Previous Chapter: A World Brimming With Hope
Sitting in a cold, bland room lined with comfortable chairs was one man. The Crown Prince of the Gra Valkas Empire, Gra Cabal, sat clutching his head as he was troubled by recent events. Ever since he came to Japan, he understood some things. The first thing he understood was that they were outmatched in every single field of technology. It was exceedingly reasonable that he couldn’t be idealistic regarding the empire anymore, although in some areas, there’s reason to be idealistic.
On the tech front, their disparity was borderline hopeless that even a full-scale war on the empire’s side wouldn’t be enough to secure victory. However, at the time, it was still unknown how much this tech disparity would affect real combat and just as he was playing it out in his mind, the empire and Japan clashed in a large-scale battle. The result was sufficiently miserable and despite the empire investing a sizeable chunk of its naval might, it wasn’t even able to scorch Japan’s mainland, let alone get close, as the invasion force that was sent suffered so much fatalities that rebuilding it back to even a portion of its original strength would take a considerable amount of time.
“Ngh…”
The more he thought of it the more his head felt like bursting. With a loud kerchak, the door opened and in came a man wearing a suit.
“We’re ready to receive you. Right this way, please.”
He walked down the hallway as guided. This may just be the meeting that could decide the empire’s fate. A pressure with unprecedented weight bore down on Cabal’s shoulders. Finally, they reached a room with a door that said ‘Small Conference Room’. Inside the room were 3 men. The meeting finally started.
“So… What is it that you need, Your Highness?”
Tanaka from Foreign Affairs asks Cabal.
“Due to unfortunate disagreements, my nation and yours are currently in a state of war. I’ve come here to be blunt: why don’t we talk about making peace?”
Several questions arose in Tanaka’s mind such as whether Cabal had the power to do so or even if he did, to what degree will the empire agree to his perspective? Shaving these questions aside, he wanted to try and talk more to gain answers.
“Hmm… Peace, huh? What terms do you have in mind?”
“The empire has declared war on the world. I say to exclude only the country of Japan from this declaration. With this, I promise that your country will be released from the threat of destruction as well as a guarantee of co-prosperity through trade with the empire.”
Tanaka let out a sigh.
“Do you have any intention of pulling all imperial forces back from the Mu continent?”
“Emmigration and settlement into Leifor have already begun. It will be difficult to considerably curb the rights of our citizens. Aren’t you already satisfied with sparing Japan from further attacks? Since your nation is also transferred, you must have already understood this fact but as you may have noticed, the level of civilization of the inhabitants of this world is pitiful. Won’t it be best for the both of us to place these natives under our rule and split the control of this world between our nations? Originally, it is only under a single unifying force could peace be ultimately achieved but splitting it into two forces, particularly two allied forces, war would still be annihilated from this world.
To achieve peace, one must strive for control through armed force.
By enlightening them through rule by far more advanced civilizations, we can let these nations and their people experience some of that civilized culture so we can all live happily. Looking at how Japan handled Parpaldia, it is apparent that your country lacks the know-how on ruling other countries. The empire can teach you that know-how! If our two nations join forces, nothing can stop us!”
Cabal stood up and flung his arms wide open.
“We can rule the world together!! Together, this world is as good as ours!!!”
“Your Highness, I’m sorry for the interruption but I would first like to inquire with you on something. Do you have the authority to decide for the empire? In the chance that you do and we are to accept your terms, won’t your people just assume that you are being forced by us?”
“If only I could return home. It would be much more convincing if I could go to a place far from your country’s sphere of influence but I could still convince them. As the next emperor, my words hold weight.”
“Is that so… Then, I would like to move on to the next point: Japan is no conqueror. It is simply impossible for us to trust the word of the Gra Valkas Empire, which up to this point, has refused to heed our warnings and has attempted to mount an invasion of our homeland while ignoring our countless attempts at dialogue to stop military actions. I would like you to think that something like a ‘two-nation rule’ is nothing but a dream.”
For a moment, Cabal expressed shock.
“Why do you ignore your national interests? By ruling together, we’d be neck deep in this world’s riches! In between our two nations, the Gra Valkas Empire comes out on top in terms of scale by a far margin. Your country may be technologically superior, but that gap will soon close. As a country with such national power, why do you refuse a two-nation rule? You work for your country and its people, yes? Sure, the riches that come in at first would be at a deficit but once they start pouring in, they won’t stop! Why do you immediately refuse a proposal to make your citizens wealthier and your country more powerful without taking it up to your higher ups first?”
“We will of course report this conversation with Your Highness to the government. However, do keep in mind that we are a country where the rule of law takes precedent and we cherish harmony with other countries. To suddenly discontinue the friendly relations we have built up to this point and join the aggressors is not an option.”
“In that case, what about a non-aggression treaty with the empire?”
“Then we would like to examine the details of this treaty. Had this taken place right after our transfer, we may have immediately taken up your offer of a non-aggression treaty, but the reality is that right now we have diplomatic relations with all sorts of countries. At this point in time, we cannot afford to ignore the wishes of these countries which you’ve declared war upon. As for the non-aggression treaty, if you have any details of the proposal, please present it to us. Right now, my country and the Gra Valkas Empire are in a state of war. Please take note that hostilities won’t cease until the concrete proposal of the non-aggression treaty is finalized and concluded. Well then…”
Tanaka and the others stand up from their seats.
“W-wait!!! Please wait!!!”
I can’t let it end like this!!! The futures of the empire’s citizens are riding on these negotiations!!!
“What is it?”
“I would like to continue negotiations on terms for peace. I understand that every country has its own circumstances. If you can coordinate with these countries, I would like you to show me how we can make peace a reality. Isn’t the empire currently still open to diplomatic talks? What I’m saying is that, as the next emperor, I will be the bridge connecting you and all the other countries with the empire. There’s no way you’ll turn this down, right?”
To him, offering this proposal was the epitome of humiliation. As for Japan, they want to steer clear of a war from which they can’t pull themselves away. There was a benefit to accepting Gra Cabal’s proposal.
“…Alright. At a later date, we will tune in with other countries and figure out what they want. I cannot promise when they will be able to reply.”
“Please. With utmost haste…!”
Cabal’s first round of peace negotiations ended in failure.
Gra Cabal, Crown Prince of the Gra Valkas Empire, continued to wrack his brain for more ideas to protect the lives of his citizens.
・・・
Runepolis, Holy Mirishial Empire, Central World
The Central World was where the world’s strongest countries could be found. Amongst these countries is a nation which everyone recognizes to be the heart of the world: the Holy Mirishial Empire. At Castle Albion in Runepolis, considered to be the heart of the center of the heart of the world, a meeting in the presence of the Emperor was being held.
Sitting on the elegant chair placed in the middle section around an elliptical table is Emperor Mirishial VIII. Around him were the faces of Foreign Affairs Minister Peclas and Ministry Supervisor Liage, Intelligence Bureau Director Arneus, Imperial Ministry of Countermeasures Against the Ancient Sorcerous Empire Director Birkburn and Director of the Antiquities Department of Ancient Arms Analysis Tactical Operations Hirkane Parpe, Meteos, Minister of Military Affairs Schmill Pao, Director of National Defense Agra, among others.
The meeting’s agenda has already been discussed through preliminary reports and fragmentary videos but the edited videos were played once more.
“Woah!!!”
An anti-ship guided missile landed on a cruiser, causing an intense explosion. The explosion was much more violent and bigger than the explosions caused by shots fired from the main batteries of the empire’s Mithril-class magic battleships. The cruiser that was hit then readily took in water before sinking completely. The Gra Valkas Empire weren’t ones to back down either as a torrent of tracers from anti-aircraft guns filled the skies. The delayed sounds of explosions were also recorded, adding to the sense of realism from the video.
However, the rounds that were fired all missed as the Japanese anti-ship guided missiles all found their marks one after the other.
Unable to find any other words beyond shock, everyone stayed silent as they watched the video. Live footage pointed to the truth far more than any report or full-blown text documents ever could.
For every single hit, a hundred people died. The attacks, near perfect enough to be called direct hits, set much of the bigger cruisers on fire while the battleships, which probably have been built due to huge investments, pitfully listed as smoke emanated from their hulls. In what was a severely lopsided battle, they could only feel pity for their enemy.
The empire’s aerial battleship, the Pal Chimera, also participated in the battle, efficiently laying waste to an enemy fleet. This was more than enough to break the Holy Mirishial Empire free from its feelings of hopelessness.
Finally, the Japanese cruisers have made contact with the Grade Atlastar, the accursed enemy flagship that had shot down a Pal Chimera. The cruisers focused their bombardment on the battleship. Despite the considerable number of shells finding their marks on the battleship, the enemy continued to advance unabated. It made them wonder just how thick the armoring is on the enemy battleship. Eventually, the highly explosive guided missiles had returned, landing one after the other on the bridge section of the flagship. As the missiles landed continuously, sailors fled from their ship, jumping into the waters around the Grade Atlastar.
The enemy main fleet turned tail and retreated back to their home. At the same time that they felt empty seeing the enemy flee in the video, an undeniable fear of Japan dwelled in their hearts. From the perspective of the Holy Mirishial Empire’s vast scope, the result of the battle didn’t feel as if it had come from a single country which fielded such a puny fleet and an outnumbered air force.
The video ended.
They were already aware of the possibility due to prior information. When they confirmed it in writing, they revised their assessment of Japan’s strength once more. However, what they had seen in the video was a powerful enemy being routed helplessly. Everyone was shocked. Everyone wanted the empire to be like that. As heavy silence loomed over the meeting room, Intelligence Bureau Director Arneus slowly began explaining.
“What was shown is the summary of the large-scale clash that occurred in the oceans west of the Nahanath Kingdom. Furthermore, the estimated capabilities of the anti-ship guided munitions that were used by Japan are resemblant of the estimated guidance nature, speed, range, and explosive power of the ancient sorcerous empire’s guided magic light munitions. However, the guided magic light munitions don’t have the capability to creep at ultra-low altitudes, so Japan’s guided munitions are better in terms of capabilities. They have also completed development of a guided magic light munition that can fly far faster than the weapons they’ve used here and are currently developing a type that has more range.”
“Preposterous!!! Even though there’s already no one in this world who could stop those kinds of weapons they used in the video, they’re still developing far more advanced weapons?! What the hell for… No… Could they also be intending to be hegemonic?!”
Minister of Military Affairs Schmill Pao showed his anxieties on Japan’s weapons development.
“They may also be afraid of the ancient sorcerous empire’s return. By assuming that they may be capable of stopping guided light-no, anti-ship guided missiles, they’re developing weapons that are capable of bypassing such countermeasures. I heard that in their previous world, there existed countries which could stop the wave-like attacks of anti-ship guided missiles which they employed in their attack on the Gra Valkas Empire fleet. At that time, they were already developing a far faster type of munition that made it easier to hit. Since their world had countries which could block guided munition attacks, naturally, they may be able to stand up against the attacks of the ancient sorcerous empire.”
“Does… Japan really intend to emerge victorious over the ancient sorcerous empire?”
Humiliation and hope mix within Schmill Pao’s heart.
“Oh? Does the Minister of Military Affairs have any intention of yielding once the prophesied ancient sorcerous empire returns?”
“No! I, of course, intend to put my life on the line to fight the ancient sorcerous empire! I have already coordinated with every other country with that intention in mind. Still, the tech that those bastards had according to the legends are just too advanced. Everytime we excavate an ancient weapon, I could not help but be astonished by its dreadfulness. There’s no meaning in numbers against a foe that has overwhelmingly superior technology. This is the same reason why the empire cannot lose against a huge number of non-civilized countries.”
The topic continues.
“We think of ourselves as the world’s strongest, yet we couldn’t even achieve the desired outcome in our war against the Gra Valkas Empire. As if we hadn’t had enough, even our aerial battleship was shot down. Those bastards are definitely strong. Yet, look what happened to them! Japan manhandled them as if they were nothing, forcing them on the retreat with such a pitiful fleet. As for their ‘casualties’, they’ve only lost an inconsequential amount of money for their ammunition and fuel. Our magic fleets cannot emerge victorious over Japan, let alone the ancient sorcerous empire.”
It wasn’t a statement he would make in front of the emperor as Minister of Military Affairs. However, he wasn’t a stupid man that blindly believed in the empire’s military might.
“If Japan were to assume dominance, it would be extremely bad…”
The threat level of Japan if it ever reigns supreme is outstandingly extreme. Adding to their worries, the only things they have on hand that can currently stand up to Japan are their excavated weapons.
Since the meeting was getting off track, Arneus spoke up.
“Since Japan is considerably bound to their constitution, I think that the possibility of them emerging as hegemonic is exceedingly small. However, Japan’s military capabilities are certainly far more tremendous than the Intelligence Bureau has assumed. Still, it is a nice thing to have a strong country that has no intentions of being hegemonic. In the war against the Gra Valkas Empire and eventually the ancient sorcerous empire, they will be massively useful. Right! Let us return to the original agenda of this meeting. Mr. Schmill Pao, you have a measure that you want to discuss, yes?”
“A-Ah! Yes, of course! Defense Minister!”
“Right!”
At the directions of National Defense Minister Agra, the accompanying military officers swiftly handed out papers. Written on the documents that were distributed is the outline of an upcoming operation which they’ve received via contact from Japan. Unable to wrap his head around the necessity of the operation, Supervisor Liage asks.
“Liberation of the Hinomawari Kingdom? Once that city-state-like kingdom has been liberated, then what? Speaking of which, using the term ‘liberate’ on a country that has surrendered under their own will is comical, if not amusing.”
“Within the borders of the Hinomawari Kingdom exists the former Gra Valkas Empire frontline base of Valkyries. Since this base has been captured, the remnants of the Gra Valkas Empire Army have entrenched themselves in the capital, Harunagakyō. Japan wants to build an airfield around Valkyries for an attack on Leifor’s west coast. If they manage to do so, the entirety of Leifor will be within the operational scope of their aircraft. However, since it will be an airbase, it is extremely unwelcome that, even though they are remnants, an army is stationed right next door in the capital. Due to that, it is important that the Hinomawari Kingdom be first liberated.”
“Leiforia is within their fighters’ range from this position? I find that hard to believe.”
There’s a considerable distance between the vicinity of Valkyries and Leiforia on Leifor’s west coast. Such distance isn’t something that an aircraft on the level of a fighter could cover.
“Indeed. Fighters alone couldn’t cover such a distance. However, they have something called an aerial refuelling tanker aircraft. With that, even their fighters could reach all the way to Leiforia. In addition, their patrol aircraft could also carry anti-ship guided missiles so they can carry out attacks even without their fighters. Furthermore, they naturally have more than 1 planned site for airfields from which aircraft would attack Leifor’s west coast. It’s only natural to think that this is one of their candidate sites.”
“I see. What about Mu? Even though they too have laid waste to the enemy base, why haven’t they continued all the way to the capital?”
Imperial Ministry of Countermeasures Against the Ancient Sorcerous Empire Director Birkburn asks.
“The remnants of the Gra Valkas Empire army are using the Foreign Affairs building in the Hinomawari Kingdom as their command site. This building is also built right next to the king’s estate. In addition, the important military installations are located right next to the capital’s residential areas. Mu was very concerned about them even when they used to be a client state of Leifor. Unless they could carry out sufficiently precise attacks, an attack on the Imperial Army stationed in Hinomawari would kill a substantial number of civilians. Worried about killing civilians, they’ve been reluctant in mounting an attack.”
“Still, isn’t this war… no longer in a state where such reluctance is permitted?”
According to what’s written in the documents, once the Hinomawari Kingdom has been liberated, they will set up an airfield around the Valkyries base, then destroy the Gra Valkas Empire fleet off Leiforia through airstrikes. In addition, attached to the document is a request to the Holy Mirishial Empire to dispatch a fleet to carry out a naval blockade once they’ve secured air superiority.
“Hm? So this proposal also has Japan dominate the naval field. Hmm… 4 escort ships, 1 replenishment ship, and… 2 minesweepers…???”
What the hell are these minesweepers???
The meeting continued on how many ships they should send. The room got noisy. At the raise of his hand, Emperor Mirishial VIII silenced the room.
“The end of the war with the Gra Valkas Empire is in sight. Reply to Japan that we will cooperate and have the military tailor up a fleet to dispatch.”
“Yes, Your Excellency!!!”
“Hmm… Japan… Due to their modesty, we’ve been erroneous in our judgement of them. Despite assuming that they are strong, they’re in fact much more than mere strong. Their military might is already tremendous and yet here they are still striving to make it even more tremendous. In his comparison of our capabilities, Schmill Pao’s insight is correct. Further enhance friendly relations with Japan and, even if it’s just a bit, absorb some of Japan’s tech, diverting them to the enhancement of our combat capabilities. Foreign Affairs Minister, make sure to refrain from hostile statements even if they’re in the wrong, clear?”
“Yes, Your Excellency!!!”
“Arneus… In your own judgement, how do you think will Japan’s military capabilities fare against the ancient sorcerous empire?”
The Emperor’s eyes were looking far past the war with the Gra Valkas Empire.
“Yes, Your Excellency! I think that, against the weapons that will be fielded by the ancient sorcerous empire based on assumptions from the excavations, Japan’s weapons will be able to do damage to an extent. However, the number of these weapons which Japan currently fields is too small. They may lose due to the sheer scale of the ancient sorcerous empire. Some of the excavated weapons require a great deal of magic from the light winged people so there are some parts that we still don’t fully understand. In other words, we don’t know the scope nor limits of these weapons. We also don’t understand the weapons fielded by Japan. I never once thought that they would be able to defeat the Gra Valkas Empire so lopsidedly. In their case, we also don’t know the scope nor limits.”
“Alright. Endeavour to gather more information from now on!”
“Yes, Your Excellency!!!”
On this day, the Holy Mirishial Empire has decided that after they’ve confirmed the destruction of the enemy fleet off Leiforia, it will send a fleet led by magic battleships to spearhead a naval blockade.
・・・
Subjugation Authority Building, Harunagakyō, Hinomawari Kingdom
In a certain room, someone was raising their voice.
“That’s not what I’m talking about!!! Didn’t you promise us not to starve the citizens of our kingdom??? Your superiors in the Foreign Affairs Ministry should have also promised!!! Many of the kingdom’s people are currently suffering in starvation and some are even dying of malnutrition!!! Since your army has accumulated much of the food, the kingdom’s food circulation has also been driven to the brink!!! I order you to release food from your army’s stores to the people at once!!!”
Breaking free from the restraints on the royal family, Freyja, the 3rd Princess of the Hinomawari Kingdom, barged into the Gra Valkas Empire’s Subjugation Authority Building alone. She knows that voicing out her opinion towards the empire is life-threatening, but she could no longer stand the terrible spectacle of her people starving out in the streets.
“It’s fucking noisy in there! What’s going on?”
Dallas from Foreign Affairs was visiting the Subjugation Authority in Hinomawari as part of his duties. Fed up with the noise, he asks one of the staff members.
“Nothing… Someone from the Hinomawari Kingdom’s authorities have come to visit and has been babbling non stop about releasing food to their people.”
“Oh? Well then, I will take charge here.”
“What? I’m sorry, we can’t let you be troubled with this…”
Not only was it extremely rude to let a member of a different, superior office do his duties but he also feared what his boss would say to him later. The Subjugation Authority staff member tries to stop Dallas.
“It’s fine. Since I have the authority, it would be better for all of us to have this situation dealt with quickly. Leave it to me.”
Dallas headed for the room where the shouts were coming from.
Previous Chapter: A World Brimming With Hope
Sitting in a cold, bland room lined with comfortable chairs was one man. The Crown Prince of the Gra Valkas Empire, Gra Cabal, sat clutching his head as he was troubled by recent events. Ever since he came to Japan, he understood some things. The first thing he understood was that they were outmatched in every single field of technology. It was exceedingly reasonable that he couldn’t be idealistic regarding the empire anymore, although in some areas, there’s reason to be idealistic.
On the tech front, their disparity was borderline hopeless that even a full-scale war on the empire’s side wouldn’t be enough to secure victory. However, at the time, it was still unknown how much this tech disparity would affect real combat and just as he was playing it out in his mind, the empire and Japan clashed in a large-scale battle. The result was sufficiently miserable and despite the empire investing a sizeable chunk of its naval might, it wasn’t even able to scorch Japan’s mainland, let alone get close, as the invasion force that was sent suffered so much fatalities that rebuilding it back to even a portion of its original strength would take a considerable amount of time.
“Ngh…”
The more he thought of it the more his head felt like bursting. With a loud kerchak, the door opened and in came a man wearing a suit.
“We’re ready to receive you. Right this way, please.”
He walked down the hallway as guided. This may just be the meeting that could decide the empire’s fate. A pressure with unprecedented weight bore down on Cabal’s shoulders. Finally, they reached a room with a door that said ‘Small Conference Room’. Inside the room were 3 men. The meeting finally started.
“So… What is it that you need, Your Highness?”
Tanaka from Foreign Affairs asks Cabal.
“Due to unfortunate disagreements, my nation and yours are currently in a state of war. I’ve come here to be blunt: why don’t we talk about making peace?”
Several questions arose in Tanaka’s mind such as whether Cabal had the power to do so or even if he did, to what degree will the empire agree to his perspective? Shaving these questions aside, he wanted to try and talk more to gain answers.
“Hmm… Peace, huh? What terms do you have in mind?”
“The empire has declared war on the world. I say to exclude only the country of Japan from this declaration. With this, I promise that your country will be released from the threat of destruction as well as a guarantee of co-prosperity through trade with the empire.”
Tanaka let out a sigh.
“Do you have any intention of pulling all imperial forces back from the Mu continent?”
“Emmigration and settlement into Leifor have already begun. It will be difficult to considerably curb the rights of our citizens. Aren’t you already satisfied with sparing Japan from further attacks? Since your nation is also transferred, you must have already understood this fact but as you may have noticed, the level of civilization of the inhabitants of this world is pitiful. Won’t it be best for the both of us to place these natives under our rule and split the control of this world between our nations? Originally, it is only under a single unifying force could peace be ultimately achieved but splitting it into two forces, particularly two allied forces, war would still be annihilated from this world.
To achieve peace, one must strive for control through armed force.
By enlightening them through rule by far more advanced civilizations, we can let these nations and their people experience some of that civilized culture so we can all live happily. Looking at how Japan handled Parpaldia, it is apparent that your country lacks the know-how on ruling other countries. The empire can teach you that know-how! If our two nations join forces, nothing can stop us!”
Cabal stood up and flung his arms wide open.
“We can rule the world together!! Together, this world is as good as ours!!!”
“Your Highness, I’m sorry for the interruption but I would first like to inquire with you on something. Do you have the authority to decide for the empire? In the chance that you do and we are to accept your terms, won’t your people just assume that you are being forced by us?”
“If only I could return home. It would be much more convincing if I could go to a place far from your country’s sphere of influence but I could still convince them. As the next emperor, my words hold weight.”
“Is that so… Then, I would like to move on to the next point: Japan is no conqueror. It is simply impossible for us to trust the word of the Gra Valkas Empire, which up to this point, has refused to heed our warnings and has attempted to mount an invasion of our homeland while ignoring our countless attempts at dialogue to stop military actions. I would like you to think that something like a ‘two-nation rule’ is nothing but a dream.”
For a moment, Cabal expressed shock.
“Why do you ignore your national interests? By ruling together, we’d be neck deep in this world’s riches! In between our two nations, the Gra Valkas Empire comes out on top in terms of scale by a far margin. Your country may be technologically superior, but that gap will soon close. As a country with such national power, why do you refuse a two-nation rule? You work for your country and its people, yes? Sure, the riches that come in at first would be at a deficit but once they start pouring in, they won’t stop! Why do you immediately refuse a proposal to make your citizens wealthier and your country more powerful without taking it up to your higher ups first?”
“We will of course report this conversation with Your Highness to the government. However, do keep in mind that we are a country where the rule of law takes precedent and we cherish harmony with other countries. To suddenly discontinue the friendly relations we have built up to this point and join the aggressors is not an option.”
“In that case, what about a non-aggression treaty with the empire?”
“Then we would like to examine the details of this treaty. Had this taken place right after our transfer, we may have immediately taken up your offer of a non-aggression treaty, but the reality is that right now we have diplomatic relations with all sorts of countries. At this point in time, we cannot afford to ignore the wishes of these countries which you’ve declared war upon. As for the non-aggression treaty, if you have any details of the proposal, please present it to us. Right now, my country and the Gra Valkas Empire are in a state of war. Please take note that hostilities won’t cease until the concrete proposal of the non-aggression treaty is finalized and concluded. Well then…”
Tanaka and the others stand up from their seats.
“W-wait!!! Please wait!!!”
I can’t let it end like this!!! The futures of the empire’s citizens are riding on these negotiations!!!
“What is it?”
“I would like to continue negotiations on terms for peace. I understand that every country has its own circumstances. If you can coordinate with these countries, I would like you to show me how we can make peace a reality. Isn’t the empire currently still open to diplomatic talks? What I’m saying is that, as the next emperor, I will be the bridge connecting you and all the other countries with the empire. There’s no way you’ll turn this down, right?”
To him, offering this proposal was the epitome of humiliation. As for Japan, they want to steer clear of a war from which they can’t pull themselves away. There was a benefit to accepting Gra Cabal’s proposal.
“…Alright. At a later date, we will tune in with other countries and figure out what they want. I cannot promise when they will be able to reply.”
“Please. With utmost haste…!”
Cabal’s first round of peace negotiations ended in failure.
Gra Cabal, Crown Prince of the Gra Valkas Empire, continued to wrack his brain for more ideas to protect the lives of his citizens.
・・・
Runepolis, Holy Mirishial Empire, Central World
The Central World was where the world’s strongest countries could be found. Amongst these countries is a nation which everyone recognizes to be the heart of the world: the Holy Mirishial Empire. At Castle Albion in Runepolis, considered to be the heart of the center of the heart of the world, a meeting in the presence of the Emperor was being held.
Sitting on the elegant chair placed in the middle section around an elliptical table is Emperor Mirishial VIII. Around him were the faces of Foreign Affairs Minister Peclas and Ministry Supervisor Liage, Intelligence Bureau Director Arneus, Imperial Ministry of Countermeasures Against the Ancient Sorcerous Empire Director Birkburn and Director of the Antiquities Department of Ancient Arms Analysis Tactical Operations Hirkane Parpe, Meteos, Minister of Military Affairs Schmill Pao, Director of National Defense Agra, among others.
The meeting’s agenda has already been discussed through preliminary reports and fragmentary videos but the edited videos were played once more.
“Woah!!!”
An anti-ship guided missile landed on a cruiser, causing an intense explosion. The explosion was much more violent and bigger than the explosions caused by shots fired from the main batteries of the empire’s Mithril-class magic battleships. The cruiser that was hit then readily took in water before sinking completely. The Gra Valkas Empire weren’t ones to back down either as a torrent of tracers from anti-aircraft guns filled the skies. The delayed sounds of explosions were also recorded, adding to the sense of realism from the video.
However, the rounds that were fired all missed as the Japanese anti-ship guided missiles all found their marks one after the other.
Unable to find any other words beyond shock, everyone stayed silent as they watched the video. Live footage pointed to the truth far more than any report or full-blown text documents ever could.
For every single hit, a hundred people died. The attacks, near perfect enough to be called direct hits, set much of the bigger cruisers on fire while the battleships, which probably have been built due to huge investments, pitfully listed as smoke emanated from their hulls. In what was a severely lopsided battle, they could only feel pity for their enemy.
The empire’s aerial battleship, the Pal Chimera, also participated in the battle, efficiently laying waste to an enemy fleet. This was more than enough to break the Holy Mirishial Empire free from its feelings of hopelessness.
Finally, the Japanese cruisers have made contact with the Grade Atlastar, the accursed enemy flagship that had shot down a Pal Chimera. The cruisers focused their bombardment on the battleship. Despite the considerable number of shells finding their marks on the battleship, the enemy continued to advance unabated. It made them wonder just how thick the armoring is on the enemy battleship. Eventually, the highly explosive guided missiles had returned, landing one after the other on the bridge section of the flagship. As the missiles landed continuously, sailors fled from their ship, jumping into the waters around the Grade Atlastar.
The enemy main fleet turned tail and retreated back to their home. At the same time that they felt empty seeing the enemy flee in the video, an undeniable fear of Japan dwelled in their hearts. From the perspective of the Holy Mirishial Empire’s vast scope, the result of the battle didn’t feel as if it had come from a single country which fielded such a puny fleet and an outnumbered air force.
The video ended.
They were already aware of the possibility due to prior information. When they confirmed it in writing, they revised their assessment of Japan’s strength once more. However, what they had seen in the video was a powerful enemy being routed helplessly. Everyone was shocked. Everyone wanted the empire to be like that. As heavy silence loomed over the meeting room, Intelligence Bureau Director Arneus slowly began explaining.
“What was shown is the summary of the large-scale clash that occurred in the oceans west of the Nahanath Kingdom. Furthermore, the estimated capabilities of the anti-ship guided munitions that were used by Japan are resemblant of the estimated guidance nature, speed, range, and explosive power of the ancient sorcerous empire’s guided magic light munitions. However, the guided magic light munitions don’t have the capability to creep at ultra-low altitudes, so Japan’s guided munitions are better in terms of capabilities. They have also completed development of a guided magic light munition that can fly far faster than the weapons they’ve used here and are currently developing a type that has more range.”
“Preposterous!!! Even though there’s already no one in this world who could stop those kinds of weapons they used in the video, they’re still developing far more advanced weapons?! What the hell for… No… Could they also be intending to be hegemonic?!”
Minister of Military Affairs Schmill Pao showed his anxieties on Japan’s weapons development.
“They may also be afraid of the ancient sorcerous empire’s return. By assuming that they may be capable of stopping guided light-no, anti-ship guided missiles, they’re developing weapons that are capable of bypassing such countermeasures. I heard that in their previous world, there existed countries which could stop the wave-like attacks of anti-ship guided missiles which they employed in their attack on the Gra Valkas Empire fleet. At that time, they were already developing a far faster type of munition that made it easier to hit. Since their world had countries which could block guided munition attacks, naturally, they may be able to stand up against the attacks of the ancient sorcerous empire.”
“Does… Japan really intend to emerge victorious over the ancient sorcerous empire?”
Humiliation and hope mix within Schmill Pao’s heart.
“Oh? Does the Minister of Military Affairs have any intention of yielding once the prophesied ancient sorcerous empire returns?”
“No! I, of course, intend to put my life on the line to fight the ancient sorcerous empire! I have already coordinated with every other country with that intention in mind. Still, the tech that those bastards had according to the legends are just too advanced. Everytime we excavate an ancient weapon, I could not help but be astonished by its dreadfulness. There’s no meaning in numbers against a foe that has overwhelmingly superior technology. This is the same reason why the empire cannot lose against a huge number of non-civilized countries.”
The topic continues.
“We think of ourselves as the world’s strongest, yet we couldn’t even achieve the desired outcome in our war against the Gra Valkas Empire. As if we hadn’t had enough, even our aerial battleship was shot down. Those bastards are definitely strong. Yet, look what happened to them! Japan manhandled them as if they were nothing, forcing them on the retreat with such a pitiful fleet. As for their ‘casualties’, they’ve only lost an inconsequential amount of money for their ammunition and fuel. Our magic fleets cannot emerge victorious over Japan, let alone the ancient sorcerous empire.”
It wasn’t a statement he would make in front of the emperor as Minister of Military Affairs. However, he wasn’t a stupid man that blindly believed in the empire’s military might.
“If Japan were to assume dominance, it would be extremely bad…”
The threat level of Japan if it ever reigns supreme is outstandingly extreme. Adding to their worries, the only things they have on hand that can currently stand up to Japan are their excavated weapons.
Since the meeting was getting off track, Arneus spoke up.
“Since Japan is considerably bound to their constitution, I think that the possibility of them emerging as hegemonic is exceedingly small. However, Japan’s military capabilities are certainly far more tremendous than the Intelligence Bureau has assumed. Still, it is a nice thing to have a strong country that has no intentions of being hegemonic. In the war against the Gra Valkas Empire and eventually the ancient sorcerous empire, they will be massively useful. Right! Let us return to the original agenda of this meeting. Mr. Schmill Pao, you have a measure that you want to discuss, yes?”
“A-Ah! Yes, of course! Defense Minister!”
“Right!”
At the directions of National Defense Minister Agra, the accompanying military officers swiftly handed out papers. Written on the documents that were distributed is the outline of an upcoming operation which they’ve received via contact from Japan. Unable to wrap his head around the necessity of the operation, Supervisor Liage asks.
“Liberation of the Hinomawari Kingdom? Once that city-state-like kingdom has been liberated, then what? Speaking of which, using the term ‘liberate’ on a country that has surrendered under their own will is comical, if not amusing.”
“Within the borders of the Hinomawari Kingdom exists the former Gra Valkas Empire frontline base of Valkyries. Since this base has been captured, the remnants of the Gra Valkas Empire Army have entrenched themselves in the capital, Harunagakyō. Japan wants to build an airfield around Valkyries for an attack on Leifor’s west coast. If they manage to do so, the entirety of Leifor will be within the operational scope of their aircraft. However, since it will be an airbase, it is extremely unwelcome that, even though they are remnants, an army is stationed right next door in the capital. Due to that, it is important that the Hinomawari Kingdom be first liberated.”
“Leiforia is within their fighters’ range from this position? I find that hard to believe.”
There’s a considerable distance between the vicinity of Valkyries and Leiforia on Leifor’s west coast. Such distance isn’t something that an aircraft on the level of a fighter could cover.
“Indeed. Fighters alone couldn’t cover such a distance. However, they have something called an aerial refuelling tanker aircraft. With that, even their fighters could reach all the way to Leiforia. In addition, their patrol aircraft could also carry anti-ship guided missiles so they can carry out attacks even without their fighters. Furthermore, they naturally have more than 1 planned site for airfields from which aircraft would attack Leifor’s west coast. It’s only natural to think that this is one of their candidate sites.”
“I see. What about Mu? Even though they too have laid waste to the enemy base, why haven’t they continued all the way to the capital?”
Imperial Ministry of Countermeasures Against the Ancient Sorcerous Empire Director Birkburn asks.
“The remnants of the Gra Valkas Empire army are using the Foreign Affairs building in the Hinomawari Kingdom as their command site. This building is also built right next to the king’s estate. In addition, the important military installations are located right next to the capital’s residential areas. Mu was very concerned about them even when they used to be a client state of Leifor. Unless they could carry out sufficiently precise attacks, an attack on the Imperial Army stationed in Hinomawari would kill a substantial number of civilians. Worried about killing civilians, they’ve been reluctant in mounting an attack.”
“Still, isn’t this war… no longer in a state where such reluctance is permitted?”
According to what’s written in the documents, once the Hinomawari Kingdom has been liberated, they will set up an airfield around the Valkyries base, then destroy the Gra Valkas Empire fleet off Leiforia through airstrikes. In addition, attached to the document is a request to the Holy Mirishial Empire to dispatch a fleet to carry out a naval blockade once they’ve secured air superiority.
“Hm? So this proposal also has Japan dominate the naval field. Hmm… 4 escort ships, 1 replenishment ship, and… 2 minesweepers…???”
What the hell are these minesweepers???
The meeting continued on how many ships they should send. The room got noisy. At the raise of his hand, Emperor Mirishial VIII silenced the room.
“The end of the war with the Gra Valkas Empire is in sight. Reply to Japan that we will cooperate and have the military tailor up a fleet to dispatch.”
“Yes, Your Excellency!!!”
“Hmm… Japan… Due to their modesty, we’ve been erroneous in our judgement of them. Despite assuming that they are strong, they’re in fact much more than mere strong. Their military might is already tremendous and yet here they are still striving to make it even more tremendous. In his comparison of our capabilities, Schmill Pao’s insight is correct. Further enhance friendly relations with Japan and, even if it’s just a bit, absorb some of Japan’s tech, diverting them to the enhancement of our combat capabilities. Foreign Affairs Minister, make sure to refrain from hostile statements even if they’re in the wrong, clear?”
“Yes, Your Excellency!!!”
“Arneus… In your own judgement, how do you think will Japan’s military capabilities fare against the ancient sorcerous empire?”
The Emperor’s eyes were looking far past the war with the Gra Valkas Empire.
“Yes, Your Excellency! I think that, against the weapons that will be fielded by the ancient sorcerous empire based on assumptions from the excavations, Japan’s weapons will be able to do damage to an extent. However, the number of these weapons which Japan currently fields is too small. They may lose due to the sheer scale of the ancient sorcerous empire. Some of the excavated weapons require a great deal of magic from the light winged people so there are some parts that we still don’t fully understand. In other words, we don’t know the scope nor limits of these weapons. We also don’t understand the weapons fielded by Japan. I never once thought that they would be able to defeat the Gra Valkas Empire so lopsidedly. In their case, we also don’t know the scope nor limits.”
“Alright. Endeavour to gather more information from now on!”
“Yes, Your Excellency!!!”
On this day, the Holy Mirishial Empire has decided that after they’ve confirmed the destruction of the enemy fleet off Leiforia, it will send a fleet led by magic battleships to spearhead a naval blockade.
・・・
Subjugation Authority Building, Harunagakyō, Hinomawari Kingdom
In a certain room, someone was raising their voice.
“That’s not what I’m talking about!!! Didn’t you promise us not to starve the citizens of our kingdom??? Your superiors in the Foreign Affairs Ministry should have also promised!!! Many of the kingdom’s people are currently suffering in starvation and some are even dying of malnutrition!!! Since your army has accumulated much of the food, the kingdom’s food circulation has also been driven to the brink!!! I order you to release food from your army’s stores to the people at once!!!”
Breaking free from the restraints on the royal family, Freyja, the 3rd Princess of the Hinomawari Kingdom, barged into the Gra Valkas Empire’s Subjugation Authority Building alone. She knows that voicing out her opinion towards the empire is life-threatening, but she could no longer stand the terrible spectacle of her people starving out in the streets.
“It’s fucking noisy in there! What’s going on?”
Dallas from Foreign Affairs was visiting the Subjugation Authority in Hinomawari as part of his duties. Fed up with the noise, he asks one of the staff members.
“Nothing… Someone from the Hinomawari Kingdom’s authorities have come to visit and has been babbling non stop about releasing food to their people.”
“Oh? Well then, I will take charge here.”
“What? I’m sorry, we can’t let you be troubled with this…”
Not only was it extremely rude to let a member of a different, superior office do his duties but he also feared what his boss would say to him later. The Subjugation Authority staff member tries to stop Dallas.
“It’s fine. Since I have the authority, it would be better for all of us to have this situation dealt with quickly. Leave it to me.”
Dallas headed for the room where the shouts were coming from.
