Muddying the situation further because there are confirmed reports of forceful draftee becoming a hazard for their side. Rumors and gossip, which were true, about enlisted men murdering their superior officers grew rampant. Then confirmed truth of less than adequate recruits incapable of heeding orders to the letters made the air war take a drastically deadly turn.

  These (once considered to be an analogue to) knights of the skies were turned into grunts while infantrymen are pying handball with artillery shells. This is where the vocal point of forcing an immediate resolution stays true. Orneas was on a severe countdown, and it's ticking faster.

  Regalia held, but unfortunately, it was costly.

  Air War remains consistent at lower altitudes (sophisticated AA batteries prevent most high-altitude operations), but nd war is a quagmire of trenches from one beach to the next. Occasions on which ground battles occurred has been reduced by a fourth compared to 4 years ago. Their Air Force took the beating with ever-increasing lethality, with only 5 ace squadrons remaining, worsening the mounting fatigue and loss of experienced pilots becoming unbearable.

  Yes, compared to NIIO’s manpower crisis, Regalia enjoyed a surplus of highly motivated recruits aplenty since they fight for their home, yet enthusiasm won’t fill in the gap left by experience and skills. Human are at their basest form to be a spiteful and stubborn race, but technology could overturn all that gradually. When Regalia was finally forced to dump numbers, NIIO will probably use highly programmable cluster munitions or even cheap drones.

  The document further shows how Regalian under occupation has been fighting back, making it harder to perform Hearts & Minds that doesn’t turn into Hearts plus Minds spttered all over the pce. Doesn’t help that they are pressured by their distrust; members start accusing one another of sabotaging the war effort and of not doing anything about their traitorous volunteers, insufficient support, and many more excuses.

  “Our side found a simpler answer, theirs are nothing but rabbles and vultures. They fight with the shadow of expectation that has been shattered. Each day was a series of misery that could not be described by pens and letters inside a weekly magazine. Damningly pitiful, they are not fighting some backwater country like the propaganda promised them. They met a military force supported by a popution that has been witnessing a dimensional breach at least thrice in their life. They are advanced, but we are not too far behind them either.” Then Kennedy continued her words.

  “If we put complete colpse of humanity and nuclear camity aside…” The centuries-old, eternally middle-aged Commander Regent mused.

  “NIIO’s combined air forces are winning, but doing so costs them highly sophisticated weapons and experienced pilots too. Their Navy reigned supreme, but each day was marked by sunk vessels. Their Army would overwhelm us eventually… in a decade or so before our command structure ceased as a united fighting force… Then Regalia would only colpse in a few more decades. No one want or could stomach fighting for so long when they understands that back home their people sees them as murderers, thieves, and rapists simply because they were there.” Rhycelia nodded and continued the Commander Regent’s words.

  “Soldiers are human beings made to numb their conscience. That means little when they return as mere civilian who couldn’t just swallow the mental burden, on top of any physical afflictions they might have to bear.” She let out a bemused chuckle, still finding absurd pleasure from the bleakness of that bsted war that is, in all honesty, a complete waste of time and materials.

  “All of that before taking into account of Nuclear Apocalypse that occupies their mindset. We, mortals, are fickle, like a gss filled to the brim with not just water but also dirt, grime, blood, and poison. There is only so much such a small container can endure before that ugly cocktail spills on the table or is tilted and toppled.” Thus, she finished her point of view; adding a bit of personal touch on the imagery.

  “I see where you’re going with this. The theory that overseas war would cost tremendously and be highly unsustainable certainly has its merits. Our potential enemies might be technologically inferior, but if that’s all it takes to win, then NIIO would have been dictating our ws by now.” Dougs assessed, and surprisingly, he is less confrontational than before. Rhycelia affirmed him and proceeded to pitch in her idea to the supreme military council.

  “Precisely, Sir Supreme Admiral, it would not come to be unless an extraordinary event occurred. For better or worse, our policy to focus inward has been a consistent boon for hundreds of years. Although it came to a head when Regalia's covert method of gathering its power had induced a severe pse in the political spectrum. We pyed friends with everyone, but we never ceased going buddy-buddy to everyone.” She ceased her speech to allow any of them to raise a point of their own. Hector did.

  “In other words, there is little need to overhaul the core policies, but how we use those does. By promoting our people on these uninhabited nds, we could cim self-defense while making use of our unique education policy. I do not doubt that all of us would follow Her Grace to hell, but if, for whatever reason, she were unable to lead us, we would be grappling with deadlocks. Additionally, having a convenient cuse allows us to undercut the bureaucracy.”

  “I see the benefits of this proposal of yours, Lady Supreme Field Marshal. I shall see to it that Her Grace view your proposal at her earliest convenience more favorably.” With that, the primary concern of the Army was addressed to an extent. Rhycelia proceeds to answer queries and provide further expnation regarding a multitude of topics. Her adaptability was proven genuine, and she had impressed an image of confidence in leadership on the other 3.

  “Much obliged, Lord Commander Regent. Next, I shall elucidate the state of our rearmament program.” Different documents were disseminated soon, with helpful photographs to give more credibility and accuracy.

  “Our tanks and armored vehicles… I’m afraid that our worst fear has come true.” They read comparisons on their main combat vehicles. Regalian’s war machines are noticeably smaller, faster, and less armored. The most reliable tank gun they have is a 105mm cannon. The 120mm cannon was too heavy and bulky; besides, ATGM fits the bill just fine.

  “The M34s series, while reliable, was made with extreme cold in mind; that being prolific usage of gas turbines. The change of climate had made it overheat quickly, consumed too much fuel, and even when we had taken ergonomics into account, there had been reports of soldiers suffering nausea and discomfort after driving the tank fully enclosed after 3 hours.” Rhycelia was dissatisfied, but there was little she could do with that.

  “It proves that there are many fws that need to be addressed. I’m confident that our defensive doctrine would stand, but we would need something more suitable with this rapid change in environment.”

  Kennedy frowned at her admission. That is a really serious problem. While it is true that Regalian are tougher, being boiled away by the weather would make their soldiers exhausted before the fight even started. When they did, their effectiveness would fg, and prompting otherwise easily avoided mistakes would become frequent.

  “Could the Army provide their opinion for solutions?”

  “For the moment, we could try testing NIIO’s diesel engines. It could be seen on pages 16 through 25 regarding their efficacy after we compare reports with RAIO and our findings. RARD had insisted that it was time to retire the tank. M34s are second-generation MBTs that were modernized, refurbished, and forced to combat third-generation MBTs and recently deployed fourth-generation MBTs. Unsurprisingly, they performed better as FSV than their intended role to pierce enemy defenses.”

  “Developing a new tank from scratch is not possible. There is also the matter of budgetary issues, Regalia is focusing on expediting recovery above all else. However, this problem wouldn’t simply solve itself if we pretend that there is no concern, thus I’ll try to have Her Grace deliberate on this matter.”

  “More than I could hope for at the moment, Lord Commander Regent.” She continued reporting her part. Mostly minor details such as logistical chain hiccups that were resolved, smaller sweeping operations going smoothly, bestowal of medals or ceremonial achievements, and the Army’s general downsizing efforts.

  “Thank you for your reports and contributions, Supreme Field Marshal. Now, let’s listen to the Air Force’s effort in maintaining outer defense.” Hector immediately told his subordinate to disseminate the papers. Clearing his throat, he started with a general overview.

  “The advent of winged creatures that are capable of entering our defense sector has been a concerning topic as of te. As I had shared from time to time, I will soon provide the threat projection.” He motioned them to open the next page.

  “The first css resembled avian species such as hawks, eagles, and even vultures. Albeit being typically on the rger side, not to mention their increased aggression when provoked. Rest assured, nothing that couldn’t be handled by even a standard 7.62 if you know where to aim.” No one raised a question, so he continued.

  “On the next page would be the second css, a much more fantastical breed from myths and legend… if we never stumbled upon their equivalent due to dimensional incursions that is. They resembled mythical beasts such as hippogriffs, gryphons, and even manticores. These are much more dangerous, their thick hide often shrugged off smaller caliber at an angle and distance. However, their wings are too poorly protected and plummeting from the sky was often enough to put them out of the picture.” He waits for any interest, and soon Rhycelia does.

  “Let me interject, my soldiers had encountered one such creature although it did not attack them. The incident pertained to what appears to be a gryphon with a silvery mane, it shows little aggression and an ample amount of curiosity, even when my men pointed their guns at it. At the moment, the specimen had been interred in one of our many defunct zoos and observed to be docile. It is puzzling how they managed to penetrate our line… or they came out of thin air.”

  If it were any other nation, her words would be ughed off as delusion, and chastisement would soon follow. Regalia couldn’t dismiss it, they had seen fabrics of reality tearing themselves to spit out horrors beyond human comprehension. Her admission warrants a serious deliberation.

  “Indeed, that is a very dangerous possibility; thus, we need to redouble our efforts to safeguard this continent.” Everyone nodded in agreement before Hector continued where he left off.

  “To summarize, they are not 100% aggressive at the drop of a hat. I shall order several search and capture groups to capture and deliver these specimens to the b, if there are more, so let’s have the think-tanks figure it out. I do not mean to cross the Army’s boundaries, but they are busy as is, and the Paratroopers could perform a little more legwork.” He gnced at Rhycelia, who mouthed off her gratitude quietly. He then moved onto the next page.

  “Third css would be these winged lizards that breathe fme, frost, noxious fumes, and even a type of bacteria they had been bred inside their lung or their equivalent. Research is still ongoing to ascertain the truth from obstructive conjectures. Creatures such as winged serpents, wyverns, and dragons are the currently known threat to our airspace.” Dougs made eye contact with the Commander Regent, and he just nodded and allowed the Old Admiral to do his inquiries.

  “Any signs of intelligence so far? My sailors rarely encountered them, preoccupied with contending against rge aquatic creatures that exhibit aggression, with a few reaching the size of a pocket battleship.”

  “So far, there was none. They did, however exhibit a habit to gather around and migrate as one unified group; an alpha or leader had been reported to be capable of making a rudimentary command structure. Now, these third css exhibited thick hide on the level ranging from 1.5mm of steel to an inch thick of tungsten and capable of outstanding endurance plus maneuvers that would harm even our reinforced body.” He pced the document back on the table.

  “To be perfectly honest, this is the highest known css avaible at the moment. The fourth css exists only in name, and for a good reason. Logically speaking, travelling in groups equates to more security. Large carnivorous species usually travel in smaller groups. Why did they travel in a group?” Dougs completed his rhetoric.

  “There is something rger out there… appears that you have simir thoughts to mine.”

  “Truly now?”

  “Aye, but I shall share it after you’re done.” Hector nodded and continued.

  “I had gathered several specimens, Please look at the next page.” The document shows smaller lizard-like creatures to be around average-sized adults, to the biggest that towered over 3-story buildings. The smaller one could be felled by small arms, but the rger one requires rger cannons since putting holes in its wings and torso became that much harder.

  “To combat these threats, our current armaments are more than adequate… but what if there is something bigger? We must not forget about the Moloch crisis, it was a harrowing incident.” He spoke grimly, and his expression was understandable.

  Moloch was a rge winged creature that wreaked havoc on SIEZ’s airspace a few decades ago. Extensive documentation has shown that it was 500m (around 1640 ft) long with its wingspan, and capable of shrugging off anything less than a 75mm sabot, forcing the armored division into a turkey shooting gallery while the SPAAG watched in frustration.

  Missiles were used but the dastardly beast seems to be capable of developing biological spaced armor, preventing any meaningful damage. Not mentioning that the technology was at its retive infancy because Regalia put too much funding on electronics and auxiliary systems first.

  It breathes acids, having the maneuverability of an attack helicopter, the versatility of a VTOL, and speed reaching Mach 2 when diving, otherwise maintaining subsonic speed. It could cause damage by just flying over its targets and spreading chaos where it goes.

  Moloch took a considerable effort to neutralize. The winged abomination regenerated its wounds to the point that Cylene authorized the usage of CBRN arsenal to dampen its ability. A tailor-made weapon was soon created. The massive beast’s body decayed from an influx of ravenous flesh-eating bacteria and radiation that was made to self-terminate when exposed to oxygen for too long.

  It took a whole year to clean that mess away from ever reaching the mainnd; the whole ordeal was an undertaking that cost Regalia ūC 1 trillion (500 billion), and suffice to say military budget was tight that year. A silver lining was gained in terms of technological advancement in genetic engineering and now dereguted CBRN weaponry (hashing out details is ongoing).

  “Rest assured, I shall petition Her Grace to add more funding, the Ligers weren’t exactly made to contend against a gargantuan target for an extended period, and our older aircraft have poor maneuverability,” Kennedy says while inhaling another puff from his cigar. Rhycelia then added her piece.

  “May I inquire about the progress of Regalia’s newest aircraft?”

  “That would be my pleasure.” He signaled his subordinate to share the necessary documents.

  “XF/IA-20 had been tested and surpassed our expectations. It proves to be more versatile and durable compared to its predecessor with an array of flexible weapon systems. The drawing board had included a variant capable of being unched from a carrier using a catapult, but it would require further research.”

  “How much better is it compared to the Liger A?” Kennedy deliberately disregards the notorious version. Liger B's primary merits were to unch missiles and create an illusion of sustainable air superiority until their st-ditch ground AA interlocking defense grid was completed.

  “According to the statistics, 60% across the board, and is now capable of unching a strike package with double the range; its predecessor wasn’t known for air endurance, as you said beforehand. I hope that answer eased your concern.” Rhycelia nodded positively. She wished that such an aircraft came much sooner, but as long as it progresses smoothly then all is well.

  “Meanwhile, the progress of XF/IA-17 had stalled.” Dougs's expression fell. His dismayed expression was quite comical with how the cigar hung freely on his lips.

  “How so?”

  “Well… the aircraft proves adequate as is, but we should return it to the drawing board. It is too small to withstand carrier unch when armed with full payload, or so RARD told me, it has problems with the payload, and there has been a report on it having an underpowered engine. There would be another test commencing shortly, and they would surely solicit your opinion on the matter.”

  “… I suppose it couldn’t be helped, and it is about time I stop gring at naval charts.” The Old Admiral just shrugged it off, not like they had little alternative. Then if it is not working, they could just try reverse engineering the Victorian VTOLs.

  “Has there been any notable problem internally?”

  “There has been… a schism.”

  “Schism? That’s new…” He proceeded to expin the situation. RARD and Regalian Military are currently divided into 2 factions butting heads regarding priority on research, plus the possibility of shifting their focus and resources for subsequent research. These factions are the Improved System & Ordinances faction and the Advanced Airframe faction.

  The former argued that advancement of aircraft could be put on the lower end, but missiles and software couldn’t. It would be unamusing to see shiny new aircraft with inadequate armaments. To summarize, they underscored how the need for higher interception speed is inconsequential, and thus, advanced missiles should take priority.

  There is that MURG’s missile dubbed by the pilots as ‘Magic Missiles’ capable of firing backward and turned sharper than your ex after knowing you returned as a War Hero. That left quite a shocking impression on the pilots, and there has been a hastened investigation to understand such novelty.

  The opposing faction was outraged, confronting with fact there is only so much modernization pns could cover. Not only would operating older aircraft be limiting, but it also came from the concern in flexibility. Older airframe would be limited by its very principle and design’ objective, they do not wish to repeat the Army’s airborne tank debacle that narrowly avoided being scrapped.

  They then argued that having a much more robust airframe would be more beneficial in the long run and because of stealth technology gaining prominence. It was proven by Victorians’ flying wings that were nigh-invisible to radar and almost turning part of Graceveria Regalia into rubble if not for its bomb bays opening too early.

  Such a compelling argument was then pushed back by the former faction by arguing that the incident happened 5 years ago, was caused mostly by a surprise attack. A dense network of IRST has now been developed and turning stealth a contentious point if not moot altogether.

  “So their arguments boil down to ‘Why bother expending resources on fantastical and specutive ventures if we could spend it on CHECK-Point investment?’ I respect that kind of thinking, innovations to promote what we already mastered are always welcome.” Dougs stated with understanding.

  His opinion was based on how the Navy had been reduced to submarine warfare, for the most part. Remnants of the surface fleets are operating under spatial storms to hide from satellite tracking in SIEZ, making use of what they have and improving them would be a safer bet until Regalia recovers.

  “Barghests won the many struggles for air superiority, but Ligers won them chances to even battle for such achievement. I highly doubt GSN was unaware of a gringly obvious fact.” Her words supported the Old Admiral’s own: Regalia is losing badly, and no amount of delusion shall save them.

  Then, Hector told the council the bitter truth; the way the air war had progressed showed they would pay dearly in the following 3 months if not for this transference. Each day they were losing ground, and that meant their enemies could field even more aircraft without endangering their CSGs. Rhycelia had expined that Regalia won’t lose quickly, but losing air superiority stings.

  Continuing, weaponry and system-based sort of thinking weren’t wrong, but were too narrow according to the airframe faction, having a much better aircraft would mean heavier weapons could also be loaded. Sure, they could ditch speed, but installing new electronics and a system would be another can of worms. Some concerns rebuilding and modernizing as inefficient and too costly for incremental gain.

  Exacerbating the problem, a misguided point of view from some of the more out of touch engineers and officers from both side had genuinely occurred. They assumed that just lobbing missiles to be viable using serviceable and capable airframe. They have the manpower and loyalty, so shove those pilots into the aircraft and watch the enemy burns then crank it up as a great patriotic undertaking for the propaganda ministry.

  …

  Those same officers had been reprimanded and sent back to reeducation camps, courtesy of one of the most powerful personages in Regalian Autarchy. Engineers who supported such bogus views were sent to the factories, airfields, and or attached to maintenance crews to make them learn the error of their views while getting chewed by Her Grace herself if they’re that unlucky. Execution? What execution?

  …

  Regardless of these factions’ arguments, the 20th Global War had taught Regalia how to dogfight and snap interception, as, much to their chagrin, things from the past. There is no need to have aircraft reaching anything above Mach 2 or 3 anymore from the fuel-efficiency standpoint. Having interception speed is good, but having their hypersonic missiles not miss is much better. Throwing away the cannon in favor of an extra fuel tank was also considered a good idea… somehow…

  Hector then shares a one topic they would positively support would be Drone technology. The idea of disposable, loitering, munitions has been a much more prolific and productive discussion between RARD and the Military that doesn’t immediately devolve into arguments. One of the driving forces for it was the Grand Autarch herself, who spoke seriously about disposable drones while those present began taking notes and treating her words as the gospel of enlightenment.

  “Very well, your concern shall be informed to Her Grace. The matter of funding is tricky, but with steady re-growth and resources taken from our economic zones, we will find a solution.” Kennedy then nods at Dougs, who immediately expins the status of RANF.

  RANF is in a rough shape. We only have 7 capital ships that are worthy as fgships and can be deployed for an extended period. Our total vessel, barring those under control of the GSN, Maritime Force, submarines, and captured ones, is 57 surface ships with 62 being our primary combatants. We barely have 1/3 of the projected baseline naval sufficiency. It is certainly disappointing compared to our peak number of ships was 600 vessels, with 445 being combatants, with 20 capital ships.” Rhycelia voiced her question.

  “What is the progress of manning the captured ships? Could you eborate?”

  “Aye, it was a boon for sure, but training officers and sailors took time, and making them capable of taking each other’s duty certainly made it longer. It is a logistical nightmare, having to streamline their armament is costly, but to use up NIIO’s supplies is considered detrimental in the long run. We reach a compromise based on Her Grace’s order to scrap a select number of them and cannibalize on parts until our navy could stand on its own feet once more.”

  “Is it possible to undercut the training for a moment? We aren’t expecting overtly important or urgent naval conflict in the near future. Training the sailors during active duty should speed up the process.” Kennedy raised his point. Dougs had anticipated this question and eborated further.

  “That is indeed possible, but I refrain from doing so because of the next point I shall elucidate.” His staffs disseminate his papers to show documents that show gring points of interest.

  “We diagnosed the behavior of mammals that delve beneath the ocean, and found a fact that they are sorely sensitive to sound, hence our sonar proves deadlier to them from even much greater distance.” They scrunched their brows, this is not a piece of good news simply because they ck data on how far the sonar could be heard. It’s good if they are repelled, but what if they unintentionally woke up something they shouldn’t?

  “Then the fact that these creatures are mostly docile, at least to us, is a boon. However, the moment we try to transport our guests and haul up those prisoners to Nova Eureka, the sailors onboard notice that the local wildlife starts becoming aggressive. It appears that Lord Commander Regent’s finding was the cause for it indeed.”

  “Should we perhaps outw them from stepping into Regalia?”

  “At the moment, the Assembly had unanimously voted for denying entrance to New Worlders in our homend. Her Grace agreed, but she refrained from voicing her opinion and getting too involved with Autarchies politics like she used to.”

  “Moving onto the next matter, and to corroborate further, they expined that expeditions had been tried numerous times in the past, and they failed to penetrate more than 160 kilometers (100 miles) of the edges of the newly incorporated Eurekan Archipego.” This piece of information made their understanding resulted in a simir conclusion.

  “Pardon me, weren’t those beasts in human skin veer closer within our territory retively unharmed?”

  “Indeed, the natural barriers were hunted down by our fleets in the name of the maritime protection initiative. We need to feed and safeguard our people, and then soon enough we scare away the weaker and smaller aquatic organisms, forcing the predator to chase after them. Hence… we have gaps and voids in our line.”

  “Oh… I see…, that’s… problematic, but nothing too serious, and we learned something new.” The Supreme Commander of the Army tilted her head in annoyance. Appears that going into a fishing spree, bsting active sonars, and being an utter inconvenience for the ecosystem were disruptive and destructive… who would have thought?

  “The wildlife doesn’t actively react to us, probably has to do with us cking any metaphysical signature or due to SIEZ generational mutation… but is that it? Perhaps I need to contact and deploy our Interdimensional Research Bureau…” Kennedy mused, his cigar having been put aside with an interested expression. He would need to contact Rossa and understand the truth. Cylene is busy as is, and he would rather not bother that workaholic.

  “Which is why I had enforced an order to minimize the usage of active sonar. 3 rings had been established with the first closest to our shores, then each being 500 kilometers (around 500 miles) apart, and at the furthest point, it is prohibited. Reason? Because of this puzzling and worrisome discovery to our north.”

  He insinuated that everything wasn’t all that bad. Simply because all of those paled to the discovery of a bnk area that could not be penetrated by sonar scan or was too deep and unstable for further mapping. The crews tasked with this unusual incident had shown mental distress, hallucination, and general fatigue, causing them to be quarantined and rehabilitated. Dealing with metaphysics is a different kind of pain and often spirals into much deadlier incidents when handled flippantly.

  “We designated this bnk part of the ocean as Abyssal Pocket.” The people present perked their ears with interest. Otto stopped smoking altogether.

  “Tentatively around 400 kilometers (about 250 miles) in diameter as our lowest estimate at the moment’s notice. The test report from our research ship that headed closest to its borders indicates that there is something within it that deserves caution.”

  “Depth?” Rhycelia spoke her query with a grim tone.

  “The pocket’s depth was measured at 5 kilometers (around 3 miles) deep from its edges until it is no longer advisable to continue. We have no intention to forcefully breach into the unknown without proper pnning. Thus, I would ask for limited authorization against unknown and potentially hazardous underwater leviathan.” He stared at the Commander Regent, who stared back. The other 2 only observed from the sideline. After a few minutes of silence and finger tapping on the table, Kennedy spoke.

  “Very well, I shall grant you a limited authorization of stationing aircraft armed with ABMs to be under your command. You shall have 5 Buster Indigos at your disposal. Remember it, Sir Dougs, tread lightly but never falter.” He cautioned the military council seriously. He has seen things from deep water incursion, and rarely among them ever ended peacefully.

  “As our Grand Autarch’s Supreme Admiral, I shall take your caution to heart.” They are the incursors now, regardless of how or why, thus it might be beneficial to tone down the aggression but never dull in preparation. After he is finished with more expnations, Dougs starts sharing on a much lighter topic, and undoubtedly positive.

  “The restoration of the status of the MNPV2 Project has been progressing smoothly.” He said with a genuine smile and prompted the Commander Regent to exhale in relief.

  “We could expect the prototype to be ready in 4 months, fully armed and ready for the trial voyage. The development progress jumped significantly. Additions of many temptes from NIIO that had been graciously providing us with insight into their technology, system, and doctrine allowed us a great deal to leap forward.”

  “Thank goodness, one more problematic development and I might have to call it a day…” The quartet most powerful military figures shared good-natured ughs, a welcome break after headache-inducing revetions. Their meeting goes well into the night, there are many problems to address, but so little time.

  [END OF CHAPTER]

  Author’s Note:

  Yo there, this is me, myself, and I, the author who… hmm… mhm… yep.

  Regalian technologies mostly pivots around the te 1980s, but electronics is around the 2000s. It was very much skewed because Cylene was rushing to have drone technology, unlike the rest of the much saner pyer base who steadily marched into the te 1990s, and because they could afford to. UFSNE and URV are both in the 2000s, reaching the te 2010s.

  M34 MBT is an original. It weighs 35 tons, has 4 crews, a 105mm rifled cannon, 15mm HMG, 60 kph speed, and hardened armor around 80 – 55 – 40 mm for front, sides, and rear, respectively. That was the early variant. The A4 weighs 45 tons, armed with a 105mm smoothbore cannon, crewed by 3 people with an auto-loader, thermal, APS, 20mm autocannon, composite armoring around 100mm to better protect from modern projectiles, but not always, and 55 kph speed (better engine). Size wise, it is a bit smaller than AMX-32.

  Regalia put less emphasis on armored warfare in favor of artillery (Meta-wise, Cylene reasoned that attritional armored warfare is hopeless anyway, so better pound them from afar).

  Putting into perspective about the Abyssal Pocket, Earth’s Mariana Trench is 11 kilometers (6.5 miles) deep… hmm… welp…

  CHECK-Point Investment = Capable, Hardy, Ergonomic, Compatible, and Key-Point investment. This is the Regalian Military Industrial Complex mantra on how to design pretty much anything (although there were cases that the perimeter was stilted to promote 1 from 5 core points because, surprise – surprise, products are often finicky). Between horrors lurking beyond the veil of reality and war between masterful moron, generously greedy, and caustically creative men, a reliable tool worth its weight in diamonds.

  Buster Indigo = Bunker busting nuclear warhead calibrated from 5 to 25 Kiloton that could further be modified to carry a specific payload. It cked the explosion radius of a conventional nuclear weapon of the same magnitude, but in exchange, it penetrates and liquefies 100+ meters (330 ft+) of titanium before its additional payload activates. The Warhead is the primary go to of Regalian military when facing interdimensional kaijus to not repeat the Moloch debacle or also derisively named as the Moloch’s Bollocks by the pyers.

  MNPV2 Project = Multirole Nuclear Powered Vanguard Vessel was a decade-long project that was reactivated, constantly revamped, and perfected to design a Nuclear-powered Destroyer crewed by 305 enlisted and 24 officers. The test blueprint was armed with 1 X 120mm cannon, 4 X 20mm CIWS, 45 X VLS cells with 5 cells dedicated for ICBMs, 2 X double AA unchers with 42 X missiles each, and 1 double anti-submarine missile uncher with 14 missiles. Total tonnage is expected to be around 7.500 Tons and protected up to 30mm autocannon.

  I know, this Destroyer is quite an overkill design, so it is not wrong to call it a Super Destroyer or a Guided Missile Cruiser like Arleigh Burke. This versatile vessel is also expected to hold a commanding role as rger vessels are being retired.

  The Old World, Orneas, was so vast (it was a game with the detestable invisible borders) that nuclear-powered vehicles and vessels were not strange ideas. Currently, only Victoria and UFSNE were known to field them in a sizable manner while MURG has a squadron at least. Unfortunately, these Hyperpowers rarely allowed such a marvelous piece of engineering to leave their territories, even during times of retive peace. Counteracting the primary reason for their creation.

  VIpR stands for Veritates Intellectus per Regum. They are an alliance of pyers with differing fvors of monarchial ruling styles. The name won’t make much sense, but that’s the point! Your understanding came from the kings, after all.

  Pyers love hypocritical and ironic humor now and then… but the game is real now, so how would that transte?

  Oh, a minor fact, the United Realm of Victoria was the alliance’s observer. :)

  Update……………………………………………………………………

  Ciao