AN: Thanks to ricardol lagarto for another Fav. And JoshHCA gave me an interesting suggestion regarding the early arrival of UNSC. Naturally, I already put that into consideration. But that's for the future.
Historia Shoukan Chapter 18
Prelude to Historia-Parpaldia War
Date: December 12th, HS 2069/CC 1639
Location: Eshtirant, Parpaldia Empire, Third Civilization Area
Place: 1st Foreign Affairs Office
Progress on the investigation into Historia these past three months have been steady, but there are discrepancies in the accuracy of the information at hand.
First, there's no way Gra Valkas Empire and Historia are related. (AN: Sadly, they already have diplomatic relations.) The latter flies a white flag with red disc at the center with 16 rays spread out from it. However, it's the former who defeated the Imperial Oversight Army, much to their confusion. They still don't know why their wyvern lords have never returned. According to the inquiry made by the spies from Intelligence Bureau, the citizens of Fenn Kingdom and VIPs from the uncivilized nations all gave an eyewitness report of the wyvern lords being apprehended by Historia's dragon force as soon as they made contact-all rubbish- and they weren't able to get more accurate information. What's likely happening was that they were spreading false information.
As usual, Anbu already positioned herself inside the room. She snickers upon hearing that.
'Wait until you heard about the Oni Sage's Ancient Flame Dragon.'
Additionally, Historia's primary warship was said to only have a single cannon. As to why it was the case, they didn't know. While it may be a bit more accurate, it just can't do as much damage as a 100-gun ship of the line. One of such ship made its appearance in Fenn's military festival, but it didn't show any capabilities aside from a strange machinery attached in it. In other words, they lacked information. While it may have been a high-quality ship on its own, it's just not believable that it has such an edge over an imperial ship of the line. They consulted the empire's think tank, the Advanced Weapons Development Research Facility (known colloquially as AWDevRes), and they responded that it wasn't possible, even if they were given a hundred years. In the end, it was just unrealistic for a barbarian nation to be ahead of the Empire by more than a hundred years. When they sent Valhal and Poquetoire to be medically examined, they were found to be likely suffering from a mental illness, and so they might need to redo the reports.
Anbu sighs this time, knowing full well what Valhal and Poquetoire experienced.
'That's PTSD, and we're the one causing it.'
During their investigation, they managed to get their hands on information regarding Historia from the Third Civilization Area. It appears that out of the income their citizens earn in a year of economical activities, which they call "gross domestic product", they only spends 1% of it on its military. When considering their national budget, it is only 5%. This might be due to their weapons being of high quality, or that they are a large nation, but this means that they don't have much in the way of armaments. If a military doesn't have much in the way of numbers, then it's basically useless.
Anbu grins when she heard about it.
'This one, it's our doing. Ever heard about feeding the mole?'
In other words, while Historia is a nation not to be underestimated, they are not a threat. Before they could expand their military force, it would be best to crush them in their current state. With this as the conclusion, Elto would report this to Emperor Ludius at the meeting in the afternoon.
As for the Gra Valkas Empire, they are still yet to get their hands on useful information. This was due to their resident ambassador in Leifor perishing and that Gra Valkas is colonizing the former nation with unprecedented speed. The magic ship they call the Grade Atlastar was said to have caused Leifor's fall alongside another unknown ship, but they could only believe that this wasn't the complete picture. The chance of them spreading false information was too great. However, the fact that the Gra Valkas Empire possesses the power to crush Leifor is an undeniable truth. As such, they must tread carefully with them.
With that in mind, Elto set out for the castle to attend the meeting. Anbu follows her by turning into a shadow.
Place: Paradis Castle
There, in the great hall where the Empire's ministers prostrated themselves before the emperor, the atmosphere was tense. With Emperor Ludius in attendance, this was the meeting above all meetings. There was no one who wasn't nervous.
"Let's now begin the meeting."
Immediately after the presider declared it so, Ludius got the ball rolling.
"I take that there's some trouble in Altaras."
"Unfortunately, yes. However, it seems like the resistance limit themselves to raids. As of now, our main forces are withdrawing."
After the regular army captured Le Brias and occupying it, an insurgency appears and conducts several raids, which brought Supreme Commander Arde's attention.
"I see... Kaios, commence colonization regardless. As for the next deployment... What do you think, Second Office Chair?"
Second Foreign Affairs Chair Rius answered as his spirit shook from being called.
"Ah, yes! We must advance north, where new resource deposits–"
"Rejected."
Ludius interjected and flatly shot down Rius's proposal.
"O-Of course!"
Ludius's face was brimming with rage.
"I am... disgruntled"
Silence.
"Elto. You are done investigating the barbarian nation that defeated the Imperial Oversight Army, yes?"
"Yes. Here is my report."
The low-quality papers containing information regarding Historia were passed to Luius. He glanced over the papers and got a basic idea of what they were dealing with.
"Historia... So that's what they're called. I'm sure there are some here who already know."
Out of those that heard the words carried by the stomach-wrangling voice of the emperor, only two felt the chills: Enos, Strategy Against Other Nations Bureau Uncivilized Area Section Chief, and his subordinate, Palso. They were the ones that had unilaterally decided to secretly finance and support the Louria Kingdom to further their interests in Rodenius. All the evidence left over was on the Lourian side, so the First Foreign Affairs Department and the Intelligence Bureau was able to ascertain how much they've spent and how many men they've moved.
"Enos... Why have you kept mum on Historia's existence?"
"Uh... We supported the Louria Kingdom off the record, so..."
"... And Louria was defeated in an unprecedented manner, so you just had to cover your losses, right?"
"... Yes."
Ever since they've been invited to the meeting, Enos and Palso have already prepared themselves for the worst. After spending up to 1% of the national budget deploying tens of thousands of warriors and hundreds of wyverns only for them to lose all of them, their investment was a complete failure.
"You imbecile!"
"!"
Ludius howled at them as they sank in their seats. Rius and the others looked down on them from the sides.
"Deciding all of that on your own is a breach of trust. On top of that, you have spent a massive sum with nothing to show for it. Furthermore, you tried to hide it, and that is inexcusable."
"I... I have no excuses."
Enos placed his head on the ground, prostrating himself in the most unsightly fashion he could. Palso, too, cowered in similar fashion next to him. Their pale faces were flush with cold sweat, and they showed how shameful they were without fail.
"Hmph. What punishment do you think they deserve, Elto?"
With their time nearly up, the two men started shedding tears as they looked down in shame.
However...
"They've definitely squandered a great sum following their decision, but I believe they're considering the empire's interest. There's also evidence of them using their own resources to cover the losses and are doing their best in settling them."
"Huh?"
Enos and Palso subconsciously raised their heads at Elto and Ludius's exchange.
"Under normal circumstances, execution awaits them, but for the empire to cut them down would be its own loss. Does a demotion for them and reduced pay for their entire department sound reasonable?"
"Hmm. We are all imperial citizens, part of one big family, albeit rivals against one another. We conspire against one another, outwit the other, and so on. If we don't do this, the empire won't move forward. If we don't look down on one another and enrich our own pockets, then there is no point in existing."
The two stared on, unable to understand what was going on.
"Fufufu... What are you two so shocked for? Go thank her! Enos, Palso, you two are hereby demoted. Your entire department's pay will be halved for a year. Now, go cover the losses you've incurred."
Ludius mischievously snickered as Elto looked on with a smug look on her face.
Bowing deeply to the emperor and the First Foreign Affairs Chair, the two were dismissed as they bawled their eyes out in gratitude.
"Well then, back to the topic at hand. First, crush Fenn, who's close to Historia. We were originally going to punish them, right? They have always been extra brash. Show the other barbarian nations what happens to a friend of Historia."
Ludius's expression didn't change much from before, but now his eyes radiated a sharp glare.
"Fenn is also geographically closer to us. It wouldn't be a good idea to attack Historia before them. Any objections?"
Silence. Everyone agrees with him.
Nodding in satisfaction, Ludius then turned to Arde.
"Can it be done, Arde?"
"Yes. Of course."
"Historia would also respond, right?"
"We'll naturally stop them when they do. Even though they are an antiquated, weak force, for the Third Foreign Affairs Office's Imperial Oversight Army to lose to a barbarian nation... What a stain on the glorious empire."
"..."
Third Foreign Affairs Chair Kaios's face twitched in regret. Seeing his reaction, Arde continued.
"What do we do with the Gahara Thearchy, the nation east of Fenn?"
"Don't mind their people. There's still too many mysteries surrounding that nation. Engaging two nations is... Well, we'd obviously emerge victorious, but as a general rule, I'd like to avoid them. I do not want to be the exception in the royal line. On top of that, we owe Gahara as per our first emperor. I do not want my name stained for being ungrateful."
"Understood. Will you allow me to take responsibility for the strategies and operations?"
"Go ahead, do as you see fit. Oh, and I leave you their land and their people after all is done."
"WHAT?!"
Everyone was shocked.
A nation's entire land and people, especially when given to a single person, was an extraordinary prize.
"I-I am thankful from the bottom of my heart! I will cherish this opportunity!"
On the flipside, it was also a hell of an undertaking to manage.
As Arde once more prostrated himself before Ludius, their self-interests sparked. Anybody who is offered more than what they earn will do better, even if they don't like what they will do. This has a huge effect on how one carries out their duties.
Now, Arde will be able to grasp in his hands the five million denizens of the Fenn Kingdom, along with its vast land. Even if he were to split it among his subordinates, assuming he succeeds, he could put them in place of the local aristocrats, and he'd still be in control of the entire kingdom.
Thus, Arde's loyalty to Ludius and his will to achieve absolute victory grew stronger.
Location: Fenn Kingdom, Zeroth Civilization Area
Fenn Kingdom is situated about 210km east of the southeastern coast of Philades continent, where Parpaldia Empire and the rest of Third Civilization Area reside. It's special for its mainland's comma shape. Off to its east is the Gahara Thearchy, which is also similar in shape and size, but positioned in a way so as to mirror Fenn. 600km further from Gahara lie the continental nation of Historia.
For Historia, it's crucial that there are allied nations as the bridge between them and Philades continent. This space could easily become their shield in both a strategic and economic manner, even if one were to not count the gazes of prospective peoples.
Roughly three months ago, Parpaldia Empire's Imperial Oversight Army was driven back. Due to the fact that Fenn Kingdom is allied with Historia, the latter decided to fortify the island by sending several Guard Brigades and two Dragon Divisions, Yoruryoshi (Special) and Umihara (Marine).
The entirety of Fenn resembled that of Japan in the past, even in its high degree of public order, and it was due to this that after relations were formalized, regular high speed ferries to and from Fenn have become common. As a result, Earth tourists have flocked to the kingdom en masse, and they could be found in places such as the capital Amanoki, all the way to Nishinomiyako at the western end of the kingdom. Since they were much more refined in their manners and loose with their wallets, the citizens of Fenn welcomed them with open arms.
(AN: Well, I did mentioned in Chapter 10 and 14 that Fenn delegations once visited Earth to see the proof of Historia Alliance's origin. So this shouldn't be surprising, really.)
The stationed Guards weren't idle, either. During these months, they helped training Fennese troops in handling their firearms. Not only that, they also introduced the concept of 'asymmetric warfare', since Fenn's economy and industrial capability isn't as high as Parpaldia, as shown by the defeat of Fennese Royal Fleet.
Above all, the story of Historia (and Gra Valkas) driving away Parpaldia's Imperial Oversight Army had become the talk of the town. Since then, the Fennese have been exceedingly kind towards anyone from Historia. In some cases, when the tourists would avail of rickshaw services, the Fennese would deny their payments, saying that "they cannot take money from the ones that saved them". Historia's western diplomatic mission has been successful, and this is the result of maintaining the military alliance.
While all of this is happening, Rikuto Akigiri is talking with his fellow Guard Deputies, Miyu Aokusa and Aimi Tourouzaka.
(AN: They're human characters from Touhou fangame Dream Logical World, and I confirmed that they're natives. Guess Sengoku Gensokyo further reinforces Dream Logical World, if the scenarios are any indication.)
"So, Rikuto-kun, where's Hiroshi-san and Hotaru-san?"
"They're currently at Topa Kingdom alongside several Resolvers and Outsiders that visited us during early 2022. I heard they're about to subjugate a demon force."
"Oh, that must be very exciting."
"I wouldn't say so, Aimi-chan."
"What made you think that, Miyu-san?"
"I mean, the fact that the Resolvers are taking part here means this is a serious matter concerning the Alliance's interests. That's not mentioning the Outsiders who are joining as well. Furthermore, they even brought their own forces. Am I right, Rikuto?"
"Yes, Miyu. General has entrusted me with the Guard units stationed here until he come back from Topa. Speaking about which, you two brought your guns and Spell Cards, right?"
"Yep, Rikuto."/"Here, Rikuto-kun."
"Good to know. General told me to be prepared in case Parpaldia decided to attack Fenn. I think it's the reason why Yoruryoshi Division and Umihara Division are stationed here as well."
They then decided to visit one of Fenn Kingdom's training grounds.
Palace Guard Commander Aine was posted in Nishinomiyako for policing duty.
Even among the countries outside the civilized areas, Fenn's public order was top of the notch. As such, Aine's duties mostly revolved around early warning and helping foreigners (mostly Earth tourists) who were lost.
"So peaceful... If only this could continue forever..."
The Empire was proud.
He didn't think that the Empire would let their Oversight Army being routed go unnoticed. If the Empire were to attack, Nishinomiyako would be the likeliest place for them to go first. The military is looking for measures on how to evacuate the townsfolk if that ever happens.
Looking at the sight of Earth tourists frolicking about, something came to mind.
Did they really come here for sightseeing? Do they understand Fenn's current predicament?
He could only think that they've come simply because they believed that peace would always be preserved.
There are currently a thousand Earth tourists staying in Nishinomiyako, with three times that amount in the capital Amanoki. He's heard that the ones coming to Fenn don't seem to be any richer than the regular Earthling. If even their general populace could easily travel outside their country, then Earth was probably even richer than he imagined.
I sure hope the Empire never comes...
Aine's worries deepened as the Empire's shadow loomed over.
Date: December 20th, HS 2069/CC 1639
Location: Esthirant, Parpaldia Empire, Third Civilization Area
Place: 3rd Foreign Affairs Office
Receptionist Raita was engrossed in his work, same as always.
Handling many uncivilized nations was tiring. In the last year alone, he has lost a lot of weight just from working. He has turned down the representatives from Historia, but that wasn't because he hated them or anything. He simply assumed them to just be another barbarian country, and since his boss is constantly on leave, he couldn't refer them to him. He wanted to blame it all on him and his constant absence, but ultimately it was still up to him.
In that time, it appears that the Imperial Oversight Army had come to blows with Historia's military. He expected an easy victory, just like always, but for some reason, the Oversight Army was driven back. And thus, the emperor was furious.
"Ahhhh, screw this! Why did I have to get the short end of the stick! Damn it all!"
Then, the requests for reports came in. He wanted to move up in life, but now those opportunities were all but gone. As Raita's heart sank, a person came up to his window.
"Good day. I'm from Historia's Department of Foreign Affairs. Excuse us for not answering your call, but is your superior available?"
He recognized this voice.
Looking up, there stood the representatives from Historia, the one that had screwed up his hopes of ever getting up above the ladder of careers. Whether or not it was due to him telling them to come back a month later (which happened almost three months ago), nevertheless, they were back. This time, there were five of them, and he didn't recognize the other two.
Ah, screw it all! Why'd you have to come to me?! Isn't the one next to me open too? How dare you come at this time! Do you want me to do reports? Maybe kill me in the process?!
He wanted to shout at them but he swallowed his words. He then proceeded to report them to his superior.
"Please wait a moment. I will go verify if he is."
Since this was the nation that had caused the Third Foreign Affairs Department's credibility to plummet to the ground, Raita's report rapidly made its way up to the top.
After spending 30 minutes waiting at a nearby bench, Historia representatives were then approached by Raita.
"I apologize for the wait. Third Foreign Affairs Chair Kaios will be seeing you. This way."
Three of Historia representatives looked at each other, while the last two merely shrugs and stands up. For them to suddenly be meeting with the office chair was out of left field for them.
When the other ambassadors heard this, they looked at Historia representatives with surprise, since it wasn't normal for the office chair to personally see barbarian representatives. Soon after, however, they understood why. The only time an office chair would come to meet an envoy was if they were from the Holy Milishial Empire or Mu. Still, rumors of Historia have already spread among Zeroth Civilization Area nations.
Unknown to the Parpaldians, a shadow follows the representatives from Historia.
The two Historia representatives were led to a separate building from where they were. The structure was painted white and decorated with elaborately crafted columns. Its ceiling was seemingly made out of gold, upon which were artistic reliefs, which spoke true of their national power. Had the envoys of a regular uncivilized nation were to enter this building, they'd be overwhelmed, maybe even instilled with fear of the empire.
However, Historia representatives walked on, unfazed by all of this splendor.
They were led to a holding room, where they waited.
"Remember the plan, Vaati. Jusha said that she found a potential insider who might be able to give us deeper insight about Parpaldia later."
"I know, Lucy. These French wannabes might try something sinister to Fenn later."
A knock came through the door before Raita came in.
"They're ready to see you. This way."
Following Raita through a spacious hallway, their leather shoes made loud sounds as they walked on the polished marble floor while the chilly temperature permeated through their coats. After round two corners, they finally arrived at a set of thick doors. Raita knocked on them, after which a voice came from the other side.
"Come in."
Politely excusing himself as he entered, he led Historia representatives in.
Inside, they saw several men sitting in a row before a long table.
"Please introduce yourselves."
"Alright."
Finally, the talks could begin.
The two Historia representatives stood in front of chairs set up some distance from the table, and then they began introducing themselves.
"My name is Lucy Thesda. I'm a representative from Historia's Department of Foreign Affairs. This person here is my co-worker, Vaati Star."
Unexpectedly, both Lucy and Vaati wear suits as opposed to their usual clothes. Because both of them spend most of their lives in Gensokyo (and by proxy, Japan), they decided to bow.
"Please take a seat."
The man in the middle beckoned onto Lucy and Vaati, who promptly took their seats.
Why does this feels more like a fucking job interview?
The Parpaldians then introduced themselves.
- Third Foreign Affairs Chair, Kaios
- Division Chief for the East, Thall
- Eastern Division, Islands Section Chief, Barco
- Eastern Division, Islands, North, Respondent, Nicolas
- Chief Head of all Archipelagic States, Menthal
Their positions alone made it feel as if the entire department had come to meet them.
From the shadows, Anbu merely snickers, because she knew Lucy and Vaati's true positions.
- Leader of GUF Vanguards, Lucy Thesda
- Sage/High General of GUF Joint Divisions, Vaati Star
'The Union decided to bring out the big guns now...'
Kaios, who sat in the middle, began to talk.
"So you are the envoys from Historia... The name of your country has been making the rounds everywhere as of late. So, what's your business with the Empire?"
"For six months now, the group that we sent here tried to establish diplomatic relations, but since we weren't able to get in touch, I would like you to let us clarify our current standing. Three months ago, your empire has conducted punitive strike against one of our allies, Fenn Kingdom. That being said, we're willing to overlook this farce and discuss about a possibility of repairing our relations and form diplomatic ties."
When Barco heard Lucy's explanation, he stood up, his face flushed red with fury.
"Did you just call it a "farce"?! You attacked the Imperial Oversight Army! How could you say that as if it were something trivial?! Do you think that what you said will cut it?!"
He lashed out at Lucy and Vaati as if they were the usual uncivilized envoy.
Unfazed by this lashing, they didn't back down and press their arguments.
"As I said earlier, you're the one who initiated it. We simply dusted away the embers before they settled into a fire."
"You dare call the glorious Imperial Oversight Army "embers"?! Are you looking down on us?!"
Barco's eyes were red with rage.
Kaios stopped him before he could say more and forced him to sit back down.
"Alright. You're here to repair our relations. But... None of us here or in the Empire, me included, have ever heard of your country. Please, do tell us more about yourselves. We wish to know more about a nation with which we're to form relations."
Appreciating Kaios' calm manner, Lucy and Vaati decided to sit back as well.
"We've prepared simple documents regarding our country containing pictures and general details."
Vaati distributed the documents to the Parpaldians. The documents were written with Philades's common continental language.
"Hm?"
Thall raised his head to look at Historia representatives. When he read the documents however, he starts to sweat.
Historia's territorial size can be said to be larger than the entire Rodenius continent. However, according to the documents, their population hovered around 1 billion, far more than their own 75 million. Furthermore, they were literally right next door, hardly a thousand kilometers away. Just like the former Lourian Kingdom, despite located outside the civilized areas, their population was worthy of attention. The most surprising thing, however, is the fact that nobody noticed for so long.
Reading through the documents, everyone took note of a particular point.
"Your nation was transported here?!"
It said in the document that they were transported to this world around two months before the hostilities between Louria and Qua-Toyne. If it were really true that they had just appeared out of nowhere, then it really does explain why virtually no one has ever heard of them. However, other than in Mu's mythology and the tale of the ancient sorcerous empire transporting itself to the future, there are no reported cases of nations being transported. To them, the two of them were only talking nonsense.
"How absurd! There's no way countries could be transported! Are you making fun of the Empire?!"
Thall shouted.
Lucy and Vaati deadpanned, because that's precisely what happened on January 2069.
"I should've expected this reaction. I want to ask you something. Did you heard about the Week of Skylight?"
This perked Kaios' interest, and they noticed it.
"What about it?"
"Is there any report about light traveling to the sky from 9th day to 16th day of the first month this year?"
Menthal became nervous.
"Y-yes?"
"That was our national program. Those lights you saw, are our means of gaining full coverage of this world."
Vaati then concludes.
"Lastly, we'd like to extend an invitation to you to send a special envoy to our country, so that you could see for yourselves what Historia is like."
The documents given to the Parpaldians didn't contain their military capabilities, advanced technologies, number of cars, nor pictures of their impressive skyline, but rather only their position, population, handicrafts, and information that was innocuous. Since Hiroshi had reported that Parpaldia was a proud and dangerous country, as told to him by the Fennese, they decided that it would be better for the Parpaldians themselves to realize that who they're dealing with are much more superior in technology, as it would be more effective than if they themselves told them. In any case, if they're not one to be willing to send a special envoy, then formalizing relations would be impossible.
Still, the Empire's pride was even higher than Historia thought.
Thall laughed out loud in a mocking tone.
"Hahaha! The Parpaldia Empire, one of the five Superpowers in this world, sending an envoy to uncivilized barbarians? You may have an alright military, but the one you drove back was one with antiquated arms! The regular army won't even budge to your presence as it crushes your pitfu–"
Kaios glared at Thall.
"Oi, that's too much! Keep in mind that we speak on behalf of His Highness!"
"O-Of course...!"
Thall promptly kept his mouth shut. Returning to his calm expression, Kaios turned to Lucy.
"Speaking of which, the Empire possesses 72 vassals and possessions of various sizes, five in the civilized regions and 67 in the uncivilized regions. Actually, with Altaras, that number would swell to 73. What about you? How many does Historia possess?"
Lucy and Vaati grins, and decided to tell the absurd truth, because they knew the Parpaldians won't believe it.
"Honestly? We consider our dominion here as a colony."
"Hohohohohoho...!"
"Hehehehehe...!"
"Pffft!"
The Parpaldians began laughing.
"Hey! Be respectful to our Historia guests! For a nation to possess a single massive colony under its thumb is not something to laugh at! This is still a diplomatic setting!"
Kaios rebuked his fellow Parpaldians.
"Excuse us... Could you wait two months? It would take roughly that long for the empire to prepare an envoy to your nation as we too have our own circumstances. Return to this place after that time has passed. We've prepared accommodations for your stay."
"Of course."
"Hmm... That would be all. I look forward to our next meeting."
An ominous smile surfaced on Kaios' face.
The first meeting between Historia Shoukan Dominion and the Parpaldia Empire has thus concluded.
After Historia envoys had left...
"Sir Kaios, why were you so gentle with them? Didn't His Highness order us to "teach the nation that soiled our name a lesson"? I think it would have been better to have been straightforward with them."
"Hmm... Well, it's all good. At the end of the day, I'm the one in charge of them. There's a small possibility of it, but I'd like to see where it goes..."
"And what is it for?"
"I can't say for now, so don't get any funny ideas."
"Hm. Forgive me for being so blunt then."
Soon after that, Kaios is alone in his office.
"Hmm... Historia, huh. Would be nice if their national power met our expectations. If they really are just barbarians, then there would be nothing left."
Kaios smiled ominously as thoughts surfaced in his head.
"Hoo? And you're not worried about the progress of Altaras colonization?"
A voice can be heard inside the room, which alarmed Kaios.
"Who's there?!"
As if responding to it, a shadow moved in the floor, and from there, emerged an unknown entity.
"I must applaud you for taking a diplomatic approach, in spite of your personal motives. However, your subordinate's concern is also valid. And I can tell that the Auditor for Foreign Affairs won't be pleased with this."
Kaios began sweating.
"H-how do you know this?"
The entity turns its head and looks straight at his eyes.
"It doesn't matter. I only demand one thing. Once the Auditor take notice of this, we'll trade information with each other. By then, you'll learn just what kind of nation- no, power Historia Alliance truly is."
Without waiting for replies, the entity left.
Outside the building itself, Lucy and Kazuto nodded to each other.
"Jusha has contacted me. We've secured our insider."
"So, what's the next step?"
"By this point, the Altaras resistance is instructed to cease any raids targeting Parpaldian colonial garrison. And since Fenn get off scot-free thanks to us..."
"That would mean they will be invaded soon!"
"Exactly. However, the Leaders already have a plan. Keep watch on the Altaran princess. I'll handle the diplomacy with Parpaldia."
"Undestood. I'll keep you informed, Thesda-san."
"Noted, Narusaka."
Both of them then decided to return to Historia mainland.
Date: January 3rd, HS 2070/CC 1640
Location: 500 km north of occupied Altaras
It wasn't that long after the new year had come.
A fleet that evokes fear to anyone that witnesses it was sailing northeast–the Parpaldian regular military, the same ones that had easily crushed the Altaras forces.
220 gunships, which includes some 100-gun ships of the lines, 15 dragon carriers, and 115 landing craft were all heading for one destination: Fenn Kingdom. Rejecting the Empire's demands to secede territory and then assisting Historia in routing the Imperial Oversight Army, they were overdue for their punishment.
However, this was no longer a punitive strike. This time, they were going to invade and take the entire kingdom for themselves.
Then, there was the nation that had beaten back their Oversight Army.
For commander Sius, they were a nation not to be taken lightly.
"Stay sharp!"
Above, the Altaras Paradox Engine noticed Parpaldian movement.
"Inform Shoukan Command that Parpaldian force are en route to Fenn Kingdom."
True to their words, the Paradox Engine crews keep the surveillance above Altaras mainland, which is now occupied by Parpaldian colonial garrison... save a territory given to Historia, which now serves as the base of Altaras resistance movement. Currently, they're ordered to cease any raids and wait for a signal.
Date: January 4th, HS 2070/CC 1640
Location: Rairekishigaku, Hakurei Territory, Togoku Region, Historia Shoukan Dominion, Zeroth Civilization Area
Place: Dominion Headquarters, Meeting Room
Immediately after Altaras Paradox Engine sent their report, the higher-ups of GUF and UNM began gathering at the Dominion HQ.
According to them, a massive Parpaldian fleet was advancing east. Given the fact that Fenn remain unharmed in spite of the punitive strike, it's believed that Parpaldia intend to invade and subjugate Fenn outright.
"So it begins... What's the response from the Epsilon Proselyte?"
With the war approaching, Yasei began to ask Iseya about the plan both GUF and UNM hatched.
"He gave his approval and even volunteered to send some of his forces to Fenn. Given Parpaldia's tech level, it's safe to say that he intends to test Epsilon's capabilities when facing 19th century army. Operation Babylon Lambda is a go."
"I see... Knowing him, he's already very prepared."
"Way too prepared to my liking, in fact. He even equipped some of his men with Chrono Belts, literally."
Yasei nods in agreement, showing the same concern.
"I only hope he won't jeopardize this."
He then reports the status of the units stationed at Fenn.
"As promised, we've been stationing several Guard Brigades alongside Yoruryoshi and Umihara Division. I'll tell the Guards to start evacuating the towns that are most likely targeted by Parpaldia."
Soon after, he addressed the other attendants.
"This is it. All of you must've heard about the movement of Parpaldian fleet from Altaras Paradox Engine. Judging from their movement, they're heading to Fenn. It's clear what the Parpaldians planned to do, so we must respond to this in kind. The Union will issue all Guards stationed at Fenn to start the evacuation process once the landing has been confirmed. And the UNM already confirmed that a detachment from Epsilon Army will help the Fennese repelling the initial attacks. The codename for this operation is Babylon Lambda. Soon after this operation ends, the Union will launch a separate operation against Parpaldia."
There's a moment of silence to let all of the details sink in.
Aside from Yasei and Iseya, Reimu and Yukari were present as well. These four undoubtedly have a vested interest in seeing the Alliance's Dominion in Shoukan Dimension prosper. One could say GUF and UNM have a major role here.
Reimu then asks something that has been bugging her; the failed diplomacy with Parpaldia.
"So, should we contact them and send cease-and-desist letter?"
"That won't work. Besides, Lucy already told me that she'll handle the diplomacy with Parpaldia from now on."
Then Yukari asks Iseya regarding the matters with Epsilon Army.
"On my side, the Southern Superpower are the primary concern. Will Epsilon's presence there be reduced?"
"Rest assured. The Proselyte said that he won't reduce their presence in Annonrial."
The meeting continues as the details are being finalized. About an hour later, all the attendants came to agreement to defend Fenn and repel Parpaldia.
Few days later, a certain event happened at Esthirant.
Date: January 17th, HS 2070/CC 1640
Location: Esthirant, Parpaldia Empire, Third Civilization Area
Place: 1st Foreign Affairs Office
Third Foreign Affairs Chair Kaios was summoned to the First Foreign Affairs Office. Even though it was common for the departments to exchange personnel as they were part of the same government organization, it was unheard of for an office chair to be summoned by another. However, the summons was backed by an order from the emperor, so Kaios rushed to the First Foreign Affairs Office without delay.
Standing in front of the designated room, Kaios looked at the glamorously decorated heavy doors before him as he grimaced.
I will never not hate this sight.
It should have been the doors to what should have been his room. Even though he has intended to settle this in his heart, it would always remain a rough topic to deal for him.
As staff opened the doors from inside, Kaios was led into the room. Sitting inside were the faces of First Foreign Affairs Chair Elto, Vice Chair Hans, Division Chief for the Superpowers Shiran, and a woman in her mid-20s whom Kaios has never seen before.
He bowed before all of them.
"I've been summoned here by order of the Emperor..."
"You don't know me? You can't possibly not know who I am, right?"
The beautiful woman spoke out in a harsh tone.
Kaios is suddenly reminded about what the entity said about the Auditor. He then gave a nervous answer.
"Excuse me, but... are you by any chance the Auditor?"
"At least you know that much. Yes. I'm Remille, the Auditor for Foreign Affairs."
When it was clear that there are irregularities in the Foreign Affairs Offices or when someone's treatment of a country is subpar, the Auditor for Foreign Affairs would be the one to step in. Positioned outside of Foreign Affairs itself, the Auditor has the authority to remove the office chairs from their positions. When diplomatic affairs get problematic, the Auditor and her subordinates can step in as consultants and, when deemed necessary, can substitute as diplomats themselves to deal with the problem. Furthermore, the Auditor and her office were all from the imperial family, above the elite status of the ones manning the upper echelons of Foreign Affairs.
In other words, this woman, Remille, was of imperial blood.
Somewhere in the shadow, Anbu follows Kaios to ensure the latter uphold his part of the deal.
"And why have I been summoned?"
"Historia. Specifically the incidents surrounding them. I have seen the records of your meeting with them. Wow, what the hell. Why the weak stance?"
"If you'd allow me, I have been considering–"
"Don't you talk back to me! Barbarian affairs are indeed up to you as Third Office Chair. However, the Emperor has ordered you to teach them a lesson. Out of all things you could do, you brought every single chief in your office to talk to them, their lowly, paltry diplomats. Then, the way you addressed them was weak–No, it was as if you prostrated yourselves before them! As a representative of the Superpower that is the Empire, how could you?! This... This is borderline pitiful, Kaios. You've completely missed the point of His Highness's will."
Kaios started sweating bullets.
As a member of the imperial family, her words meant life or death.
'Ugh... Good thing I contacted him before this happened. Remington (Kokusho's designation for Lucy), as soon after I speak with him, go and make this arrogant Auditor shocked with the Alliance's response. For the Union, and for the Alliance.'
Anbu grimaced upon hearing Remille's harsh words towards Kaios and the former's patriotic fervor towards the slaver colonialist that is Parpaldia Empire.
Remille continued.
"From now on, Historia will be handled by the First Foreign Affairs Office, and I will be the one to take responsibility in dealing with them. As for you, Kaios... The Empire has no need for fools who don't know their place. Be grateful that I'm not booting you from your chair. Do take care next time, yes?"
"O-Of course..."
As Kaios bowed, he clenched his fist in rage.
You bitch! How dare you!
Anbu did the same motion from the shadow, empathizing with the humiliated man.
It was a humiliating display in front of the top management of the First Office. While Elto's face remained blank, the others' weren't so subtle with their mockery.
With this, authority over affairs with Historia has been passed from the Third Foreign Affairs Office to the First Foreign Affairs Office. In reality, the Auditor, Remille, was the one in charge.
Place: 3rd Foreign Affairs Office
Once Kaios is alone, Anbu decided to show herself. The former sports a blank expression on his face.
"So, the meeting with the Auditor went as you predicted..."
The Void Summoner nods and decided to press for the deal.
"Exactly as I warned you two weeks ago, even. I brought the papers with me."
"Likewise. Surely you must've heard about our plan to invade Fenn."
"Indeed. In fact, the Dominion already prepared a surprise for them since Fenn is one of the Dominion's allies."
"... That would explain why we never heard anything from our wyvern lords since almost four months ago. I'm willing to bet that your Dominion is behind the problem we encountered at Altaras as well."
Anbu didn't reply, but that's enough confirmation for Kaios. They then read their respective given papers.
On Anbu's side, she isn't impressed with Parpaldia's capabilities, and she surmised that a single guild from one of the Union's factions can hold them off just fine. Kaios, on the other hand, widen his eyes in shock upon reading the papers he currently held.
"W-what is this..."
Anbu folds her arms.
"You'd probably think it's a sick joke when our representatives said that our dominion in this planet is a colony, but that wasn't a bluff. The Alliance is far stronger than you could imagine. To us, Milishial, Emor, and Parpaldia are the frogs in the well who never see the oceans. We already scoured many universes. The reason we're here is because we heard about the Ancient Sorcerous Empire's plan to return in the future, and we intend to stop them."
She then drops a bombshell on Kaios.
"Oh, and Gra Valkas also got transported here more than a year ago, so you got us in Historia Alliance, Gra Valkas, and Mu as proofs of inter-dimensional transfer."
The Third Office Head fell silent.
"... Please tell me that the wyvern lord unit is safe."
"Rest assured, we didn't execute them. We merely hold them in our custody."
Kaios then made a decision.
"Very well. We have a deal."
"Glad you made the right choice. I'll make sure no one in this nation notice our dealings."
Location: Rairekishigaku, Hakurei Territory, Togoku Region, Historia Shoukan Dominion, Zeroth Civilization Area
After confirming that all of Fenn civilians are evacuated to the capital region, Yasei received a call.
"I just got a letter from the Parpaldian Auditor. What the fuck is going on, Wild-kun?"
Turns out, Lucy is the one who called him. The sudden change in Parpaldia caught her off-guard.
"Intel from Kokusho told me that you'll have a tough adversary in the diplomatic affairs this time, Lucy. But don't worry, we already have a plan. Parpaldian force will arrive soon, and I'm sure this Auditor intentionally chose this time to sent you a letter. Accept the invitation and wait for Jusha to give you a paper of our operation plan, then you'll know what to do."
None of them speak for few seconds, since they knew the implications.
"It's happening, isn't it Wild-kun..."
"Yes, Lucy. Historia Shoukan Dominion will be at war with Parpaldia Empire. Get ready."
"Alright. I'll deliver our declaration of war later."
Once the call ends, he then calls Iseya.
"Mobilize both the Ocean Maidens and Arsenal Maidens, Iseya. War is coming."
"Understood."