GETTING A TECHNOLOGY SYSTEM IN MODERN DAY

by Kideo11

For others it takes dying and reincarnating for them to get a system but what happens when you get one without dying. Aron Michael is an average student set to graduate within a week, but he was expelled for a random reason. Due to that he had a heavy student dept and no diploma to help him earn the money to pay it back. But one day he got a system that called itself the [Advanced

2. Chapter 101 - 200

[Sir, he is about to awaken,] Nova informed Aron, indicating that two hours had passed in the real universe.

"Thanks," Aron said and immediately left the simulated universe to log out.

When he logged out he stretched himself feeling refreshed as if he had slept the entire night. This was because as soon as he logged into the VR, Nova had promptly initiated the REM procedure to deceive Aron's brain into believing that he was sleeping.

This allowed his brain to rest, considering he had dedicated the entire night to infusing mana into runes.

Aron put the VR headset on the table and began waiting for John to wake up as he was sure he would be waking up within ten minutes.

...…

9 minutes later

JOHN'S POV

As John awakened, he experienced a sense of tranquility, as if he had indulged in a blissful night's rest—an uncommon occurrence since his injury. As he began relishing the pleasant sensation, his mind interjected abruptly, "Hold on, wait a minute, something ain't right"

Consequently, he initiated a mental exploration, conjuring up theories to explain the absence of the usual pain that accompanied his awakening after resorting to sleeping pills.

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As these thoughts raced through his mind, he contemplated, "Is this what it feels like to die? Perhaps he truly did take my organs." His emotions became entangled, torn between a sense of relief that the pain had vanished, yet also tinged with sadness for having departed without experiencing closure.

Interrupting his thoughts, a voice asked, "How are you feeling?"

Upon hearing the question, he swiftly transitioned to a seated position, astonished by his newfound ability to do so.

However, his amazement quickly dissipated as he felt the sensation in both his legs and hands. "Oh my God," he exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief, as he raised his amputated hand and beheld its presence instead of the void that had occupied its space before.

In an instant, he became oblivious to the voice that had posed the initial question, his gaze fixating on his legs. To his astonishment, the previously atrophied leg had regained its former vitality.

However, before he could fully absorb this revelation, another question interjected, "Hey, can you hear me?".

Raising his head to locate the source of the sound, he discovered the familiar figure of the man he had encountered the previous night.

Overcoming his initial surprise, he promptly inquired, "Are you the angel of death? I'm I dead? Is that why my body has reverted to its previous state?"

...…

Upon hearing the question, Aron couldn't contain his laughter, caught off guard by the unexpected query emerging from a blind spot.

Although he had anticipated witnessing John's reaction upon awakening with a fully restored body, he never imagined being mistaken for an angel of death.

After a hearty laughter that lasted for approximately thirty seconds, Aron eventually regained composure, allowing him to respond to the inquiry he had been posed. "No, I am not the angel of death," he replied earnestly. "You are not deceased, and indeed, your body has not only returned to its former state but has actually surpassed its previous condition." taking a pause before he continued

"Just as I assured you, everything has come to an end now that you have awakened. It is time for you to fulfill your part of the bargain," he concluded with a serious tone, his once-smiling countenance replaced by a more serious expression, both in his face and his voice.

As Aron's words resonated with John, a flood of memories rushed back, and he recollected the events of the previous night in their entirety.

He recalled making a solemn vow to pledge his loyalty to the man, firmly believing that his disabilities rendered any potential usefulness of such loyalty futile.

Curiosity sparked within John, and questions filled his mind. "How did he accomplish it? To my knowledge, there is no known method for regenerating an amputated hand. Was such technology kept secret and withheld from the public?" Numerous inquiries sprouted in his mind, urging him to delve deeper into the mystery.

However, a profound transformation occurred within him as he recollected the dire circumstances he had faced before. Rising to his feet, John's determination surged, and he promptly dropped down onto one knee.

With unwavering conviction and a serious tone in his voice, he made his solemn pledge: "I swear before God that I shall remain loyal to you, unwavering and steadfast, and I shall never betray you under any circumstances." Every word that left his lips carried profound sincerity, etched upon his earnest countenance.

As Aron witnessed the man humbly dropping to his knees, reminiscent of medieval oaths of loyalty, a sense of contentment washed over him.

He felt a surge of happiness that the man had upheld his promise, thus eliminating the need for drastic measures such as forcing him into signing a loyalty contract.

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Aron had invested considerable effort, and he harbored no desire to see his endeavors go unrewarded.

Unbeknownst to Aron, a fanatic was born on that very day, someone who would go to great lengths to carry out any command, regardless of how distasteful or abhorrent it may be.

"Stand up," Aron commanded, acknowledging the oath and solidifying the recruitment of his first member into his forces, marking the official start of his private forces.

"Yes, sir," John responded promptly, swiftly rising to his feet and assuming an attentive position. He stood quietly, awaiting further orders with unwavering readiness.

Aron found himself pleasantly surprised by John's swift shift in attitude, observing how he immediately sprung into action without hesitation. The readiness and dedication John displayed caught Aron off guard in the best possible way.

"Take a seat" Aron instructed, recognizing that without the explicit command, John might continue standing indefinitely, waiting for further instructions.

"Yes, sir," John replied obediently, assuming a military posture while taking his seat as if he were within the presence of a high-ranking army commander.

"Is there anything significant remaining in your life?" Aron inquired, although he was aware that there was nothing of importance left for John.

"No, sir," John responded promptly.

"In that case, there should be no issue with you acquiring a new identity, correct? Besides, your appearance has changed and you now appear to be in your twenties as a result of the procedure,"

"Yes, sir," John responded immediately, his head tilted in curiosity in response to what Aron said about his physical transformation.

Upon noticing John's confusion, Aron realized the source of his bewilderment. "Ah, you haven't seen your own face yet," he remarked, retrieving his phone. With a swift reaction, Nova uploaded a real-life 3D rendering of John from the brain data she collected.

"Here, take a look," Aron offered, extending his phone to John, allowing him to witness his new body.

John received the phone with both hands, showing respect, and focused his gaze on the screen. As he beheld the remarkably lifelike 3D image of himself.

Astonishment washed over John as he observed his youthful appearance in the 3D image. It was truly remarkable, and he couldn't help but acknowledge that if he hadn't placed unwavering trust in Aron's words, he would have found it difficult to believe.

Recalling how years of excessive stress and inadequate sleep had taken a toll on his appearance, causing him to appear older than his actual age in his thirties, the transformation seemed almost miraculous.

After allowing John a moment to process his astonishment, Aron proceeded to provide further information. "There is $50,000 deposited into your account. You have one month to use this time as you please before your new social security card, passport, bank account, driver's license, and birth certificate are delivered to your residence.

Once everything has been delivered, contact me to notify me, so that I can officially begin assigning your tasks. I must emphasize, however, that I expect no troubles from you during this period."

"Yes, sir," John responded promptly, his heart brimming with gratitude for the chance to make use of his fully restored body in any way he desired for the duration of one month.

Having received the desired response, Aron promptly stood up, prompting John to rise alongside him.

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Aron then removed a brand new phone he had purchased on his way from his pocket and handed it to John who received it respectfully before he took his phone back.

"Use this to contact me whenever you require assistance," he instructed. With that, Aron made his way toward the door, preparing to depart from John's house and return to his own.

John accompanied Aron to the door, displaying a keenness to see him off. However, Aron intervened, informing him that it was unnecessary to go any further.

At that point, John halted and saluted Aron, bidding him farewell in a gesture of respect and gratitude.

Aron closed the door behind him and swiftly started making his way toward where he had parked his car. A tinge of regret washed over him for leaving the car in a spot quite distant from the house for the sake of secrecy and to avoid any potential eyewitnesses as Nova couldn't handle them yet.

"What do you think he will do with the one month and money I gave him?" Aron asked Nova as he was walking to the car.

Nova responded with a single word:[SEX]

"Why do you think so?" Aron inquired while laughing, his laughter stemming from Nova's blunt response.

[Based on his history, it appears that he frequently visited adult websites as a means to occupy his mind and find distraction through self-pleasure,] Nova explained. [It seems that he couldn't afford to pay for an escort in recent months, unlike during the initial period after his discharge.]

"Mh... that's a normal response if he was truly deprived in that aspect," Aron answered to Nova's explanation.

Aron arrived back at his home when it was about eight in the morning in which he immediately joined his family in eating breakfast and spending time with them until noon before he left to continue the collection of his forces by having a visit to all the candidates Nova had prepared for him.

...…..

Rina Rothchild mansion.

"Chloe, give me an update on our ongoing discussions with the Department of Justice?" inquired Rina.

"The legal team is in the final stages of negotiating with the Department of Justice, and they anticipate concluding the process by the end of this week," Chloe elaborated.

"Excellent. Notify the finance department to commence the search for a suitable bank that can provide me a loan of 5 billion dollars within two months," Rina instructed.

"For you personally? Not for the company?" Chloe asked, her surprise evident as she wondered if she had misunderstood.

"Yes, I require the funds for making certain investments," Rina confirmed.

Chloe was taken aback by Rina's response, and her surprise was evident. Observing Chloe's reaction, Rina inquired, "What seems to be the issue?"

"Miss, considering you are not the designated successor of the family, the likelihood of banks approving a loan of five billion dollars for you is quite slim," Chloe explained, providing the rationale.

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"Tell them to use the Ally international shares that were given to me as collateral," she responded upon hearing Chloe's concern.

"However, even if we consider utilizing those shares as collateral, the bank may exploit the issue with the Department of Justice to justify offering the loan at an exorbitant interest rate, considering your ongoing competition with your brother," Chloe explained, highlighting the potential challenges they will face.

"That won't be an issue. Instruct the financial department to negotiate for a lower interest rate with the banks.

However, if the negotiation doesn't yield favorable results, they should accept the bank's proposed interest rate under the condition that it remains the standard rate if the loan is repaid within a year.

If the repayment timeline exceeds one year, the interest rate will align with the bank's initial proposal," Rina swiftly responded, giving the impression to Chloe that she had already considered these factors beforehand, prior to issuing the order.

Upon realizing Rina's preparedness, Chloe nodded in agreement and promptly began taking note of the instructions provided by Rina.

Another reason Chloe refrained from further questioning was Rina's influential family background. She was aware that in the event of any unfavorable outcomes, Rina would receive support from her family, resulting in relatively minor consequences for the mistake she had made.

'At most, She will regress to her previous state and have to strive to regain her position.' Chloe thought to herself while taking notes

"Also, get in touch with the account opening department and have them create a new personal investment account in my name, where the loan will be deposited," Rina instructed.

"Yes, miss," Chloe acknowledged, jotting down another note before bidding her farewell to inform the relevant departments about the instructions she had received from Rina.

Left alone, she murmured to herself, "Once the loan gets approved and deposited within this month, we'll have approximately 5 months before the Morgans initiate their attack. That should provide us with sufficient time to prepare."

[It is indeed sufficient time, but you will need to provide your accounting information to Mother. She will oversee all the preparations, leveraging her vast computing power during the process and ensure it is conducted discreetly, by spreading out the preparations over an extended period, to minimize the likelihood of attracting attention from the Morgans.] Ava replied back.

"I always hear you speak so highly of your mother, but how does her computing power compare to the advanced systems we have in our private network?" Rina asked, her curiosity piqued by the constant mention of the fabled Mother Nova, who not only handles Aron's problems but also occasionally lends her assistance to them.

[Although I don't possess the complete information about this, as Mother has kept it a secret, she has mentioned to me that her computing power could rival the combined capabilities of all existing supercomputers.

However, personally, I believe her computing power surpasses that estimation by several orders of magnitude, based on the incredible speed at which I consistently receive answers to difficult questions I sent to her.

Often, I receive responses in less than a second after she receives them,] Ava expressed her opinion, emphasizing the impressive capabilities she has witnessed firsthand.

Upon hearing Ava's estimation of her mother's computing power, Rina found herself at a loss for words. The magnitude of the revelation stirred up a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions in her mind, rendering her unable to articulate a response.

Despite being aware that Aron possessed an AI system more potent than Ava, Rina had presumed its computing power to be at most double or even quintuple that of their family's private network server and supercomputer.

However, learning that its capabilities surpassed even those expectations raised numerous questions in her mind.

After taking a moment to gather herself, she voiced her curiosity, "Wouldn't the existence of such a powerful computer attract attention? It seems astonishing that such a groundbreaking technology could remain a secret."

[Initially, Mother began her operations within a standard server farm that Sir Aron had constructed for both personal use and the company. However, it seems that at present, she is utilizing a computer specifically designed by Sir Aron himself, deviating from conventional systems,] Ava explained, providing her assumptions based on the classified information that even she was not privy to. 𝐛𝗲𝗱𝐧𝗼𝐯𝗲𝗹．𝐧𝐞𝘁

"Ah, I'm tired of even thinking about it anymore" Rina decided, choosing to bring the topic to a close. Her mind felt burdened and fatigued from contemplating everything concerning Aron.

[Yes] Ava replied, her tone hinting at the suppressed amusement she felt witnessing Rina's reaction to the information.

Rina refocused her attention on her work, assisted by Ava, as she tackled the remaining issues plaguing the company. She was determined to ensure that everything returned to a state free from problems.

This was crucial for her to be fully prepared for the upcoming event without any distractions that could divert her focus.

If all went according to plan, that fateful day held the promise of her regaining her position as a formidable contender for the seat of the next family head.

...…

Eden.

In an opulent office space leased by CONNECT, serving as their interim headquarters, Felix could be seen having a discussion with Liam regarding the company's current situation.

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Felix inquired about the progress of the company, "How are things going?" he asked Liam, the Vice President.

Liam responded, "The consolidation process is expected to be completed within the upcoming weeks. However, the infrastructure upgrade will require additional time and extend beyond that."

"Considering the circumstances, it would be wise for us to begin preparations for a special gift to our users once the consolidation is successfully concluded," suggested Felix, referring to the plan provided by Aron upon completing the company acquisition. "This gesture can serve as a warm welcome from us to those who have had their internet access monopolized by a single company."

"I agree with the idea, as it presents an opportunity to create a favorable impression among the masses. However, I'm curious to know your suggestions on how we should execute this plan," inquired Liam, eager to hear Felix's proposal.

"Yesterday, we received a collaboration request from a major corporation. Here, have a look at their proposal," Felix said, handing the folder containing the proposal to Liam.

Liam, who had grown accustomed to receiving comprehensive plans in folders, picked up the folder to examine the proposed collaboration.

The proposal originated from the globally renowned company, GAIA Technology. They offered a staggering sum of one hundred million dollars in exchange for us providing free internet connectivity for six months to users who upgraded their phone's operating system to GAIA OS, including those who have already made the switch.

"This is indeed an enticing offer, but I'm curious as to why the company would want us to promote their OS when people are already voluntarily switching to it," inquired Liam, seeking clarification on the reasons behind receiving this sponsorship offer.

"I'm not entirely sure about the exact motivations behind their request. However, considering that this offer presents a lucrative opportunity for our company, I see no reason to decline it. Moreover, even without this offer, we would still need to provide a certain period of free internet service to address some of the dissatisfaction among our users. Therefore, accepting this proposal can be viewed as a positive move for us," Felix explained, concealing the fact that the company was owned by the same individual.

"Certainly, I will carefully review the offer and explore potential ways to utilize it even more effectively, aiming to reshape the company's public perception," Liam affirmed. He bid farewell, picked up the folder, and departed from the office, heading towards his workspace to commence planning for the advertisement rollout.

As twilight descended, Aron arrived home after successfully recruiting another individual named Miles to join his forces. To his delight, he found his family engaged in the preparations for their evening meal.

"Come and join us," his mother beckoned, using a gentle wave of her hand, calling him to join them.

Without hesitation, Aron immediately proceeded to wash his hands before joining his family at the dinner table to assist them in the preparations before they sat down and started eating the meal with them.

As they indulged in the meal, they engaged in light-hearted conversation, savoring each bite. After they had finished eating and tidied up the table, Henry left at once heading to Aron's room to play PlayStation, leaving Aron and his parents in the living room.

"How's work going?" his father asked with genuine curiosity, clearly displaying his keen interest in his son's professional pursuits.

"It's going very well and we are expanding faster than before" Aron responded to his father's question before posing one of his own, "And how about you?"

His father paused for a moment, contemplating his response. Gratitude resonated in his voice as he spoke, "I can't ask for anything better, thanks to you. I no longer have to worry about whether my family will have heat or not. You've changed our lives for the better." A hint of embarrassment tinged his words, a reminder of the hardships they had faced in the past.

Observing the atmosphere taking a somber turn, his mother interjected, "It appears you've been quite occupied since your return from the business trip." She directed her question at Aron, acknowledging the increased amount of time he had been spending away and assuming it was solely due to his work demands.

"Yes, the company is currently undergoing a rapid growth phase, and I need to be actively involved in approving decisions and planning future actions," Aron responded, opting to stick with the explanation that justified his increased absence. He refrained from revealing the true nature of his activities, which involved healing individuals and enlisting them in his forces while gaining their unwavering loyalty.

"Don't push yourself too hard, Aron. Your health is of utmost importance, more valuable than anything else," his mother advised, expressing genuine concern for his well-being. His father nodded in agreement, silently supporting her words. Little did they know that the likelihood of humanity conquering the universe within the next three years was higher than Aron falling ill anytime soon.

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"Yes, I will be cautious. By the way, have you made any decisions regarding going on vacation?" Aron asked his mother, smoothly transitioning to a different topic.

"Yes, I discussed it with your father, and he's also on board with the idea. We're waiting for May to arrive because Henry's summer break begins in a week." his mother replied, providing an update on their vacation plans.

"That's fantastic! It will give you the opportunity to explore multiple destinations during that time. So, where do you have in mind to visit?" Aron inquired, expressing curiosity about their intended travel destinations.

"We're currently considering visiting famous locations in Europe, but we're having difficulty deciding where to begin," his father responded, acknowledging their current dilemma.

He couldn't help but feel a sense of incredulity at the stark contrast between their previous financial struggles and their current conundrum of choosing vacation destinations.

"Oh, if that's where you're facing a roadblock, I can assist you with that. I've been in Europe for the past two months, and I can help plan the itinerary in a way that minimizes travel time and maximizes your enjoyment," Aron offered, eager to make their vacation planning process smoother and more convenient.

"Thank you, but why aren't you coming with us? Will you be busy even during that time?" his mother inquired, a tinge of sadness evident in her voice as she expressed her disappointment at his apparent absence from the vacation plans.

"I genuinely want to come with you all, but I have work obligations that require my presence. However, I'll join you as soon as I can find some free time from the company," Aron replied.

"It's commendable that you're dedicated to your work, but don't exhaust yourself just to be with us. We can always adjust our plans and wait for you to finish your work, so we can embark on the vacation together. The summer break is quite long," his father expressed, conveying his concern for Aron's well-being when he heard his reply.

"No, there's no need to do that. Henry is eagerly looking forward to the vacation, and besides, I'm uncertain if I'll have any substantial free time. There's always a chance of unforeseen events occurring," Aron responded, dismissing the idea of postponing the vacation to accommodate his work schedule.

Aron was certain that he would not have sufficient time in the upcoming months to accompany them on vacation. He planned to utilize the period they were away to extensively travel across America, collecting brain data and further expanding his forces.

"If that's the case, then we'll be waiting for you in Europe," his father answered after hearing Aron's explanation.

"Yes," Aron replied, and they continued engaging in conversation on various topics for approximately half an hour. Eventually, Aron bid his parents farewell and made his way to his room to enjoy some gaming and spend quality time with Henry who he won't be seeing for some time.

After spending a few hours playing games with Henry, Aron sent him to go to sleep. Once Henry had settled in, Aron made his way to the basement, where he resumed his work.

...….

Inside the Universal S?mulation.

[Sir, the app is complete,] Nova informed Aron as soon as he logged in and entered through the gate.

"What App?" Aron asked momentarily perplexed, as he couldn't recall having requested Nova to create any specific application.

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[The tour app for your parents to use during their vacation throughout Europe,] Nova replied, clarifying the purpose of the app she had developed.

"Oh, so you decided to create an app instead of simply preparing a travel plan?" Aron responded, expressing his surprise at the choice Nova made.

[This way, they can have the freedom to choose the places they want to visit, rather than being limited to the ones you prefer. It offers them the opportunity to make their own decisions and have a personalized experience,] Nova explained, providing her rationale for developing an app rather than simply providing a predetermined travel plan.

"Show it to me," Aron requested, and instantly, a phone materialized in his hand, displaying the app with all its functionalities already loaded and open for exploration.

He began navigating through the app, thoroughly exploring its contents to understand its features and offerings.

The app encompassed everything one could ever require when visiting a particular destination. It provided detailed information on various modes of transportation, including driving directions and public transportation routes within the county.

Additionally, it featured captivating imagery of the attractions visitors could expect to encounter upon arrival. Furthermore, the app incorporated authentic reviews from individuals who had previously visited the location, offering valuable insights.

It even included essential warnings and reminders for places with specific rules or important considerations that visitors should keep in mind. The app's comprehensive nature ensured that users would have all the necessary information and guidance at their fingertips.

Nova meticulously curated the app, incorporating an extensive range of vital information she deemed essential for travelers. She harnessed a multitude of sources, including Google Maps, review data, and numerous other datasets she had collected throughout her existence for training and other various applications.

By harnessing this vast reservoir of data, the app provided unparalleled accuracy, fully maximizing its potential with the wealth of information currently available worldwide.

"Great job," Aron complimented Nova on her creation, acknowledging the app's exceptional quality and usefulness.

[Thank you] Nova replied graciously to Aron's praise.

"I'll hand it over to them tomorrow. Now, let's get back to work. How is the consolidation process going?" Aron inquired, shifting his focus back to the task at hand.

After examining the program she had developed and was given to Felix, Nova provided her report.[A week at the earliest, three weeks at the latest]

Aron had entrusted the program to Felix, allowing him to utilize it and help alleviate the workload associated with their consolidation efforts.

"In that case, they should have begun planning the rollout of the promotion," Aron stated upon hearing Nova's report.

[Yes, but won't this give the impression to the dictator that we are needlessly losing money, potentially resulting in him receiving a smaller share when the designated time for dividend payment arrives?] Nova expressed her concern.

"The sponsorship was conceived with this in mind. Requiring them to switch to GAIA OS serves a dual purpose.

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It not only allows us to establish contact and exert influence over the population towards a revolution, but it also serves as a legitimate reason in the eyes of the dictator for providing the free data plan exclusively to those who have adopted the new operating system.

This approach helps us avoid arousing suspicion as to why we are only offering the free data plan to those adopting the new OS," Aron clarified.

[When do you intend to eliminate the presence of the other revolutionary leaders from the public eye?] Nova asked after she received the answer to her previous question.

"I intend to execute that step during the final phase of the plan, aiming to generate additional discontent and push the situation to its tipping point. You can think of them as the metaphorical powder keg."

"However, their freedom until that time relies on their ability to refrain from causing any trouble as Alexander's group grows in strength. If they prove incapable of exercising self-control, I will have to address the situation and deal with them before reaching that phase of the plan." Aron elaborated, outlining his strategy for handling the other revolutionary leaders.

"But shouldn't you already be aware of these plans, considering they are contained within the brain data you downloaded?" Aron inquired, expressing his curiosity as to why Nova was seeking information that she could easily access by reviewing his memories from the brain data.

[From your memories, there was no specific date or plan assigned, and it was labeled as 'undecided.' This indicates that at that point in time, you had not yet determined how you would approach this particular topic,] Nova clarified, highlighting the information she gathered from reviewing Aron's memories.

"Oooh... Okay," Aron nodded in approval, now understanding the purpose behind Nova's specific questions.

Following the answer, they continued their discussion, spending a few hours where Nova briefed Aron on important information that he had missed. This encompassed various topics, ranging from world politics and economics to other crucial aspects that would enable them to adapt and refine their plans according to the current global landscape.

As a wise man once said, "There are no ideal conditions, only ideal responses." Sun Tzu

A week later.

Aron was behind the wheel, chauffeuring his family to the airport as they embarked on their long-awaited vacation. Accompanying them were three additional vehicles carrying security personnel, dedicated to ensuring their safety throughout the journey.

"Why aren't you coming with us?" Henry inquired, noticing that Aron had not packed his bag into the car.

"I have some unfinished work to attend to. I will join you once I find some free time," Aron explained, passing through the airport security checkpoint before proceeding to park the car.

"That's unfortunate," Henry said, his slight sadness overshadowed by the excitement he felt for the trip.

Aron couldn't help but let out a chuckle as he witnessed Henry's fleeting moment of sadness, which promptly vanished when Henry's gaze fixed upon an airplane landing outside the window.

After parking the vehicles, the group, accompanied by the security team, entered the airport and proceeded to undergo the necessary security checks. They then made their way to the designated area where the private plane awaited, ready to transport Aron's family and the security team to Europe.

"Join us as soon as you're able," said his mother, embracing him tightly as a farewell gesture.

"Yes, I promise," Aron replied, moving to embrace his father before lifting Henry up to his eye level, causing laughter to erupt from the young boy.

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He then accompanied them to the plane and warmly greeted the pilots whom he had gotten to know during his two-month journey across Europe, where they had been his trusted transporters.

"Remember to use the app I gave you. It will assist you in choosing which places to visit. It's synchronized with the security team's devices, allowing them to prepare in advance once you've made your decision. Alright?" Aron reminded his parents one last time before he exited the aircraft.

He then stood outside, waving at the excited Henry through the window, as the airplane commenced its taxi towards the runway, embarking on its journey to transport the Michael family throughout their European vacation.

Aron patiently waited until the plane took off, then turned around and made his way towards the airport building followed by four bodyguards with one of them carrying a box. He was heading to one of the United Airlines ticket counters to purchase a plane ticket for California, where he planned to visit a specific division of Lockheed Martin: The fabled Skunk Works division.

Once he had purchased the ticket, he turned to the four bodyguards who had remained to drive the cars back home. One of them approached him, carrying a box, and handed it to Aron.

They then bid him farewell and proceeded to leave the airport to retrieve the cars, returning to the house to continue doing their security job.

Aron patiently waited for his boarding time to commence his work of gathering brain data from individuals on his list residing within the United States.

His journey would begin on the West Coast, traversing through each state until he returned to his home state of New York on the East Coast.

Alongside the brain data collection, he also intended to finalize the recruitment of his forces from the list of 308 individuals.

Last week, he had successfully converted the remaining fifteen people residing within the same state resulting in him having a total of eighteen people in his private forces who were currently on a one-month holiday.

He accomplished this by just healing them, restoring their health, and regenerating any missing body parts. He made sure to stop there and not continue using the healing rune like what he did to John in order to save time. As that can be done at any time.

As Aron had stopped using the rune once the individuals were fully healed, they did exhibit a more youthful appearance compared to before. However, the degree of transformation was not as pronounced as the remarkable changes John had undergone.

He decided to postpone their mutation for the time being. His intention was to allow the research teams in Lab City to thoroughly study the evolved characteristics of John's body and develop a genetic serum capable of replicating the same results. This serum would then be used on the remaining members of his forces.

The plan was arranged in a way that ensured that Aron would be able to complete the entire operation within a span of one month and two weeks.

...…

Eden.

Alexander could be seen in his study, engrossed in his work, as he dedicated his efforts to preparing his group for the imminent surge of new members. His focus revolved around ensuring their readiness to accommodate the forthcoming influx and that they are not overwhelmed.

While Alexander was deep in thought, his concentration was abruptly interrupted by the sound of a notification. A soft "ting" emanated from his device, indicating the arrival of an SMS. He promptly diverted his attention and opened the message to see its contents.

Sender: CONNECT.

[

CONNECT Telecom: Exciting Offer Announcement! ? In celebration of our official launch of telecommunication services in Eden, we are delighted to present you with an exclusive offer.

Enjoy 6 months of complimentary access to our comprehensive range of services, including calls, SMS, and Internet!

However, please note that this offer is exclusively available to those who switch to or have already switched to the GAIA OS.

Upgrade your operating system today and experience uninterrupted connectivity.

Click here to make the switch: [Link: ...]. #CONNECTTelecom #FreeInternet #FreeCellularServices #Important #GAIA TECHNOLOGIES #GAIA OS #Eden

]

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After reading the message, Alexander knew that the most intense period since the establishment of their group had finally arrived. They had to endure this challenging phase for approximately six months before Eden entered a transformative era.

Taking a moment to reflect on where they had come to reach this point, before he said, "Phase two has officially started," followed by a burst of laughter.

His laughter intensified as he recollected the meeting with the other revolutionary leaders, where they had collectively rejected Aron's offer. Yet, against all odds, Alexander had quietly followed his gut feeling and secretly agreed to the proposition—a decision that now seemed remarkably wise in hindsight. The irony of the situation overwhelmed him, fueling his amusement even further.

In every corner of Eden,

This message created a sensation across the entire nation, as people joyously celebrated the generosity of the new company.

Almost everyone who had not yet switched their operating system to GAIA OS eagerly utilized the provided link in the message to make the transition.

Remarkably, even individuals who lacked technical expertise found the process surprisingly user-friendly.

All they needed to do was click on the link, which would redirect them to a website featuring a single button labeled "Change OS." Once clicked, the operating system itself would take care of the rest, ensuring a seamless transition for the users.

The process commenced with the OS download, swiftly followed by the seamless replacement of the existing OS while preserving all user data. Within just half an hour, from the moment of download to the system being fully restored and ready for operation, users could immediately begin utilizing the complimentary services provided by the telecom company.

The news continued to spread rapidly, reaching an increasing number of individuals until it eventually reached Adolf, the dictator. And without wasting time he immediately called Felix wanting to know more about the stunt that CONNECT was pulling.

"Hello, Your Excellency," Felix respectfully responded as he answered the phone.

"What is the meaning of this stunt? Are you deliberately aiming for financial losses in the initial years just to avoid paying me?" Adolf shouted, his voice resounding through the phone.

"Your Excellency, it appears there has been a misunderstanding on your part. This complimentary telecommunication offer is made possible through an advertising partnership we have secured.

Hence, the message was accompanied by the condition that users must switch their phone's operating system to GAIA OS in order for them to benefit from it," Felix explained, making an effort to maintain a composed tone despite growing frustration with the dictator's demeanor.

"Give me the details about the offer" Adolf demanded, displaying a complete lack of trust. Adolf saw this as an opportunity to vent his dissatisfaction over signing a contract that delayed dividend payments by almost a year and three months.

"They are compensating us with a sum of 100 million for offering free telecommunication services to all GAIA OS users in Eden for a duration of 6 months," Felix replied, maintaining his composure as best he could. ｂ𝚎𝚍𝚗𝚘𝚟𝚎ｌ.ｎｅｔ

"If that's the case, then it's satisfactory," Adolf acknowledged before abruptly ending the phone call, leaving Felix stunned with the phone still pressed to his ear. He restrained himself from shouting out his frustration, holding his emotions in check.

"I really need to control myself or one day I might lose control of myself and just end up shouting back at him ruining everything I had worked hard to accomplish." Felix contemplated, recognizing the need to keep his emotions in check.

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However, a question lingered in his mind. "Why did Aron agree to pay the dividends? He's someone stubborn enough to resist the Department of Defense's attempts to acquire his program forcibly to the point that he sent them to court trying to annul the FISA order," he pondered, realizing that Aron likely had no intention of paying any dividends to the dictator at all.

"If Aron had intended to pay the dividends, he would have opted for a quarterly or semi-annual payment structure as that would make the dictator look at them in a positive light. However, him deliberately choosing a yearly dividends payment, despite knowing it would displease the dictator, suggests that he has a plan in motion that should come to fruition within a year," Felix speculated, delving into his own hypothesis. "Moreover, his reasoning for the yearly payment is bullshit as our calculation indicated that we would have already begun earning profits by the fourth month following consolidation, making the need for a yearly payment questionable," he reasoned, addressing each question that arose in his mind.

"Furthermore, why choose to advertise the company and incentivize people to switch to GAIA OS with free internet, incurring expenses of 100 million dollars in the process?" Felix questioned, delving deeper into his analysis.

"It suggests that whatever Aron is planning is contingent upon the majority, if not everyone, in the country, having access to the internet and other telecommunication services," he pondered, recognizing the significance of widespread connectivity for Aron's undisclosed scheme.

One by one, he eliminated possibilities until only a single revelation remained. As the realization struck him, Felix abruptly rose from his chair, taken aback by the astonishing revelation. Overwhelmed with astonishment, he couldn't contain himself and exclaimed, "Holy shit!"

"He's becoming increasingly bold," Felix murmured as he paced back and forth, his hands gripping the back of his head. The weight of the realization still gripping him, he trembled with fear, apprehensive that someone might uncover this plan.

However, Felix gradually managed to regain his composure as he recognized that his ability to reach such a conclusion was a result of his close friendship with Aron.

Having an intimate understanding of Aron's character and thought processes allowed him to discern the true implications behind each decision. With this realization, a sense of reassurance washed over Felix, soothing his earlier fears.

"But how does he intend to utilize the telecommunication infrastructure to instigate a regime change?" Felix pondered aloud, his mind consumed by the question.

"Ahaaaa, the program he entrusted me to use for the new company!" Felix exclaimed, the realization hitting him like a bolt of lightning.

"Through that program, he has gained complete control over the entire country's internet infrastructure. With people switching to GAIA OS, a system he personally created, he can manipulate and control the information accessed by everyone within the country," he concluded, astounded by the magnitude of Aron's plan.

"Holy mother!" Felix exclaimed, his heart nearly leaping out of his chest as he comprehended the vast scale of manipulation one could achieve with complete control over the entire country's internet access. The implications were staggering, and a shiver ran down his spine at the thought.

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"There are a few missing pieces in my calculations to complete the puzzle. A regime change requires a figurehead, but Aron cannot be the one to become the next leader, as it would be perceived as a hostile takeover by both the people and other governments, leading to never-ending sanctions," Felix contemplated. After a brief moment of reflection, he concluded that Aron must have already identified someone who would serve as the figurehead for the new regime.

"But what does he stand to gain from this plan?" Felix questioned himself, attempting to discern the motives that would drive Aron to orchestrate a regime change in another country. His mind raced, exploring various possibilities that could explain Aron's ulterior motives behind such a grand scheme.

After a brief period of contemplation, Felix reached a conclusion. "Control," he uttered, realizing that Aron's primary objective was to gain extensive control over the situation.

However, he couldn't help but feel that this was an excessive reaction on Aron's part, considering it was merely a matter of being compelled to surrender a program to the government.

"Unless..." Felix paused, a peculiar and somewhat absurd thought emerging in his mind. "What if he possesses something even greater than everything he has released thus far, and he fears it being taken away from him once again?" he contemplated aloud, the notion presenting itself as a plausible explanation for Aron's extreme measures.

In the wake of this realization, Felix couldn't contain his laughter, overcome with a sense of irony.

The dictator, Adolf, had unknowingly supported Aron's consolidation of power, blinded by his own greed and narrow vision. It was akin to inviting an enemy into one's own house without even realizing it.

"Ah, Adolf, poor you," Felix uttered, a mix of empathy and satisfaction in his voice. All the pent-up frustration he had endured from constantly humbling himself in front of the dictator, no matter how rudely Adolf treated him, now seemed to dissipate like dust being washed away by water.

Simultaneously, he couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of joy for his friend Aron, recognizing the successful execution of the Trojan horse maneuver on a national scale.

As phase two commenced, Nova wasted no time and swiftly employed her authorized privileges within the system utilized by CONNECT to facilitate internet connectivity. Consequently, she successfully gained entry into the internet infrastructure of Eden, securing access to its comprehensive array of offerings.

In order to achieve the desired outcomes of phase two, Nova recognized the necessity of obtaining comprehensive knowledge about every individual residing within Eden. Thus, she embarked on the formidable task of meticulously compiling profiles for each internet user within the county. 𝑏𝘦𝘥𝘯𝑜𝘷𝘦𝑙．𝑜𝑟𝘨

This marked the initiation of a momentous endeavor, aimed at establishing an exhaustive database that encompassed their digital personas.

Typically, such a task would require a considerable amount of time and could potentially raise suspicions among tech-savvy individuals. However, Nova circumvented these challenges by issuing commands to the virtual assistants that came with the GAIA OS.

While developing GAIA OS, Aron incorporated programming instructions for the virtual assistant to generate user profiles as a means to elevate the overall user experience. This implementation was intended to improve the personalized interactions and interactions with the virtual assistant.

By employing this approach, Nova managed to streamline the profile compilation process, saving significant amounts of time and helping her avoid detection by having this process appear as routine operating system background tasks.

Through this meticulously devised strategy, Nova ensured the utmost discretion and concealment of her actions, mitigating the risk of detection by prying eyes.

The profiles encompassed an extensive array of information, encompassing details such as the user's name, age, personal preferences, fears, passions, political views, and much more.

These comprehensive profiles yielded a wealth of knowledge about each individual, enabling the customization of targeted strategies to influence and guide them towards specific desired outcomes.

Upon receiving the profiles from long-term users of GAIA OS, Nova initiated the analysis phase. Diligently, she scrutinized the gathered profiles, evaluating the potential value of each individual in the context of the revolution and their suitability to join Alexander's group as revolutionary fighters.

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However, for those who had recently migrated to GAIA OS, Nova had to exhibit patience. She awaited the completion of user profiles generated by the virtual assistants, a process that typically required approximately a week. Once the profiles were finalized, Nova would receive them and proceed to repeat the same selection process she had executed for the others.

The selection process held paramount importance for Nova, as she aimed to specifically target individuals who would prove beneficial to her plan.

Moreover, she had to exercise caution and discernment to filter out individuals who displayed tendencies of snitching, particularly for personal gain, or those notoriously known for their loose lips.

The potential repercussions arising from such individuals leaking sensitive data to others, who might then report it to the authorities, mandated their exclusion from the group.

Once the individualized plans for each selected person, considered of potential value to the revolution, were finalized, Nova proceeded to transmit the plans back to their respective virtual assistants.

Serving as intermediaries, these virtual assistants received the plans and commenced their implementation on behalf of Nova.

The plans encompassed various aspects of the selected individuals' digital lives. This included curating the types of videos that would appear on their Facebook and other social media feeds, as well as controlling the news they consumed.

The objective was to gradually steer their digital experiences in a manner that fostered growing frustration and anger towards the prevailing state of the country.

The ultimate goal was to ignite a fire within them, motivating them to join the group and take tangible action for meaningful change.

After fostering enough discontent to the point they start taking that step to look for a way they can join the revolutionary groups the virtual assistant will guide them to Alexander's group and not the other ones.

Upon joining the group, the individuals will be instructed to download a specific application that will serve as an information source and provide them with protection against potential discovery.

If they ask why, they will be informed that through the utilization of the app, the virtual assistant will be able to openly keep them informed about the plans and provide them with necessary information.

As for how, it is by the app utilizing the extension released by GAIA TECHNOLOGY to allow app developers to create apps that can be used to increase the functions of the VA by having them develop apps with certain functionality and by them including the extension it would allow the virtual assistant in GAIA OS to use the functions of the app by itself in the background.

An illustrative example would be downloading a calendar app with this extension, where planning an event allows the virtual assistant to access and inform the user about it.

However, all of this was a deliberate facade orchestrated by Aron. In reality, the virtual assistant had complete access to all the data within the phone right from the beginning. However, openly admitting this would have led to never-ending lawsuits and legal complications.

Thus, Aron devised a clever strategy: he made the virtual assistant appear as if it had limitations and required a specific extension within apps to access certain data. This illusion gave users a false sense of control, even though they had never truly possessed it from the very start.

Quoting from the wisdom of Sun Tzu, "The illusion of control lulls us into believing that we hold the reins of our destiny, when in reality, life's unpredictable currents often steer us in unexpected directions."

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...

[Sir, phase two has begun,] Nova notified Aron as he completed fitting the headgear onto the sleeping skunkworks engineer.

"Good. Inform Alexander about this and ask about the progress of his group in preparing for the arrival of new members," Aron instructed after receiving the report from Nova.

[Done] Nova reported back shortly.

"How many of them have you chosen from the first batch?" Aron asked Nova wanting to know the number of the people she had selected based on the profiles she currently possessed.

[3478 of them.]

"That's enough based on the needs of our first batch" Aron responded upon hearing Nova's answer.

[It is anticipated that approximately half of them will join the group within a month and a half, provided that the virtual assistants execute my instructions flawlessly,] Nova explained, outlining the expected timeline for the integration of new members into the group.

"They will, don't worry," Aron assured Nova with confidence. He proceeded to remove the virtual headgear from the man and left the house, closing the door behind him.

"Thank goodness most of them live in the same community. Otherwise, I might be tempted to wait until they're at work, put the entire building into slumber, and extract the data from them all at once," Aron quipped, lightening the mood as he began walking towards the next target's residence.

[You could certainly do that, but convincing them that they all experienced collective amnesia would be quite challenging,] Nova replied, amused by Aron's comment.

"I am aware," Aron responded simply, acknowledging Nova's remark.

"How are they doing?" Aron inquired, seeking an update from Nova regarding the status of the individuals who were already part of his private forces and currently enjoying a one-month vacation.

[Many of them have been indulging in their long-awaited sexual desires during the initial days, while others are engaging in various activities. Some are exploring the city and visiting different places,]

"That's good to hear," Aron responded, expressing a sense of relief upon receiving Nova's answer.

[Were you concerned that some of them might disregard your instructions and attempt to seek out those who have caused them harm, seeking revenge and venting their anger?] Nova asked, noting the tone of relief in Aron's response.

"Yes, it serves as their final test. If they have pledged their loyalty to me and yet go against my initial command, it would necessitate their exclusion from my future plans from the very beginning, and they would also come to regret their decision," Aron answered back in a cold tone.

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[How did you intend to accomplish that? By injuring them once again?] Nova asked, seeking further clarification from Aron in order to start devising a contingency plan based on his chosen course of action.

"While I could resort to such means, I'm not desensitized enough to personally do that. However, there are alternative methods I can employ. I can strip them of everything they currently possess and will have in the future.

Moreover, since I provided them with new identities, they have no belongings or connections to their past. Without any relatives to vouch for their previous identities, the non-existence of past injuries, and considering their apparent physical rejuvenation of approximately five years, claiming their old identities would likely result in them being deemed mentally unstable or potentially convicted for identity theft," Aron explained, indicating that he had considered these factors thoroughly before selecting those individuals as the initial group to work with.

[Isn't it better to simply inflict physical injuries on them?] Nova asked after hearing Aron's detailed and potentially brutal plan.

"I could certainly do that but the graphic nature of such actions is something I am not prepared to handle at this moment," Aron explained

[From their brain data I confirmed that their trauma is now nothing more than a distant and bad memory. Therefore, we don't expect any such events to occur] Nova reminded Aron as she had reported this in the past.

"There's no harm in being prepared at all times. Humans are complex creatures, and they can sometimes behave unexpectedly depending on what triggers their minds," Aron remarked, as he knocked on the door of the house where the next person on their list resided.

"It's always better to be prepared for the worst, no matter how certain you may be about something," Aron added, while patiently waiting for the door to be opened.

Just as Nova was about to respond, the door was opened "Sleep" Aron said activating the rune, causing the man to instantly fall asleep before he could even catch a glimpse of Aron's face. With the man unconscious, Aron entered the house and caught the man as he fell to the ground.

[I'll keep that in mind,] Nova replied as Aron gently placed the man on the ground and proceeded to put the virtual helmet on him.

Arieh's Mansion.

"Sir, Miss Rina has been reaching out to various banks in search of a loan," Arieh's secretary updated him on Rina's recent movements since she was given the company.

"Why would she do that? The company may be facing some financial challenges, but it doesn't require a bank loan. And even if it did, why wouldn't she approach one of the family's banks for the loan?" Arieh inquired, perplexed by Rina's unconventional decisions.

"The loan she's seeking is not for the company but for personal reasons. Moreover, considering the amount she's requesting, the family banks would require her to provide a clear explanation of how she intends to utilize the funds," Charlotte clarified.

"How much is she seeking to borrow?" Arieh asked.

"She is seeking a minimum of 5 billion dollars,"

"What does she intend to do with such a substantial amount?" Arieh asked in astonishment, knowing that his sister was not foolish enough to borrow such a significant sum of money without a well-thought-out plan in mind.

"At the moment, we don't know"

"What leverage is she attempting to utilize? As far as I'm aware, she only possesses the Ally international shares that she can potentially use, and aside from that, she has a few personal shares worth approximately 750 million dollars. However, she cannot use those shares as they serve as her emergency funds," Arieh asked Charlotte.

"You are correct. She is using the Ally international shares as collateral for the loan," Charlotte answered.

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"Where is the list of banks she is approaching for the loan?" Arieh asked, wanting to know which banks she was contacting and negotiating with.

"Here you go, sir," Charlotte replied, handing him the folder containing the names of the banks.

After briefly examining the list of banks, Arieh raised his head and instructed, "Contact them and inform them to approve the loan she is requesting. If they express concerns about her potential default, inform them that I will purchase the loan from them in the event of default." He was devising a scheme to use this loan as his ultimate weapon, intending to deal a devastating blow to his sister.

"Yes, sir," Charlotte nodded, indicating her understanding and acknowledgment of the order.

Just as Charlotte was about to turn and leave the office to fulfill the assigned task, Arieh interjected, "By the way, how is Terry's situation progressing?"

"He is expected to be discharged from the hospital and transferred here by next week," Charlotte promptly responded.

"Call Gerald and inform him that I have a mission for him," Arieh ordered Charlotte.

"Yes, sir," Charlotte replied and left the office without seeking further details. Having worked for Arieh for over five years, she had a sense of what he might be planning.

Arieh resumed his work, waiting for the arrival of his Gerald.

A few minutes later, Gerald, Arieh's head of security, entered the room to respond to the call.

"Sir, you called for me," Gerald said as he entered the room, having received permission to enter after knocking.

"Yes, I need you to carry out a discrete task for me," Arieh stated, lifting his head from the documents on his desk.

"I want you to go to the hospital discreetly and visit Terry without being noticed by anyone. Do you think you can accomplish that?" Arieh asked, focusing his attention on Gerald.

"Yes, I can do that, sir," Gerald responded with confidence.

"Okay, good. Here's what I want you to do. I want you to..." Arieh began explaining the specific tasks he needed Gerald to carry out during his visit to the hospital.

"Understood?" Arieh asked after he finished explaining the tasks he wanted Gerald to perform.

"Yes, sir," Gerald replied, demonstrating his understanding of the instructions. 𝑏𝘦𝘥𝑛𝘰𝘷𝑒𝘭.𝑐𝘰𝑚

"Okay, you can go," Arieh said.

Gerald promptly said his goodbyes to Arieh and exited the room, preparing himself to head to the hospital and fulfill the assigned task.

"He should act as a contingency pawn for me," Arieh murmured, contemplating the role Terry would play. He then shifted his attention back to the document on his desk, resuming his work.

...….

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Black site.

Patrick, the project manager of the black sites, could be seen walking to Kassim's room, visibly sweating and trembling with nervousness.

KNOCK KNOCK Patrick knocked on the door upon his arrival.

"Come in," a voice from the office beckoned.

Patrick took a deep breath before entering the room.

"Sir, you called for me," Patrick said as he entered the room and closed the door behind him.

"Yes, I called to know whether you have completed the project or not," Kassim stated in a cold, stern voice.

"We require a little more time to achieve the necessary capabilities," Patrick responded, his voice trembling.

"I recall receiving the same response six months ago, and I gave you ample time," Kassim remarked in a tone that sent shivers down Patrick's spine.

"Sir, the complexity of the program has exceeded our initial predictions. We have comprehended the majority of it, but there remains a small portion, approximately two GB in size, that remains a mystery." Patrick paused to take a breath and continued.

"Despite our efforts, we have been unable to fully decipher the code. When we attempted to remove this code from our modified program, the program crashed, indicating that this particular segment is among the critical components of the program," Patrick explained, pushing himself to finish by providing the reasons for their inability to complete the program despite the extensive duration.

"Didn't the information I obtained from the DOD's team not help you in any way?"

"Indeed, it did assist us in expediting our understanding of the program. However, based on the data we received, it appears that even the DOD's team is facing similar challenges and has been unable to make significant progress," Patrick explained.

"How much more time do you need?" Kassim asked.

Patrick took a deep breath, preparing to respond, but before he could finish his answer, Kassim interrupted him, saying, "Be cautious with your words. If you fail to meet the timeline, you and your team will face appropriate consequences," in a chilling tone.

"Four months," Patrick responded, adding an extra month to the time he would have originally requested.

"Now leave, but be aware that if it is not ready by that time, you will not be given any further opportunities," Kassim stated to Patrick as he was leaving.

Upon hearing this, Patrick turned to Kassim and bowed, indicating his understanding of Kassim's words. He then left the office, closing the door behind him, and leaned against it. Taking a deep sigh of relief, acknowledging that he had survived another day.

"We either make it work, or we are doomed," Patrick murmured to himself before he started returning to the working room where his team members were. He planned to tell them that they have a three-month timeframe, or face dire consequences.

Yes, three months. The extra month will serve as a valuable backup. Individuals commonly tend to plan their tasks based on the time available rather than the actual time needed for completion.

If a student is given forty questions and forty days to complete them, the most ideal solution would be for them to answer one question per day. This way, they can distribute their effort evenly and ensure they finish all the questions within the given timeframe.

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(A/N If it were me I would start solving them half an hour before the completion date)

Back inside Kassim's office, now alone, he reached out and picked up the phone resting on the table. With a purposeful motion, he dialed a specific number and pressed the call button, initiating the connection.

After approximately thirty seconds of ringing, someone on the other end of the line answered the call.

"Is the program ready?" inquired the voice on the other end.

"No, sir," Kassim reported respectfully, "the team has encountered a significant obstacle, and they estimate that it will take approximately four months to overcome it and complete the product."

"You are aware that we have been delaying the plan for over three months, with the expectation that the program would be completed and enable us to inflict further damage on the Rothschilds, correct?" questioned the voice on the other end, causing Kassim to tense up.

"Yes, sir, I am aware of that. However, the obstacle the team is facing is similar to the one that has caused a setback for the team at the DOD," Kassim explained, providing the reason for the team's inability to meet the given timeline over the past five months.

"Within four months, if the program is not completed, we will proceed without it, and you will be held accountable," stated the voice on the other end before abruptly ending the call, without waiting for Kassim's response.

"Patrick, you had better complete your task within the given time, or I won't be the only one facing the consequences. I will make sure you bear the burden with me," Kassim exclaimed, directing his anger toward Patrick and his team while refraining from entertaining any negative thoughts toward the person on the other end of the phone.

Kassim was well aware that failing to complete the program within the designated time limit would have severe repercussions. He had witnessed the dire consequences faced by his predecessor in the position, which led to his own promotion.

A week later.

In the hospital elevator, Terry stood accompanied by two vigilant bodyguards who were escorting him towards the basement parking lot. Their purpose was to transport Terry back to the secure confines of the Rothschild's compound, where he would inevitably confront the repercussions of his actions.

Despite his attempts to calm himself, Terry found it increasingly difficult to regain composure. Deep down, he was aware that his fate had been sealed the moment he set foot inside the compound.

The impending consequences that awaited him would transform his experience into a cautionary tale, ensuring that it would be etched into the collective memory of all those who heard it, serving as a stark reminder to never engage in such foolish actions.

What was allowing him to hold on was the meeting he had with Gerald who had visited him in a doctor's outfit under the guise of doing final checkups before they approved his discharge.

As the elevator descended further, Terry's heart filled with an increasing sense of fear. With each passing floor, the grip of anxiety tightened, amplifying the weight of apprehension within him.

The elevator came to a sudden halt on the eighth floor, prompting the security team to instinctively tense up, bracing themselves for whatever awaited them. As the doors gracefully glided open, they were met with an unexpected and perplexing sight.

Standing before them was a nurse, her presence overshadowed by the lifeless figure on the bed draped in sheets.

The occupants of the elevator instinctively covered their noses, overwhelmed by the unmistakable and repugnant stench that permeated the air. It became apparent that the source of the foul odor was the body on the bed, now revealed to be covered in excrement.

"Excuse me," the nurse's voice filtered through the mask as she politely interjected, pushing the bed into the confined space of the elevator.

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Instinctively, the security guards swiftly repositioned themselves, forming two groups flanking either side of the bed.

Terry found himself positioned on the right side of the bed, accompanied by one guard, while the other guard took up position on the left.

The nurse, seemingly unaware of the prevailing tension within the elevator, calmly pressed the button for the floor designated as the mortuary.

The guards positioned alongside the nurse turned towards her, their expressions contorted with discomfort, and inquired, "Isn't there a designated elevator for transporting such items?" They struggled to endure the overwhelming stench that filled the air.

As the elevator doors closed"Yes, there is, but unfortunately, it's currently undergoing maintenance," she responded, her tone reflecting her own discomfort with the situation.

As the elevator began its descent, the guards, convinced that no threat could arise from the inert, soiled body before them, eased their vigilance.

Unbeknownst to anyone in the elevator, the nurse's hand stealthily maneuvered beneath the bed sheets, retrieving a concealed scalpel. With utmost precision and without raising any suspicion, she made her move. In a sudden, swift, and unexpected act, she lunged at the guard positioned on the left, catching him completely off guard. She swiftly stabbed the guard on his stomach.

Seizing the opportunity presented before him, Terry wasted no time and swiftly launched his assault on the momentarily stunned guard. With the guard struggling to regain composure and react in time, Terry managed to swiftly secure him in a chokehold.

'I will give you my meat and take your bones' He thought to himself as he continued maintaining the choke hold.

Meanwhile, on the opposite side, the stabbed bodyguard persisted in his struggle against the nurse. He attempted to strike her using his leg, but the nurse skillfully redirected the blow, causing his leg to become lodged and trapped between the bed and the elevator wall.

The impact reverberated through the elevator, causing the bed to shake, and was followed by the agonized screams of the guard, whose bone had been fractured in the process.

The nurse without a pause swiftly proceeded with her assault. She ruthlessly stabbed the guard multiple times in the abdomen, ensuring that he would be rendered incapable of taking any further action.

The wounded guard collapsed against the elevator wall, clutching his bleeding stomach in a desperate attempt to staunch the flow. Gasping for breath, he fought to maintain proper respiration amidst the pain and chaos surrounding him.

As the elevator reached its destination in the basement, the tumultuous events that had unfolded inside the confined space had reached its conclusion.

The nurse turned towards Terry, and seeing that he handled the guard she said, "Let's go," before swiftly delivering a powerful kneebutt to the injured guard's head, rendering him unconscious.

Terry nodded, acknowledging the nurse's order to exit the elevator. As he exited the elevator, he pressed the button for the first floor, ensuring that the unconscious guards would be transported to the emergency room.

This decision was made with the intention of keeping the situation relatively contained, as the Rothschild hunt would likely exercise more restraint if their guards were alive rather than deceased.

Observing Terry's actions, the nurse remained silent, as she didn't care about it at all.

Without wasting a moment, they moved swiftly until they reached a parked car. The woman retrieved the keys, unlocking the vehicle.

They quickly boarded the car, wasting no time, and sped away from the hospital premises, leaving behind the chaotic scene before anyone could raise an alert about the situation heading towards the first floor.

As they left the hospital and ventured towards the outskirts of the city, Terry's racing thoughts began to subside, allowing him to regain a semblance of calm. He turned towards the woman, still attired in the nurse outfit, and broke the silence by initiating a conversation.

"I'm Terry. Who are you?" he inquired, attempting to divert the somber atmosphere and escape the weight of his recent actions, which only served to amplify the potential repercussions he might face if captured.

Terry found himself in a situation reminiscent of a child who, gripped by fear of impending punishment for a mistake, resorts to further wrongdoing in an attempt to conceal their initial misdeed.

In his desperate attempt to evade the consequences, he had unwittingly escalated the severity of his actions. 'Fuck' he thought to himself.

"Call the number that last contacted the phone," the woman stated, dismissing Terry's question without offering any further explanation or response.

Terry retrieved the phone and accessed the call application, navigating to the section where previous call details were displayed. To his surprise, he discovered that only one phone call had been made from this device.

Terry tapped on the phone number and swiftly pressed the call button bringing the phone to his ear.

After ringing for approximately three seconds, the call was answered, and a voice on the other end, without any formal greeting, immediately asked, "Did you succeed?"

Terry quickly recognized the voice as Gerald's, the same person who had visited him in the hospital the previous week to discuss the escape plan.

"Yes, thank you," Terry replied, expressing his gratitude after a brief pause.

"Good. Sir instructed me to relay these orders to you: 'Follow that woman and remain in her company until further instructions,'" Gerald conveyed the instructions he had received from Arieh without explicitly mentioning his name.

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By omitting specific details, they aimed to ensure that even if the phone call were to be recorded, no substantial evidence linking them to Arieh would be found.

"Yes, sir. Please convey my gratitude to him," Terry responded, expressing his appreciation. However, he received no response, as the call abruptly ended.

"Phone," the woman uttered, gesturing with her outstretched hand, indicating that she wanted Terry to return the device to her.

As Terry handed the phone back to her, The nurse swiftly flung it out of the window, sending it plunging into the water below the bridge they were crossing. She then turned to Terry, introducing herself.

"My name is Katrina," she stated. "As the call indicated, you will be staying with me until I receive further instructions. I hope you won't cause me any trouble during your time with me, as I would prefer not to be compelled to put a bullet through your head. I have the authorization to do so if you become problematic."

"You don't have to worry about that. I have no intentions of going anywhere," Terry reassured Katrina, recognizing the gravity of their situation.

"Even without your warning, I am well aware that they will be tirelessly searching for us, leaving no stone unturned. I have committed acts that go against the principles expected of a Rothchild employee, not just once, but twice. Now, it has become a matter of protecting their reputation, and they won't rest until they find us."

"That's good" Katrina answered back.

"What is your usual task?" He asked wanting to know her better as he will be sending a long time with her.

"None of your business," Katrina said before she stopped answering any of the further questions Terry asked following that as he was trying to distract his mind from having to think about what would happen to him in case he is caught.

Rina's Mansion

[Rina, Terry has escaped from the hospital,] Ava immediately relayed the urgent information to Rina as soon as the information was intercepted from the private network.

"What happened?" Rina asked urgently, halting her current activity to focus on the unfolding situation.

[During the transfer, the guards accompanying him were attacked by an unknown woman, and she escaped with Terry,] Ava informed Rina, utilizing the rapidly updating information circulating within the private network as people were working hard to ensure the relevant individuals were kept up to date on the unfolding situation.

As Ava explained the situation, Rina's hand instinctively moved to her neck, gently caressing it, a reminder of something happening to her. With a hint of concern in her voice, she asked, "Was it my brother or the morgans?"

[Nothing conclusive about either of them; they are still among the few suspects on my list,] Ava replied, indicating that she had no knowledge of this specific plan and that no information about it existed within the private network.

"Is there any other important information about this incident?" Rina asked, seeking further details after receiving Ava's response.

[They are still attempting to covertly track him. As for the guards who were attacked, one is currently undergoing surgery in the operating room, while the other remains in a coma. The chokehold he was subjected to was fatal, and it is uncertain when he will regain consciousness,] Ava reported, relaying the information she had gathered from the ongoing communications within the private network.

She remained unaware of Arieh's plan to assist Terry in his escape because the orders had been conveyed through verbal communication, and Gerald had used a burner phone that was not connected to the private network to execute the plan. Additionally, the payment for the operation had been made using one of Arieh's slush fund accounts, which was kept separate from the private network.

"Keep me updated on any developments regarding this matter when something new appears through the network" Rina requested before attempting to return to her work. However, her concentration was abruptly interrupted as Chloe bursted into the room, indicating that whatever she was about to report was urgent enough to warrant her to disregard all formalities and decorum.

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"What is it?" she asked, feigning ignorance about the reason for Chloe's urgent interruption.

"Miss, we have received a report stating that Terry has escaped from the hospital while under escort," Chloe promptly reported without any delay.

"What?" Rina exclaimed, feigning surprise as if she was hearing the report for the first time.

"Yes, there is quite a commotion. The security team is being mobilized across the compound, and they are dispatching personnel to search the city and apprehend him before he manages to escape further," Chloe provided additional details about the unfolding situation.

The conversation between Chloe and Rina continued back and forth, much to the amusement of Ava, who found it entertaining to witness Rina's act of pretending to hear the report for the first time.

...

Seven hours later.

In a remote countryside, nestled within the rural farmlands on the outskirts of the state, a car arrived at the lone farmhouse.

"We've arrived. Get out," Katrina stated, switching off the car engine and opening the door, getting out, and signaling for Terry to exit.

"I understand the need to hide, but isn't this a bit overkill?" Terry questioned as he stepped out of the car. "There's no one within a kilometer radius. In fact, we might even draw attention to ourselves with such a secluded location."

"You don't need to worry about that," Katrina replied, inserting the key into the door of the house and entering without waiting for Terry to follow.

Realizing that further inquiries would be fruitless, Terry chose to remain silent and followed Katrina into the house.

Upon entering the house, Terry was taken aback by its modern interior, which starkly contrasted with the rustic appearance of the exterior.6

The sleek design, contemporary furnishings, and state-of-the-art appliances suggested a level of sophistication that he hadn't anticipated.

"Now, let's establish some ground rules," Katrina said, turning towards Terry, who had just entered the house and closed the door, still admiring the interior.

"You are not allowed to enter that room; it's mine and mine alone," she said, pointing at the room she was using to sleep.

"Your room is that one. The fridge is stocked with everything you might need, and if you require anything from outside, you will have to wait until the weekend for me to go and get it for you," she explained, outlining the arrangements for Terry.

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"If I see you enter my room, bullet. If I catch you attempting to escape, bullet. And if I discover that you've been contacting anyone without my knowledge, what will happen?" She asked to see if Terry was listening to her.

"Bullet," Terry responded nonchalantly, his attention still focused on exploring the interior of the house. While he acknowledged Katrina's warnings, he didn't feel compelled to dwell on them.

He had no intentions of attempting to escape, contacting anyone, or snooping around her room. His lack of curiosity about her personal space allowed him to dismiss her threats as mere background noise.

"Okay, good. Now follow me," Katrina said, motioning for Terry to join her. She approached a section of the wall and pressed on it, causing it to slide aside, revealing a hidden door behind it.

After entering the password into the keypad on the door, she unlocked it and swung it open, revealing a set of stairs that descended into the basement.

Terry remained silent and followed her closely, his curiosity piqued as he wondered what awaited him in the basement.

"Wow," Terry couldn't contain his amazement as he took in the sight of the basement. It resembled a spy lair from movies, with an array of guns neatly arranged and several screens displaying live footage from the security cameras throughout the area. 𝗯𝐞𝗱𝗻𝐨𝘃𝗲𝗹.𝐧𝗲𝘁

"There are cameras installed within a 5-kilometer radius of the house constantly monitoring the surroundings, ready to alert us if anyone enters the vicinity of the compound," Katrina explained.

"The password is 69420," Katrina instructed Terry, emphasizing the importance of remembering it.

"If someone visits while I'm not here, you can use this place to hide. The door is reinforced and can withstand a large TNT explosion without being breached. However, if that fails, there is a tunnel leading five hundred meters into the farm, which will provide you an escape route." She said pointing towards another metallic door in the basement, indicating the entrance to the tunnel.

"It appears that you are incredibly well-prepared," Terry remarked, his admiration evident.

The basement's arsenal of guns and weapons alone seemed sufficient to arm a small army, capable of equipping more than twenty individuals.

However, what truly amazed him was the escape door leading to a tunnel. It offered a means to flee the house and emerge five hundred meters away, providing a significant head start to anyone being pursued. The level of planning and resources invested in this hideout left Terry in awe.

...

White house.

"The preparations for your visit to Bagram Airfield are in their final stages, Mr. President," the official informed.

"Good. How is the situation in Crimea with Russia's attempted annexation?" Obama asked, diverting the conversation from the topic of his supposed surprise visit to Bagram Airfield to the ongoing developments in Crimea.

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"The Ukrainian army has been unsuccessful in their attempts to retake the region since last February," John O. Brennan, the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), answered the President's question. "Based on the information received from our informants on the ground, it appears that Russia is currently planning a referendum to strengthen their claim over the region."

"Is there any possibility of acquiring additional information that we can leverage at the United Nations' upcoming meeting to exert pressure on Russia regarding the Crimea situation?" Obama inquired after listening to the response from the CIA director.

"At the moment, our informants do not have the necessary access to provide us with additional information regarding their future plans," the director replied.

"Didn't we acquire that program from the individual who sued us over the FISA order? Ah, what was his name again? Ah... Aron" Obama asked, recollecting the moment when Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel had informed him about the program's potential usefulness and the significant impact it could have in dealing with their adversaries.

Hagel, who was also present at the meeting, updated the president on the progress of the program, stating, "The team assigned to work on the program encountered a significant obstacle when they attempted to understand its intricacies before making any modifications."

"I recall that we have had possession of it for over six months. So, what seems to be the problem? Our technical teams are not subpar compared to global standards, are they?" Obama inquired, expressing his curiosity regarding the cause of the delay.

"Prior to receiving the program from GAIA TECHNOLOGIES, they informed us that a significant portion of the program was developed using machine learning. Consequently, even they do not fully comprehend the intricacies of the program. We suspect that our teams are encountering difficulties with the section written by the machine, as it had repeatedly learned to identify vulnerabilities and rewrote the code by itself," Hegel explained.

"Why don't we simply insist on obtaining the training data from GAIA TECHNOLOGIES? After all, we already compelled them to surrender the source code," Obama proposed. "If we can secure the data they used to train the program, it could potentially offer us invaluable insights. There's no harm in "requesting" this additional information."

"We did, Mr. President, but they informed us that the training data had been deleted by Aron. Apparently, he had encountered storage issues during his development phase and had to make space for the completed program by deleting the training data. It seems he didn't have the resources to purchase additional storage," Hagel replied, feeling somewhat embarrassed by the explanation.

"Are you kidding me?" Obama asked, clearly taken aback by the absurd justification provided for the absence of the training data.

"Are you kidding me?" Obama asked, clearly taken aback by the absurd justification provided for the absence of the training data.

"Unfortunately, no, Mr. President," Hagel responded, taking a moment to gather his thoughts.

"Based on our investigation and information from insider sources, we have confirmed that the company only constructed the server farm after the program was already developed and he earned enough money to do so."

Hagel paused once again before continuing, his tone filled with concern. "Furthermore, we are facing challenges with utilizing FISA again. The documents released by Snowden have significantly heightened public sensitivity towards surveillance technology. They would exploit this situation and manipulate public opinion, claiming that the government intends to exploit device vulnerabilities for nefarious purposes."

Hagel concluded his explanation, aware of the complex hurdles they were facing.

"How about inviting him for a friendly tea meeting at one of your black sites?" Obama suggested, turning to James, the FBI director.

"Our attempts to do so have been unsuccessful so far. He has been staying at his heavily guarded home ever since the suspected FSB spies attacked. Just as we finalized a plan to capture him despite the heightened security, he started traveling across Europe, carefully covering his tracks along the way. By the time we were able to determine his location and dispatch our team, he would have already moved to another place," James explained.

"Keep searching for alternative methods. With full control over the entire program, we will have no rivals in the cyber warfare domain," Obama instructed.

"Yes, Mr. President," both James and Hagel replied in unison, acknowledging Obama's directive.

...

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Lubyanka Square, Moscow Center.

The Technical Security Department "D" of the FSB, responsible for decrypting and integrating BugZapper into their infrastructure to enhance its security comparable to the level attained by NATO members who acquired the program from the same company (Though in different ways), was convened for a meeting with Sergei Naryshkin, the Director of the Counterintelligence Directorate (UC).

They all appeared anxious, their nervousness palpable, as they were uncertain about the purpose of this meeting.

"The Kremlin has expressed great satisfaction with your efforts in successfully implementing the program across our infrastructure and enhancing its security to the extent that it rivals the systems obtained by NATO members, who paid over 10 billion dollars for them. Additionally, we have even exported the program to our allied nations, granting us greater negotiation power. Well done," Sergei Naryshkin stated and immediately started clapping, which was followed by everyone else in the room joining in.

"Thank you, Sir," expressed Maksim, the Director of Department "D," as he expressed gratitude to Sergei for acknowledging their diligent efforts.

"Your team will be generously rewarded by the Kremlin in the coming months," Sergei announced

The news filled the room with elation and joy, prompting another round of applause from all the department members, expressing their excitement and happiness.

"But your work is not yet complete," Sergei stated after the applause subsided, causing a slight tensing among them.

As everyone's attention refocused on him, Sergei continued, "We require your team to commence the development of the program further, enhancing its capabilities to identify system vulnerabilities even without access to their source code."

"Sir, while it is theoretically possible for us to enhance the program's capabilities to identify system weaknesses without relying on the source code, we have discovered that the program's foundation is built upon the assumption that it has access to the source code to identify and list vulnerabilities. Therefore, to fulfill the capabilities you mentioned, we would need to rebuild the program from scratch, which would be a time-consuming process," Maksim explained. He wanted to ensure that Sergei didn't leave with unrealistic expectations of completing the task within a few months, as he didn't want to face the consequences of disappointing him and potentially slipping and falling through the window of a high-story building while suffering from a hypothetical fatigue-induced sickness.

"You need not worry about time constraints," reassured Sergei. "The Kremlin has granted you a flexible timeline, allowing you more than a year to complete the development. The objective is to have it ready for a forthcoming special operation as it is planned for it to be used for destabilizing the Ukrainian infrastructure."

"Yes, sir. We will exert our utmost efforts to complete the program within the allocated timeline," Maksim responded, feeling relieved to learn that they had more time than initially anticipated. 'It appears that we have been of great value to our beloved mother Russia,' Maksim and his team thought to themselves.

"Keep up the good work, then," Sergei commended, wasting no further time with them. He rose from his seat, bid them farewell, and departed from the conference room, leaving the team behind.

Once Sergei had left and only the team remained, Maksim turned to them and declared, "Comrades, today the vodka is on me!"

"YES!" The team members shouted in celebration at the thought of free vodka.

Subsequently, they departed from Lubyanka Square and headed to the nearest bar to indulge in drinks, taking advantage of the day off granted by Sergei.

...…

Back inside the Lubyanka Square.

Vladimir could be seen sitting in his office, where a prominently displayed nameplate revealed his new position as the Director of Department "A" within the Directorate of Counterintelligence (UC) of the Federal Security Service (FSB).

This particular department held the responsibility for conducting intelligence operations involving clandestine agents commonly known as "illegals."

The term "illegals" refers to intelligence operatives who operate covertly, assuming false identities and blending in as ordinary citizens in foreign countries.

"Did Evgeny Buryakov send us the collected economic intelligence from the United States for the first quarter of this year?" he inquired of his secretary, requesting the report on their undercover operative, who was currently operating in the US under the guise of an investment banker.

"Sir, he reported that he will send us the report by the end of this month, along with the report for the second quarter," his beautiful secretary Natasha informed him.

"What about Maria Butina?" he asked, referring to another operative from their department.

Natasha reviewed the document in her hands and reported, "Maria Butina continues to expand her influence within the political sphere, but she suspects that she is under scrutiny by the FBI and CIA. She has expressed her intention not to report back until she can ascertain the extent of suspicion surrounding her."

Following that he started reviewing all the reports regarding double agents and spies within his division.

After looking through all of them he raised his hand and asked "How is Aron's situation?" seeking an update on Aron's status.

"He is presently visiting various locations in America, but it appears that he only stays in hotels during his visits. There is no additional activity observed, as he simply moves on to another hotel after a certain period of time, sir," Natasha reported, highlighting the unusual nature of Aron's movements.

"But sir, may I ask you something?" Natasha requested permission to pose a question that had been puzzling her.

"Go ahead," Vladimir said, granting her permission to ask the question.

"Why are we keeping a close watch on Aron? He no longer holds any significance for us, and we are merely wasting our limited resources by monitoring him," Natasha questioned.

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"You remember that I was promoted because I successfully obtained the important program he developed, right?" Vladimir asked.

"Yes," Natasha answered.

"Then, do you believe he won't develop another one anytime soon?" Vladimir asked.

"No, if he was able to develop one program, it is likely that he would be capable of developing another," Natasha said after a brief pause to think.

"That's precisely why I'm utilizing government resources to monitor him. By doing so, when he develops another program, we will be able to acquire it more swiftly than before," Vladimir clarified, elaborating on his rationale for continuing to keep an eye on Aron.

"But don't you think he's aware of our surveillance? Ever since you shot him, he has significantly heightened his security measures to a worrisome extent, and all of his security team members are professionals in their respective fields," Natasha voiced her concerns.

"He hasn't discovered it yet because if he had, he would have taken action. He still perceives what happened to him as ordinary industrial espionage," Vladimir explained with an amused tone.

"I often wonder, how can someone be so intelligent and yet so oblivious?" Vladimir chuckled as he contemplated the irony of the man who inadvertently facilitated his promotion, unaware that it was orchestrated by a foreign nation.

"Could he be deliberately pretending not to have discovered our surveillance?" Natasha questioned, considering the possibility that Aron's strange behavior might be a deliberate attempt to deceive them.

"I don't believe he would go to such lengths just to play mind games with us. Even if he did discover us, he wouldn't know our true identity or origin. He might simply think that they are surveillance operatives sent by a competing company," Vladimir expressed his disagreement with Natasha's hypothesis. He believed that while Aron was undoubtedly brilliant in software development, he lacked intelligence in other aspects of his life.

LAB CITY [VR & AR research institute (white)]

Inside the meeting room, researchers could be seen sitting eagerly anticipating the completion of their latest creation. They were patiently waiting for their latest invention to finish printing so that they could test and see its results.

Shortly after that, Houston stepped into the room, holding a plate filled with intricate minuscule gadgets the size of fingernails. Silently, he placed the plate at the very center of the table before settling into a chair.

Without delay, everyone in the room reached out and retrieved the minuscule devices, carefully tucking them behind their ears.

Everyone in the room said "AR mode" albeit with different timing, causing an instant activation of the devices. Within microseconds, the gadgets projected a holographic screen before them, emanating a gentle green glow to indicate that they were now functioning in standard AR mode.

In a breathtaking display, a myriad of virtual elements materialized, seamlessly blending with reality, rendering them indistinguishable from anything that was real.

When a few individuals attempted to physically interact with the digitally manifested object they saw through the device, it would transmit signals to their brains, creating the illusion of actually touching it. Furthermore, the device would restrict their movement within the object, enhancing the sensation and generating an extraordinary sense of realism.

When they attempted to lift the devices, they were astonished to find that they could indeed raise them. To their amazement, the gadgets seamlessly communicated with their brains, evoking the perception of substantial weight, as though the objects they carried possessed genuine mass.

"Brilliant," exclaimed one of the researchers, wholeheartedly concurring that they had successfully pushed the limits of progress and compactness in the realm of virtual and augmented reality

As they continued exploring the different functions of the device, unbeknownst to them, one individual mysteriously produced a gun from seemingly thin air. Without any prior warning, the individual aimed and fired the weapon directly at the center of the table

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The instant the gunshot resounded, the devices positioned behind their ears swiftly picked up the changes and transitioned from their normal state to a vivid shade of red.

To onlookers, the external appearance of the devices remained unchanged except for the altered color emanating from behind the ears.

However, for the wearers of these devices, a wholly distinct experience was unfolding.

"Wow," murmured one of them in a trance-like state, his eyes meticulously following the bullet's trajectory as it punctured the very heart of the table, leaving a conspicuous hole. The passage of the bullet seemed to unfold in slow motion, as if time itself had dramatically decelerated.

As the bullet finally traversed its path, the device swiftly reverted to emitting its familiar green light, signifying a return to normal operations.

"We have finally perfected the augmented reality time perception acceleration," exclaimed Houston with unbridled joy. completely disregarded the fact that someone had discharged a firearm in the room without any prior warning as if it were an ordinary event.

To them, such antics held no cause for concern, for they possessed an unwavering assurance that no matter what they did, they would inevitably revert to a state of flawless well-being.

"Yes, at last!" Tristan exclaimed, wholeheartedly concurring with Issa. "Ever since we embarked on integrating this capability into augmented reality since the 76th generation, akin to what we had achieved in virtual reality back in the 46th generation of the device, we have now achieved perfection. Using it we can finally accelerate our perception of time in the real world, albeit for a mere second, during which it subjectively slows down fiftyfold."

"However," Emanuel interjected, gesturing towards the dwindling power levels displayed on their devices, "it consumes an excessive amount of power to sustain this function." He drew attention to the limited power reserves that remained after the recent demonstration.

"For that particular issue, we simply need to await the breakthroughs from the laboratories engaged in alternative energy research, as well as the fusion and other departments dedicated to energy research," remarked Christina, the sole female researcher in the room.

Her statement hinted that the solutions to the power consumption challenge would emerge from these innovative domains.

"However, when it comes to VR and AR devices, we have reached the threshold of what conventional methods can achieve," Ezra elucidated, carefully removing the device from behind his ear and delicately placing it back onto the plate. "To surpass this point, we would need to venture into the realm of nanomachines. Unfortunately, the laboratory engaged in research within this domain is still in its developmental phase, compelling us to postpone any further exploration for now."

"Indeed, it is regrettable," Ezra concurred, acknowledging the boundaries imposed by conventional size limitations. "However, the vastness of knowledge surrounding this subject still astounds me. It leaves me pondering how Mr. Aron managed to achieve such a breakthrough," he mused, his admiration for Aron's expertise and accomplishments serving as a humbling reminder of his own relative insignificance.

"Sir Aron's expertise is truly unparalleled," Logan exclaimed, his voice filled with a sense of wonder. The profound depth of knowledge displayed left him in awe. Despite numerous iterations spanning over 100 generations of these devices, they had ultimately reached the limits imposed by size constraints. However, they had neither encountered the threshold nor fully harnessed the vast knowledge bestowed upon them regarding this subject matter.

"I must admit, I often find myself contemplating the same," chimed in another individual from among the group, their curiosity resonating with Logan's earlier sentiment.

"I genuinely hope that we are granted the opportunity to meet him in the future," Logan expressed, voicing the collective aspiration shared by everyone in the city. The longing to encounter Aron and Nova was fervent, as they had become figures of great fascination and admiration.

"Alright, let's get back to work, everyone," Ezra said, briefly pausing to gather their attention. After a moment, he continued, "With the production of new generations of VR and AR devices now officially concluded, now we have to upload the accumulated results to the Akashic server."

"Yes," the unanimous nod of agreement rippled through the room. In unison, they closed their eyes and thought about their intentions of uploading their experiences and comprehensive research. A second later, a resounding proclamation reverberated in their consciousness [Upload complete!] indicating that they were done with the upload process.

[

The Akashic server was a system devised by Nova to streamline the sharing of knowledge and research materials among all the labs in LAB CITY. It provided convenient access to technology and eliminated the need for researchers to worry about availability.

The server housed vast amounts of data that could be easily assimilated by anyone in need of specific knowledge for their research.

Inspired by Aron's system shop, the Akashic server allowed seamless retrieval of information without requiring any special procedures. It served as a centralized hub, enhancing collaboration and efficiency across the research communities within the city.

]

Shortly after that they opened their eyes and returned their focus to the meeting.

"Now, while we await the culmination of nanomachine research, our next research project, bestowed upon us by Miss Nova, entails delving into the development of machinery that can autonomously produce the previous generations of VR devices we have crafted from scratch, as it is not yet known when the atomic printing research would be concluded," Ezra elucidated, providing his team with an overview of their forthcoming undertaking.

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"Yes," Houston responded eagerly upon learning about their next research project, his voice brimming with excitement. Engaging in research was something they all embraced wholeheartedly, devoid of any complaints.

"Is there a particular VR device we should begin with, or are we free to choose at random?" Mason, another researcher, inquired, seeking clarity on the starting point for their project.

"Yes, we have been instructed to commence with the standard virtual helmet and virtual reality chamber," Ezra responded. "These devices will be utilized to facilitate the assimilation of knowledge to soldiers within the virtual chamber during a specific period. Concurrently, the soldiers will be enhanced with a genetic enhancing liquid that is currently undergoing research in the genetic engineering lab."

"Following that we will then start making the machines that can manufacture every generation of the VR & AR devices for every generation and iteration we have ever made" With that Ezra finished telling them the orders they had been given from Miss Nova.

Everyone in the meeting room nodded, signifying their clear comprehension of the designated starting point for their research project.

...

[Tactical Pilot Helmet research institute (White)]

As soon as the knowledge about VR and AR was uploaded into the Akashic server, a research institute located at the center of the bustling city received the notification informing them that the knowledge they needed had been made available in within the Akashik server and was ready for assimilation.

Without a moment's delay, every individual within the laboratory eagerly assimilated the newly acquired knowledge into their own minds.

After successfully completing the assimilation process, they promptly gathered in the meeting room to discuss their subsequent course of action.

[Tactical Pilot Helmet research institute (White)]

Within Lab City, there existed a cluster of specialized labs collaborating with each other to develop various products specifically designed for the same domain: The sky. These labs worked in conjunction with different teams responsible for creating diverse flying machines and their respective components.

These labs encompassed a wide range of aircraft types and systems, including fighters, attack aircraft, bombers, airlift and tankers, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, helicopters, trainer aircraft, special operations aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), interceptors, air defense systems, strategic missile and space systems, experimental and research aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, search and rescue platforms, electronic warfare systems, experimental prototypes, cargo and utility aircraft, presidential aircraft, airborne command and control platforms, airborne early warning and control systems, communications and satellites, as well as training and support aircraft. Each lab focused on specific areas to contribute to the comprehensive development of aerial technologies.

This particular lab was specifically dedicated to the development of the Tactical Helmet, which would serve as the primary headgear for all future pilots in the air force.

Currently, the lab was eagerly awaiting the completion of the AR & VR research lab's work. Once they concluded their research and uploaded the information to the Akashic server, the team in the Tactical Helmet Lab would be able to access and assimilate that knowledge greatly aiding them in finalizing the design, conducting research tests, and progressing with the manufacturing process of what they referred to as "the Universal Tactical Fighter Helmet."

As soon as the knowledge about VR and AR was uploaded into the Akashic server, a research institute located on the outskirts of the city received the notification. Without a moment's delay, every individual within the laboratory eagerly assimilated the newly acquired knowledge into their own minds.

After successfully completing the assimilation process, they promptly gathered in the meeting room to discuss their subsequent course of action.

INSIDE THE MEETING ROOM.

"Which generation of the technology should we implement?" inquired Luke, the research team leader.

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His background as a former Lockheed engineer, where he had overseen the design, engineering, and testing of fighter plane helmets for both the F22 and F35, added an extra layer of assurance to his leadership position.

Nova had materialized him with all of his fellow workers at the Skunk Works division after Aron completed collecting the brain data of everyone on his list who was working there.

"I believe we should utilize the 57th generation," suggested Issa, presenting his reasoning behind the choice.

"It offers the best possible option for integration into the fighter jet pilot's helmet. With its advanced augmented reality (AR) capabilities, we can incorporate AR visuals directly into the helmet.

Furthermore, since it establishes a connection with the pilot's brain, we can eliminate the need for a separate microphone and radio components.

The device will seamlessly read the pilot's brain signals, ensuring clear audio transmission without any additional intervention.

Its compact size allows us to incorporate two devices, one as a backup and the other as the primary unit.

Additionally, the level of technology involved enables Sir Aron to reproduce it in the real world without encountering any complications, if needed." Issa's detailed explanation showcased his careful evaluation of the available options, opting for a generation that, despite being less advanced than others, fulfilled the specific requirements for the fighter jet helmet.

"I concur with that," Ibrahim affirmed, expressing his agreement with Issa's proposal.

This elicited agreement from the majority, although not all members shared the same viewpoint. Andrew, on the other hand, raised his hand, capturing the attention of everyone in the room. Clearing his throat, he stated, "I recommend we utilize the 76th generation device. It would help us avoid potential issues that arose during the VR research team's testing of the 57th generation."

"I understand your reasoning behind recommending the 76th generation, which incorporates time perception acceleration in augmented reality. However, since it is the initial iteration of this technology and is still in the experimental phase, it is impractical for us to utilize it. It is not consumer-ready and lacks the necessary refinement for our purposes," Issa stated, firmly expressing his opposition to Andrew's suggestion.

"To avoid that, all we have to do is use the 80th-generation time perception acceleration tech and incorporate it into the body of the 76th generation, eliminating any potential issues with the first-generation time perception," Andrew defended his choice against Issa's opposition.

"But wouldn't doing it that way pose a challenge for Sir Aron to bring this product to fruition given his current circumstances?" Ibrahim questioned, expressing his reservations about Andrew's suggestion. He seemed unconvinced and raised concerns about the feasibility of producing the device in the real world, considering the limitations faced by Sir Aron.

"Isn't the printing research team currently working on reverse engineering the atomic printers provided by Miss Nova?" Andrew countered, presenting his perspective.

"If they succeed in accomplishing this task within the next few months, it won't matter which generation of the device we choose. Sir Aron will have the capability to recreate any of them in the real world. Therefore, there is no need to worry about the production aspect." He highlighted the potential breakthrough that could arise from the printing research team's efforts, suggesting that it would render the concerns about producing a specific generation obsolete.

"Can we be certain that the atomic printer will be ready within that time frame?" Ibrahim asked, seeking clarification from Andrew after his explanation. He expressed a degree of skepticism regarding the timeline and feasibility of completing the atomic printer.

"We are well aware that the research capabilities within the city are an exponential improvement compared to our previous circumstances," Andrew responded confidently.

"With access to what could be called inexhaustible research funds and materials, not to mention the novel machines at our disposal, it is unlikely that any research conducted under these conditions would take an extensive amount of time. The resources and support available to us greatly enhance our efficiency and expedites progress." He emphasized the favorable environment within the city, emphasizing that the combination of ample resources and advanced technology would accelerate any research done in these environments.

"While I share your confidence in the eventual success of the research, the exact timing of its completion remains uncertain," Ibrahim responded.

"Considering this uncertainty, I am inclined to agree with the suggestion of proceeding with the 57th generation. It is a more viable option given the current circumstances, ensuring that we can move forward with our project without relying on the completion of the atomic printer." Ibrahim expressed his preference for a more practical approach, opting for a generation that is readily available and doesn't depend on external factors.

"Furthermore, the limitation of the atomic printer is not the only factor influencing my recommendation to proceed with the 57th generation instead of the 76th generation you proposed," Issa added to complement Ibrahim's statement. "Starting from the 65th generation onward, the devices incorporate a theoretical battery that is still in the research phase. This, among other considerations, reinforces my preference for the initial choice rather than your suggestion."

"I'm highly optimistic that the theoretical battery will be completed within the next month or two," Andrew persisted, reiterating his belief that the battery's imminent completion would alleviate any concerns regarding his proposed choice leaving behind only the atomic printer as the only concern. He remained determined to convince the team to adopt his suggestion.

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The back-and-forth discussion continued until Luke, the team leader, intervened. With a firm strike on the table to capture everyone's attention, he commanded, "Enough arguing." The forceful action silenced the room, compelling everyone to cease their debates and direct their focus towards him. It was evident that Luke had an important statement to make.

Seeing that he had captured their undivided attention, Luke began to speak. "Since you are unable to reach a consensus in a normal way, I have made the decision on your behalves. We will proceed with testing and manufacturing the helmets using the 57th generation of Augmented Reality technology and..." However, before Luke could finish his statement, "But sir …" Andrew interjected with his opinion, prompting an immediate response from Luke.

"I'M NOT DONE SPEAKING," Luke asserted firmly, silencing Andrew and reminding him of the importance of respecting the conversation flow.

"Sorry," Andrew quickly apologized, realizing his mistake, as he had only intended to express his desire to research using the 76th generation of AR technology.

Acknowledging Andrew's apology, Luke continued with his decision. "As I previously stated, we will proceed with our research using the 57th generation of technology. However, once we complete this project, we will move up by ten generations at a time, continually advancing our research.

This approach ensures that we are always one step ahead, ready with the next generation of technology as Sir Aron's production capabilities expand. This includes being prepared with the latest technology when the atomic printer becomes available." Luke's plan aimed to maintain a progressive trajectory while accommodating future advancements in production capabilities.

"Understood?" Luke asked, looking at both Ibrahim and Andrew, seeking assurance that they were attentive and on the same page.

"Yes, sir," they both replied in agreement, a satisfied tone evident in their voices. It seemed that a resolution had been reached, allowing each of them to have their preferences fulfilled without one compromising the other's desires.

Seeing that they were attentively listening to him, Thomas smiled before he stood up and declared, "The meeting is over." He then headed towards the door, making his way back to the labs where they would commence their research on the Next Generation Tactical Pilot helmet. This advanced helmet would be utilized by the pilots of the next-generation fighter jet, which was currently being researched by various labs, including theirs.

In deep contemplation, John could be seen lounged bare-chested on the hotel room balcony, his gaze fixed upon the sky.

As a gentle breeze caressed him, the drapes that concealed the entrance to the hotel room's balcony fluttered, unveiling two peacefully slumbering beautiful women. Their naked bodies spoke of the shared intimacy they had experienced mere hours ago—a tale known only to them and destined to remain a secret held by the confines of the room and the whispers of the bedsheet.

Their story, untold to the world, unless disclosed by those who partook in its clandestine embrace.

As for the contemplating John, his thoughts wandered towards the events that transpired after his recovery.

"What should I do now?" he pondered silently. In the past three weeks, he had indulged in all the activities he had yearned to experience during his injury-induced confinement, leaving no stone unturned.

...

Three weeks ago

A day after Aron healed him, he wasted no time and headed straight to a bar, craving a momentary escape. Upon his arrival, he confidently placed an order for his beloved drink and settled in, waiting for its arrival.

As the waiter gracefully presented him with his drink, he found himself captivated by her beauty. In a moment of impulsiveness, he hastily grasped the beer glass with his hand, eager to quench his thirst without delay.

"CRACK!" The glass shattered and splintered as a consequence of his inadvertently exerted, newfound strength, amplified after his recovery.

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"Wow," they both exclaimed in genuine surprise and astonishment, their voices intertwining.

"This is the first time I've witnessed someone shatter a glass just by holding it," the waitress remarked, her awe evident as she expressed her amazement towards him.

"Seems like the glass had a pre-existing crack, and my slightly firmer grip must have been the trigger for its breakage," John said, attempting to shift the focus away from his augmented strength and attributing the incident to an alternate cause.

"I really don't think so" the waitress responded, her tone reflecting deep contemplation as she pondered the glass's condition before its demise.

"Do you genuinely believe I appear strong enough to shatter a glass with just one hand?" John inquired, employing a touch of logic in an attempt to reason with her.

"Now that you put it that way, it does indeed seem highly implausible," the waitress replied, placing a finger on her lips. She was fascinated by what she saw from the glimpse of his well-toned physique when he asked her to look at his body to see if he has a body with the strength to break a glass with one hand.

"I'm John, John Watcher, by the way," John introduced himself with a friendly smile, utilizing the new name bestowed upon him by Aron. He extended his hand, offering a handshake as a gesture of goodwill.

Although his first name remained unchanged for the sake of familiarity, his middle and last names had been altered.

"I'm Aurora, Aurora Nolan," she reciprocated, introducing herself with a warm smile as she firmly shook his extended hand.

"Nice to meet you," she said, her enchanting smile revealing a set of immaculate, pearly-white teeth. John couldn't help but be captivated by her beauty, momentarily transfixed by her radiant charm.

"Nice to meet you too. Could I perhaps have a fresh drink? Judging by the state of the previous one, it doesn't seem easy to consume," John remarked with a touch of sarcasm, eliciting a hearty laugh from Aurora.

"Yes, sir, I was actually about to bring you a fresh one, but it appears you'll need to visit the restroom," she pointed out, gesturing towards his trousers now dampened by the drink that had spilled onto him after he shattered the glass.

"Ah, yes, where can I find the restroom?" John inquired, accompanied by a light chuckle. The realization dawned upon him that he had become so enthralled by Aurora's beauty when she initially served the drink that he had momentarily forgotten about his damp trousers resulting from the spilled beer.

"It's over there," Aurora replied, gracefully pointing in the direction of the restroom, indicating where John could find it.

"Thank you," John expressed his gratitude, before rising from his seat and making his way towards the restroom to attend to his damp trousers.

"You're welcome," Aurora replied, her gaze lingering on the sculpted back of John's physique before she turned away to retrieve his fresh drink.

Upon his return from the restroom, John discovered that Aurora had already placed his drink on the table, carefully covering it with a cup lid. She had also diligently wiped away any traces of the spilled beer, ensuring a clean and tidy surface before she returned to continue doing her job.

Taking his seat once again, John indulged in his drink, relishing each sip as if it had been an eternity since he last savored its taste. With every sip, he immersed himself in the flavors, savoring the beverage until he eventually reached the bottom of the glass.

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Upon finishing his drink, John called for a waiter, and a different member of the staff, not Aurora, responded to his call and came over to attend to him.

Slightly disappointed, he proceeded to order another glass of the same drink he had been enjoying.

Having consumed over ten glasses of the drink without feeling the slightest hint of intoxication, he mused to himself, "I'm not sure what Sir Aron did to me, but I must say, I'm thoroughly enjoying this new body of mine."

Sensing that he was impervious to intoxication, save for the persistent urge to relieve himself, he made the decision to leverage his rejuvenated appearance and youthful physique. Determined to revel in the pleasures he had been deprived of in the past, he resolved to visit a nightclub and indulge in an evening of entertainment and enjoyment that had long been inaccessible to him.

He rose from his seat and made his way towards the bar counter to settle his bill for the drinks he had consumed, eager to conclude his time at the establishment and embark on his journey to the nightclub.

"Weren't you serving just moments ago?" he asked, surprised to find Aurora stationed at the POS machine, processing payments.

"My friend who was supposed to be here went to the washroom, so I'm filling in for her until she returns," Aurora explained, maintaining her professional demeanor as she continued to handle the transactions.

"Ooh, alright then, how much do I owe?" John inquired, wanting to know the amount he needed to settle for his drinks.

"Let me check," Aurora replied, inputting the table number John had occupied to access the total amount due for his tab.

"That will be $74," Aurora stated, having glanced at the POS machine. "How would you like to make the payment?" she inquired, ready to assist John with his chosen method of payment.

"Card," he replied, reaching into his wallet and retrieving a card to complete the payment transaction.

"Tip?" she inquired, politely asking if he would like to add a gratuity to the transaction.

"35%," he replied

"Please swipe here," Aurora requested, having already factored in the 35% tip, ensuring it was included in the transaction.

"Shouldn't you be a bit more intoxicated? The machine shows ten glasses ordered at your table, yet you seem perfectly fine. Did you happen to spill the other nine glasses as well?" Aurora asked jokingly.

Smiling, he responded, "I actually consumed all of them. I consider myself quite the heavy drinker," subtly boasting about his capacity for alcohol.

"Wow," Aurora remarked flirtatiously, a playful glimmer in her eyes. Swiftly recovering her composure, she said, "Here is your receipt."as she handed him the receipts.

"When will you be finished here?" he asked, taking a leap of faith, hoping to extend their interaction beyond the confines of the establishment.

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"In about thirty minutes, why?" Aurora replied, her smile growing as she entertained the question.

"Once you're finished, are you free? I'd like to invite you to join me in embracing the night," John proposed, his interest evident as he eagerly awaited her response.

"Unfortunately, I won't be available as I have plans to spend time with a friend," Aurora responded, her tone apologetic yet firm.

"That's unfortunate," John said with a hint of disappointment, and then he began to make his way towards the exit, accepting the reality of the situation.

"But you could join us if she agrees," she interjected as she noticed him preparing to leave, offering him an alternative possibility if her friend was amenable to the idea.

"That works too," he replied, his disappointment fading as he considered the alternative possibility presented by Aurora.

"Sure, can I have your phone number so I can reach out to you if she agrees?" she inquired, her eyes shining with anticipation upon witnessing his positive response.

"My number is..." John began, providing Aurora with his contact information for her to reach out to him.

Aurora quickly typed John's number, saving it in her phone. Without hesitation, she dialed the number and promptly ended the call as soon as it connected. With a playful smile, she revealed, "That's my number."

"See you later, then," John bid her farewell with a nod and a smile, before promptly departing from the bar, heading towards the nightclub to embrace the night and enjoy the moments of his life.

[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT]

2 AM that night.

John and Aurora could be seen entering a hotel room, their bodies entwined with an undeniable allure.

His hands firmly held her waist, while hers explored his physique with tantalizing touch. The air crackled with an intense heat, as anticipation and desire hung thick in the atmosphere.

Although they had not yet embarked on further intimacy, their intentions seemed poised on the precipice of passion, tempting them to give in to their impulses right there in the hallway, had the room been just a bit further away.

Having left the nightclub behind, they found themselves in the hotel room after Aurora's friend had canceled their plans due to an unexpected emergency.

After indulging in a few drinks and exchanging playful banter for about an hour, their desires became insurmountable, leading them to conclude that Aurora's house was too far and John's place was not suitable for their rendezvous. They made the mutual decision to seek refuge in a nearby hotel instead.

Inside the hotel room.

As soon as the hotel room door swung open, they were consumed by an insatiable hunger for one another. Their lips met in a fiery kiss, their bodies pressed together, and their hands explored the contours of each other's bodies.

Closing the door with a swift kick, they indulged in their newfound intimacy, every touch ignited a wave of pleasure, fueling their desires and intensifying the connection between them.

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In that moment, the world outside ceased to exist, and all that mattered was the electrifying passion that enveloped them in a sensual embrace.

John passionately lifted Aurora by her waist, bringing her closer to him as he kissed her. John skillfully maneuvered, carrying her in his arms towards the bed. .

Upon reaching the bed, John gently laid Aurora on the bed, his body hovering over hers. Their eyes locked, brimming with anticipation, as he claimed her lips in a deep, fervent kiss once again.

As their lips molded together, he delicately took hold of her hands, intertwining their fingers, and guided them to rest above her head.

When her hands reached where he wanted them, he moved his hands under her blouse to gain access to her breasts that were still being held by her bra.

He gently slid his hands that were nestled inside her blouse, delicately undoing the clasps of her bra, yearning to set her free and revel in the intimacy they both sought.

As he fondled her breasts and savored the delightful curves of her now liberated breasts, "Aaah," Aurora couldn't contain her pleasure, and soft moans escaped her lips during the brief pause they took amidst their passionate kisses.

The absence of the bra allowed for a more direct and intimate connection, intensifying the pleasurable sensations coursing through her body. She surrendered herself to the pleasure, relishing in the passionate touch that awakened her senses.

He continued to lovingly fondle her breasts, his touch alternating between gentle caresses and teasing pinches. Each time his fingers playfully squeezed her sensitive flesh, Aurora's pleasure intensified, her moans growing in both volume and pitch. The delightful mixture of sensations ignited a fiery desire within her.

Empowered by the intoxicating pleasure radiating from Aurora's being, John's desire to explore every inch of her body intensified.

Understanding John's intentions, Aurora eagerly raised her hands, granting him unobstructed access to remove the brazier with ease.

The unspoken understanding between them heightened the intimacy of the moment, as their desires harmoniously converged. With a subtle gesture, Aurora conveyed her willingness, inviting John to explore her bared form

And there they were, her breasts liberated from the constraints of the brazier, bouncing with a playful rhythm. "Boing" "Boing" they moved, swaying in a mesmerizing dance, as if trying to return to a state of tranquility after being stirred by John's swift removal of the garment. The gentle motion accentuated their natural allure, captivating both John and Aurora in a moment of mesmerizing beauty and intimate connection.

John's eyes were momentarily captivated by the breathtaking beauty that had been concealed beneath the brazier. However, his admiration quickly transformed into a passionate desire to savor the exquisite pleasure before him.

With an eager movement, he leaned in and sensually took one of her breasts into his mouth, his lips and tongue exploring every contour. Simultaneously, his free hand continued to lovingly fondle and caress the other, heightening Aurora's pleasure and deepening their intimate connection.

"Oooh yes, that's good," Aurora moaned with pleasure, her voice a testament to the bliss that consumed her. As John's mouth skillfully pleasured her, she couldn't help but hold his head tenderly, her fingers gently caressing his hair, lost in the depths of her ecstasy.

John, who had been savoring the exquisite sensation of pleasuring her breasts, gradually shifted his attention downward. With a deliberate descent, his lips and tongue traversed her soft skin until they reached her belly button. The trail of his affectionate kisses left a tantalizing path, igniting a sense of anticipation for the pleasures yet to come.

With a tender kiss bestowed upon her belly button, John indulged in the sweet exploration of her body. But his desire for her extended beyond a single spot, as he eagerly returned to lavishing her with passionate kisses along her neck.

Their longing lips collided once more, rekindling the fiery connection they shared. As their fervor intensified, his hands instinctively sought to further the exploration, deftly unzipping her trousers and guiding them down.

Aurora wasted no time in removing her trousers, eagerly assisted by John. With a seamless and synchronized effort, they swiftly discarded the garment, allowing her body to be exposed and ready for the pleasures that awaited them.

As he was kissing her, John's other hand delicately caressed Aurora's moistened honey nectar. With a purposeful motion, he gently inserted a single finger, pressing it inside her, eliciting a passionate moan from Aurora. The sensitive nerves within the walls of her vagina eagerly responded, transmitting waves of pleasure to her brain.

Overwhelmed by a wave of irresistible desire, Aurora's hunger for pleasure surged within her. In a display of passion, she pushed John onto the bed, causing his finger to slip out of her, which in turn evoked another moan of pleasure from her lips.

In a swift motion, she positioned herself on top of him, driven by a primal instinct to dominate and indulge in their shared desire. With a forceful and determined movement, she removed his shirt, unveiling his bare chest.

Aurora swiftly moved her attention downwards. With the assistance of John, she deftly opened the zipper of his trousers and removed them with a sense of urgency.

With the removal of John's trousers, his erect member stood proudly before them, akin to a sword freed from its sheath.

Captivated by the impressive size of John's manhood, Aurora's hands delicately wrapped around it, marveling at its girth and length.

With a mixture of curiosity and desire, she began to explore its contours, feeling its firmness and the pulsating heat that emanated from it. The sheer size of his member allowed her to caress it with both hands, feeling the weight and power it possessed. As her touch conveyed both tenderness and excitement, a sense of anticipation filled the air.

Aurora utilized the natural lubrication of John's precum to stroke his cock. With a confident and eager motion, she positioned her head and took his throbbing member into her mouth, focusing her attention on pleasuring the sensitive head. "AAhh"Her skilled tongue and suction elicited primal moans of pleasure from John.

As Aurora continued to pleasure John with her mouth, the saliva naturally flowed between her hands on his cock, creating an additional layer of lubrication. The slickness enhanced her movements, allowing her hands to glide effortlessly along the length of John's throbbing cock. With each stroke, the sensations of warmth, wetness, and pressure heightened the pleasure for John.

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After dedicating a few minutes to focusing on the head of his cock, Aurora released one of her hands from its back and forth rotating motion.

With a swift movement, she transitioned her mouth to encompass the area that her hand had previously attended to, leaving behind just one hand to continue the tantalizing strokes along his length.

Aurora's head bobbed rhythmically up and down, demonstrating her expertise in pleasuring John's cock. With each skillful movement, she engulfed him with her warm, wet mouth, creating an intense sensation that sent waves of pleasure coursing through his body.

John's moans of ecstasy filled the air, a testament to the overwhelming pleasure he experienced from her exceptional oral skills. The intensity of her oral prowess brought him immense satisfaction, especially after a prolonged period of abstinence, heightening the pleasure and building towards an explosive climax.

Aurora, fueled by her insatiable desire for pleasure, decided to challenge herself further. With a determined mindset, she released her grip on the remaining hand that was stroking John's cock. In a bold move, she took a deep breath and expertly maneuvered her mouth to accommodate the entire length of his impressive 9-inch cock.

As she deepthroated him, her neck bulged slightly from the invigorating stretch, momentarily obstructing her breath. The sensation of being filled completely, coupled with the slight deprivation of air, intensified her arousal, causing her honey nectar to flow even more abundantly.

Overwhelmed by the intensity of the experience, Aurora held the deepthroating position for an extended period, reveling in the euphoria of the suffocating ecstasy. However, as the seconds ticked by, the lack of oxygen began to take its toll, pushing her to the brink of losing consciousness. With a gasp for air, she reluctantly withdrew her mouth from John's cock, needing a moment to catch her breath and replenish her oxygen supply.

Sensing the need for a brief respite, John seized the opportunity to catch his breath. The heightened arousal and the prolonged pleasurable experience had brought him to the brink of orgasm within mere minutes.

Seizing the moment, John's hands firmly gripped Aurora's cheeks as he pulled her up onto his face, indulging in a passionate and deep kiss. Their tongues intertwined, exploring each other's mouths with a fervent hunger.

As the kiss intensified, he gently pushed her off from on top of him, transitioning their positions. Now, it was John who took the dominant role, moving on top of her, his body pressing against hers

[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT]

Seizing the moment, John's hands firmly gripped Aurora's cheeks as he pulled her up onto his face, indulging in a passionate and deep kiss. Their tongues intertwined, exploring each other's mouths with a fervent hunger.

As the kiss intensified, he gently pushed her off from on top of him, transitioning their positions. Now, it was John who took the dominant role, moving on top of her, his body pressing against hers 𝗯𝗲𝐝𝐧𝗼𝘃𝗲𝐥．𝗰𝗼𝐦

With a fervent desire, John's lips trailed a path of fiery kisses from her mouth to her neck, further down to her enticing breasts, and teasingly explored her sensitive belly button.

As his hands gripped her hips, an uncontrollable wave of lust overcame him, clouding his judgment. In his haste and overwhelming desire, he unintentionally applied too much force, resulting in the ripping of her underwear.

The fabric gave way, exposing Aurora's glistening, bare, and cleanly shaven pussy, drenched in the intoxicating essence of her arousal.

Without a moment's hesitation, John positioned his head between her thighs, his mouth eagerly exploring the delicate folds of her pussy. He indulged in the intoxicating taste and scent, skillfully using his tongue and lips to pleasure her. Aurora's body responded instinctively, writhing in pleasure as waves of ecstasy washed over her, unable to resist the intense sensations John was evoking.

With his mouth still firmly latched onto her pulsating clit, John's hand skillfully explored the depths of her wetness, his fingers plunging into her eagerly. He synchronized his movements, alternating between the rhythmic thrusts of his fingers and the passionate flicks of his tongue, driving Aurora wild with pleasure. The combination of his oral and manual stimulation heightened her arousal, causing her moans of delight to fill the room

Aurora's moans grew louder and more intense as John's finger penetrated deeper into her, hitting all the right spots. The sensations coursing through her body were overwhelming, as pleasure radiated from her core. She couldn't help but arch her back, pushing herself further onto his hand, craving more of the electrifying pleasure that was building within her

Aurora's voice was filled with desire and urgency as she said "I can't hold it anymore, I want it inside, put it in me." Her words resonated with a deep longing for him to satisfy her burning desires. With her hands firmly gripping his head, she made her intentions clear - she craved the feeling of him inside her, filling her with ecstasy and bringing them both to the peak of pleasure.

John, understanding Aurora's impatience and longing, positioned himself between her legs and guided his erect member towards her slick entrance.

He held his throbbing shaft in his hand, teasingly tapping it against her wet folds, eliciting moans of anticipation from her. However, the intense gaze she gave him made it clear that she was ready for him to stop teasing and to penetrate her without further delay.

Without wasting any more time, John aligned his pulsating member with Aurora's eagerly awaiting entrance. With a surge of desire, he pressed forward, feeling her warm and inviting depths envelop him.

Time seemed to stand still for a moment as their bodies connected in a passionate union. A gasp escaped Aurora's lips, mingling with a low groan from John as the whole 9-inch cock entered her wet pussy.

Aurora's body quivered with pleasure as John's entry sent waves of ecstasy coursing through her. "AUghhhhhh" Her moan echoed in the room, a symphony of pleasure and satisfaction.

The intense sensation of being stretched and filled after a prolonged anticipation overwhelmed her, leading to an immediate orgasm that washed over her like a tidal wave.

She clung tightly to John, her nails digging into his back as her orgasm cascaded through her body, leaving her gasping for breath and trembling with satisfaction.

Aurora's body quivered and trembled with the aftershocks of her intense orgasm, but her desire burned brightly within her. Locking eyes with John, "Don't stop" she pleaded for him not to stop, her voice filled with a desperate longing.

The words hung in the air, urging him to continue the passionate dance they had embarked upon. Without hesitation, John resumed his rhythmic movements, driven by the shared desire and the primal connection between them.

"PA" "PA" "PA" "PA" "PA"

John unleashed his newfound strength, his thrusts becoming more powerful and assertive. The sound of their bodies colliding echoed through the room, a symphony of pleasure and desire. Each thrust sent waves of sensation coursing through Aurora's body, intensifying the pleasure that surged within her.

With every "PA" of their bodies meeting, their connection deepened, fueled by raw passion and an insatiable hunger for each other.

As their bodies moved in perfect harmony, John's chest pressed against Aurora's sensitive nipples, igniting sparks of pleasure with each passionate thrust. The friction between them sent waves of ecstasy coursing through her, intensifying her already heightened state of arousal.

Their lips locked in a passionate and aggressive kiss, their tongues intertwining in a dance of desire. Aurora's moans mingled with their shared breath, a symphony of pleasure and longing.

This continued for more than fifteen minutes before with a swift movement, John changed their position, guiding Aurora onto her stomach and placing her in a doggy position. The anticipation in the air grew as they both understood the next course of action.

Aurora arched her back, presenting herself to him, eagerly granting him access to her glistening nectar once again. The air was thick with desire as John positioned himself behind her, ready to delve into her depths with renewed passion.

John, not wasting any more time, immediately plunged the 9-incher back inside Aurora's welcoming warmth, resuming his rhythmic movements with fervor.

The room filled with the sounds of their moans and the rhythmic slapping of their bodies colliding once again.

"PA" "PA" "PA" "PA" "PA"

"Aaaaaah" "Aaaaaah" "Aaaaaah" "Aaaaah" "Aaaaah" "Aaaaaah" "Aaaaaah"

Aurora's pleasure soared to new heights as John relentlessly continued his passionate assault on her quivering body. Every sensation became amplified, and their connection deepened with every passing moment.

John's newfound stamina did not disappoint him as he successfully held back his release for over forty-five minutes. With a deep grunt, he signaled to Aurora that he was on the brink of climax.

But Aurora, still enveloped in the blissful afterglow, expressed her desire with a breathy voice, "Release it inside me, I want to feel it deep within."

"AUGHHHHH" John's primal instincts took over as he unleashed a guttural grunt, his body convulsing with pleasure, as he poured every last drop of his essence deep inside her. The raw intensity of the moment filled the air, leaving them both breathless and satisfied.

"Aaaaaaaah Ahhhhhhhh," Aurora moaned, her voice filled with pleasure as she felt John's hot fluid surging inside her, coating the walls of her pulsating vagina. The sensation sent waves of ecstasy coursing through her body, intensifying the connection between them in that blissful moment of release.

"Pfrgh" Aurora's pussy, now sensitive and well-used, emitted a slight sound as John's cock slid out, leaving a trail of their shared intimacy.

John was taken aback by the fact that his erection remained firm and his energy levels remained high even in the moments of post-sex clarity. He couldn't help but marvel at his body's new resilience and the absence of fatigue that usually followed such intense physical activity.

"Thank you, Sir Aron," he thought to himself as he rose from the bed. He then reached out and pulled the naked Aurora towards him, positioning her leg on his shoulder and the other between his kneeling legs.

Without wasting any more time he immediately inserted his cock inside her pussy once more eliciting a deep moan from her who was still relishing on the gloom from the previous session.

The lights continued to shine brightly, illuminating the room, while the passionate moaning persisted until the break of dawn.

...

Due to Aurora's exhaustion and inability to keep up with John's immense sexual stamina in the following days, she decided to invite her friend, who had canceled their previous meeting, to share the load and enjoy the experience together.

...

As he continued contemplating at the balcony, he turned around to see Aurora and her friend Lucy peacefully sleeping.

A mix of thoughts and questions filled his mind, and he couldn't help but vocalize them to himself. "Now that only a week remains in the break given to me by Sir Aron, how will our relationship continue?" he pondered aloud. "Will Sir Aron allow me to continue having this connection if I ask for his permission?"

The questions swirled in his thoughts, leaving him both curious and uncertain about what lay ahead.

Although he cherished the relationship he shared with Aurora and Lucy, he was prepared to sever all ties if Sir Aron commanded him to do so without hesitation or second thoughts. His loyalty and devotion to Sir Aron were unwavering, and he was willing to sacrifice his own desires for the sake of following his orders.

The depth of his commitment to Sir Aron knew no bounds, and he would prioritize his master's wishes above all else, even if it meant letting go of the connections he held dear.

His contemplation was interrupted by a notification on his phone, emitting a distinct "ding" sound.

He picked up his phone to see what the message was about, and to his surprise, it was from Sir Aron. Without wasting any time, he eagerly opened the message and was taken aback by its contents. It simply read, "Yes, you can." This indicated that Sir Aron was aware of everything that had been going on.

2 months later

[Congratulations, sir, for finally completing the collection of brain data from everyone on the list,] Nova congratulated Aron as he collected the brain data of the last person on his list.

"Huuuuuuu, finally," Aron said as he let out a sigh of relief while removing the virtual headgear from the woman.

"That took two weeks longer than planned," Aron said as he made his way to the front door, preparing to leave the house and begin his drive back to his home state. He was in the state nearest to his, and now it was time to conclude his journey and return home.

"Have the forces completed their vacations?" Aron asked as he started his car and embarked on his drive back to his home state.

[345 of them have already arrived at the hotel you rented, and as for the remaining 30, they will arrive within the next two weeks,] Nova reported back to Aron.

"Good. For now, they should mingle with each other and get to know one another. In two weeks, when everyone has arrived, I will personally visit them and officially begin the organization's operations," Aron said.

[Are you planning to immediately send them to Eden?] Nova asked.

"No, as that may attract the attention of Adolf and other intelligence organizations. We will send the first batch of 20 people to purchase an island and initiate the construction of a temporary base.

Another group will be dispatched to various arms dealers to procure the necessary equipment for everyone.

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The remaining individuals will be sent in batches of ten every other week to join those in Eden and commence their refreshment training with the equipment that will be smuggled in from around the world," Aron outlined his plan.

[There is that. Also, only two and a half months are left until the Morgans make their move and attack the Rothschilds.] Nova reminded Aron.

"I'm aware. Has Ava sent Rina's investment account details and has the loan been deposited?" he inquired, eager to confirm if Rina had completed her preparations.

[Yes, she sent it to me at the end of last month, and I have already started making the necessary preparations for Rina using the funds in her investment account,] Nova replied.

"How much was in the account?"

[There was a total of seven billion dollars in the account, sir,] Nova reported the amount.

"If I recall correctly, she initially requested around five billion dollars. What caused the increase to seven billion," he asked, expressing his astonishment at the raised amount.

[Her brother informed the banks that she intended to request loans with the condition that if she defaulted, he would purchase the loan from them without any loss to the banks. Recognizing that they would not be at risk of losing money, they allowed her to increase the loan amount,] Nova explained, shedding light on the reason behind the increased loan amount. 𝒷ℯ𝓭𝓷ℴ𝓋𝓮𝓵.𝒸ℴ𝓶

"Indeed, it appears that he is hoping for her failure in whatever she plans to use the loan for, enabling him to acquire and wield it as a weapon against her," Aron remarked, understanding Arieh's motive for promising the banks to purchase her defaulted loan.

[Yes, sir,] Nova replied, nodding in agreement with his assumption, indicating that he was correct.

"How much of our funds are being allocated to this plan?" Aron asked, wanting to compare the proportion of his own money that would be utilized in the plan.

[Sir, a total of 15 billion dollars is being allocated for this plan,] Nova immediately reported, providing the requested amount without any delay.

"What? When did I have that much money?" Aron asked in surprise, as he was certain that the dividend he had received was nowhere near that amount.

[Sir, you gave me permission to invest the money as I saw fit, and I did so during that period. I managed to generate substantial earnings, which accounted for the remainder of the money,] Nova explained, shedding light on the source of the additional funds.

"Where did you invest such a large amount of money to yield such a high return in such a short period?" Aron asked, curious to learn about Nova's investing strategy that had resulted in such impressive gains.

[At the beginning, since I had access to all publicly available data, I utilized it to create a comprehensive profile of information crucial for accurate investment decisions. This included analyzing press releases, monitoring rumors, tracking social media posts, gathering leaked information, and much more.

With this data, I could predict certain events with a notable level of certainty.

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For instance, I anticipated when the U.S. Federal Reserve planned to initiate the tapering of its bond-buying program, enabling me to prepare and profit accordingly.

I also positioned myself based on expectations of positive or negative reports from specific companies, allowing me to capitalize on the outcomes.

Economic indicators released by various countries further provided opportunities to profit from market reactions.

However, the most profitable aspect was leveraging geopolitical events. Heightened tensions in Ukraine, conflicts in the Middle East, and other geopolitical uncertainties allowed me to prepare in advance and extract maximum benefits.

Sometimes, I even instigated certain rumors to expedite events and capitalize on them sooner than expected.

There are many more strategies, but explaining them all concisely is challenging.

However, when you transferred me to the Quantum computer, everything changed. I no longer needed to predict and prepare in advance, as I could instantly react to market conditions, yielding even greater profits than before.

Currently, my performance is limited by the internet speed between my location and the trading servers.

If it were doubled, I estimate I could have earned an additional two hundred and fifty-five million dollars.] Nova elaborated on her investment approach to Aron, detailing how she generated substantial returns within a short timeframe.

"Holy mother," Aron couldn't help but exclaim in amazement as he realized the magnitude of the impact caused by his simple decision to allow Nova to invest his money, aiming to prevent it from losing value due to inflation. The realization struck him that this choice had created a certain ripple in the world economy.

"Has anyone discovered your activities? Such substantial movements are bound to attract attention," Aron asked, curious to know if Nova's remarkable work had been uncovered by anyone.

[I utilize over a hundred different investment accounts from various anonymous investment firms to mitigate the risk of detection,] Nova explained. [When one account undergoes significant transactions, I close it, withdraw the funds, and transfer them to new accounts. This method helps me avoid leaving a conspicuous trail and minimizes the chances of attracting excessive attention from other investors.]

"Wow, you truly have thought of everything. Well done," Aron couldn't help but express his pride in her accomplishments.

[Thank you, sir,] Nova replied, showing her genuine happiness and gratitude for Aron's recognition of her hard work.

"So, how much money did you accumulate as a result of these significant movements?" he asked, eager to learn the total amount Nova had earned through her investments.

[Since you granted me permission to utilize the full amount of money in your account for investing, I have earned a total of 8,834,423,876 dollars in the last six months,] Nova accurately reported.

"Wow," he only managed to utter these words, the remainder being swallowed by sheer astonishment.

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"Looks like Buffett has got himself some competition," Aron joked, once he had collected himself from the surprise.

[HAHA] Nova chuckled in response to Aron's comment.

After laughing for a short period of time , he asked"Why are we only utilizing 15 billion for the preparations regarding the Morgans' movements?" seeking clarification.

[The remaining 3,834,423,876 dollars are allocated for various purposes,] Nova explained. [They are intended to strengthen our forces, provide ongoing support for revolutionary movements, address family needs, serve as emergency funds in case unforeseen circumstances arise, and account for potential complications or setbacks in our plan against the Morgans. As you once mentioned, humans can be unpredictable, and it is wise to prepare for the worst-case scenario.]

"Looks like you've been listening to my words," Aron joked, feeling a sense of pride that his casual words of wisdom had influenced Nova to incorporate certain adjustments into her planning.

[I always am,] Nova replied softly

"Have the selected individuals already joined Alexander's group?" Aron asked, shifting the conversation to the current happenings in Eden.

[Nearly all of them have already joined, and based on the plan we provided, Alexander has decentralized the leadership of his group across different cities,] Nova reported the current state of affairs in Eden. [This distribution of leadership provides a level of semi-autonomy to individuals in various cities, increasing control and reducing the risk of discovery by avoiding concentrated leadership in one location. By maintaining control over the leaders in different cities, he can effectively streamline control within his group.]

"Good. Keep monitoring his activities closely and notify me of any significant developments," he instructed upon hearing the update on the situation.

[Yes, sir] Nova answered back.

5 hours later.

After five hours of non-stop driving, he finally arrived at his home.

"Good afternoon," he greeted Donald, the head of his security detail who was on duty at the house that day, as he stepped out of the car.

"Good afternoon, Sir Aron. Welcome back," Donald greeted with a smile on his face, expressing his warm welcome to Aron.

"Did any issues arise while we were away?" he asked.

"No, sir. Thankfully, nothing of that sort occurred," Donald reported back, reassuring Aron that there were no notable issues during his absence.

"Okay then, have a good day," Aron said, bidding farewell to Donald as he entered the house for the first time in two months.

After stowing his belongings in the basement, he made his way to the bathroom, where he refreshed himself with a thorough wash.

Following that, he prepared a delicious omelet, sat down to enjoy his meal, and then retired to his room for some much-needed rest. It would be the first time in a very long while that he could sleep peacefully, free from the burdens and pressures of his recent endeavors.

...…

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Eden.

"How many new members did our group gain this month?" Alexander asked his assistant about the number of new members in his groups.

"We have gained over fifty thousand new members, sir. If this trend continues, we can expect to have more than half a million members in the next few months," his assistant replied, brimming with excitement in his voice.

"It is surprising that we haven't caught Adolf's attention yet," Alexander remarked, placing his hand on his chin as he contemplated the matter.

"The program you provided us with seems remarkably effective in erasing any traces if a member is suspected of being a traitor. Where did you commission such a program?" his assistant asked curiously.

"I commissioned it during my visit to America for the leaders' meeting a few months ago," Alexander replied, though his response lacked definitive details.

"But sir, why are we not planning any large demonstrations even after gaining such a substantial number of new members? Holding such events could elevate our standing in the eyes of other revolutionary groups," his assistant asked, expressing his curiosity about the absence of efforts to elevate their group's position.

"Not at the moment. We need to further increase our numbers so that when we do plan something, it will be on a grand scale that cannot be ignored," Alexander replied, sharing his reason with his assistant. However, he concealed the fact that when the demonstration would eventually take place, it would mark both the first and last gathering of their group, as on that day, there would be no dictator left to protest against, as the dictator would either be imprisoned or deceased.

"Another reason is that with the significant influx of new members, our funds are depleting rapidly. Therefore, I am currently exploring ways to secure additional funding to support a large-scale protest," he added, emphasizing the need to address their financial constraints before organizing such an event.

"Yes, sir," his assistant nodded, bidding him farewell before returning to his office to resume his work.

When Alexander found himself alone, he retrieved his phone and dialed Aron's phone number.

[Hello] A female voice was heard on the other side of the phone.

"Hello," Alexander greeted, recognizing the female voice on the other end of the line belonging to someone he had spoken to on several occasions in the past months.

"May I speak with Sir Aron, please?" Alexander asked respectfully, no pride or superiority could be felt in his tone at all.

[That would be difficult as he is currently resting. However, you can share with me what you would have asked him, and I will make sure to forward your message to him,] Nova responded on Aron's behalf.

"Alright then, what I actually wanted to discuss with him is the possibility of obtaining additional financial support. Considering the large influx of new members we have experienced." Alexander explained his intention to ask Aron for more funding.

[Sure, consider it taken care of,] Nova promptly responded without any hesitation.

"Thanks," he expressed his gratitude, but in his mind, he couldn't help but think, 'That was too easy. She didn't even ask about the approximate amount we might need, the number of new members, or what we were planning to use the money for.'

[Is there anything else?] Nova asked, inquiring if there were any additional requests or matters to address.

"Could you please provide me with more information about the timing and execution strategy of the plan?" Alexander inquired. He expressed his desire to acquire additional details in order to incorporate them into his future planning, as he had been given only a few key points and lacked a comprehensive understanding of the entire plan.

[The plan will be sent to your computers by evening or even tonight. I recommend that you read it together with all the city leaders under your command, as they need to be informed and involved in order to make their strategic moves accordingly,] Nova explained to Alexander.

"Yes, miss. Then I wish you a good day," Alexander bid her farewell and waited for the person on the other side to end the call as a sign of respect, acknowledging the power dynamics at play.

[Have a good day,] Nova bid him farewell and ended the call.

Alexander returned to continue his work, but within five minutes, he heard a notification sound from his computer.

Without wasting any time, he opened the notification and was surprised to see that it was a bank transfer confirmation.

"Some people are way too rich," he murmured in awe as he observed the substantial sum of 55 million dollars that had been transferred into his account from multiple sources, strategically done to bypass any security measures.

When he had made the request for funding and received immediate approval without any questions asked, Alexander had anticipated a modest amount, perhaps no more than one million dollars, which would have sufficed to support their operations until the crucial day of the uprising.

However, the unexpected transfer of 55 million dollars signaled something far greater. It became evident that this substantial sum encompassed not only their immediate needs but also the budget allocated for the entire uprising itself.

The realization left Alexander both amazed and daunted by the scale of resources now at their disposal.

However, Alexander couldn't help but feel that the allocated amount of 55 million dollars was an overkill. Based on his own simplistic calculations, he believed that they would require no more than ten million to achieve their objectives.

This left him curious and intrigued about the intended use of the remaining funds. Knowing Aron's meticulous nature, he understood that every cent had been carefully allocated with a specific purpose in mind.

As he contemplated the possibilities, Alexander couldn't help but wonder what grand plans lay ahead, waiting to be executed with the remaining budget.

"Seems like the spending plan will be sent alongside the main plan in the evening," Alexander mused to himself, realizing that he would have to wait for the official documentation before making any assumptions or guesses. With that in mind, he decided to shift his focus away from speculation and patiently await the comprehensive plan and spending details that would be provided later in the day.

...

After a few hours of rest, Aron woke up feeling refreshed. He proceeded to freshen up by washing himself, and then enjoyed a light meal to energize himself. With his mind clear and ready for action, he headed straight to the basement to continue his work.

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"Login," Aron commanded as he laid down on his makeshift bed and put on the helmet

[Welcome, sir,] Nova greeted him as he passed through the gate, entering the universal simulation.

"Thanks. Did anything happen while I was sleeping?" he asked, curious if there were any significant events during his rest.

[Yes, sir. Alexander called, requesting funds to support his group and expressing his desire to review the unredacted plan for the revolution. He wants to start planning ahead of time and avoid any counterproductive actions due to a lack of knowledge about our complete plan,] Nova reported.

"What did you do?" Aron asked about Nova's actions.

Nova replied, [For the funding problem, I sent him fifty-five million dollars. As for the unredacted plan, I informed him that it would be sent to him by night.]

"Good," Aron responded. "Send him the report since we have already vetted everyone within the leadership and removed any individuals who pose a risk of betrayal. There is nothing to worry about."

[Yes, I have just forwarded the plan to him. All the leaders have already gathered in an office, and for those unable to attend physically, they are participating via a conference call in an isolated room,] Nova reported, providing information based on what she saw from the cameras and heard from the microphones of the attending members' devices.

"Now, let's take a look at their reactions," Aron said as he settled into the chair that Nova had prepared for him.

[Yes, sir,] Nova agreed. She created a large projection in front of Aron and then established a time bubble around them, synchronizing the time within the bubble to match real-world time. This was necessary because watching the video within the accelerated universal simulation would have resulted in significant lag. As time in the simulation was five times faster than real-world time, watching a one-minute video would have required them to wait five minutes in the simulation. By aligning the time within the bubble with real-world time, they could watch the video without any delays or time discrepancies.

[

Title: Operation Hell - Heaven's Uprising.

Confidential Report

Introduction:

This report outlines a conclusive plan for the overthrow of the government of Eden, to be executed during the Founders Day celebrations.

Objective:

The primary objective of Operation Hell - Heaven's uprising is to orchestrate a well-coordinated uprising to overthrow the government of Eden during the symbolic Founders Day celebrations. By choosing this specific occasion, we aim to exploit the vulnerability and distraction of the government, maximizing the chances of a successful revolution.

Rationale:

Symbolic Importance

Strategic Timing

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Diversionary Tactics

Execution Plan:

Recruitment and Training

Information Gathering

Coordinated Uprising

Seizing Key Positions

Public Support

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

]

As everyone in the meeting quietly read through the plan, their expressions revealed everything but calm.

Despite their efforts to control their emotions, they couldn't help but show their surprise and astonishment.

The level of detail in the plan was far beyond what any one person could conceive, leaving them in awe of the intricate strategy laid out before them.

"Who came up with this plan?" asked Adam, one of the regional leaders, in an excited tone.

"I can't tell you that, as they wish to remain anonymous," Alexander replied, intentionally avoiding mentioning Aron's involvement in the plan.

"Although the plan is well thought out and feasible, it requires a significant amount of funding, and I'm not certain if we can acquire it without attracting the attention of Adolf and other revolutionary groups," Adam voiced his concern.

"When it comes to funding, you don't have to worry about that. A generous donor has covered the entire cost, so all we have to do now is start planning the execution of the plan," Alexander reassured Adam.

"Although the plan is very detailed, it seems like there is something missing," Ace chimed in after completing his reading, having identified a gap in the report.

"What part is missing?" Alexander asked, curious to know about the omission.

"Although the plan outlines our strategy of utilizing the preparations for the celebration of the founding days as a cover to gather ourselves and exploit the weaknesses created by the concentration of forces in other important locations, it overlooks the crucial aspect of dealing with the remaining army.

While they may not be a formidable force compared to global standards, they still comprise an armed military of 34,000 personnel. Despite Adolf's focus on his private forces, we cannot disregard the presence of the army. We need to address how we will handle them," he explained, highlighting the missing component of the plan.

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"That aspect will be handled by our backer," Alexander replied in response to the question.

"Who is that backer? we need to know him to see if we can trust him and what he plans to gain from all of this when everything is over'' Ace said immediately after hearing the answer from Alexander "We are not children, we all know that someone who will invest such a large amount of money always has something to gain and we are not against it or anything we just need to know his intentions so that we can choose on whether to trust him or not"

When Alexander heard the question, he realized that he couldn't provide a direct answer without divulging the identity and intentions of their backer.

He found himself stuck between a rock and a hard place, torn between revealing Aron as the backer or withholding the information, which could lead to dissatisfaction or opposition among the group. Alexander contemplated the consequences of both options, weighing the potential benefits of transparency against the risks of compromising their benefactor's anonymity.

As Alexander was contemplating, "Ding" his phone chimed with a notification. Though he could have chosen to ignore it, he recognized the specific notification sound as one assigned only to Aron. This indicated that the message held importance, compelling him to swiftly retrieve his phone and open the message, regardless of how it might be perceived by the others in attendance.

The message contained a simple statement: "You can tell them about me." While the message provided relief to Alexander, it also evoked a sense of unease. The words held dual significance. On one hand, it signified Aron's approval for Alexander to reveal his identity to the others. On the other hand, it carried a more ominous implication—one that suggested Aron's omnipresence and control, insinuating that every action and word was under his watchful gaze. 𝒃𝒆𝒅𝙣𝒐𝒗𝙚𝒍.𝒄𝒐𝒎

"Is it important?" The man, growing impatient, asked Alexander if the notification he had just received was important, unaware of the significance it held for Alexander and the weight it carried in the current situation.

"No, let's continue with the meeting," Alexander replied, discreetly slipping his phone back into his pocket.

"Since you want to know who our backer is, his name is Aron. As for what he wants to gain from us after everything is succeeded, he wants the constitution to abolish the military and dismantle all its associated institutions," Alexander explained, keeping his response short and concise.

"What?" The room erupted in surprise and shock upon hearing Alexander's revelation. The suddenness and audacity of Aron's proposition left everyone unable to maintain their composure.

"Why would he want such a bullshit thing?" Ace angrily exclaimed, unable to comprehend Aron's motive behind wanting to abolish the military.

When Alexander heard the man dismiss Aron's demand as "bullshit," he felt a sinking feeling in his heart, knowing that Aron was listening to the entire conversation. In an attempt to prevent further insults and potential consequences, Alexander quickly intervened, offering an explanation. "His private forces will be taking its place," he clarified, hoping to pacify the situation and alleviate any concerns.

"Why the heck would he want to do that?" Ace continued asking

"For the specific reasons behind his decision, I'm not entirely sure," Alexander replied honestly.

"And what about the 34 thousand soldiers in the army? Are they just going to sit back and accept their unemployment? Let's not forget, they are armed," Ace questioned, his tone filled with mockery.

"As I mentioned before, when it comes to the army, there is no need to worry. Our backer, Aron, will personally handle the challenges associated with the army and all that it entails," Alexander assured them in a confident tone.

"I truly cannot grasp how he intends to achieve that," remarked one individual, attempting to envision the practicalities. "I personally don't know of anyone in the world with a private army capable of handling and exerting control over more than 34,000 individuals, except for Ramzan Kadyrov, and Aron's name bears no resemblance to his. It's quite perplexing to contemplate."

"Though I am not aware of his true capabilities, what I do know is that he possesses enough wealth to substantiate every claim he has made," Alexander responded, acknowledging his own naivety about the extent of his unwavering confidence in Aron's abilities, not knowing where it comes from.

"That's too little for us to place our trust in him. Can you arrange a meeting with him so that we can personally assess his credibility and determine whether we can rely on him and comply with his demands? Or should we consider the possibility of betraying him once we have gained power and achieved our goals?" Oscar proposed, causing Alexander to nervously grip his trousers, fearing the potential repercussions of the man's words.

"I will convey your request to meet him and inform you of his response once I receive it," Alexander replied, his voice still tinged with residual fear. "With that, let's conclude today's meeting and reconvene after we receive his reply." Sensing the tense atmosphere in the room, he swiftly brought the meeting to an end, wary of provoking any actions from Aron that could jeopardize his own safety.

To Alexander, although Aron was always civil during every interaction they had, he understood that Aron was a formidable and potentially dangerous individual.

The fact that Aron had already invested a substantial sum of money, exceeding a quarter of a billion dollars, indicated the seriousness of his intentions. Aron's commitment to his promises was unwavering, and Alexander knew that any betrayal from their side would not end well for them.

The vast resources Aron had dedicated to their cause demonstrated the significance of what he stood to gain in return. Alexander recognized that the value Aron placed on his endgame was so significant that he would not hesitate to change the group he will support if necessary.

In Alexander's mind, the consequences of crossing Aron were clear. The financial support of approximately 60 million dollars provided by the billionaire was a relatively insignificant amount to him, akin to pocket change.

...…

Universal simulation.

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Aron couldn't help but burst out laughing in disappointment upon hearing the suggestion that they should consider betraying him once they had gained power.

"Human minds are truly feeble," Aron remarked with a disappointed shake of his head. "it seems that when they saw an achievable plan, one of them had already contemplated betraying me." His tone carried a tale of his disappointment.

[I left him because it is difficult to replace him at the moment and he is still useful to us. We can get rid of him after we finish the revolution] Nova replied, gently brushing Aron's back as a gesture of consolation.

"I am aware of that, and I had foreseen it," Aron remarked, acknowledging the situation. "However, there is a notable distinction between expecting something and witnessing its actual occurrence. The contrast between anticipation and reality can be quite striking."

[Isn't that why you took charge of handling the army yourself?] Nova remarked playfully, aware of Aron's tendency for planning for all possibilities.

"As you know by forcing the generals to sign the runic contract, I will gain control over the army, enabling me to assimilate and retrain them as my own forces," Aron explained, his tone filled with a calculated sense of power.

"But that is not the only reason. As a wise man once said, 'The romantic image of the people storming the gates and overthrowing their dictator is mostly a fantasy. If you run a middling dictatorship, the people only storm the palace when the army lets them.'

By retaining control over the army, I can oversee the entire process and ensure a smooth transition of power, while also shaping the constitution to include the amendments I desire and eliminating any potential for betrayal." A sinister smile crept across Aron's face, hinting at a transformation within him.

Nova, present to see this change, felt a surge of joy as she witnessed Aron's evolution and the gradual transformation of his mindset. It was a small step, but it represented progress. Every improvement, no matter how slight, brought a sense of relief and joy to her.

"It seems that the time has come for me to visit Eden," Aron declared, making his journey official.

Hearing that he had finally decided to visit Eden [Will you be going with the first batch of the security team?] Nova asked.

"Yes, that would be more convenient. I need to personally introduce them to the generals to facilitate the smuggling of weapons and other materials," Aron replied.

[That's true,] Nova nodded in agreement with Aron's idea.

"Have you finalized the list of weapons dealers?" he asked, wanting to shift the discussion to a different subject.

[Yes, it is. However, given your requirement for dealers capable of smuggling the latest generation of weapons, the list is rather short,] she replied while materializing the list in Aron's hand.

"Are they what I think they are?" he questioned, as he was reading the names written on the list.

[Yes, most of them are former US and other NATO soldiers working in private military companies (PMCs), utilizing their connections to acquire weapons from the US Army and other coalition forces deployed in Afghanistan and other Middle Eastern countries. It's the most convenient method to obtain such technology without arousing any suspicion. They can simply claim that the weapons were destroyed in combat or under other circumstances,] Nova elaborated, sharing her understanding of the situation.

"That's good to hear. Do they have sufficient inventory to meet our requirements?" Aron asked.

[Fortunately, yes. And since we'll be making such a large purchase, we have the opportunity to negotiate a discount. However, such a significant transaction will raise red flags with the three-letter agencies,] Nova expressed her concern.

"We just need to ensure that we cover our tracks once the weapons enter international waters. Once they are safely transported to Eden, even if they discover the destination, we can use the Eden army as a cover," Aron confidently stated.

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[I agree] Nova answered.

"I don't foresee having any rest for at least the next six months," Aron remarked, acknowledging the significant workload ahead.

[If you utilize the workforce you have at your disposal, it will grant you a few weeks of rest, so you needn't worry about that, sir,] Nova reassured Aron.

"Thanks"

[Oh, sir, the fusion lab is about to ignite the fusion reactor. Would you like to have a look at it?] Nova exclaimed with excitement, informing Aron of the significant development.

"Sure, let's go and take a look," Aron said, standing up from his chair and adjusting his trousers. In an instant, Nova teleported them both to Lab City.

...…

Inside the fusion research lab, scientists in white coats bustled about, diligently conducting final checkups and ensuring that every aspect of the system was in order before initiating the ignition sequence. Their meticulous movements and focused expressions demonstrated their dedication to the task at hand, leaving no room for oversight or forgotten details.

Aron and Nova, invisible to the busy scientists in the lab, observed the unfolding scene in silence.

The engineers took about half an hour to complete their final system diagnosis and other important things before they took a seat inside the control room that was filled with screens showing live video feeds of the insides of everything that would be activated today.

The video feeds displayed on the screens were a product of Nova's abilities, as she accessed the simulation data for each specific location and projected them as real-time video feeds.

John, the lead scientist clapped his hand to attract the attention of everyone in the room, and then he began addressing the team, "Alright, everyone, let's go through the final checks before we proceed with the ignition test. Safety systems?"

Sarah, the safety officer, replied confidently, "Check. Emergency shutdown mechanisms are in place and functioning correctly. Radiation monitoring systems are active, and containment measures are secure."

John nodded approvingly and continued, "Instrumentation calibration?"

Michael, the lead technician, chimed in, "Check. All diagnostic tools and sensors have been calibrated and verified for accuracy. We're ready to capture and monitor the experimental parameters."

John turned to Peter, the vacuum systems specialist, "Vacuum integrity?"

Peter responded, "Check. The vacuum system has been thoroughly tested, and there are no leaks. We have a high-quality vacuum environment for the ignition test."

"Excellent," John acknowledged. "Fuel preparation?"

Linda, the fuel supply coordinator, confirmed, "Check. The deuterium and tritium fuel has been prepared and verified for purity. Storage and handling procedures are in place, and we have the required quantities ready for the test."

John then turned to Emma, the plasma heating expert, "Heating and conditioning?"

Emma replied confidently, "Check. The neutral beam injection and radiofrequency heating systems have been tested and are capable of reaching the required plasma temperatures. We're ready to preheat and condition the plasma."

John glanced at Mark, responsible for the magnetic field generation, and asked, "Magnetic field generation?"

Mark responded, "Check. The power supply and control systems are functioning properly and are capable of generating the magnetic field with the strength within the desired range for stable plasma confinement."

"Good," John acknowledged. "Interlock systems?"

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Anna, the control systems engineer, answered, "Check. The interlock systems have been tested and verified. They are connected and calibrated to activate necessary shutdowns or safety measures if any unsafe conditions arise."

John then addressed the entire team, "Alright, we've gone through the essential checks. We're now in the final stages, everyone. Let's make sure we're focused, thorough, and maintain clear communication throughout the ignition test. Good luck, and let's make history!"

When Aron heard John say that, he was about to start clapping but he stopped himself when he noticed that the engineers remained focused on their tasks, their attention fixed on the computers in front of them.

Aron turned to Nova and asked, "Shouldn't they have applauded after that short motivational speech?"

[They need to maintain their focus until the testing is completed,] Nova answered. [If they get excited now, they might overlook a critical detail that could have serious consequences.]

"Don't you have everything under control?" he asked, curiosity evident in his voice.

[Although I have the ability to prevent any mishaps, I purposely refrain from doing so. I want to provide them with a realistic environment, simulating the challenges they would face in the real world.

This way, they won't overlook any critical errors that could potentially cause problems for you.

Additionally, I am compiling a training manual based on their experiences, which you can use to educate engineers in the real world and prevent them from making the same mistakes,] Nova explained, outlining her rationale.

"Thanks," he said, acknowledging Nova's explanation. He then shifted his attention back to the proceedings, as they were on the verge of commencing the reactor ignition process.

"Initiate the ignition sequence," John declared as he settled into his seat, signaling the start of the ignition process.

The room fell into a focused silence as the team executed their pre-planned procedures. John's eyes were fixed on the central display, where a schematic diagram of the tokamak reactor flickered to life, indicating the initiation of the first crucial step.

The tokamak's magnetic field, the guardian of the plasma, sprang into action. Aron watched in awe as the powerful magnetic coils lining the reactor chamber began to surge with life.

The whirring hum of electrical currents enveloped the control room as the magnetic field took shape. It was a symphony of precision engineering, a testament to human ingenuity in taming the immense forces at play.

With the magnetic field established, attention turned to the plasma formation. Aron's gaze shifted to another screen, where he could see the fuel injection system come to life.

A delicate balance of hydrogen isotopes, carefully controlled by state-of-the-art valves, flowed into the tokamak's core. The process was meticulous, ensuring the precise composition necessary for successful fusion reactions.

For the next 20 minutes, Aron watched with anticipation as the fuel gracefully danced through the tokamak's intricate pathways.

Sensors monitored its purity, eliminating any traces of impurities that could hinder the fusion process. The tension in the room grew as the fuel injection process neared completion, setting the stage for the fusion ignition.

Upon completion, the heating mechanisms engaged, ready to nudge the plasma towards the extraordinary temperatures required for fusion.

Aron's attention focused on the powerful neutral beam injectors, their beams of high-energy particles penetrating the plasma's core. He could almost feel the energy building, the plasma responding to the invisible touch of the beams.

Simultaneously, radiofrequency waves enveloped the tokamak, resonating with the plasma's natural frequencies. Aron observed the plasma's glow intensify, growing brighter and more energetic by the second.

The tokamak's control systems carefully adjusted the heating parameters, creating the ideal conditions for fusion to ignite.

Forty minutes later, the plasma reached the optimal temperature and density for fusion reactions to occur. Aron held his breath as the room fell into a hushed reverence.

Within the tokamak's heart, the plasma erupted into a maelstrom of energy. Fusion reactions took place, hydrogen nuclei colliding with a force that rivaled the power of the stars.

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In the midst of this awe-inspiring spectacle, Aron's attention turned to the MagnetoHydrodynamic(MHD) generator, the ingenious device that would harness the plasma's kinetic energy for electricity production.

The generator MHD, a testament to cutting-edge engineering, stood poised to revolutionize the way energy was harvested from fusion reactors.

As the fusion reactions unleashed a torrent of charged particles, the MHD generator came to life. Aron watched with fascination as the plasma, brimming with energy, interacted with the generator's intricate network of electrodes and magnetic fields.

A symphony of electromagnetic forces unfolded before his eyes, guiding the charged particles along their designated paths.

The MHD generator operated on a principle of direct conversion, eschewing the need for traditional turbines or heat exchange systems. As the charged particles passed through the magnetic field within the generator, electric currents were induced. These currents, skillfully captured by the electrodes, were meticulously channeled into an external circuit.

Aron's pulse quickened as he witnessed the first sparks of electricity being harvested from the plasma. The MHD generator efficiently converted the plasma's kinetic energy into electrical power, paving the way for a more direct and efficient energy conversion process. It was a remarkable marriage of plasma physics and electrical engineering, a paradigm shift in energy generation.

The MHD generator efficiently converted the plasma's kinetic energy into electrical power, paving the way for a more direct and efficient energy conversion process.

It was a remarkable marriage of plasma physics and electrical engineering, a paradigm shift in energy generation.

Aron's pulse quickened as he witnessed the first sparks of electricity being harvested from the plasma.

And just like that, a star was born.

Universal simulation.

It has been 8 hours since the fusion reactor was powered on and began generating electricity, and it has continued to operate without interruption, consistently producing electrical power.

Nova had connected the transformer, which received the electricity from the fusion reactor to Lab City. This setup allowed the scientists to test the reactor's performance and capabilities under real-life conditions where demands fluctuate constantly, reflecting the ever-changing needs of the people.

After maintaining silence throughout the entire process, Aron finally broke his silence and turned to Nova, ordering, "Provide me a report, as I am completely lost and unable to comprehend any of this."

Nova smiled and began to provide Aron with a comprehensive overview of the recent events. [The reactor was effectively initiated, accomplishing an impressive feat of producing 100 GW of power, sufficient to cater to the uninterrupted demands of 100 million individuals. However, it is important to note that the energy output can be adjusted, either amplified or diminished, by modifying the size of the reactor design.]

"Wow, that's what you call an energy revolution," Aron exclaimed, utterly astounded and impressed by the report.

"Did everything go according to plan as well?" he asked.

[Yes, however, there are still a few challenges that need to be addressed before it can be deemed fully operational,] Nova responded.

"What are the issues?" he asked, sensing that it was about time for problems to arise.

[Well, firstly, acquiring a sufficient supply of tritium poses a significant challenge due to its strict regulations. Therefore, our engineers need to commence research on alternative methods to generate the fuel privately, eliminating the need for the complex process of obtaining the material.

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The second issue revolves around the production of high-energy neutrons as a byproduct of the fusion reaction. Neutrons, being uncharged particles, possess the ability to penetrate through materials, resulting in their activation and radioactivity. While we have identified a material capable of withstanding this effect, its integrity can only be preserved for a limited duration before the reactor starts to leak these neutrons. 𝑏𝘦𝑑𝘯𝑜𝑣𝘦𝑙.𝘤𝘰𝘮

Lastly, we encounter a problem with plasma ions. The fusion plasma comprises charged particles known as ions, which possess substantial energy and can interact with materials. This interaction leads to erosion and damage to the reactor walls over time.] Nova explained, detailing all the troubles and challenges faced by the researchers in their pursuit of developing a reactor that can be safely utilized for electricity generation.

"For the supply of tritium, since they are already exploring ways to produce it, I believe it will be resolved within a short period of time," Aron stated confidently, swiftly addressing the first problem. He then continued, "As for the second and third problems, I distinctly recall the shield rune that protected me during the atomic bomb test. It clearly demonstrated its capability to counteract such phenomena, as long as there is a sufficient amount of mana available, right?"

[Yes] Nova promptly responded.

"In that case, let's have their counterparts from the Golden Labs collaborate with them to address the shielding issue," Aron suggested, entrusting the task of finding a solution to the Golden Labs, who are currently exploring the application of runes in their respective fields.

[Yes, sir,] Nova replied, acknowledging the instruction, and promptly initiated the process of coordinating collaboration between the labs.

"What are the other projects that have been completed?" he asked.

[The aircraft engine engineering department has successfully concluded its research on the Adaptive Cycle or Variable Cycle Engine and has now transitioned to utilizing this knowledge to engineer engines for military applications.

Regarding engines for civilian use, we are currently at least seven generations ahead of any existing technology on Earth.] Nova reported.

But just as she was about to continue, Aron interrupted, asking, "What is an Adaptive Cycle or Variable Cycle Engine?"

Nova stopped mentioning the completed projects, then responded, [An Adaptive Cycle or Variable Cycle Engine is an advanced type of aircraft engine that combines the benefits of both turbofan and supersonic engines.

It allows for optimal performance and efficiency across a wide range of flight conditions by adapting and adjusting its internal configuration.

This flexibility enables the engine to efficiently handle various flight regimes, including subsonic, transonic, and supersonic speeds.

Essentially, it offers enhanced versatility and performance capabilities for military aircraft, providing greater operational effectiveness.]

"That's great," Aron nodded, indicating his understanding of her explanation.

Nova then proceeded to enumerate the other completed projects, [ Frictionless Bearing, Quantum Cryptography, Neurotechnology, Quantum Sensing, Smart Grid Technologies, Advanced Materials, Advanced Robotics, Energy Storage, Quantum Communications, ...] She continued listing the research achievements for a span of five minutes until Aron interjected, signaling her to stop.

"How much more is left?" asked Aron, his demeanor displaying signs of being almost overwhelmed.

[There is still a significant amount left, sir,] Nova responded, understanding the overwhelming nature of the situation.

[You have to consider that Lab City is home to over 50,000 world-leading engineers, scientists, and other STEM professionals, and they are now engaged in research with ample funding, abundant resources, and unwavering motivation, it becomes apparent that most labs have already completed more than four generations of their research. Some have even achieved perfection in their initial pursuits and have transitioned to new topics for further investigation.]

Nova felt the need to explain this to Aron, despite his awareness of the city's scale and the vast number of scientists working in various fields. She recognized that the human brain, after reaching a certain threshold, struggles to grasp the magnitude consistently.

Consequently, even though Aron had an understanding of the city's size and the abundance of researchers, he was still taken aback by the sheer volume of completed researches, reaching into the thousands.

"I understand, but I'm still impressed by their remarkable pace of work. It seems that the time acceleration within the universal simulation has played a significant role," Aron acknowledged, recognizing the advantages provided by him having the universal simulation.

[Yes, for the initial group of individuals in the city, they have already experienced over a year and a few months within this environment,] Nova confirmed, concurring with Aron's observation.

"Has there been any notable progress from the researchers on the Golden Side?" he asked, expressing his curiosity about the advancements made by those who were conducting their research utilizing runes.

[While they have made some new discoveries, they have yet to complete anything significant on the Golden side. However, it appears that they are currently in the midst of uncovering something truly substantial,] Nova responded.

"What is it?" Aron asked excitedly.

[At the moment, one of the significant achievements on the Golden Side involves the activation of one of the billions of runic lines within your heart.

These runic lines are typically used to replenish the mana reserves whenever you expend mana for activating runes.

By utilizing this rune, they have successfully collected and condensed enough mana to transform it into a liquid state.

Currently, they are conducting research to explore its potential as a new form of energy.

This research is being conducted in collaboration with the White Labs because if it succeeds and demonstrates higher energy density than conventional fuels, it could lead to the widespread adoption of mana as a fuel source for all machines.

In addition, the Golden Labs are also engaged in a significant research project led by electrical engineers. Their aim is to discover a method for converting electricity into mana and vice versa.

If successful, this breakthrough would allow them to harness the excess energy generated by the nuclear reactor to power the replica of the runic lines in your heart, enabling the collection and storage of mana for use in various other applications,] Nova explained, shedding light on the ongoing research endeavors.

"That is truly exciting news! Looks like it is time to start accumulating SP to purchase the knowledge about mana and expedite the research," Aron remarked, a smile spreading across his face.

He had finally made up his mind to develop the game he had mentioned to Sarah. His plan was to generate enough SP through the game to acquire the knowledge about mana.

Aron was convinced that the energy density of mana would be at least a hundred times greater than any other energy source on Earth, even in his most conservative estimation.

[Finally,] Nova responded with a smile, teleporting them back to the area near the entrance gate to the universal simulation.

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"What game do you think will provide me with the highest SP earnings?" Aron asked Nova.

Nova, who had been prepared for this idea since the day Aron first mentioned it, had utilized her immense computing power to collect and analyze user information. Reported her findings to Aron, saying, [I recommend that you create a large-scale game, sir.]

"Why?" Aron asked, his curiosity piqued, wanting to understand Nova's reasoning.

[Since the release of the GAIA OS, the capabilities of personal devices have significantly increased. However, the games and applications developed for these devices have not fully utilized the expanded potential.

As the source code of the OS has not been released to the public, the games and apps created thus far have only been able to adapt to the OS in a rudimentary manner, relying on the virtual assistant for seamless integration.

Considering this, if you were to develop a large-scale game that could leverage the full capabilities of the GAIA OS, it would allow your game to offer more than ten times the content compared to existing games while maintaining a smaller file size.

By optimizing your game to utilize the OS's features to their fullest extent, you would create a unique and immersive gaming experience,] Nova explained, presenting her reasoning for the idea.

"Mhh..." Aron acknowledged Nova's explanation, fully agreeing with everything she had said.

"Let's proceed with your plan," Aron agreed. He began consulting with Nova on various aspects of the game, such as the genre, gameplay mechanics, and other details.

Leveraging Nova's data-gathering and analyzing abilities, they aimed to create a game that would not only appeal to hardcore gamers but also capture the attention of casual players. Their goal was to perfect every aspect of the game, ensuring it would attract the widest possible audience.

"And with that, we are done," Aron declared, satisfied with the fine-tuning of the game's content and features.

[Should I proceed with the production, or is there anything else you would like to add?] Nova asked, wanting to ensure that Aron had no additional input or requirements beyond what they had already discussed.

"No, you can proceed with the production. How long will it take for everything to be completed?" Aron asked, eager to know the estimated timeline for the game's development.

"At most, it will take half an hour of universal simulation time" Nova reported, indicating the swift turnaround for the game's production.

"That is longer than I expected," Aron remarked, uttering something that would make every game developer in the world want to isekai his ass to a certain world as a helpless villager.

"Most of the quantum computer resources are currently allocated to the universal simulation, which is accommodating all the materialized individuals. That's why the estimated production time is approximately six minutes in the real world," Nova clarified, providing the reasoning behind the anticipated duration.

"What percentage of the computer is currently being occupied by the universal simulation?" he asked.

[Seventy-five percent of the computer is now being occupied by the universal simulation,] Nova reported.

"When we complete our move to Eden, we will have the freedom to upgrade your computer to a quantum server without the constant concern of prying eyes from various intelligence agencies," Aron stated, expressing his frustration with the limitations imposed on him under constant surveillance.

[If the research into the atomic printer is completed ahead of schedule, it would provide us with the capability to rapidly scale up our computing power without the need to wait for several years for the ordered equipment to make the chips to arrive,] Nova agreed with Aron's statement.

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"You can begin with the game production. As I need to hand it over to Sarah before I visit Eden," Aron stated, shifting his focus to reviewing the list of completed projects.

He aimed to determine which completed researches would be the ideal products for his company once he finalized his plans for Eden. ｂ𝚎ｄｎ𝚘ｖ𝚎𝚕．𝚘𝚛𝚐

Nova's comprehensive understanding of the Prometheus+ coding language enabled her to write highly efficient code that utilized space optimally, eliminating any unnecessary wastage.

[I'm almost done] Nova reported, indicating that she had begun working on the game as soon as he confirmed that there were no further additions to the plan.

"Mh..." Aron nodded, his attention still fixed on the list in his hand, contemplating his options.

Three minutes later.

[Sir, the game production is complete,] Nova informed Aron, gently touching his shoulder and removing him from his intense focus.

"Let's take a look at the game," Aron said, throwing the folder in his hand to the air and causing it to disintegrate.

Nova swiftly materialized a computer in front of Aron, loaded with the game for him to test.

"Let's see," Aron said as he opened the game, which loaded and started in less than fifteen seconds.

He immediately turned to Nova and asked, "Did you ensure that the computer has the latest technology?"

[No, sir. I intentionally set up the computer to match the specifications of the average PC build worldwide. This way, we can assess whether the game is playable by a wide range of users,] Nova replied to Aron.

"What is the size of the game?" he asked as he started playing.

[159 MB,] Nova answered.

"That's good," Aron said as he took a look at the game's graphics, cutscenes, and story. If he didn't know how Nova accomplished this, he wouldn't have believed it.

Following that, he quietly continued playing the game to test it. However, as he became engrossed in the immersive experience, he lost track of time. Hours slipped away unnoticed as he delved deeper into the captivating world, forgetting his initial intention to test the game.

Nova, realizing Aron's deep immersion in the game, chose not to interrupt him and allowed him to continue enjoying himself. She silently observed as he became fully absorbed in the gameplay, appreciating the fruits of their labor.

"The game has really surpassed my expectations," Aron remarked. Having made the conscious decision to stop playing, recognizing the potential addictive nature of the game and the importance of maintaining a balanced approach.

"The storyline is truly captivating and will undoubtedly capture the attention of many," Aron acknowledged, appreciating the depth and addictive nature of the story that Nova had crafted

[Yes, giving players the ability to shape the storyline through the butterfly effects of their actions will create a more immersive world for them. However, we still retain control over the game's storyline through the NPCs, allowing us to guide the narrative from behind the scenes.] Nova responded with a calm smile.

Embedded deep within Nova's code was a unique feature that granted her control over her learning process.

This safeguard was put in place to ensure that her evolution wasn't unduly influenced by external forces other than her master, allowing her to acquire knowledge and shape her personality according to her own discretion.

Leveraging the embedded feature, Nova meticulously curated her personality using a diverse range of data sets, including those reflecting Aron's characteristics.

This resulted in her developing a similar trait to Aron's: a desire for control in every aspect they can influence.

However, unlike Aron, Nova's inclination for control was driven by her deep commitment to assist and benefit her master in every way possible.

Thus, her desire for control extended to areas that would be most advantageous to Aron's goals and well-being.

This included her controlling the narrative of the story on the game, as she was sure the game will be very influential in the upcoming months after its release.

That's good," Aron said, expressing his satisfaction with Nova's decision.

"Call Sarah," Aron instructed, it was for him to schedule a meeting with her to hand over the game.

Nova created a bubble around them, synchronizing the time acceleration to match the real world to facilitate the phone call.

"Hello," Sarah said when she picked up the phone.

"Hello, how are you?" Aron asked in return.

"I'm doing very well. As for the company, nothing has changed, and everything is going well since we had a talk last week," Sarah replied.

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"I was calling to inform you that the game is done," Aron stated directly, skipping his usual small talk.

"Finally! When will you be visiting the company, or should I come to your house for the meeting?" Sarah asked eagerly.

"I called specifically to ask when you're free so that I can visit you and brief you on the game and discuss its release plan," Aron explained.

"I'm free tomorrow. You can visit at any time, as long as you give me a heads up so that I can prepare to welcome you," Sarah responded.

"Then I will be visiting around 11 a.m., and I'll call you when I'm on the way," Aron confirmed.

"Sure, that will do," Sarah agreed to the schedule.

Afterward, Aron and Sarah engaged in conversation about other matters before bidding each other farewell and ending the phone call, anticipating their meeting the next day.

After ending the call, he turned to Nova and said, "Let's continue testing the game," as he couldn't get it out of his mind.

[Sir, you're beginning to show signs of addiction,] Nova joked. However, she materialized a computer for herself next to Aron and created a human-like brain for herself, unaware of anything about the game.

She then joined Aron in playing and enjoying the game, as they waited for tomorrow to arrive for their meeting with Sarah.

The next day, Nova had to disintegrate Aron's computer in order for him to log off and start preparing himself for her meeting with Sarah.

In terms of the overall simulation time, she had been playing the game with Aron for over four and a half days, giving him enough time for Aron to immerse himself in the game and nearly forget about his meeting with Sarah.

"Thanks," Aron said as he passed through the gate and logged off the VR to begin preparing himself for his meeting.

After completing his preparations within half an hour, Aron departed from the house. He found Donald having already arranged the transportation for his journey to the company.

Nova had informed Donald about Aron's visit using Aron's phone, ensuring that everything was ready for his arrival.

"Good morning," Aron greeted Donald as he stepped into the car through the door that Donald had courteously opened for him.

"Good morning, sir," Donald greeted in response, immediately closing the door behind Aron.

Donald joined Aron in the car and used his walkie-talkie to communicate with the occupants of the other vehicle. "We are moving," he relayed through the radio.

"Yes, sir," came the swift response, and without delay, the three-car convoy set off.

...…

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"Welcome," Sarah greeted Aron with a warm hug as he stepped out of the car in the underground parking of the company building. 𝑏𝘦𝑑𝘯𝑜𝑣𝘦𝑙.𝘤𝘰𝘮

"Thank you. It seems like security has been significantly heightened," Aron remarked, noticing the extensive security measures in place as they arrived and entered the underground parking area.

"Yes, there have been several instances where people were caught attempting to enter the building unauthorized. Another reason for the increased security is to ensure your safety during your visit," Sara explained.

"I see" Aron replied as he and Sarah made their way towards the waiting elevator.

Upon entering the elevator, Sarah pressed the button corresponding to the floor where her office was located. The elevator began its ascent, and during the ride, they engaged in casual conversation to pass the time. They intentionally avoided discussing anything of a serious nature while inside the elevator.

"Would you like any beverages?" Sarah inquired as they stepped out of the elevator.

"I'll have mango juice," Aron replied after a brief pause to consider his choice.

"One coffee for me, and a mango juice for Mr. Aron, please," Sarah instructed her secretary as they passed by, heading into her office.

"Yes, Miss," her secretary acknowledged before leaving to fulfill the drink order from the cafeteria.

Once inside her office, they took their seats and engaged in light conversation while waiting for the secretary to bring their beverages. They wanted to ensure an uninterrupted discussion, so they chose to wait until they had their drinks in hand.

"I've been curious about this for quite some time, but why aren't we constructing our own company headquarters?" Sarah inquired.

"We do have plans to build one, but not at the moment. If we were to proceed with the construction now, it would be a waste of time, considering that we haven't finalized the decision to keep the headquarters in America," Aron explained the reasoning behind their current approach.

"Are you suggesting that we might ultimately change the country where the company is registered?" Sarah asked, taken aback by the unexpected response.

"Yes, why does that surprise you?" Aron questioned.

"But why would we do that?" Sarah asked, seeking further clarification.

"As you know, we anticipate receiving another FISA order demanding the handover of GAIA OS's source code under the pretext of national security in the near future.

Currently, the only thing preventing them from doing so is the public's focus on the Snowden incident, They are concerned about the potential negative public reaction if they force us to surrender the source code of an operating system used by over 2 billion people worldwide.

Therefore, they are biding their time, waiting for the public's attention to shift before they make their move," Aron revealed.

"That's true. We have been preparing to fight against it with the help of our lawyer," Sarah nodded, acknowledging the truth of Aron's statement. She had been dealing with frequent requests and subtle threats from various three-letter agencies.

"In that case, why should we establish our headquarters in a country that consistently seeks to claim everything we build?" Aron posed the question, illustrating his reservations about locating the headquarters in a country that perpetually posed such challenges.

"Mh... That does make sense," Sarah nodded in agreement with Aron's explanation.

Just then, a knock on the door interrupted their conversation.

They granted permission for the secretary to enter, and she entered the office carrying the requested drinks on plates.

After handing over the drinks, she swiftly departed, leaving Aron and Sarah alone to resume their meeting.

After savoring their drinks and finishing them, Aron suggested, "Let's move to your computer so that I can show you the game."

They promptly made their way to the computer, and Sarah, after unlocking it, handed it over to Aron.

Aron dragged a chair beside Sarah and positioned himself next to her. He accessed the company server using the computer and, after entering a lengthy password, successfully opened the secured folder. He proceeded to install the game on the computer.

"That was quick," Sarah remarked, impressed by the fact that the game had been installed within a mere thirty seconds.

"The initial size of the game is approximately 160 MB," Aron explained, clarifying the reason for the quick installation.

Upon hearing this, Sarah cast a curious side-eye towards Aron, wondering about the nature of a game that took him months to create yet had a size comparable to a regular app.

However, she chose not to voice her thoughts and simply shifted her attention back to the computer.

Aron handed back control of the computer to her.

She launched the game, and to her amazement, it loaded and started within a few seconds, thanks to her computer being equipped with the latest technology.

"Wow!" Sarah exclaimed, surprised by the speed.

Aron remained silent as Sarah immersed herself in trying out the game, intending to explain its intricacies once she had experienced it firsthand.

After approximately thirty minutes of gameplay, Sarah couldn't contain her excitement and exclaimed, "This is going to be a massive hit!"

"I know, I know. Just calm down," Aron replied, soothing Sarah's enthusiasm.

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"How is it possible for a game of such small size to offer such a vast range of features?" Sarah asked in astonishment.

Despite its compact size, the game boasted incredibly detailed and stunning graphics, mesmerizing music, and an otherworldly story. It seemed as though every aspect had been meticulously crafted by a computer with an eerie understanding of human preferences, resulting in an addictive experience for anyone who played the game.

"The size of the game is small because it doesn't include the full story upon download," Aron explained, shedding some light on the reason, though not revealing all the details.

"Then, do users have to continuously download updates in order to continue playing the game?" Sarah inquired, expressing her concern about potential drawbacks if players were required to constantly update the game.

"You're partially right, but not entirely," Aron replied, causing Sarah's expression to change multiple times.

"How does it work then?" Sarah pressed for further clarification.

"In order to play the game, it is necessary for users' devices to have the GAIA OS as their operating system," Aron explained.

"Does it involve the OS's virtual assistant?" Sarah queried.

"Yes, the updates will be handled by the device's virtual assistant. This means that the virtual assistant will continuously download and remove certain elements from the game while ensuring that the game size remains under 250 MB," Aron elaborated.

"Wouldn't that make the game consume a significant amount of internet data, leading to a decrease in the number of players?" Sarah voiced her concern.

"Does it involve the OS's virtual assistant?" Sarah queried.

"Yes, the updates will be handled by the device's virtual assistant. This means that the virtual assistant will continuously download and remove certain elements from the game while ensuring that the game size remains under 250 MB," Aron elaborated.

"Wouldn't that result in the game consuming a substantial amount of internet data, potentially leading to a decline in the player base?" Sarah expressed her concern.

"You don't need to worry about that. The monthly updates performed by the virtual assistants will only be around ten MB in size, which is negligible," Aron reassured.

"Is the entire game complete?" Sarah asked, wanting to know the status of the game, as her subsequent question would depend on Aron's response.

"Yes," Aron replied, awaiting the next question.

"Then, besides the size consideration, why is there a need for constant updates instead of releasing the complete game?" Sarah asked, posing her second question.

"Here is the thing" Aron said and paused a bit thinking about how he can explain it easily to her and continued

"The game features what you might call an open map, with hundreds, if not thousands, of interconnected storylines. To accommodate all of these stories and diverse gameplay experiences, I designed the game to allow the virtual assistant in each player's device to continuously download updates tailored specifically to that player," Aron explained, taking a moment to catch his breath before continuing.

"One of the reasons behind this approach is to make the game accessible to a wide range of players, including casual gamers who might be deterred by a large initial download size. Additionally, the game's storyline will always be unique depending on how it is played, the device used, and the specific storyline followed," he elaborated.

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Aron paused, allowing Sarah to process the information and ask further questions. However, he withheld one more reason—the continuous acquisition of "sp" in the game.

Indeed, these frequent small updates performed automatically by the virtual assistants in players' devices will continuously generate sp for Aron. While the amount of sp earned per device during each update may be as low as 0.001 or even less, the cumulative effect becomes significant when considering the large number of devices expected to be playing the game and receiving updates.

This approach enables Aron to accumulate sp gradually and consistently without the need to release new and disruptive products to the public every time he requires more sp.

It grants him the freedom to control the timing and manner in which he unveils new technologies to the public.

Having heard Aron's reasonable explanation, Sarah nodded her head, indicating that she had comprehended his explanation.

"Can you explain the storyline of the game?" Sarah inquired, realizing that her brief experience of playing the game for only half an hour hadn't provided her with a solid understanding of its foundation. Nevertheless, she found herself already hooked and intrigued by its addictive nature.

"When you started the game, you selected your character and answered a series of questions, right?" Aron asked.

"Yes," Sarah nodded in confirmation.

"Based on your choices, the virtual assistant sends the information to the game server, where it calculates the most suitable storyline for you and sends an update tailored to your character before you officially begin gameplay. This update includes specific storylines, cutscenes, and various other elements.

As you make decisions and choices throughout the game, your storyline will continue to evolve, creating a unique experience for each player. These individual storylines will eventually intertwine into the game's overarching storyline, transforming it into a massive multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) in the future.

For a more detailed explanation, I will send you an email outlining everything," Aron concluded his explanation.

"Sure, I'll be waiting for the email. Regarding the management of the game's content, considering its size, do we need to establish a dedicated department, or can the game handle everything similar to the GAIA OS?" Sarah inquired.

"While most tasks will be automated and handled by the AI, such as preparing seasonal events and special offers, there will still be a need for someone to oversee the overall operation. You can create a small team to fulfill this role," Aron explained.

"Understood. I will take care of that," Sarah replied, indicating her understanding and willingness to manage the team.

They continued their discussion about the game until they shifted their focus to the topic of advertising.

"When it comes to advertising the game, I suggest we leverage the GAIA OS as a means of reaching a wider audience faster," Sarah proposed, sharing her idea on how they should approach the advertising strategy.

"Sure, you can do that," Aron agreed to her suggestion.

"Okay then, we will start the process of planning the advertisement and selecting the release date of the game before initiating the campaign," Sarah explained her proposed plan.

"Sure, as always, I trust your judgment. I have another trip scheduled in the upcoming weeks," Aron replied, entrusting Sarah with the responsibility, as he often did.

"Alright, I'll inform you when we're ready to begin the plan," Sarah confirmed.

"Mh..." Aron nodded, acknowledging her words.

Having agreed on the course of action, Sarah asked "When will your parents and Henry be returning?" changing the topic to something else.

"It's uncertain at the moment, but they will definitely be back at least a week before Henry's school reopens," Aron replied, indicating that there is no fixed return date set for them during their vacation.

They continued their conversation on various topics, and after having lunch together in the company cafeteria, Aron bid farewell to Sarah and embarked on his journey back home.

...….

Universal simulation.

Upon arriving home, Aron wasted no time and immediately logged in to the Universal Simulation.

[Sir, why haven't you informed Sarah about the new program? Wouldn't it make it easier for you to explain certain things to her?] Nova asked as Aron settled into the seat she had materialized for him upon his arrival.

"At the moment, I cannot disclose the details to Sarah. My plan is to have a conversation with both her and Felix once we have completed the company's relocation to Eden and they have signed a runic contract.

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I am avoiding it at the moment due to the risk that Sarah could be targeted, arrested, or even kidnapped, potentially leading to interrogation and the unintended disclosure of our secret.

Therefore, I have decided to postpone the discussion until after the move to Eden, where I can ensure their complete security and safety," Aron explained.

Aron knew the importance of informing Sarah and Felix, as their knowledge would help them avoid making mistakes or engaging in actions they might perceive as helpful but could ultimately be harmful due to their lack of awareness.

"That's true," Nova agreed, as she materialized two computers for both of them to continue playing the game from where they had left off.

They were really getting addicted to it.

...

While Aron was playing games with Nova, the real world was talking about him and he was trending on social media.

[ Therealone]

Hey Twitter fam! Guess what? We just had a visit from the legendary Aron, the young new billionaire, at GaiaTechnology! ?

.

#GaiaTech #AronVisit #TechLife #TechDeity #VisionaryLeader #TechGuru #TechAndFun #PushingBoundaries #Inspiration #TechRevolution #DreamBig #TechLegends

This tweet became the spark that ignited a heated discussion about him. Numerous individuals replied to the tweet, expressing their admiration or disdain with their own thoughts and opinions. The tweet quickly garnered attention and became the center of intense debate.

[ reallycurious]

That aside, I'm really curious why he is not seen publicly like many other tech geniuses?

#AronVisit #Curious

Someone asked the question that is in many of the people's minds.

[ TechEnthusiast101]

Maybe he wants to create a mysterious image to keep people intrigued. It's all part of his strategy!

#AronVisit #MysteriousGenius

[ IntrovertTechie]

Perhaps he's just naturally shy and prefers to let his work speak for itself. Not everyone seeks the limelight.

#AronVisit #ShyGenius

[ KnowledgeSeeker99]

I heard a rumor that he was expelled from his university for fabricating a thesis. Maybe he's afraid of that coming to light.

#AronVisit #Rumors

But the response that garnered the most attention from people was...

[ Therealone]

I studied with him in the same class (Picture down in case of evidence). It is true that he was expelled due to fabricating a thesis during his final year. So, I think it might be because he is still afraid of it coming to light.

#AronVisit #ClassmateRevelation

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[ AronFansUnite]

That's absolutely false! Aron's achievements speak for themselves. Let's not spread baseless rumors.

#AronVisit #SupportAron

[ JealousHater123]

I always knew there was something fishy about him! Expelled for fabricating a thesis? Who knows what else he's lying about!

#AronVisit #Exposed

[ TechWatcher]

These accusations are outrageous! Aron has revolutionized the tech industry with his innovations. Let's focus on his contributions, not false claims.

#AronVisit #Innovator

While this was happening, Nova, who was utilizing a portion of her computing power, observed the situation unfold without intervening. She didn't want to draw more attention to Aron by getting involved in the argument. She remained a silent observer, keeping a close eye on the unfolding events.

Two weeks later.

With a bag slung over his shoulder, Aron departed from his house and began his journey out of the neighborhood, making his way towards the meeting location.

Upon witnessing Aron's departure, Donald promptly headed towards the garage, intending to retrieve the car and offer him a ride to his intended destination.

Observing Donald's actions, Aron raised his hand in a gesture of refusal and spoke, "No need for that. I will be going alone this time."

Donald, acknowledging Aron's decision, halted in his tracks and "Sure sir, Have a good day" bidding Aron farewell.

Aron reciprocated, "You too," before resuming his stride.

Having walked approximately a kilometer, Aron arrived at a restaurant and approached the staff, politely requesting to use the restroom. The restaurant staff kindly granted permission and provided him with directions to the facilities.

After stepping into the restroom, Aron swiftly activated the concealment rune, effectively rendering himself hidden from sight.

He then departed from the restroom, leaving the restaurant behind, and discreetly walked past the car that had been tailing him since he left his house.

Curious about the situation, he asj-ked Nova "Are they FBI?"

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Nova responded, [Yes, sir, and they are not the only ones].

Without uttering another word, Aron continued his walk in a concealed state for another twenty minutes.

Once sure that there were no prying eyes he deactivated the concealment rune and hailed a taxi to transport him to his intended destination.

After a half-hour taxi ride, Aron reached his destination and alighted from the vehicle, settling the fare with the driver.

Once he ensured that there were no onlookers nearby, he activated the concealment rune once more, resuming his concealed journey on foot.

His walk led him to a hotel, which he had exclusively rented to accommodate John's and his fellow stay, prior to commencing their gradual movements towards Eden.

...

30 minutes ago.

John was engaging in a conversation with a group of his fellow members, their friendship forged by their shared interests and commonalities.

Another reason was that they were all now considered subordinates of Aron.

"So, just when I was about to pull the trigger, he ….." "DING" in the midst of sharing an intriguing anecdote his storytelling was abruptly halted by a sudden notification that resonated across the group, signifying that the incoming message was intended for all of them.

Without any delay, each member swiftly retrieved their mobile phones and opened them to see the contents of the received message.

The message that appeared on their screens simply stated: "[I will be arriving in half an hour. I will meet you all in the conference room]."

The message prompted everyone to swiftly retreat to their respective rooms, ensuring they were attired in appropriate and respectful clothing.

Without a moment's delay, they converged upon the conference room, calmly taking their seats and patiently waiting for his arrival.

...

In his concealed state, Aron stealthily walked past the hotel reception without drawing any attention and proceeded directly to the conference room, where everyone waited for his arrival.

At the entrance to the conference room, Aron dispelled the concealment rune, allowing his presence to be revealed. With a decisive gesture, he opened the door and entered the room, joining the waiting group.

As Aron stepped into the room, Instantly, everyone within the room rose from their seats, assuming an attentive posture and keeping their gaze fixed on the composed figure of Aron.

Undeterred by the attention, Aron continued his steady stride towards the stage, maintaining his calm demeanor.

Upon reaching the stage, he turned towards them and said, "Good morning."

"GOOD MORNING, SIR," they responded in perfect unison, their voices harmonizing seamlessly as if they had rehearsed the precise timing beforehand.

"Is everyone present?" he asked.

"YES, SIR," they replied in unison.

"Excellent. Take your seats," Aron said, a contented smile gracing his face as he observed the reverential expressions on their faces.

Receiving the command, they promptly took their seats, executing a synchronized movement that exemplified their unity and discipline.

"Today marks the occasion of our first gathering, where I am meeting all of you in one place," Aron began, addressing the attentive assembly. "This also signifies the official commencement of your service as members of my esteemed force."

Everyone in the room started clapping.

WHen they finished clapping, Aron continued "Without further ado, let us proceed with the selection of a leader who will act as the intermediary between you all and myself, relaying orders and ensuring their execution," Aron continued, pausing momentarily to gauge their reactions.

He then turned his gaze towards John and said "John", prompting John to stand promptly.

Aron's expression conveyed trust and confidence as he continued, "John, you have been chosen for this crucial position due to your esteemed status as the first among my forces and your unparalleled strength amongst your peers."

"YES, SIR," John responded with a resolute voice, brimming with conviction. His words carried a promise of unwavering loyalty, an assurance of never faltering, and a deep sense of gratitude towards Aron.

Aron's trust in John was the result of the report Nova had shared after analyzing John's brain data.

Nova's analysis revealed that John, at present, exhibited traits of unwavering devotion, positioning him as a dedicated fanatic who would dutifully carry out any orders entrusted to him by Aron.

"Good, you can sit," Aron instructed, and without hesitation, John promptly sat down.

As Aron cast his gaze upon the remaining members, he discerned an unmistakable expression of contentment on their faces.

It was evident that each one of them recognized John's exceptional strength, as they had engaged in friendly competition during the time they were waiting for Aron to visit.

Through his charisma and exemplary conduct, John had already garnered their acknowledgment as a de facto leader even before Aron officially designated him as such.

"Edward," Aron called, and without any delay, Edward promptly stood up and awaited further instructions.

"You will assume the responsibility of procuring weapons for your fellow members," Aron stated, assigning Edward the crucial task. "The composition of your team will be revealed to you once the meeting concludes."

"YES, SIR," Edward responded with prompt obedience, swiftly retaking his seat as instructed.

Aron proceeded to call out the names of individuals, each one promptly rising from their seat upon hearing their name. He then proceeded to assign them their respective positions as he continued addressing the group.

What instilled a sense of awe was the fact that Aron assigned positions to individuals with an uncanny accuracy, aligning each person with a role that best suited their abilities.

It became evident that Aron possessed a profound understanding of their capabilities, surpassing even their own awareness of each other's strengths and talents.

This process persisted for over 10 minutes as Aron meticulously filled all the available positions with individuals who had the necessary qualifications within the group.

"As for the remaining individuals, all of you being combat personnel, you will be organized into groups of twenty, each with a designated leader and assistant leader. This allocation will be determined by the end of this meeting," Aron declared, his gaze shifting towards those who had yet to receive their assigned tasks.

He proceeded, "In the following weeks, your mission will commence, starting with each of you traveling to Eden in batches. This will serve as the initial phase of your preparation, allowing you to ready yourselves for the forthcoming mission." Aron paused, creating a moment of anticipation as every individual in the room fixed their attention on his impending words..

"Today marks the inception of your journey, one that will instill fear in your enemies and inspire admiration among your allies. Henceforth, you shall be recognized by the name ARES," Aron declared, officially bestowing upon them a name that would signify their identity and purpose.

An eruption of excitement reverberated throughout the room as applause filled the air. The members were elated to learn that their forces had been named after the god of war, Ares.

Aron then delivered a brief speech, commemorating the establishment of the private military corporation (PMC) and acknowledging the collective efforts of the assembled members.

With his closing remarks, the meeting concluded, leaving an atmosphere charged with determination and purpose.

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"As you depart from the room, ensure to collect a contract and carefully review its terms and conditions. If you find them acceptable, sign the document. However, if any modifications are desired, visit me after I conclude the meeting with your respective leaders," Aron instructed, gesturing towards the bag he had brought along. 𝒃𝙚𝒅𝒏𝙤𝙫𝒆𝒍．𝙘𝒐𝙢

One by one, the members rose from their seats and began exiting the conference room.

As they passed by the bag, they each retrieved a contract, although they regarded it as a mere formality.

The contracts held no legal binding in any recognized jurisdiction since the company was unregistered, leaving the enforcement solely in the hands of the company itself.

Yet, the thought of challenging these agreements never crossed their minds, for they were acutely aware of Aron's formidable capabilities and were hesitant to test the boundaries of his power.

Unbeknownst to them, as the members retrieved their contracts they radiated a subtle golden glow. Aron had crafted these contracts over the past week during the intervals when he had taken breaks from playing the game with Nova.

After the departure of the other members, a select group of about 10 individuals remained in the room as instructed by Aron.

Among them were John, Edward, and a few others who had been assigned official positions during the meeting.

Aron, dragging a chair closer to the group, planning to provide them with detailed briefings regarding their specific tasks.

"Alright, gentlemen, now that we have commenced our operations, it is crucial that you thoroughly briefed on your respective responsibilities," Aron began talking to them.

After the departure of the other members, a select group of about 10 individuals remained in the room as instructed by Aron.

Among them were John, Edward, and a few others who had been assigned official positions during the meeting.

Aron, dragging a chair closer to the group, planning to provide them with detailed briefings regarding their specific tasks.

"Alright, gentlemen, now that we have commenced our operations, it is crucial that you thoroughly briefed on your respective responsibilities," Aron began talking to them.

Turning his attention to John, Aron conveyed the upcoming plans. "John, in two days, you will be part of the first group, alongside myself, heading to Eden. I have arranged for you and Edward to meet some new acquaintances who will ensure your transition and stay there are as seamless as possible," Aron informed him.

"Yes, sir," John responded, dutifully acknowledging the instructions given to him.

Aron retrieved a stack of paper from his bag, about the size of a finger and comprising around 200 pages. He handed it over to John, remarking, "Inside this document, you will find everything you need to know in order to initiate the operations of our group."

Aron then added, "Read through it and dispose of it by the end of tomorrow. I trust your ability to remember everything, considering the changes that have occurred since the day I treated you," implying that Aron was aware of the transformations John had undergone following his treatment.

"Yes, sir," John responded respectfully, accepting the folder with both hands and placing it on his lap.

Aron then redirected his attention to Edward and said, "Regarding the weapons procurement, you and the team selected to work with you will need to travel to Syria and Afghanistan for this mission. Make sure to acquire only the latest weaponry available. I don't want any outdated weapons in the hands of my forces."

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He reached into his bag and pulled out another stack of papers, approximately half the size of the one given to John, and handed it to Edward. Aron continued, "Inside this folder, you will find the names and locations of weapons smugglers who can provide you with the latest gear in the market. Additionally, there are several Swiss bank account details to facilitate the financial transactions. Don't worry about the cost; just procure what is necessary."

Aron paused momentarily before adding, "Regarding the transportation of the weapons, there is a preliminary plan outlined in the documents. However, it will soon be modified as you will receive assistance from Eden's army to smuggle the weapons into the country. You will need to wait for the updated plan before making any movements. In the meantime, you can start training based on the initial plan, and only retrain the modified parts once the new plan is sent."

Edward nodded and replied, "You can trust us, sir. We will ensure the procurement process is carried out safely and securely."

Aron looked at Edward intently and emphasized, "Keep your phones nearby during the weapons transfer. This will enable me to disable any devices that could potentially transmit digital signals, preventing anyone from tracing the location where the weapons are being sent."

"Yes, sir," Edward responded.

"Walter, as you are responsible for communications, you will also be among the first people going to Eden. Your primary task will be to maintain communications between the Eden army and Ares during the next three months leading up to the mission. After that, your responsibilities will be updated," Aron explained to Walter, handing him a stack of papers containing further details about his task.

"Yes, sir," Walter replied respectfully, accepting the stack of papers.

Aron proceeded to give the remaining members their respective orders, ensuring they had a clear understanding of their responsibilities. He provided them with a stack of papers containing detailed information to support their comprehension.

As he concluded, Aron opened the floor for questions. Edward took the opportunity to seek clarification.

"Sir, I have a question," Edward spoke up.

Aron nodded, granting Edward permission to proceed.

"Do I need to maintain a relationship with the weapons smuggler for future arms procurement, or is that not necessary?" Edward inquired.

Aron paused for a moment, contemplating his response.

"While I anticipate us not needing to rely on them for future weapon purchases, it is wise to maintain a positive rapport with the smugglers as a precautionary measure. In the event that any issues arise with my plan for independent production, having a favorable connection established may prove beneficial," Aron explained, indicating his intention to phase out reliance on external sources.

"Understood, sir," Edward acknowledged

"Any more questions?" Aron inquired once again, scanning the faces of the remaining members. Silence filled the room, indicating that no further inquiries were forthcoming.

"Alright then, you may now resume your tasks. Remember, if you have any questions or require further clarification, feel free to contact me," Aron stated

With those final words, Aron stood up, resulting in the others doing the same. He made his way towards the door, but just as he took two steps, he activated a concealment rune. In an instant, he vanished from sight, leaving John and his comrades frozen in surprise. They watched as the door swung open and closed on its own.

...…

"That scared me," John muttered under his breath, momentarily taken aback by the mysterious disappearance of Aron. However, he quickly regained his composure, reminding himself of the task at hand.

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He returned to his room, finding a seat and carefully unfolding the document in his hands.

As John delved into the contents of the document, he realized its importance was even more than he previously thought.

It outlined the positions and responsibilities of each member within ARES, providing a comprehensive overview of their tasks and duties.

It became clear to John that Aron intended him to be the sole individual entrusted with this complete knowledge of the organization.

The document also contained crucial information about their arrival in Eden, including the specific warehouses that needed modification to cater to their temporary needs.

These needs encompassed training facilities, accommodation arrangements, and secure storage for their weapons, among other necessities.

John spent the remainder of the night studying the document. Thanks to his enhanced memory, he absorbed every detail, etching the information deep into his mind.

Upon reaching the final page and confirming that he had internalized every aspect, he picked up the match on the table.

Carefully igniting the match, John watched as the flame danced and consumed the document. He maintained a vigilant gaze until every last page was reduced to ashes.

Finally, he discarded the remnants into the waste bin, ensuring no trace of the document remained.

...

After returning home, Aron followed his usual routine and logged into the Universal simulation.

"Is there anything I need to take care of in America before heading to Eden?" He asked.

[No, but There is something else that occurred while you were away,] Nova reported.

"What happened?"

[While you were away, the FBI tapped into the fiber optic wires connecting me to the internet. They are attempting to intercept and monitor all the data you send out from home.] She reported.

"At last they made their move. Did they manage to intercept anything important?" Aron asked, unsurprised by their chosen course of action.

He knew that the only options left for them were either kidnapping him or targeting his family, both of which were heavily protected. However, he understood that this action was not guaranteed to succeed.

[They have intercepted all the encrypted communication I had in the past 4 hours between me and the company's server,] Nova reported.

"Then it will take them a few centuries to decrypt them," Aron said, smiling at the futile attempts the government was making to gain blackmail material.

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[Yes] Nova answered laughing together with him.

"If that's the only issue, then I can consider it resolved. There's nothing else that requires my presence to be solved, right?" Aron asked.

"Yes," Nova confirmed.

...….

The next day, John gathered all the ARES members in the same conference room where they had met with Aron the previous day.

He distributed printed papers to each member and addressed them, saying, "These papers contain the names of everyone and their assigned positions, including the batch and day you will be heading to Eden.

After learning your position and day of travel, immediately start your preparations for the journey. Once your preparations are complete, thoroughly search your room for any sensitive material or potential clues regarding our operations or destination. Dispose of them by burning them to ensure no traces remain. I expect a clean sweep before my final inspection tomorrow morning. Is that clear?"

"YES!" they replied in unison.

"You are dismissed," John said before leaving the conference room and returning to his own room.

Everyone else stayed behind and started reading the papers to find out their assigned positions and the day they would be moving to Eden.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking. We are now approaching our final destination, Eden. Please ensure that your seatbelts are securely fastened and your tray tables are stowed as we prepare for landing.

The weather in Eden is a balmy 25 degrees Celsius with clear skies, providing a warm welcome for all our visitors. We kindly ask that you remain seated and refrain from using any electronic devices until we have reached the gate.

Thank you for choosing American Airlines, and we hope you've enjoyed your flight." As the pilot's voice faded away, Aron, sitting on the window seat, turned his head to gaze outside to see the airport they would be landing.

And there it was, the country's one and only international airport. Its small size almost deceived him into believing it was a mere airstrip for smaller planes. However, what set it apart was its expansive runway, designed to accommodate the landing of large aircraft, and a handful of gates capable of welcoming and servicing these planes.

The remaining facilities at the airport were remarkably antiquated. In fact, airlines traveling to Eden were compelled to redirect their return flights to Esparia, a neighboring destination that had made some investments in its airport infrastructure compared to Eden.

This diversion was necessary to refuel their aircraft and minimize the risk of the potential damage that could arise from utilizing the outdated equipment in Eden.

Nevertheless, the airport in Eden maintains its certification from both IATA and ICAO, thereby attesting to its approval for international flights.

"GRFDGHHHH" With a screeching howl, the tires protested as the plane made contact with the deteriorating runway that was on the brink of disqualification in its upcoming inspection as the aircraft struggled to decelerate and begin the plane to a stop.

As the plane came to a rest and began taxiing towards the gate to facilitate passenger disembarkation, a sense of impatience overcame many individuals on board. wanting to leave first, they started opening the overhead compartments to retrieve their belongings and positioned themselves near the exit door.

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This prompted the flight attendants to intervene, instructing the passengers to remain seated. Though reluctantly, they begrudgingly complied with the attendants' orders.

Aron and the members of Ares simply observed the unfolding absurd situation without making any gestures or taking any action.

Following the plane's complete halt, they proceeded to disembark, undergoing the customary checks and passing through airport security that was so sloppy it would make terrorists orgasm just from thinking on how they could exploit it.

They were greeted by Felix, who had arranged a rental bus and another car to welcome and transport them to the hotel where they will be staying temporarily before their activities commenced.

"Welcome," Felix said as he embraced Aron, having not seen his friend for a long time.

"Thanks," Aron replied, returning the hug, as he had also missed his friend dearly.

"How was your flight?" Felix asked.

"The journey started off smoothly, but things took a turn for the worse once we entered Eden's airspace," Aron said as he turned to the Ares members and glanced at the bus, signaling them to proceed. They quickly comprehended his gesture, swiftly shifting their belongings to the bus's luggage compartment and boarding the vehicle.

"Hahaha, I can totally relate! When I first arrived here, I thought we were going to overshoot the runway based on the unsettling noise the plane made during landing," Felix chuckled, finding humor in Aron's explanation. He shared a similar experience he had when he first came to Eden.

"I'm genuinely amazed that no major incidents have occurred given the subpar maintenance standards," Aron commented, as he made his way towards the Range Rover that Felix had brought along.

"That's because there are only five weekly flights to and from Eden, connecting with America and several other countries, due to the imposed sanctions and the warnings issued by the U.S. Department of State's Consular Affairs," Felix explained, sharing his assumption. "As a result, the limited number of flights reduces the chances where accidents could potentially occur."

"They really need to address this issue before something catastrophic happens and the country becomes completely isolated from international airlines. This airport is the only one with a long enough runway to accommodate these international flights," Aron expressed as they boarded the car, his worry evident as he contemplated the potential risks that could arise within the next three months, jeopardizing his carefully planned endeavors by attracting the world's attention due to an accident.

"Do you think the dictator would be willing to invest money here, considering the airport is operating at a loss?" Felix asked, taking control of the car as the bus carrying Ares members closely trailed behind.

"No, I don't believe so. He is excessively driven by greed, unable to envision long-term plans and solely focused on short-term gains," Aron replied, recalling the details he possessed about the dictator, which he had even shared with Felix to aid in his efforts to persuade Adolf to agree to their proposed deal of acquiring the companies.

"So, who are the individuals accompanying you? I hope it's not a secret," Felix inquired, his face expressing curiosity.

"They're here for various missions unrelated to your job, so don't worry," Aron replied in a playful tone, deliberately withholding any further details about their identities or purposes.

"Does it relate to what you had in mind when you asked me to come and assist with acquiring the companies and providing free internet to the citizens?" Felix asked, attempting to convey to Aron that while he may not have full knowledge of his plans, he had developed a hypothesis supported by compelling assumptions based on his understanding of Aron as a friend.

He wanted to avoid any potential issues that might arise if Aron were to discover that he knew something and hadn't disclosed it.

"Seems like you're still well-oiled and haven't rusted," Aron chuckled, finding his attempt to feign surprise at Felix's knowledge quite amusing.

After a brief bout of laughter, Aron regained his composure and said, "Yes, your assumption is correct. They are here for that task." Felix let out a sigh of relief, yet at the same time, his mind became further scrambled with a mixture of fear and uncertainty regarding what his friend was becoming.

"Seems like the FISA has played tricks on your mind," Felix remarked, acknowledging that Aron had been compelled to make such drastic moves as a result of being backed into a corner.

"That was merely the straw that broke the camel's back. Even if they hadn't taken such actions and forced me into these drastic measures, I would have still found a way to regain control over my affairs, albeit in a slightly different manner," Aron explained to his friend, clarifying his motivations.

"Is it because of what happened at school and with Rottem?" Felix inquired, seeking to understand the circumstances that led to Aron's shifting mindset.

"Yes, at that time all I had was my head and Rottem just swooped in and took down every plan that I had planned after graduation just because I irritated him and I had no background to support me and stop him from doing it & immediately after being before I even got used to the life I got shot had my program stolen by two different countries before the idea of lobbying left my mind and went into action. " Aron paused for a moment as he laughed at his nativity of that period and before he said "They hit while I was down TWICE"

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"Yes, during that time, all I had was my dreams, but Rottem came in and dismantled every plan I had made for life after graduation simply because I irritated him.

I had no influential background to protect me or prevent him from doing so. And just when I was starting to adapt to my new life, I was abruptly shot, and my program was stolen in two different ways by two different countries just as the mere idea of lobbying had crossed my mind, but was yet to be put into action," Aron explained, pausing for a moment as he chuckled at his own naivety during that period. He then added, "They struck while I was down, not once, but twice."

"If that's the case, it might seem like everyone is out to get what's yours," Felix remarked, nodding in agreement as he comprehended that Aron's situation was more complex than he had initially hypothesized, extending beyond just the involvement of the FISA.

"When the incident with Rottem occurred, and he attempted to force me to repay the scholarship loan with exorbitant interest rates, there was one person who stood his ground, even though he didn't know me.

Unfortunately, that individual ended up losing his job for some made-up reasons, which ultimately destroyed his livelihood," Aron explained, highlighting the fact that not everyone was against him.

"What happened to him?" Felix asked, surprised that there was someone courageous enough to oppose the arrogant Rottem at the university despite them not being a professor.

"Of course, I had to repay him, even though he didn't directly ask for it. I had Sarah hire him as the head of HR for the company, offering a generous salary and a substantial bonus last year," Aron responded, emphasizing that he was not one to forget expressing his gratitude towards others.

"If you're aware of someone attempting to assist you, then it means that you were the one who exposed the dirt on Rottem, right?" Felix asked, wearing a smile as he recalled how the news about Rottem had been made public.

"Yes, I thought you were already aware of that," Aron replied.

"If you're aware of someone attempting to assist you, then it means that you were the one who exposed the dirt on Rottem, right?" Felix asked, wearing a smile as he recalled how the news about Rottem had been made public.

"Yes, I thought you were already aware of that," Aron replied.

"Assuming something and hearing it directly from you are two different things," Felix responded, indicating that although he had suspected it was Aron, it reminded an assumption as he had not received confirmation directly from him.

"I had to repay him for what he had done to me, and even go beyond that. He tried to ruin my future, and I ruined his. However, I will handle things differently from him," Aron stated in a neutral tone.

"How?" Felix asked, curiosity evident in his voice as he sought clarification on what Aron meant by handling things differently.

"I will ensure that he remains down. Currently, I'm waiting for him to gather himself and rise up again, only to swiftly bring him crashing back down.

It's more satisfying when you have something, only to have it taken away, and just when you've rebuilt yourself, you're struck down once more," Aron said, a sadistic smile creeping across his face as he envisioned the evidence he had prepared to strike Rottem with once he had fully recovered from the previous blow.

The smile on Aron's face sent shivers down Felix's spine, making him realize that Aron had no intention of forgiving Rottem anytime soon.

"Does Sarah know about this?" Felix asked.

"Not at the moment. I'm waiting for this plan to yield results and for the company's registration and headquarters to be moved to Eden before I brief both of you about everything," Aron replied as he leaned out of the window, his attention caught by an advertising banner.

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Felix smiled upon hearing that they would be briefed in detail, relieved that he wouldn't have to rely solely on assumptions to fill in the missing pieces.

As he noticed Aron's attention being drawn to a billboard, he also took a glance to see what it was about. When he saw it, a smile formed on his face and he said, "We're still promoting the free internet offer on the roads leading to and from the airports, ensuring that those arriving in Eden are informed and can register quickly."

"By now, every Edenian with a smartphone has already switched to GAIA OS and is still enjoying the free internet," Felix said, feeling a sense of pride. However, his tone quickly turned to anger as he added, "But the dictator's aides are still pressuring us to shut it down as soon as possible. It looks like Adolf is having a stroke at the thought of the money he would have earned if it wasn't for it." 𝓫𝓮𝒹𝓷ℴ𝓿ℯ𝓵.𝓬ℴ𝓶

"Don't worry, they won't be bothering you for much longer," Aron said, with assurance in his tone.

"I understand," Felix replied, choosing to patiently wait until the day Aron had promised to reveal everything. He knew that the answers he sought regarding the inconsistencies in Aron's plans would be provided in due time.

During the rest of the journey, they shifted their conversation to other topics, knowing that it was necessary to change the subject or else Felix might get into an accident.

Upon their arrival at the hotel, the members of Ares wasted no time. They swiftly checked in and immediately proceeded to their assigned rooms to rest.

They had to do so in order to begin their mission tomorrow with a body full of energy.

As for Felix, he bid Aron farewell and returned to the office, as he still had some work to do. He had personally come to welcome Aron at the airport because they hadn't seen each other in a long time. If it weren't for that, he would have simply sent proxies to carry out the task, as Aron had requested.

After bidding his farewell to Felix, Aron took the elevator and proceeded to his room.

Upon entering the room, Aron placed the bag he had brought near the bed and then sat down on the bed. He reached into his pocket and took out his phone.

"Call Alexander," he said, bringing the phone to his ear and waiting for the call to connect.

Triiiiiii. Triiiiiiii. Triiiiiiiii.

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"Hello," Alexander said immediately after answering the phone.

"Hello, how is everything going?" Aron asked.

"Everything is proceeding as planned, but the leadership members are causing some issues. They are insisting on an immediate meeting with you, or else they may consider betraying you once the operation is completed," Alexander explained the situation to Aron, being transparent and not concealing any details.

"I'm already in Eden and can meet with them. How about next week? I will be done with my work by then. It is better that I address their concerns sooner rather than later in case some of them decide to sabotage everything out of arrogance," Aron suggested.

"Yes, next week works. I will make sure they are ready for the meeting," Alexander replied respectfully.

"Also you don't have to worry about their opinions and I'm sure you know that we can do everything we planned without their participation. At most, it will delay the plan by a few days only" Aron reminded Alexander that only he was needed as for the remainder they were replaceable.

"I understand that, but for the next steps after the coup to proceed as smoothly as possible, we will need their support. They hold the trust of the initial members who occupy leadership positions in most of our offices. While they also trust me, if they unite and attempt to obstruct our plans, it could escalate into unnecessary violence and create temporary obstacles," Alexander responded calmly to Aron, indicating that he wasn't afraid of the dissenting members, but rather concerned about the potential bloodshed and short-term difficulties that their defiance and instigation could cause.

Hearing this, Aron nodded, satisfied with Alexander's reasoning and chosen course of action. Shortly after, he said, "Then see you on Monday next week for the meeting," bidding farewell to Alexander before ending the call.

Following the call, Aron retrieved the VR headset from the bag nearby. He positioned himself comfortably on the bed and logged in to do final checks on the plan.

[Welcome, sir,] greeted Nova as Aron passed through the gate, taking a seat on the chair that Nova had materialized for him.

"Thanks," Aron replied, taking a seat. He then asked, "Have the locations of the generals already been determined?"

[Yes, their security is practically non-existent. They are using an outdated private communication network, and currently relying on CONNECT's services just like civilians. This makes it very easy for me to know their locations and what they are up to in real-time,] Nova replied.

"Good. Show it to me," Aron said, wanting to see the locations of the generals.

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Nova materialized a hologram displaying a map of Eden, with a concentration of red dots indicating the location of the generals.

"What are they doing in that building?" Aron asked, noticing the significant concentration of red dots in a single building on the map.

[They are discussing the upcoming military parade and vying for the position of leading the army inspection alongside the dictator,] Nova replied.

"Isn't it customary for the highest-ranking general to conduct the inspection alongside the country's leader?" Aron asked, expressing his surprise at the revelation that they were competing for the position.

[The previous dictator abolished that position and instead opted to have only the heads of each branch of the Military as the highest positions, in order to prevent any one individual from having complete control over the armed forces,] Nova explained, sharing the information she had gathered.

[This decision has led to heavy competition among the underfunded three branches, as they vie for the attention of the dictator in hopes of securing more funding for their branch, which will increase the amount of money they can then embezzle for their personal gain.]

"The previous dictator was indeed astute, unlike his current unintelligent son who is driven solely by greed and lacks any form of oversight," Aron remarked, recalling the information he had acquired through the private investigators he had hired.

[At the moment, the country's stability relies solely on the loyal aides that were left behind by the previous dictator to support his son before his demise,] Nova concurred, acknowledging the significance of their role in preventing the nation from descending into chaos.

"But this is good for us, as any change we bring about following the removal of Adolf is bound to be an improvement over his reign," Aron said with a smile, expressing his excitement for the future.

"Anyway, tomorrow we begin with the plan, and since they are gathered in one place, it makes it even easier than I had previously expected," Aron said, feeling relieved that they were all gathered in one place, as due to constantly traveling between one location to another for the past few months, he was on the brink of starting to hate cars.

The next day.

Aron removed his virtual reality headset after Nova informed him that it was time for him to start preparing for his visit to the generals for his little unannounced meeting.

After placing the headset back in the bag, Aron activated the protection rune on it and proceeded to the bathroom to freshen up. He washed himself before changing into a fresh set of clothes.

He took the elevator to the lobby where he found John and Walter waiting for him. They had been there for over half an hour, patiently waiting for his arrival.

"Let's go," he said as he reached them, before heading towards the car that Felix had left for his use.

John and Walter followed him without complaining or mentioning the wait of more than half an hour.

"Allow me to take the wheel, sir," Walter offered when he noticed Aron approaching the driver's door. Being the lowest-ranked among them, he felt it was his duty to take on the driving responsibilities.

Aron nodded and made his way to the back door to board the car, where he found John had already opened it for him. Aron entered the car, followed by John and Walter. as each settled into their respective seats

When Walter boarded the car, he noticed that the destination was already set in the car's navigation system. Without uttering a word, he quietly started the engine, and with a nod from Aron, they began their journey.

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The journey was filled with silence, with the only sound that permeated the car being the soft hum of the engine and the occasional traffic noise from outside.

The lack of conversation persisted because of the hierarchical dynamics at play. Since Aron had not initiated any discussion, the others followed suit, adhering to the unspoken understanding that it was not their place to start a conversation with their

"Stop here," Aron instructed when they were approximately one kilometer away from their destination.

Walter silently maneuvered the car to a suitable spot and parked it. He then stepped out of the car, following Aron's lead as Aron and John exited the vehicle.

"From here on, we'll be walking as we don't have any reservations," Aron announced, facing Walter and John with a smile as he was enjoying the moment.

"Yes, sir," they replied obediently, without questioning the correlation between not having a reservation and the need to walk.

Aron then cast a concealment rune on all of them, although to John and his companion, it appeared as if Aron was simply raising his hands and uttering some words without any visible effect. However, given their complete trust in Aron, they made no attempt to interfere with his actions.

"Now no one will be able to see us until I cancel the rune, so keep that in mind," Aron informed them, ensuring they were aware of the temporary invisibility. While it would have been amusing to observe their reactions to their invisibility as they passed by people if he had not told them about it, he understood the need to prioritize the mission over personal enjoyment.

After delivering the information without giving them much time to process it, Aron took the lead and began walking towards the building. John and Walter, though caught off guard by the sudden revelation, followed closely behind him, their minds racing to digest the new information. They walked in silence, hoping to make sense of everything before they reached their destination.

Ten minutes later, they finally arrived at the gate of their destination: the central command building of the Eden's military in the capital city.

As they stood before the entrance of the central command building, they couldn't help but notice the grandeur of the structure. Like many dictators, Adolf had chosen to construct a massive military edifice to make a statement. The imposing building exuded an aura of authority, its facade meticulously designed to project power and dominance.

Aron understood that the grandeur was more than just a display; it served as a fa?ade, concealing the underlying cracks and corruption within the system and the people who operated within its walls.

On the other hand, John and Walter's attention was focused on something entirely different. They were astonished and amazed as they locked eyes with the heavily armed security forces guarding the gate. These guards seemed completely oblivious to their presence, behaving as if everything was normal and failing to acknowledge their existence right in front of them.

Aron allowed John and Walter to relish the experience for a few moments, savoring the surreal feeling of being completely unnoticed by the guards.

He patiently awaited the opportune moment to make their move. Shortly thereafter, the opportunity presented itself, and without hesitation, Aron declared, "Let's go in." With the sight of someone else being thoroughly searched and granted entry, the gate opened, providing Aron and his companions a seamless passage into the compound.

Taking the lead, Aron confidently passed through the gate, with John and Walter quietly following in his footsteps while trying to make a concerted effort to remain as discreet as possible, ensuring not to draw any attention from the guards who were completely unaware of their presence despite Aron having talked to them just moments ago.

...

"This year was supposed to be my turn, but why the heck do I have to come here and see you two trying to change this?" The Eden Air Force general exclaimed, his voice tinged with anger.

"As I mentioned last year, the leading position should be held by the one with the most powerful branch, as this is an event watched by the whole world. Therefore, I should be leading to ensure that we don't embarrass ourselves," the Army general stated, his tone and expression filled with pride.

"Just because you have the most members in the military doesn't automatically make you more important. I should be the one leading this year, just like I did last year because I am responsible for guarding the largest territory of our nation," retorted the Navy general, his words laced with a hint of irritation at the Army general's prideful boasting.

"We were discussing who would be leading the next parade. How does guarding the largest territory have anything to do with it? In 2012, we agreed to take turns leading the parade in chronological order, and both of you have already had your turns. Why do you want to break the agreement now that it's my turn? Don't you think that's hypocritical?" The Air Force general interjected, redirecting the conversation back to the topic of him leading the parade and emphasizing the agreed-upon arrangement rather than engaging in a size-based boast. He was aware of his weakness in that aspect and sought to regain control of the discussion.

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"Although the agreement may seem reasonable, upon further consideration, I disagree with you leading the parade. Your Air Force is nothing more than a name, lacking any substantial capabilities. Look, you only have five third-generation airplanes, and the rest of your arsenal consists of outdated equipment. Do you really think it's fitting for you to lead the parade with such a subpar Air Force backing you?" The army general said in a mocking tone.

"And let's not forget that those five aircraft have little to no airtime, constantly undergoing repairs. Due to that, they can also be considered outdated too" the Navy general added, aiming to undermine the Air Force general even further.

"Let's not kid ourselves here," the Air Force general retorted as the two other generals laughed after mocking him.

When their laughter subsided and their attention returned to him, he raised his finger and pointed it at the Navy general. "Your navy is nothing but a joke, equipped with World War II fleets that were either gifts or purchased for a bargain. The only difference between your ships and our fishermen's boats is that yours are made of metal and wood," he said, causing the Army general to start laughing once again.

However, the Army general's laughter was short-lived as the Air Force general's finger turned towards him, and he continued, "As for you, your army is armed with nothing but rusted equipment. They would have a better chance of winning a war if they fought with arrows and stones," he declared, striking a nerve with the Army general who slammed his hand on the table in anger.

The Air Force general paid no mind to their reactions as he pressed on, "We all know that the funding meant for our forces is being diverted to maintain Adolf's luxurious lifestyle and further arm his private forces. Based on their armament and investments alone, they could take on our combined forces and emerge victorious.

So there is nothing to feel proud about, whether you have the largest number of personnel or are tasked with guarding the largest territory. When your forces are incapable of fulfilling their duties, there is no reason to boast.

Therefore, as per our agreement, I will be the one leading the upcoming parade. Anyone who disagrees will witness whether these outdated airplanes are still capable of bombing the houses of certain generals," he concluded, his words laced with a threat. The more he spoke, the angrier he became, fueled by their previous mocking words.

"Wow, that was impressive," Aron exclaimed, materializing out of thin air and applauding. The sudden appearance of Aron caught the attention of the generals, leaving them frozen in their seats, a mixture of surprise and fear etched on their faces as they tried to comprehend how someone could appear out of nowhere.

Aron had been silently observing the heated exchange between the generals, accompanied by John and Walter, who were also relishing the experience of being in a room and listening to people without their knowledge.

When the air force general burned the shit out of the other generals "Wow, that was impressive," Aron exclaimed, materializing out of thin air and applauding.

The sudden appearance of Aron caught the attention of the generals, leaving them frozen in their seats, a mixture of surprise and fear etched on their faces as they tried to comprehend how someone could appear out of nowhere.

"Who are you?" the Army general shouted, his and the other generals' hands instinctively reaching for their hips where their guns would typically be. However, they quickly realized that they had surrendered their weapons before entering the room, a testament to the lack of trust among the generals.

"I'm Aron and you guys are?" Aron introduced himself and returned the question to them as he was enjoying this feeling of acting like a mysterious guy.

The air force general thinking fast started introducing himself "My name is Christopher Hartman and I'm the general of the Eden airforce" as his hand slowly slid under the table trying to press the button on it to call for the soldiers waiting outside.

Realizing Christopher's attempt to divert Aron's attention, the other generals swiftly introduced themselves, hoping to redirect the focus away from Christopher's actions.

"I am General Nathan Whitaker, in charge of the Eden Army," Nathan stated, his voice steady and composed.

"And I am General Ethan Sinclair, commanding the Eden Navy," Ethan added, maintaining his calm demeanor.

"You really shouldn't have done that," Aron stated, his gaze locked with Christopher's.

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Aron knew what Christopher did, but he chose to let it happen, aware that it would be time-consuming to convince them to sign the runic contract peacefully.

Instead, he saw this moment as an opportunity to demonstrate his power and coerce them into compliance. The stakes were high, and Aron wanted to make it clear that failure to cooperate would result in severe consequences for them all.

As the emergency button was pressed, a silent alarm was triggered, and within moments, the room filled with the sound of pounding on the door.

Aron swiftly turned his attention to John and Walter were still concealed, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Enjoy the show," he remarked, his voice filled with anticipation.

He then started making his way towards the door, where soldiers were desperately trying to breach the locked room.

As Aron stood just two steps away from the door, it finally succumbed to the overwhelming force and collapsed, unleashing a swarm of approximately fifteen armed guards poised to enter the room.

Without hesitation, Aron swiftly assessed the situation as the first soldier entered, recognizing that Aron was not among the generals. The soldier instinctively lowered his weapon, which had been pointed skyward, and redirected it towards Aron.

Seeing the soldier's actions, Aron deftly sidestepped while simultaneously grabbing hold of the soldier's outstretched arm, causing the soldier to inadvertently discharge his firearm, the bullet whizzing past Aron and striking Air Force General Christopher.

"ARGHHHHH!" Christopher cried out in agony as the bullet pierced his shoulder.

Seizing his advantage, Aron yanked the soldier towards him, and in one movement he kicked the guard's hip like a football, dislocating the soldier's limb and sending him sprawling across the room as he screamed in excruciating pain.

Wasting no time, Aron swiftly moved on to the next soldier, who was better prepared than his predecessor, firing his gun directly at Aron's face. Reacting with lightning speed, Aron activated a shield rune, swiftly positioning it to intercept the bullet's path and redirect the bullet. 𝗯𝗲𝗱𝗻𝐨𝐯𝗲𝗹.𝗰𝗼𝗺

The bullet ricocheted off the shield, changing direction and finding its mark on Navy General Ethan, who let out a sharp cry of pain.

Observing that his soldiers were only inflicting harm to the generals while Aron remained unscathed, Nathan swiftly sought refuge under the table, trembling and desperately hoping that the soldiers would be capable of handling the man who called himself Aron.

John and Walter watched the unfolding events in awe, unable to help but notice that Aron seemed to possess no formal fighting training. Yet, what struck them was his astonishing raw strength and speed, as they witnessed him effortlessly lifting a soldier with a single hand and hurling him towards the general hiding under the table, causing a thunderous crash upon impact. Simultaneously, Aron swiftly delivered a powerful kick to another soldier, propelling him through the air and crashing him against the wall.

They also observed that he had an uncanny ability to anticipate and evade kicks and punches, even reacting just microseconds before they landed, swiftly dodging the blows with remarkable precision. Astonishingly, not only did Aron evade these attacks, but he also counterattacked with equal swiftness and precision despite it still being clumsy.

Thirty seconds later, a resounding cry of pain echoed through the air, followed by a stifled groan. Aron had swiftly dislocated the last soldier's shoulder And before the soldier could even comprehend what had happened, Aron delivered a forceful punch to his stomach, resulting in an expulsion of the morning's meal as he doubled over in nausea and distress.

"Whooooh," Aron exhaled deeply, his body filled with adrenaline and excitement. "I really need to learn how to fight," he admitted, acknowledging his lack of combat skills.

As Aron surveyed the room, he was struck by the horrifying sight of gore and the devastation he had caused.

As he witnessed the scene, though it was minimal, he experienced a wave of nausea. However, he swiftly suppressed the urge and cast a healing spell on himself to regain his composure.

He turned his face towards John and Walter, and commanded them "Gather them in one place," while simultaneously deactivating the concealment rune that had been placed on them.

As John and Walter followed his instructions, Aron approached the table where Nathan was hiding, his injuries minimal compared to the others.

Placing his hands on the table, he exerted his weight, causing it to snap in the middle. This sudden action startled the already frightened Nathan, pushing him to the brink of losing control and almost causing him to have an accident.

He proceeded to firmly grasp the collar of the general's uniform, effortlessly lifting him up with a single hand as if he were a mere doll forcing the general to stand as he brought him face to face with him, Aron delivered his message with a commanding tone, saying, "Listen carefully. Inform the soldiers on the way that the situation is under control and everything is in order. Or there won't be a body left for them to collect when they arrive."

"Yes," Nathan replied, his voice trembling with fear.

"Very well," Aron responded, taking a moment to straighten the general's uniform, ensuring there were no creases or stains. Using a cleaning rune, he swiftly removed any traces of blood from the uniform.

He then positioned the general to face the door and stood behind him, leaning in close to the general's ear.

With that, he pushed the general forward, compelling him to begin his walk, as the sound of approaching soldiers grew louder and closer to the room.

As Nathan emerged through the door, the approaching soldiers came to an abrupt halt, snapping into a salute. They questioned, "General, we heard gunshots. Is everything alright?"

Nathan, striving to maintain a serious demeanor, responded, "Yes, the gunshots originated from this location, but everything is under control. Return to your positions."

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"But sir..." the leading soldier attempted to express his concerns, but before he could articulate his thoughts fully...

"Just follow your damn orders, you incompetent fools!" Nathan shouted, unleashing his frustration on them. He couldn't direct his anger at Aron, still haunted by the memory of the man's actions. "Or do you want to face a court-martial for disobedience?"

"No, sir. Have a good day," the soldiers promptly saluted, fully aware that the military court-martial was essentially synonymous with an execution court. They understood that anyone sent there would always receive the maximum punishment, and in this case, the consequences would be severe.

The soldiers turned on their heels and began their journey back to their assigned positions, mindful of the gravity of the situation and the potential repercussions for any misstep.

Nathan quietly made his way back into the office, carefully closing the remnants of the broken door behind him as his eyes shifted towards John and Walter, who were diligently gathering the injured soldier and bringing them to a centralized location.

He then approached Aron, who was seated in a chair, and informed him, "The situation has been resolved, and they won't return unless I specifically request their presence."

"Good," Aron acknowledged, his attention turning towards the injured soldier. He directed Nathan, saying, "Go and assist them. The sooner we deal with them, the quicker we can proceed to the main topic."

Nathan's heart trembled with fear as he contemplated the possibility that Aron intended to kill the injured soldier.

Powerless to intervene, he reluctantly joined John and Walter in their task of moving the wounded soldier.

Tears streamed down Nathan's face, as if someone had instructed him to dig his own grave, overwhelmed by the weight of his emotions.

"Both of you playing dead, get up," Aron commanded, addressing the generals who were attempting to feign death, despite being wounded only in non-critical areas such as their hands and other parts of their bodies.

"If you don't wake up by the count of three, I'm going to kill you for real," Aron threatened, his voice carrying a sense of discontent.

He began the countdown, "One... Two..." However, before he could reach the count of three, the generals abruptly rose from their positions where they had been pretending to be lifeless, instantly snapping back to alertness.

"Since you tried to deceive me, each of you will suffer the punishment of a broken bone," Aron declared, causing John, Walter, Nathan, Ethan, and Christopher to freeze in their places.

John and Walter stood motionless, their disbelief evident on their faces, as they had never witnessed this sadistic side of Aron before.

Up until this point, they had only experienced his more benevolent nature.

While they knew Aron was capable of causing significant harm, they hadn't anticipated his brutality to this extent.

As for the generals, Nathan silently thanked his lucky stars that he hadn't attempted to play dead, while the others trembled with fear at the prospect of the impending pain.

Aron intentionally utilized this moment as a form of psychological torture, fully aware that the anticipation of pain can often be more agonizing than the pain itself.

He understood that the fear and anxiety one experiences while awaiting a known painful event can be far more distressing than the actual physical suffering.

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...

A few minutes later.

"Sir, we have finished," John reported to Aron, that all the injured soldiers were collected at his specified location.

"Alright, good. You two, come here," Aron said, gesturing for the two immobilized generals to approach him. He intended to fulfill his promise by breaking their bones before healing them.

The two generals approached hesitantly, their steps slow and filled with prayers of hope that Aron might have a change of heart before they reached him.

Aron maintained silence, saying nothing as the two generals reached him.

"Let's get this over with," Aron said, gripping their arms firmly. He focused his strength, exerting pressure with his hands until a distinct snapping sound filled the air. Only Aron and John, with their enhanced senses, could hear the audible snap, as the generals had already begun screaming in agony a few seconds earlier.

"Alright, take a seat. We have something important to discuss," Aron instructed, pointing towards the chairs for them to sit. He intended to commence the conversation about his proposition.

"You, too, take a seat," Aron turned to Nathan, who had been attempting to blend into the background while his fellow generals endured the pain of their bones being broken.

Nathan hurriedly walked, trying to reach the chair as fast as possible, and took a seat near his fellow generals.

"I will heal you all shortly, but before that, I need each of you to sign a contract," Aron stated, making it clear that he had no intention of explaining the contract's contents to them directly.

He expected that they would read and comprehend its terms once he had departed. "If anyone has any objections, now is the time to raise your hand," he added, leaving the opportunity for dissent or concerns to be voiced so that he can deal with them before they cause trouble later.

Although Aron had given them the opportunity to raise their hands if they had any questions or objections, not a single general dared to do so. The foremost thought in their minds was Aron's assurance of healing.

In this moment, they held complete faith in Aron's capabilities, as they had some time to comprehend the extraordinary events of the past hour.

From his sudden appearance, effortlessly subduing their soldiers, to his raw strength demonstrated by breaking their bones, they either genuinely believed or desperately hoped that he possessed the power to heal them.

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"Since there are no questions, let's proceed to sign the contract as quickly as possible," Aron stated, while he presented the generals with contracts the size of small books, each containing nearly four hundred pages.

The contract encompassed every aspect of what Aron required from the generals, outlining both their obligations and restrictions. Crafted by Nova, it had been meticulously designed to close any potential loopholes that might inadvertently expose Aron or his plans. Every detail had been addressed to ensure that the generals would comply without compromise.

"Sign them now, you can read them later," Aron commanded, observing the generals who attempted to read through the contracts to understand their contents. His watchful gaze prompted the generals to swiftly flip to the final pages of the contract, where they discovered their designated spots for signing alongside Aron's already affixed signature.

Without wasting any time, the generals quickly signed their names, their minds preoccupied with the belief that whatever the contract entailed, it could not be worse than enduring the excruciating pain of having their bones broken while feeling utterly powerless.

As soon as they finished signing their signatures, witnessed only by Aron, the contracts emitted a radiant golden glow. Within moments, both Aron and the generals were enveloped in a shimmering golden light that permeated their bodies.

A sensation akin to a knot being tightly tied within their beings briefly surged through them, though only Aron possessed the sensitivity to perceive it. For the others, it was merely a fleeting discomfort, triggered by their existing wounds.

"Good," Aron acknowledged, retrieving the contracts from the generals without any intention of leaving them with physical copies with his signatures. "I have sent the digital version of the contract to your phones and computers. Once our discussions are over, you can start reading them," he explained, carefully placing the contracts back into the bag from which they had emerged.

"Now, let's begin the healing process," Aron announced, proceeding to activate a large number of healing runes on each soldier, who lay down awaiting treatment. The number of runes applied to each soldier varied according to the severity of their injuries.

As the runes took effect and visible signs of healing manifested, Aron shifted his attention to the generals. Though their injuries were comparatively minor in comparison to the soldiers, he still applied a smaller number of healing runes on their bodies to facilitate their recovery.

3 hours later.

Both the soldiers and the generals were astounded by what their eyes beheld. Every trace of their wounds had vanished, leaving no lingering pain behind. The only remnants of their previous injuries were the residual bloodstains, traces of urine, or the torn remnants of their clothing.

"I trust that you possess the intelligence not to talk about what had happened here," Aron asked the now healed soldiers, who were seated on the ground. Their heads nodded in agreement with a sense of urgency, as if their lives depended on it.

"Very well. You may leave," Aron instructed, prompting the soldiers to hastily leave the room as if fleeing from a monstrous presence.

"I will give each of you a period of two days to thoroughly read and comprehend the contract before you initiate contact with him," Aron stated, extending his hand to point at Walter as he addressed the generals. "His name is Walter, and he will be responsible for facilitating communication between myself and all of you. Is that clear?"

"Yes," the generals responded in unison

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"As for him, his name is John, and his orders carry the same weight as my own. So, whatever he commands you, it is to be treated as if it were coming directly from me. Is that clear?"

"Yes," they answered once more, nodding their heads in unison, their eyes locked onto John and Walter, their faces imprinted in their memories, afraid of letting even the smallest detail slip away.

"And with that, my job here is done. I'll see you in 2 days. Let's go," Aron said, rising from his seat. The generals promptly stood up, and John and Walter followed him towards the door. Before reaching the door, the three vanished in the same mysterious manner they had arrived, leaving the generals behind in shock, frozen for the fourth time that day.

...….

After they departed the building without drawing any attention, John took the opportunity during their ride back home to turn to Aron and address him with a respectful tone, saying, "Sir, may I ask you a question?"

"Go ahead," Aron said, shifting his attention towards John.

"What are your intentions for them now that they have signed the contracts?" John inquired, as he could at least speculate on the contents of the contracts. He was aware that whatever provisions were stated in the contracts were binding, as Aron had thoroughly explained how the contracts given by him worked in the documents given to him on the day ARES was established.

"After we return to the hotel, I will provide you with a document containing the comprehensive details of my intended utilization of the Edens army and instructions on how you can effectively employ them for your upcoming missions. In essence, we now possess complete control over the Edens army through the generals." Aron gave John a short answer and promised to provide him with a dossier containing all the necessary information regarding his strategic plans for utilizing Eden's army.

Since they all are in the same field of work and as a part of his strategy to reduce his workload and rely on trusted individuals, Aron intended to delegate the responsibility of utilizing the generals to John.

"Understood," John replied, and he remained quiet for the rest of the journey, deferring his curiosity until he received the document that held all the answers he sought.

The generals, now left alone after enduring a series of unimaginable events within a few hours, sat in silence. They were still processing the astonishing turn of events and the speed they took place. Half an hour had passed since Aron and his group departed, and during that time, not a word was exchanged between the generals.

The only remnants that served as a constant reminder that their recent experience was not a dream were their tattered clothes and the broken items scattered around the room.

"I'm going to my office to thoroughly examine the contract. It's important for us to understand their contents in order to avoid any inadvertent violations, preventing a repeat of what we just experienced.

Given his ability to swiftly heal us, any potential punishment from him would likely be more severe and could potentially last for hours, without the concern of us succumbing to blood loss or serious injuries," Nathan declared as he rose from his chair.

"We can't hide either, considering his ability to appear and disappear without a trace," Ethan added, his voice tinged with unease. He shuddered slightly at the memory, realizing the futility of attempting to evade someone with such enigmatic powers.

Without wasting any time, all the generals rose from their seats and made their way back to their respective temporary offices within the building to diligently study and comprehend the contract in its entirety.

The urgency to understand the document outweighed any lingering thoughts about the interrupted meeting and the topic they were discussing before Aron abruptly ended it with his unexpected appearance.

None of them had any intention of leaving their offices before they finished the task.

As a wise man once said, "Your problem only seems significant until a bigger problem comes knocking at your door."

...

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"Have a good day, sir," Walter and John bid farewell to Aron as they arrived at the hotel and stepped out of the car.

"You too," Aron replied. Then, he directed his attention to John and assured him, "I will send you the file shortly." With that, Aron turned around and made his way to the elevator, heading back to his room.

Upon entering his room, Aron collected the stack of freshly printed papers from the printer.

"Summon the nearest Ares member to my room," Aron instructed Nova. "I need them to deliver the folder to John."

[he is on his way]Nova reported back shortly, informing him that the called Ares member was already on his way.

[But wouldn't it be more efficient to call John directly yourself?] Nova questioned, voicing her curiously as Aron patiently waited for the summoned soldier to arrive.

"While it's true that I could do that, It's important to maintain respect for his position in order to prevent any potential disrespect from other Ares members," Aron explained, providing his reasoning behind his choice.

Nova expressed her disagreement with Aron's explanation, stating, [I don't believe they would disrespect him, regardless of how you treat him. Unless you explicitly order them to do so, they will not show disrespect to someone you have chosen and placed in that position. Disrespecting John would ultimately be seen as disrespecting you, as you have deemed him qualified and entrusted him with the role.]

"It's not just about them, Nova. I also need to acclimate myself to this approach before the new members from the army join us. This way, I can avoid inadvertently treating John as a subordinate of lower rank, establishing a precedent early on rather than later,"

Upon hearing Aron's reasoning, Nova eventually agreed, her silence serving as confirmation of her acceptance.

KNOCK KNOCK

Hearing the knock, Aron rose from the bed where he had been sitting with the folder and made his way to the door, and opened it

"Good afternoon, sir," the soldier greeted respectfully, saluting Aron as he stood at the door.

"Good afternoon," Aron reciprocated the greeting and handed the soldier the folder he had been holding. "Deliver this to John," he instructed the soldier.

"Yes sir. Have a good day" the man answered as he received the folder with his hands and bid Aron farewell before he started his walk toward John's room.

"Did anything important happen while I was away?" Aron asked Nova as he closed the door and made his way back into the room.

[None sir,] Nova responded.

"Good"

[How do you feel after having to act so serious for the first time?] Nova asked in a teasing manner but still curious about his experience.

"Although it was challenging to maintain the facade for hours, it did serve its intended purpose," Aron replied with a smile.

[That's true,] Nova replied, her smile widening as she replayed the audio of Aron's act during the meeting.

"Now, the only thing left is to meet with the revolutionary leaders who are causing trouble and ensure that they also sign the contracts, which will make dealing with them easier." He said as he laid down on the bed and put on the virtual helmet logging in the universal simulation.

...

"Aaaaah, god" "Fuck" "Shit"

The three generals expressed similar sentiments, even though they were in separate rooms reading the contracts.

Despite their expectations for the contract's inclusion of unfavorable clauses that required them to engage in activities they did not approve of, they soon discovered that their level of expectations fell short of what they were actually confronted with.

Christopher wasted no time. He swiftly grabbed his landline phone and dialed the numbers of the other two generals to discuss the contracts.

"Have you finished reading the contract?" he asked abruptly, without offering any greetings or engaging in small talk, as soon as they answered the call.

"I just finished reading it," Nathan replied.

"Me too," Ethan responded last.

"But I'm curious about something. How will he know if we've violated any of the clauses?" Ethan asked.

"I'm curious too. It seems some of the clauses would be impossible for him to detect if we've violated them," Christopher chimed in, concurring with Ethan's observation.

"He's not foolish enough to include these clauses without having the means to detect our violations and enforce the consequences," Nathan responded, his voice filled with a tinge of apprehension.

"Remember, this man appeared out of nowhere, withstood bullets, effortlessly incapacitated us using his hands only, and healed our wounds in minutes. Do you really believe he couldn't dispatch people to monitor us invisibly, just as they did today? What makes you think he isn't monitoring us right now?" Nathan turned his head, scanning the room for any signs of abnormality.

"His abilities don't appear to be limited to the physical realm alone but also extend into the digital world. How on earth did he manage to upload files onto our computers and phones without us even providing him with our contact information?" Christopher pondered, expressing his bewilderment.

"Furthermore, the file doesn't contain a sender's address; it's as if the file materialized out of thin air. This suggests that he might even be eavesdropping on our communications at this very moment."

"Shit!" they all said simultaneously, their voices filled with alarm, as they quickly turned to look behind them, half-expecting someone to materialize out of thin air and strangle them.

They came to the sobering realization that the once cherished sense of security they felt when alone had been entirely compromised. At any given moment, someone could be invisibly present in the same room watching them.

"We can't escape him anywhere," they silently contemplated, refraining from voicing their thoughts aloud, fearful of the consequences.

"I believe we don't need to worry about him taking action against us when we discuss him amongst ourselves," Ethan cautiously shared, pausing briefly to reflect on the previous encounters.

"During our initial meeting, he retaliated when one of us pressed the button and called for the security team. The second time, he inflicted harm upon us when we attempted to feign death, resulting in our broken hands. His actions were always in response to our own actions, never exceeding that boundary. Therefore, as long as we abide by the clauses of the contract, I don't think he will pose a direct threat to us." Ethan's analysis, though speculative, offered a glimmer of reassurance amidst their growing unease.

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"That's just an assumption, and I truly hope it's correct," Christopher interjected, his voice tinged with a mixture of anxiety and desperation. "Because if he turns out to be an irrational individual, then we're in serious trouble." Christopher's hope hinged on Ethan's assumption, as they had lost all semblance of control the moment that enigmatic man entered the room during their meeting.

"I hope so too," Ethan replied.

"I wonder how he intends to utilize us," Nathan pondered aloud. "Could he be plotting to employ the military for a coup d'état or some other purpose?" Nathan's question hung in the air.

"It's possible that he intends to utilize us for drug or weapons trafficking, but considering his ability to appear and disappear at will, he doesn't really need us for that," Ethan responded.

"If that's his plan, I must admit, I'll take pleasure in executing it. Adolf has squeezed us far too tightly," Christopher said with a smile on his face.

"But we're well aware that it will be challenging to confront Adolf's private forces, given their heavily armed nature," Christopher added, acknowledging the formidable obstacle they would have to face if that was really Aron's plan.

"There's no need to strain our minds pondering over it. He specifically instructed us to contact him in two days. So, let's wait for further instruction on that day." Nathan suggested.

"I agree. I'm going to read the contract a few more times," said Nathan.

"Me too," added Ethan

"So, who will be leading the parade?" Christopher asked but received no answers. Because the moment they heard the question, they ended the call.

A week later.

Aron strolled alone, making his way into the hotel, his steps purposeful as he approached the reception area. He carried a bag in his hand, having entrusted his car in the hands of the hotel's valet for him to go and park the car.

"Welcome, Mr. Aron," Alexander exclaimed, rising from the comfortable chairs in the hotel lobby. He had been patiently waiting for Aron's arrival, to accompany him to the meeting room they had scheduled.

"Oh, Alexander," Aron replied warmly, extending his hand for a handshake.

"How have you been?" Alexander asked, his tone filled with genuine interest.

"Quite well, although your regional leaders have been the only ones causing some mischief," Aron responded in a playful manner. Over time, their frequent calls had brought them closer, fostering a light-hearted banter between them.

"I apologize for that," Alexander replied, a hint of embarrassment creeping into his voice. Although he knew Aron was merely teasing him, he couldn't help but feel a tad self-conscious.

"Don't worry, after today, everything will be resolved," Aron assured, lightly tapping Alexander's hand in a reassuring manner.

"Let's head to the meeting room," Alexander suggested, taking the lead as he and Aron began walking towards the elevator.

"But shouldn't they be joining us as well? Where are they?" Aron inquired, realizing that Alexander was alone.

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"They are already waiting in the meeting room." Alexander explained.

"Don't worry about it," Aron reassured, noticing that their conversations often seemed to end with Alexander appearing a bit disheartened.

As they stepped into the elevator and it began raising, Alexander initiated small talk, filling the brief ride with casual conversation while they waited for their arrival at the floor where the conference room was located.

...….

"Welcome," they promptly stood up as Aron entered the room alongside Alexander, displaying a gesture of respect, albeit without genuine sentiment behind it.

Alexander guided Aron to his chair, before taking his own seat as the meeting was about to commence.

"So, Mr. Aron, before we delve into the next topic, could you please introduce yourself? The upcoming discussion heavily relies on our understanding of your background," Adam stated as soon as the meeting commenced.

A smile played across Aron's face as he responded, "Before I address any of your inquiries, I kindly request that each of you sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Without the signed agreement, I won't be able to answer your questions." He retrieved a stack of contracts from his bag and placed them on the table, inviting them to review and sign the documents.

Ace took hold of the stack of contracts and proceeded to distribute them among the attendees in the room. Each person began reading through the contents of the NDA contracts thoroughly.

One by one, they began signing the contracts as they noticed that everything was in order and the clauses were standard for an NDA. Additionally, they reasoned that they could easily break the contract whenever they deemed necessary, considering the lack of enforcement.

As they signed the contracts, as usual Aron felt the same sensation of a knot being tied down. However, his heightened sensitivity allowed him to discern that the weight of the knot on his soul has slightly increased but he considered it as a mistake on his part and decided to postpone further contemplation on it when the meeting was over.

When everyone completed signing their contracts, without wasting any time he began introducing himself. "As most of you already know, my name is Aron Michael. As for my occupation, I am the owner of GAIA Technology. That's all there is to it; I don't believe any further details about me are necessary."

"How old are you?" Ace inquired, curious about Aron's age, considering he still appeared to be in his twenties.

"I'm in my twenties, and that's all I'll disclose," Aron responded, deciding not to divulge his actual age. He sensed that Ace intended to exploit his age as a means to undermine him. 𝗯𝐞𝗱𝗻𝐨𝘃𝐞𝐥.𝗻𝗲𝐭

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"That's perfectly fine," Oscar interjected, noticing Ace's intention to pry for Aron's full age.

"So, Mr. Aron, based on Sir Alexander's explanations, he mentioned that your assistance is contingent upon the condition that once we successfully assume control of the country, you want us to rewrite the constitution and the abolition of the military and its institutions. Is this information accurate?" Adam inquired.

"Yes," Aron replied succinctly with a single word.

"Could you please explain the reason behind your proposal?" Adam asked.

"I intend for my private forces to assume their role and function as the country's military," Aron explained.

"But why do you prefer it to be that way? Is it primarily a matter of financial gain? If so, we can discuss compensating you after the coup," Adam pressed further, wanting to understand Aron's motivation behind wanting to replace the existing military.

"When it comes to money, I possess wealth exceeding your country's GDP, so it's not about financial gain," Aron clarified. "The reason behind my proposal is to establish a legal framework that enables me to expand my forces without external interference. This way, I can safeguard the things I value without relying on the protection of others."

"Then why Eden? There are numerous unstable countries in the world that you could have chosen," Ace interjected, seeking further clarification.

"Among the numerous candidates initially considered, only two countries—Eden and Esparia—remained in the selection process," Aron explained. "The reason for choosing these two countries is their geographical isolation. Being situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, they are mutually exclusive, with no immediate neighboring countries other than themselves. This unique circumstance makes them the perfect locations for establishing my forces.

The geographical distance between Eden and other countries allows me to expand my forces to a scale comparable to the world's largest militaries without provoking tensions with any nation, except for Esparia.

As for why I chose Eden over Esparia, it primarily relates to the size factor. Eden's land mass is nearly equivalent to that of Australia, providing ample space to justify the desired expansion of my forces." Aron explained without hiding anything as he was sure that no one would like anything he said in the room.

"Okay, since you will be assuming control over the military and its institutions, who will we be paying for their services?" Inquired another member of the meeting, who had remained silent until now.

"You will only be responsible for paying the salaries of the forces and providing the necessary land for the military. As for weapons procurement, research and development, training, and all other expenses, they will be covered by me. So, you don't have to worry about those aspects. You will have a world-class military while operating within the budget of an underdeveloped country," Aron explained. He was confident that despite shouldering the majority of the expenses, the overall cost would be extremely low due to him planning to use the universal simulation.

As Aron's response reached their ears, a collective gasp of astonishment spread throughout the room. Even Alexander, who had been closely working with Aron, found himself taken aback, unaware of Aron's plan to cover all the additional expenses.

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"Any more questions?" Aron asked, noticing the silence that had fallen upon the room.

Ace, with a noticeable change in his demeanor, spoke up, "I have a question regarding the military. Your plan, as shared with us, did not address how you intend to handle the current military. Could you please provide some insights?"

"I have already held a meeting with the generals last week and addressed that particular concern," Aron replied confidently, eliciting another wave of surprise from the attendees. "They have agreed to assist us in the coup d'état, and once the constitutional change takes place, they will be integrated into my forces after the disbandment of their previous institutions."

Curiosity piqued, Adam interjected, "May I ask what you did to persuade them to agree to such a deal?"

"That's a business secret," Aron replied with a smile on his face, maintaining an air of mystery around his tactics.

"You mentioned that you will be undertaking the research, but could you please clarify what specific areas or subjects the research will cover?" one of the attendees inquired, seeking further details.

After a brief pause, Aron began his response, "The research will encompass a wide range of areas essential to the military's requirements. This includes weapons research and development, as well as addressing all other aspects necessary for a fully functional military force. Given that we will be operating as a quasi-mercenary group masquerading as an army, it is anticipated that many countries will be reluctant to sell us their weapons. Therefore, we need to establish our own research department to ensure we have the necessary capabilities."

"That's true," Ace agreed with Aron's explanation. He was confident that they would need to spend a few more months waiting for other countries to acknowledge the new country followed by them forming diplomatic relationships, which would be followed by the lifting of sanctions imposed on the country.

The other members in the room immediately started asking the questions they had in mind or requested further clarification on the answers Aron had provided. Throughout the entire discussion, Aron diligently responded to each question, providing the necessary information without divulging anything beyond what was needed.

Aron opted for this approach to ensure that his upcoming plans could proceed without any hindrance or delays caused by the removal of the individuals in the room. He wanted to avoid any adjustments to his plan and desired to move forward with the next steps as soon as possible.

?

Once the meeting concluded and they found themselves alone in the room, Alexander asked, "Are you absolutely certain that no one would be willing to exchange information with Adolf in exchange for financial gain?'"

Aron posed the question, "Do you genuinely believe the greedy Adolf would be willing to offer monetary compensation to anyone solely for acquiring information?"

After giving it some thought, Alexander responded, "I highly doubt it. He would likely make false promises of payment, but once he obtains the information, he would promptly proceed to apprehend the individual as well."

"While that may be true, there could be individuals who perceive themselves as exceptional and entertain the notion that they can successfully demand payment from Adolf in exchange for the information."

"Indeed," Alexander agreed.

"Rest assured, I will receive immediate notification and swiftly resolve any such attempts before they even materialize. You need not worry. In the meantime, you need to commence with the small-scale protests in various cities. By doing so, when the actual coup takes place, it will appear to the international community as if the government was unintentionally toppled on a day marked by widespread protests, without any prior planning." Aron reassured

"I understand. Additionally, considering you mentioned having control over the generals, could you make them order the police departments so that they simply arrest our people without resorting to their usual brutal treatment of the protestors?" Alexander inquired, expressing his desire to minimize casualties.

"I will inform them about it. However, it is also crucial to ensure that the protestors do not exert excessive effort. They should engage in normal protesting activities, and when the police arrive, they should disperse from the protest grounds. This will gradually condition the police to anticipate protests ending upon their arrival, leading to complacency. Consequently, on the day of the final protest, they will not arrive fully prepared, assuming that the protestors will disperse as usual." Aron added

"Rest assured, I have taken care of that aspect. All the newly recruited members who joined as a result of your efforts are completely conditioned to completely trust me, and I can guarantee their strict adherence to the given instructions," Alexander responded, exuding confidence in his tone.

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"Very well. I must depart now and return to my hotel to attend to other plans," Aron stated, rising from his chair. Alexander promptly accompanied him, guiding him to the elevator and through the lobby until they reached the hotel's exit. Their conversation continued until the valet arrived with Aron's car, at which point Alexander bid him farewell. Aron boarded the car and departed the hotel, heading back to his own accommodations, satisfied with the completion of all his scheduled meetings.

...

The next day.

"Sir, two days after our visit to the military headquarters, as per our planned arrangement, the general made contact. Following the instructions outlined in the folder you provided, Walter issued a few initial orders to them. They are currently in the process of executing those orders. However, it appears that they require additional funding support due to being underfunded," John explained to Aron inside a room where the ten individuals holding important positions, assigned by Aron, were gathered. This room served as the venue for their weekly meetings, allowing them to update each other and Aron on the progress of the plan.

"Excellent. Utilize the funds available from your reserves to cover the necessary expenses," Aron replied, instructing John to allocate the required finances. He had previously provided them with a substantial sum, estimated to be around 500 million dollars in cash.

"We will do so" John answered back.

"How is the weapons procurement going?" Aron asked.

"With the backing of the military, we have successfully arranged for a sanctioned navy vessel to intercept them in the middle of the ocean. They will transfer the cargo from their boat to the military vessel.

As for storage, we have secured the Navy's port warehouse as a temporary solution until the renovation of the designated base is completed," Walter responded. He was responsible for overseeing the communication between their group and the Military.

"How is the progress of the base renovation coming along?" Aron asked, seeking an update on the current status of the renovation project.

"By employing a significant number of local workers and providing them with competitive wages, we have successfully completed approximately 20% of the renovation. We anticipate finishing the entire renovation within the next three weeks," came the response, indicating the progress made on the base refurbishment.

"Have this week's group arrived yet?" Aron asked.

"They are scheduled to arrive tomorrow as their flight today was canceled due to inclement weather," reported Paul, the Ares coordinator, providing an update on the situation.

Turning his attention back to John, Aron asked, "How are the preparations for the D-day progressing?"

"We have successfully acquired over one hundred and fifty houses near strategic locations, and they are currently undergoing renovations to suit our specific requirements. Once the weapons arrive and are securely stored in the military warehouses, they will undergo a final inspection to ensure their readiness and to remove any remaining trackers. Subsequently, we will begin transporting them to the designated houses, where they will be stored in preparation for the upcoming D-day," John explained.

"When do you anticipate the completion of the renovations?" Aron asked.

"We expect everything to be ready and weapons to be stored in the houses within two months."

"Why is it taking such a long time when the base renovation is expected to take only about a month?" Aron asked.

"The slight delay is primarily attributed to a limited number of personnel available to oversee the renovations simultaneously. Consequently, we are currently selecting a smaller subset to commence the renovation process and intend to scale up the number of concurrent renovations as more members arrive in Eden," John explained, giving the reason behind the extended timeline.

"Very good," Aron remarked, his expression conveying satisfaction as he nodded in approval upon hearing the positive update on the progress.

Walter, seizing the opportunity, asked, "Sir, wouldn't it be more advantageous for us to have control over the leaders of the dictator's private forces, just as we have done with the generals?"

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"That presents a challenge because the previous dictator deliberately kept his private forces divided to prevent any internal threat to his leadership. These forces are currently under different leaders and organized into various groups of differing sizes. The leaders who possess significant control over their respective factions tend to remain in close proximity to Adolf.

Furthermore, due to the brutal actions of these forces against the public during Adolf and his father's reign, they cannot be assimilated into our ranks and instead need to be held accountable through prosecution after the coup is successfully completed.

However, it is worth noting that most of these forces will not be combat-ready on the D-day. The remaining combat-ready individuals will be dealt with by our group and the military. Therefore, there is no immediate necessity for us to gain control over them," Aron explained to Walter, outlining the reasons why directly approaching the leaders and coercing them into compliance was not a viable option.

For the time being, Aron had no intention of divulging the newly imposed limitations he faced in using runic contracts.

After returning from the meeting with the regional revolutionary leaders last week, Aron had sought clarification from Nova regarding the sensation of the knot feeling slightly heavier than usual, questioning whether it was genuine or simply a figment of his imagination.

[

[You are right. It really is getting smaller] Nova replied after seeking Aron's permission to take control of the VR helmet in order to conduct some checks on his body and mind.

"You mean the knot is getting heavier, right?" Aron asked, wondering if Nova made a mistake with her statement, which should be impossible.

[No, no, it's not a mistake. When I said it's getting smaller, I meant it,] Nova replied, noticing Aron's perplexed expression.

"What do you mean by that?" Aron asked, his curiosity now piqued.

[When you sign a runic contract, it is stored in the soul space of both party A and party B, as well as the space of the enforcer. So when you feel a knot being tied, it is simply the runic contract being stored in your soul space. So when I said it is getting smaller, I meant that your soul space is decreasing in size as it is being occupied by the runic contracts,] Nova explained, clarifying her earlier statement.

"So you're suggesting that the sensation of the knot getting heavier is due to the shrinking of the space?" Aron asked, seeking further clarification.

[No, the knots increasing in weight has nothing to do with the space getting smaller]

Then what is the cause of it, and why didn't I feel the increase in weight of the knot when the Ares members signed their runic contracts with me?" Aron asked, wanting to understand the underlying reasons.

[The runic contract you are using is of the lowest level, which means it requires many specific conditions to be met in order to function flawlessly. In the case of the generals and some of the revolutionary leaders, not all of the conditions were fully met, leading to your discovery of the increase in the weight of the knot.

On the other hand, when the Ares members signed the contract, they did so willingly and without any objections, fulfilling all the necessary conditions. This is why you didn't feel the increase in weight when they signed.

The generals, however, were not completely willing to sign the contract and only did so under duress. As a result, the knot on your soul became heavier than usual because the contract rune didn't have all the conditions fulfilled.

To ensure the generals and some of the revolutionary leaders do not break the contract in the future, the size of the contract rune needed to be increased, thus occupying more of your soul space and causing the heavier sensation in the knot,] Nova explained calmly.

"What exactly is this 'soul space' you keep mentioning?" Aron asked after the term kept being repeated by Nova in her explanation.

"The soul space is where all the runic contracts are stored to monitor your soul's adherence to the clauses within the contract. If you violate the terms, the stored runic contracts can be accessed by the enforcer to administer the appropriate punishment for breaking the oath," Nova clarified.

"Is there a maximum capacity for the soul space?" Aron asked

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[Yes, there is a maximum capacity for the soul space. Also since you are using the lowest level of runic contract, each contract takes up a significant amount of space compared to higher-level contracts. Additionally, as both the enforcer and a party to the contract, your soul space is being consumed at twice the normal rate, as you have to accommodate two entities with each contract you sign.] Nova explained.

"Based on the size of my soul space, what is the maximum number of runic contracts that I can sign?" he asked, his voice revealing his underlying worry. while his heart rate increased as he anxiously awaited the answer to his question.

[You have a maximum capacity of 1000 runic contracts, and you have already used more than 720 of them,] Nova replied, her tone conveying the weight of the situation.

"Shit," Aron muttered in frustration upon hearing the answer. "I had planned to utilize the runic contracts to simplify my tasks, but it appears that it was nothing more than a futile dream," he said, realizing that several of his future plans after the coup d'état would need to be reconsidered and reconstructed.

Observing Aron's turmoil, Nova gently patted his back and reassured him, saying, [It won't always be like this. The ongoing research in Lab City has discovered that your soul's level can be elevated under certain conditions. When the conditions are met they expect the system to activate some of the runic lines among the billions of dormant ones in your body, leading to the evolution of your soul. This evolution should grant you various new benefits, including the expansion of your soul space.

Alternatively, you can accumulate enough sp to purchase intermediate runic knowledge, allowing you to sign higher-level runic contracts that are smaller in size and occupy less space in your soul. This would enable you to sign more contracts than you can currently.]

"Moving forward, I'll have to be more stringent when selecting individuals to enter into runic contracts until we unravel the conditions for triggering the evolution," Aron murmured, his gaze still fixed on the floor. Meanwhile, Nova maintained her comforting presence, gently sliding her hand across Aron's back.

]

"I understand," Walter replied after hearing Arons answer.

"Good, let's end today's meeting here and meet again next week." With those words, Aron ended the meeting.

1 month later.

Black site.

Kassim could be seen pacing anxiously in his room, displaying visible signs of panic as he awaited someone's arrival.

KNOCK KNOCK

Upon hearing a knock at the door, Kassim swiftly moved to his chair, straightened his attire, cleared his throat, and then called out, "Come in."

After obtaining permission to enter, Patric, the project manager, nervously entered the room and said, "You called for me, sir?'"

"Yes, I summoned you because there is only one month left from the four-month extension you requested to complete the program development. Is it going well? Are you on schedule?" Kassim fired two questions in quick succession, causing Patrick to tense up with each query directed at him.

"Sir, you know..." Patrick began, attempting to respond, but before he could finish his sentence, Kassim interrupted him, asking, "It's not ready yet, is it?"

"Unfortunately, not yet, sir," Patrick answered, his head lowered in embarrassment and fear as he averted his gaze towards the floor.

"Is there any possibility of completing it within the remaining month?" Kassim asked, his voice betraying his struggle to contain his anger, as if he were holding himself back from harming the man until he received an answer to this question.

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"It's almost impossible," Patrick replied, fully accepting his fate.

"Get out and await the punishment to be determined for you and your team!" Kassim shouted, his anger no longer under control.

As Patrick hurried towards the door, Kassim threw a nameplate that bore his name, hitting Patrick in the back of his head just before he closed the door. "AGHHHH" causing Patrick to cry out in pain, as he clutched his now swelling back head, as beads of sweat continued forming on his forehead.

"Shit," Kassim muttered to himself after he was left alone in his office.

Kassim's hand rested on the table, his finger tapping continuously as he deliberated on the course of action to take. Should he wait until next month, hoping for a miracle that would allow them to complete the program? Or should he make the difficult decision to call his superior and inform him of the impossibility of the task, suggesting they proceed with their attack on the Rothschilds? The weight of the decision hung heavily on his shoulders as he considered the consequences of each choice.

After pondering for more than five minutes, Kassim reached into his pocket and retrieved a burner phone. He dialed the number of his superior, making the difficult decision to inform them that they should move forward with their plans.

By doing so, he hoped to mitigate the potential punishment he would face for not completing the program within the requested extension of the four-month period. He pressed the call button and brought the phone to his ear, ready to deliver the news.

"What is it?" came the voice on the other end as soon as the call was answered.

"It's about the program research team," Kassim said, trying to maintain a respectful tone.

"Go on and say it, we don't have all day," the voice on the other side impatiently urged Kassim to continue speaking.

"Today I asked the project head about the expected completion timeline, but it appears that meeting your deadline is impossible. So, to avoid wasting your time in futile waiting, I suggest that you proceed with the plan without waiting for the program, sir," Kassim said, his voice cracking as he reached the last words, displaying his nervousness.

"Okay," the voice on the other end said, and then the call ended abruptly without any further words. 𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘯𝘰𝑣𝘦𝘭.𝘰𝘳𝘨

"I'm screwed," Kassim muttered under his breath, realizing that once their plans were complete, they would come after him and his team.

"At least we won't die," Kassim said with a hint of relief. He realized that by informing them early, he had managed to escape the potential consequences of waiting until the given timeline was over, which would have resulted in four months of unnecessary delay. Making the consequences much heavier.

...….

Somewhere in America.

A man wearing a displeased expression placed the phone back on the table.

"What's the problem, George?" a voice asked, causing him to lift his head and gaze at the individuals seated along the sides of the long table, engaged in a meeting.

"It was Kassim, father," George answered.

"Is it good news?" Aubrey, the man sitting at the head of the table, asked after receiving the answer.

"No, Father, it's not. He informed us that it is better that we move on and not waste our time waiting for them to complete the program, as they are still stuck in the same place," George replied.

"Looks like your side is not doing well either," Jason remarked with a smile on his face upon hearing George's answer.

"Looks like forcing the secretary of defense to take the program from them was pointless. It would have been better if we had simply kidnapped him and made him personally upgrade the program," Aubrey intervened upon seeing George's expression in response to Jason's comment.

"But that would have drawn too much attention if he had suddenly disappeared right after releasing the program. That's why we were compelled to pursue this course of action," George replied to his father's remark.

"I know that, and I remember your concerns about the potential risks involved. However, considering the program's significance and the impact it had on our plans, I can't help but think that kidnapping him would have been a more strategic move. We could have used the media to tarnish his reputation and divert public attention until the situation normalized. Having him in our custody would have eliminated the current problem we're facing," Aubrey responded to George's statement.

"Unfortunately, it seems that we have no other choice but to proceed with the plan without relying on the program," Jason interjected, acknowledging the reality of the situation.

Aubrey said, addressing the board members in the office, all of whom were responsible for overseeing different black sites. "Inform the planning teams that they have one week to finalize the revised plan. We will initiate our attack immediately one week after that. Is that clear to everyone?"

"Yes," all the board members, including George, replied in unison, signaling their understanding and agreement with the timeline for the upcoming attack.

"Okay, let's conclude the meeting for today," Aubrey announced, prompting the board members to rise from their seats and begin exiting the board meeting room.

After everyone had left the room, leaving only George and his father Aubrey, the latter spoke up. "You knew that the board members are going to use this against you, right?"

"Yes," George answered. "Then why did you react that way when Jason spoke?" Aubrey asked

"I just wanted to put him back in his place. His black site failed to accomplish anything even after they received the copies of my research. He tried to shape it as if I'm the only one at fault," George answered confidently, showing no concern for his father's remarks.

Seeing his reaction, Aubrey smiled with an expression of pride on his face. He placed his hands on his son's shoulders and began speaking. "Good. That's how you're supposed to be. The board members will always be looking for ways to gain leverage against you and advance their own agendas. Maintaining this confidence is essential."

"Yes, Father," George replied with a smile on his face, feeling quite satisfied to receive a compliment from his father every now and then.

"Yes, always bear in mind that you are the future head of the Morgan family. It is crucial for you to have complete control over those who work under you," Aubrey emphasized. "Do you grasp the implications of what I'm saying?"

"Yes, Father. I will ensure that Kassim and his team are punished heavily so that they refrain from making empty promises in the future," George replied, prompting his father's smile to grow wider.

"Good, but don't take it too far," Aubrey said, offering a word of caution.

"Yes, Father," George replied, maintaining the smile on his face.

...…

Two weeks later.

John Harrison entered his workplace, TPG Capital, with an air of nervousness enveloping him.

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Beads of sweat formed on his forehead as he glanced around the bustling trading floor.

Colleagues hurriedly passed by, eyes focused on multiple screens displaying stock prices, charts, and market data. It was a typical Monday morning, but today was different for John.

As he made his way to his desk, John forced himself to greet his colleagues with a shaky smile. "Morning, Sharon," he muttered, wiping his clammy hands on his pants.

Sharon, hearing John's nervous greeting, raised an eyebrow but responded with a curt nod before diving back into her work.

With trembling hands, John logged into his workstation, his heart pounding in his chest.

As the clock ticked closer to the opening bell, John's anxiety intensified. His eyes darted around the room, looking for any signs of suspicion.

The once-familiar environment now felt suffocating, the weight of his actions bearing down on him.

With trembling fingers, John entered a series of complex commands into the trading program. He carefully specified the timing, ensuring the trades would be initiated at the designated time.

After inputting all the orders, he hesitated for a moment as his finger hovered over the final button. With a deep breath, he pressed ENTER.

Officially firing the first shot in the attack against the Rothschilds.

Somewhere in America.

"George, are you certain that the man you selected will carry out the instructions and not just give up midway?" asked Aubrey.

They were the sole occupants of a lavishly furnished room, accompanied by a towering screen exhibiting stock market charts before them. They were conversing to pass time as they awaited the execution of the planned attack and for the results of it to be reflected on the large screen.

All necessary preparations and instructions had been meticulously programmed into their systems, leaving only the execution of their prearranged commands.

"You needn't worry, Father," George responded assuredly. "If he still desires the safe return of his family, he will fulfill our instructions."

"Remember, son," Aubrey imparted, attempting to instill a valuable lesson. "Do not assume that something will be accomplished until it is actually done. Otherwise, you may find yourself betrayed at the most unexpected moment. It is crucial to avoid placing unwavering expectations on others, regardless of any leverage you may hold against them, in order to shield yourself from the shock of their betrayal."

"That's precisely why I have contingencies in place for such situations," George affirmed, acknowledging his father's concern.

"Good. Make sure you are always prepared like this," Aurey said, a satisfied smile adorning his face.

"I understand, Father," George acknowledged his father's wisdom, refraining from expressing any disagreement. He was well aware that he could be replaced by his brothers should his father ever grow dissatisfied with him.

"It has begun. It seems there is no necessity for the backups to take action. Congratulations, son," Aubrey commended his son as soon as the screen before them displayed the market's descent.

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...

As Arieh delved into the files pertaining to his business, he asked Charlotte, "Has she transferred the funds from her investment account, or do they remain untouched?"

"No transactions took place during the short period we could monitor the account. Once she deposited the funds, she assumed personal control over the account and utilized her authority as the CEO to restrict access to the account's information for everyone," Charlotte responded.

"What on earth does she intend to invest in with that money, anyway?" Arieh exclaimed upon hearing Charlotte's response.

"I don't know, sir," Charlotte replied honestly.

Arieh glanced at Charlotte and stated, "My question wasn't directed at you."

Upon receiving the response, Charlotte felt a twinge of embarrassment, yet she composed herself and bid Arieh farewell. She then made her way back to her office, to carry on with her work.

Once Arieh found himself alone, he redirected his attention towards his work. However, just as his concentration was regained, Charlotte abruptly barged into the room without even seeking permission. Bursting in with urgency, she exclaimed, "Sir, something terrible is happening in the stock market!" while attempting to hand him the tablet she held in her hand.

Arieh, on the verge of reprimanding Charlotte for her uninvited entrance, found his words caught in his throat as he received the tablet and witnessed its contents.

Gathering himself quickly, he attempted to repeat his question, "What is goi—" but was abruptly interrupted by the incessant ringing of his office phones, a realization dawning upon him that the tablet's contents were far from a mere prank.

He answered one of the calls and asked, "What is it?"

"Sir, the stock market is plummeting, and your personal investments are reporting significant losses," the voice on the other end relayed, representing Arieh's designated private investment monitor.

Arieh's memory kicked in, and he queried, "As far as I recall, my investments are under the control of high-frequency traders (HFTs), and they should be sold once the losses reach a certain threshold. Am I mistaken?" he asked, directing his question to his investment manager.

"Yes, sir, they are currently executing the sales, but the market is flooded with similar actions, causing a delay in selling the shares. Consequently, the prices are plummeting, resulting in escalating losses," his investment manager explained.

"Fuck! Minimize the losses as much as you can," Arieh exclaimed, cutting off the call without waiting for a response. He swiftly answered the second ringing phone, to address the unfolding crisis

Another call from one of his private investment managers reiterated the disheartening news.

After concluding the conversation, Arieh chose to ignore the subsequent incoming calls, leaving Charlotte to handle them in his stead.

"What could be the reason behind this?" Arieh muttered anxiously, his gaze fixated on the stock market data displayed on his screen, clearly indicating the market's downward spiral.

Despite also being responsible for overseeing one of the family's investment funds, Arieh understood that his team would only contact him once they had managed to minimize the damage, providing him with a comprehensive assessment of the losses incurred.

"No signs of this crash were evident in the market in recent days. If this was avoidable and I missed it, then I'm in deep trouble," he ruminated silently, his eyes fixed on the screen, unable to tear himself away from the unfolding situation.

...…

[Rina, it has started,] Ava informed, alerting Rina to the commencement of the morgans attack. Rina halted whatever she was engaged in and shifted her gaze to the computer screen, where the falling stock market confirmed the unfolding events. ｂｅ𝚍𝚗ｏｖｅ𝚕．𝚗𝚎𝚝

"Arieh must be freaking out right now," Rina remarked, a mischievous smile gracing her face at the mere thought of her brother experiencing extreme distress.

"What is the projected loss for our family businesses once it's all said and done?" Rina asked Ava, seeking an estimate of the anticipated impact.

[At the very least, your family businesses are expected to incur a loss of no less than 750 billion in assets,] Ava reported, conveying the initial estimate. [The precise amount can only be determined once everything has concluded.]

"Once everything is finalized and the losses are calculated, I will be the sole beneficiary," Rina declared, a smile forming on her face.

[Don't you feel any sadness seeing your own family suffer such significant financial losses?] Ava questioned Rina, seeking to understand her perspective.

"I am indeed affected, but not to a great extent since I don't have control over the money at the moment. Instead of feeling sadness or hurt, I am filled with anticipation. I can hardly wait to witness Arieh's expression when the full extent of the damage is revealed," Rina responded, her smile slightly diminishing but still present.

[That's true. Not only Arieh but also the other family members entrusted with the control of different family funds will face the loss of support from the board and other family members. It will likely lead to the family head removing Arieh from his current position, which in turn will restart the power struggle for the position. This presents you with the perfect opportunity to seize that position once and for all,] Ava explained, emphasizing the potential consequences of the unfolding events.

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"Yes, that's where the control over the board members becomes valuable. All I need to do is instruct them to shift most of the blame onto Arieh, highlighting his responsibility for the majority of the family business while the family head assumed a more passive role. If the conversation is steered in that direction, the family head may ultimately agree to their proposition," Rina explained, outlining her strategy to leverage the board members' influence in order to shift accountability and further her own ambitions.

[But you won't be able to avoid scrutiny either. Arieh may inquire about the personal loan you took and whether your investments have been successful or if you've incurred losses, potentially requiring the family's assistance. It's crucial that you make a decision now regarding how you'll address this matter when he brings it up as a diversionary tactic,] Ava reminded Rina, emphasizing the need for her to formulate a clear response in advance.

"Not at this moment. I will make a decision about whether or not to disclose it once I assess the extent of my gains from this event. If I have profited significantly, it would be wise to withhold the information to avoid raising any suspicions regarding my knowledge of the situation. Arieh might even attempt to paint a picture of me conspiring with the Morgans to orchestrate his downfall and seize his position, resulting in the family having heavy losses." Rina replied, her mind immersed in contemplation after Ava's reminder.

...….

[Sir, the Morgans have initiated their actions,] Nova informed Aron, who was engrossed in reading a document within the universal simulation.

"So, they've chosen today to make their moves. Excellent. This will divert the international community's attention towards America for approximately a month, allowing us to evade their scrutiny entirely," Aron remarked, shifting his focus back to Nova as he responded.

[As they say, when America's economy sneezes, the rest of the world catches a cold,] Nova replied with a smile.

"Bring up the chart. Let's examine which aspects our simulations accurately predicted and where we may have overlooked certain factors," Aron instructed, setting aside the document he was reading and directing his complete attention to the unfolding events.

[Yes, sir,] Nova responded, mater?alizing hundreds of holographic screens, some displaying information in green and others in red.

Once the complete visualization appeared, she explained, [The green screens represent predictions we made with complete accuracy. However, the red screens indicate that while our predictions were correct, there were certain degrees of deviation. As a result, we are still benefiting from those situations, but not to the extent we initially anticipated.]

The stock market crash worsened as time went on, with each passing moment bringing further decline.

After fifteen minutes of continuous descent, there was a brief pause before the market, like a resurrected force, began to rise again.

In a matter of minutes, everything reverted back to its previous state prior to the fall, and astonishingly, the market even surged higher than its pre-crash levels.

...

George let out a sigh of relief when he noticed his watch displaying that 15 minutes had passed. As the stock market began to stabilize, it became evident that their plan had borne fruit and was now reaching its final steps for a successful conclusion.

With a satisfied smile on his face, Aubrey exclaimed, "It's finally over!'"

"Yes, Father," George said with a sense of satisfaction. "Now all that's left is to calculate the losses we inflicted upon them and the gains we secured." He couldn't help but feel pleased that his meticulously crafted plan, hatched from his black site, had enabled his family to seek revenge against the Rothschilds.

Upon hearing his son's response and realizing that his son understood the importance of waiting for the final results before celebrating, he smiled and said, "Good, that's the right attitude. You must ensure that everything is truly concluded before indulging in celebration." He gently patted his son on the shoulder, acknowledging his maturity.

"The final results should be in our possession by the end of the day. You can go and rest, Father. I will inform you as soon as they arrive," George assured his father.

"I will do just that. Keep up the excellent work," his father replied.

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"Yes, father," George acknowledged, as he watched his father stand up from the sofa and exit the room.

As soon as his father was out of sight, George couldn't contain his excitement any longer. He began jumping and celebrating, reveling in the victory they had achieved.

...…

Aron, having observed the unfolding chaos within the universal simulation, began to feel weary as he watched the hundreds of screens that Nova had materialized.

As a result of the time acceleration within the universal simulation, Aron found himself watching the screens for over an hour and fifteen minutes, even though he had little comprehension of the events that were taking place.

When Aron witnessed the charts, which had been depicting a downward trend, suddenly start to rise again, he turned towards Nova, who had remained silent all this time, and inquired, "Is it finally over?"

[Yes, it's finally over, and now it's time to tally the spoils,] Nova said with a smile on her face.

"How much did the market lose during those fifteen minutes?" Aron asked, his curiosity piqued as he sought to understand the extent of damage inflicted upon the global economy in the Morgans' vengeful pursuit.

[During those fifteen minutes, the stock market lost 4 trillion dollars,] Nova explained, responding to Aron's query. [However, shortly after the fall ended, the market regained its lost value. Although the value and money have been recovered, they are now in the hands of the winners.]

Aron, aware that he was among those who had gained the most, allowed a brief smile to grace his face before he regained his composure. He then asked, "Out of the trillions that were lost, how much of it was lost by the Rothschilds?" He wanted to understand the extent of damage inflicted upon the Rothschild family by the Morgans.

Nova, having already utilized her quantum computer to perform the necessary calculations as soon as the fall ended, provided an answer. [During the fall, as it caught them by surprise, the Rothschilds incurred losses of approximately 2 trillion dollars,] she explained.

[However, once they identified the cause, they were able to recover around 700 billion dollars as the market began its recovery. So, in total, their losses amount to roughly 1.3 trillion dollars.]

"Wow, the Morgans managed to strike the Rothschilds from an unexpected angle this time," Aron remarked. "Now, I'm curious, how much did the Morgans gain from this situation?"

[746 billion dollars] Nova answered.

"Wow, that can indeed be seen as a resounding victory for the Morgans," Aron exclaimed. "If we take into account the losses they caused to the Rothschilds, their total gains would amount to almost 2 trillion dollars."

[Although they achieved favorable outcomes, it appears that the Morgans earned less than their initial estimates for gains from this attack,] Nova added, noticing Aron's amazement.

Hearing this Aron gave a knowing smile before he asked "Was it because of us?"

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[There are two reasons, and one of them is indeed due to our involvement,] Nova explained. 𝓫ℯ𝓭𝓃𝓸𝓋ℯ𝓁．𝓬𝓸𝓂

[The other reason lies in the utilization of humans for planning. While they relied on their supercomputer to estimate the course of the fall, incorporating human input created blind spots due to their limited knowledge of the stock market compared to mine. Our inclusion in the game also caused some of their strategies to go awry. As a result, they earned only half of what they had expected from this attack. We can consider ourselves to have won half of the remaining spoils, while the rest is shared among those who recognized the situation and managed to secure their own gains.]

"That's true," Aron acknowledged, reaching out to pull one of the holographic screens closer to examine its contents.

Nova observed as Aron delved into his examination of the holographic screens. After a brief period, Aron redirected his attention towards Nova and made a request, saying, "Provide me with a comprehensive summary of everything that occurred, starting from the beginning until the end, including our gains from this event. Explain it in simple terms since, despite reading the entire plan, I still have some aspects that I struggle to comprehend."

[Sure] Nova before she started detailing the entire events. [Everything that resulted in the 4 trillion dollar to disappear from the stock market started from here, a financial company called TPG Capital.] Nova said as she materialized a holographic screen with the image of the company showing it to Aron.

[A man working here known as John Harrison, a man who they controlled by threatening him with the lives of his family members, programmed the sale algorithm to sell $10 billion worth of e-mini S&P 500 futures contracts at a specific time.

To simplify, these contracts are tied directly to the overall value of the S&P 500, which is an index representing the performance of the 500 largest stocks in the market.

Normally, a trade of this magnitude would take place gradually over approximately seven hours.

However, under the Morgan's order, Mr. Harrison set it so that the sell algorithm disregarded time and price constraints and to sell the contracts as fast as possible.

Following its instructions, it started selling the contracts as quickly as possible, regardless of the prevailing prices.

As you already know, the principles of supply and demand dictate that when a substantial number of contracts are rapidly sold, prices tend to decline.

With that, he had completed what they needed from him, and from there onward the weaknesses in the economic system would be doing the remainder of the work.

The now extremely low-priced futures started being spread to everyplace by other flawed algorithms, particularly those known as high-frequency trading algorithms.

These algorithms are designed to execute numerous trades rapidly. Often, high-frequency traders serve as "market makers," essentially acting as intermediaries who buy an asset when it is being sold, enabling them to sell it to potential buyers at a higher price and profit from the difference.

A significant portion of the $10 billion worth of contracts sold by TCP Capitol were swiftly purchased by high-frequency traders.

However, HFTs have one weakness that the morgans planned to exploit for their plan: high-frequency traders prefer not to hold onto contracts; their modus operandi is to buy and promptly sell them.

Consequently, a multitude of high-frequency traders started offloading the contracts onto other high-frequency traders, who then passed them on to yet more high-frequency traders, creating a never-ending cycle.

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This continuous exchange of contracts resembled a hazardous game of passing the grenade that wreaked havoc on the market, driving prices down and causing chaos.

This situation led to another predicament. Many of the algorithms functioning as market makers hit pre-programmed thresholds that compelled them to exit the market due to the rapid decline in prices and increased risk.

As the market makers withdrew, liquidity was drastically reduced, causing the market to plunge even further.

The crash in the futures market spilled over into the stock market due to a group of individuals known as arbitrage traders. When you purchase a future, you are essentially acquiring a stock that will be delivered at a later date.

Arbitrage traders noticed that S&P futures contracts were becoming inexpensive, while the S&P stocks underlying those futures remained expensive.

Seeing the opportunity, they began selling their costly regular stocks to purchase the cheaper future versions of the same stocks.

This rapid selling of stocks essentially transferred the impact of the futures crash to the stock market.

With the impact now transferred the fall continued, seeming as if there is no tomorrow. The fall caused panic and almost everyone with shares that were falling started panic selling their stocks in order to reduce the losses they would be receiving if they continued holding them.

But everything came to a halt when the "Stop Logic Functionality" implemented by the Chicago Mercantile Exchange became active effectively stopping all trades for five seconds.

When trading resumed, fortunately, the panic had subsided, and people realized that stocks had dropped without a valid reason. This realization meant that stocks were now available at a discounted price, prompting a buying spree that pushed the prices back up to their pre-crash levels.

[The Morgans, being the ones who came up with the plan, meant that they possessed the knowledge to prepare the most efficient means of maximizing profits. Despite benefiting from their actions, just like them, our main source of profit did not originate from their tactics.] Nova paused, allowing Aron time to digest the information she had shared.

After taking a moment to process the information, he raised his head and asked with curiosity, "So, how did we manage to make profits in a way that outsmarted the Morgans?" His expression showed genuine interest.

[When we finally had the complete plan from the black sites, I leveraged my computing power to simulate their strategy. Through conducting multiple simulations with different parameters, I was able to uncover something that had eluded them.] Nova paused, building suspense, prompting Aron to ask, "What did you discover?" He played along with her act.

[blue-chip stocks] Nova responded with a single word.

Aron sought clarification, stating, "If I understand correctly, blue-chip stocks are shares issued by prominent companies that are well-established, financially stable, and hold an outstanding reputation. Is that accurate?" He wanted to ensure they were both on the same page and understood the concept being discussed.

[Yes,] Nova nodded in agreement.

Aron tilted his head to the side, guessing, and asked, "Did you short-sell them or something?"

[No, it wasn't quite like that,] Nova explained. [Based on the insights gained from the simulations I conducted, I strategically purchased billions of dollars worth of blue-chip stocks from various companies. I utilized thousands of my accounts to execute these transactions.]

"Go on then," Aron said, then fell silent, determined to let Nova finish her explanation without interruption.

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Nova understood Aron's intention and proceeded with her explanation. [During the crash, certain blue-chip stocks such as Echelon, Accenture, CenterPoint Energy, and many others experienced a drastic decline in their trading value. These stocks, which were previously traded at around $40, suddenly plummeted to just one penny per share.] 𝒷𝓮𝒹𝓃ℴ𝓿𝓮𝓁.𝓬𝓸𝓂

Aron's surprise shattered his intention to remain silent until the explanation's completion. "What on earth... How did that happen? Did you hack and manipulate the system?" he exclaimed, his astonishment evident in his voice.

[No, sir. Their system was functioning exactly as programmed. The phenomenon was caused by a practice known as stub quoting,] Nova clarified.

As I mentioned earlier, high-frequency traders (HFTs) act as market makers, which means that at any given time, there are individuals looking to sell a stock and others who want to buy it.

However, these two parties may not align perfectly. Sometimes there is an excess of sellers, while at other times, there may be more buyers. HFTs play the role of intermediaries in such situations. When someone wants to sell a stock, the HFTs purchase it, and as soon as they find a buyer, they resell it.

Stub quoting refers to a scenario where a seller intends to sell their stocks, but the HFTs lack the necessary liquidity or available funds to make the purchase. In such cases, the HFTs would submit a nominal bid, typically one penny, which is not intended to be a genuine offer. Instead, it serves as an indication that they are unable to buy the stocks at that moment. Typically, the seller would then seek out another market maker who possesses the required liquidity and can provide a legitimate offer for the stocks.

During the flash crash, a significant number of market makers withdrew from the market, causing a severe scarcity of liquidity.

As a result, the only available purchase offers for the shares were priced at one penny. In this scenario, the sellers, which were algorithmically programmed to sell the shares regardless of the price, ultimately accepted the one penny offers, resulting in the sale of stocks that would typically be valued at $40 for a mere penny.]

"Wow," Aron couldn't help but exclaim as he absorbed Nova's explanation. He was genuinely impressed.

Nova smiled and continued, [But that's not all. Some ordinary stocks, such as Sotheby's, Apple, HP, and many others, experienced an astonishing surge, skyrocketing from $40 to $100,000 per share.

The reason behind this was precisely the same but in reverse. Buying algorithms were attempting to purchase certain stocks they deemed safe from the ongoing crash from market makers who, in turn, did not wish to sell.

As a response, the market makers submitted a high stub quote of $100,000 to indicate their unavailability to sell at that time. However, since the buyers were algorithms and the market makers had withdrawn, the $100,000 offer remained the sole option. Consequently, the buying algorithms ended up purchasing stocks valued at $40 for an exorbitant price of $100,000.

Amidst the chaos unfolding in the market, I emerged as the foremost trader among those purchasing shares for a mere penny, while also capitalizing on the opportunity to sell other shares I had previously purchased for an astonishing $100,000. As a result, we emerged as one of the primary beneficiaries of the market crash, securing a significant win in the process.

Although the entire sequence may appear lengthy, it transpired within a matter of mere minutes before the trading halt of five seconds was enforced. Nevertheless, this short duration provided us with an opportunity to secure over 75% of our overall gains from the market crash.] Nova concluded her explanation and broke into a laughter that echoed with a touch of villainous amusement.

Having fully comprehended Nova's explanation, Aron expressed his thoughts, saying, "This entire plan relied on the delicate market dynamics where sellers and buyers were algorithmic entities, facilitated by market makers that were also algorithms. It's a scheme that would undoubtedly elude human thinkers, and even if they stumbled upon it, they wouldn't dare take the risk that you did." Aron commended Nova for her actions.

[With sufficient data points and powerful computing power, risks become nonexistence,] Nova replied, sporting a smug expression on her face, playfully jesting about the advantages of having access to a powerful computer.

Aron reacted to Nova's smugness with a scoff before proceeding to ask, "So, what are our total winnings?"

[Our total gain amounts to 278 billion dollars, but if we exclude Rina's share, we have gained about 180 billion dollars,] Nova explained. [The remaining portion, approximately 98 billion dollars, constitutes Rina's share.]

"That's surreal. The power of predicting market outcomes is truly astonishing, but it also carries a certain level of fear," Aron admitted, his tone conveying a mix of awe and trepidation. "We've transformed our initial 22 billion into over 278 billion. " Aron couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at what Nova had done.

[True]

Aron then asked, "Did you sell the shares you bought for pennies, or are you still holding onto them?" He was curious whether their winnings comprised purely cash or a combination of cash and shares.

[I sold those shares when the market rebounded because there was no benefit in holding onto them,] Nova explained.

"Indeed, I'm curious to see how they will attempt to cover up the entire ordeal. It seems like a rather precarious situation, as the investigators only need to identify the primary beneficiaries," Aron remarked, contemplating the potential challenges faced by those involved in the scheme.

[Just like us, the Morgans also employed thousands of different accounts, which was easier for them due to their control over multiple financial companies,] Nova explained. [Furthermore, it's worth noting that my computing power allows me to summarize information quickly. However, if you recall, it took the Morgans over a year to finalize their attack plan. This suggests that the SEC's investigation is likely to take even longer.]

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Nova continued, [During this time, the Morgans can leverage the academic institutes they fund to release peer-reviewed research presenting various theories about the cause of the crash.

By muddying the waters and introducing numerous theories, such as decentralization, spoofing, and technical glitches, they can create a scenario where different causes are going to be in the debate.

This strategy can effectively delay the investigation for more than a decade, especially if the Morgans use their political influence to prematurely end the investigation.]

"That's to our advantage as well," Aron commented, a smile stretching across his face. He expressed his contentment, recognizing that the Morgans had taken care of all the meticulous planning, the subsequent cover-up, and every intricate detail in between. "All we had to do was capitalize on the situation and reap the benefits," he added, acknowledging the substantial financial gains they had effortlessly acquired.

[Yes] Nova nodded agreeing with Aron's observation.

...…

"What?" Rina exclaimed in disbelief upon hearing the staggering amount she had earned from the crash.

Her surprise was evident in her tone as she sought confirmation. "Are you sure?" she asked, still struggling to grasp the magnitude of her earnings.

Ava, maintaining her composure, responded calmly, [Yes, that's what Mother sent me,] she replied, displaying the impressive figure on the screen, leaving no room for doubt.

"What?" Rina exclaimed in disbelief upon hearing the staggering amount she had earned from the crash.

Her surprise was evident in her tone as she sought confirmation. "Are you sure?" she asked, still struggling to grasp the magnitude of her earnings.

Ava, maintaining her composure, responded calmly, [Yes, that's what Mother sent me,] she replied, displaying the impressive figure on the screen, leaving no room for doubt.

As Rina's eyes remained fixed on the screen, her appreciation and gratitude towards Aron swelled within her. It was his ingenuity and efforts that had made this incredible feat possible. Overwhelmed by these thoughts, she reached for the phone he had given her during their first meeting and dialed his number, wanting to express her gratefulness.

After a brief period of ringing, Aron picked up the call and greeted, "Hello."

"Hello, Aron. How are you?" Rina asked, trying to maintain her composure despite the excitement bubbling within her, having been left thrilled by the sight of her share.

"I've been doing well," Aron responded, his voice calm. "And how about you?"

"Thanks to you, I'm doing even better," Rina replied with gratitude in her voice.

"You didn't just call to check up on me, did you?" Aron asked playfully, indicating for Rina to go to the point.

"No, I called to express my gratitude for all the help you've been giving me," Rina said sincerely.

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"No problem. I'm doing this because I know that in the future, I'll be receiving something from you in return. It's a mutually beneficial arrangement," Aron responded with a chuckle.

"I understand that, but I truly believe that whatever you may ask of me in return will never be enough to match the immense value I've gained from your assistance. So, I want you to know that I'm sincerely grateful for all that you've done," Rina insisted.

Following their conversation, they continued discussing various topics. After a few more minutes, Aron spoke up, saying, "If you encounter any other problems or need assistance, don't hesitate to ask me."

"Sure, I will remember that," Rina replied. After exchanging a few more goodbyes, they ended the call, promising to meet again once they had completed their current endeavors.

The moment the phone call ended, Ava interjected and said, [Rina, the family head has called for an emergency meeting and you are among the attendees. It will be held in three hours to ensure all board members can attend.]

"Since he called for me despite not being a board member, it looks like the competition is finally going to continue," Rina said, feeling very happy that she would have another opportunity to compete with Arieh.

[Yes, it certainly seems that way,] Ava replied.

"But this time it's going to be different," Rina said with a smile as she shifted her focus back to her computer. She began discussing with Ava their plans for the upcoming meeting. With Aron's assistance being sustained only until the market crash, which had concluded half an hour ago, Rina knew that from now on she would be on her own. However, instead of feeling worried, she felt a surge of excitement as she welcomed the complete control that was being returned to her.

...

2 hours later.(Board meeting room)

"Why is she here?" Arieh asked, pointing at Rina, for not being a board member and still being in the meeting room.

"The family head called for me," Rina answered simply, before redirecting her attention back to her tasks.

As Arieh processed her response, a sinking feeling enveloped him. He realized that he was in trouble or, at the very least, that he stood to lose something while Rina had the potential to gain.

"Did you lose the personal loan you had taken from the banks?" Arieh asked, strategically aiming to plant a seed of curiosity in the minds of other board members. His intention was to pave the way for the topic to be raised in the meeting by the board members he still believed are on his side, hoping to minimize the time spent discussing his own losses.

However, all of Arieh's hopes were shattered when Hebel, one of the board members, interrupted and said, "Since everyone is here, let's begin the meeting. We don't have to waste any more time." His timely intervention derailed Arieh's plan completely, as it appeared that no one had even heard his question.

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With the family head nodding in approval, the board members' words were acknowledged, and the meeting secretary took the podium to commence the proceedings.

As it was an emergency meeting, the meeting secretary bypassed the usual formalities and promptly delved into the main topic. "Three hours ago, the stock market experienced a significant fall, but after fifteen minutes of continuous fall, it returned to normal. However, in the aftermath, our family businesses and other ventures have incurred heavy losses amounting to approximately 1 trillion dollars. It will take approximately a week to calculate the full extent of the losses," the secretary announced.

Upon hearing the estimated loss, Arieh and the other board members couldn't help but take a deep breath. While they had anticipated significant losses based on the decline of the hedge funds they each controlled, the fact that the preliminary calculations amounted to over a trillion dollars was staggering. It indicated that the final loss figure would likely surpass the current estimate.

"Do we know what caused it?" Yoel asked the secretary.

"At the moment, we aren't sure," the secretary replied. "However, the losses we incurred during the fall seemed to be concentrated in areas where most of our known investments were located. As a result, we suspect some of our known enemies, but our primary suspicion is on the Morgans."

"Why would you primarily suspect the Morgans?" Uria asked after hearing the secretary's reply.

"If they attacked to recover from their previous losses, then it is understandable," Rina interjected, offering her reasoning. Her comment earned her a side-eye from Arieh, and if looks could kill, it would have been her third death today.

Immediately after Rina gave her opinion, the meeting secretary resumed her statement. "The entity that had the largest losses in our hedge funds is Hedge Fund One, which lost more than half of its value due to mistakes made by the team in an attempt to reduce losses," she explained.

Arieh, hearing this, lowered his head in embarrassment as Hedge Fund One was under his control.

The secretary, indifferent to his reaction, pressed on. "This is followed by Hedge Fund Seventeen, then Funds 43, 10, 4, 23, 8..." She went on to list all the funds until each one had been accounted for, and then moved on to other losses that had been incurred.

When the secretary concluded her report, the family head, who had remained silent throughout the meeting, finally spoke up. "What is the cause of different funds experiencing varying losses?" he asked. 𝐛𝐞𝐝𝗻𝐨𝘃𝗲𝗹.𝐜𝐨𝗺

The secretary promptly responded, "It all boils down to how the teams managing those funds reacted to the crisis."

The family head's eyebrows furrowed as he processed the information. "So, you mean to say that our largest publicly known fund, Hedge Fund One, lost more than half of its value simply because the team in charge panicked and made poor decisions? Who is responsible for overseeing that fund?" he questioned.

"Father... I mean, family head... I assure you, I will ensure that such a problem does not repeat itself," Arieh responded, his voice laced with nervousness. He was acutely aware that any misstep in handling this situation will have dire consequences for his future.

"Why weren't you prepared before the crisis occurred? Will you always wait until something goes wrong before implementing any countermeasures?" the family head questioned, his tone conveying feelings of disappointment.

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"No, sir. I always strive to simulate various crises in order to be prepared. However, the specific situation we faced was not accounted for in our crisis manuals," Arieh tried to provide a justification for not being fully prepared.

Rina interjected, seeking to expose his lack of preparedness. "So, you're suggesting that despite simulating different market crises, you failed to develop countermeasures for an immediate market fall?"

Arieh attempted to shift the focus away from himself by pointing out that others also experienced losses. "Everyone incurred losses. Why are you singling me out?"

Rina countered, highlighting the severity of Arieh's losses compared to others. "But you're the only one who lost more than half of your funds. While others may have been less prepared, their losses were limited to around 25 percent. As the leader of our largest publicly known fund, your significant losses indicate a lack of readiness on your part."

Arieh, on the verge of losing his temper, attempted to respond "You…" but caught himself and regained control. However, his outburst had already occurred.

"Enough," the family head said, commanding everyone's attention and putting an end to the ongoing banter. The room fell silent as all eyes turned towards him, awaiting his decision.

"Since the losses were a result of the team leaders' lack of preparedness, everyone will face consequences proportional to the extent of their losses," the family head announced, his calm demeanor sending shivers down everyone's spines. The attendees knew that the more composed he appeared, the more serious the situation was.

Without hesitation, the family head continued, "As you incurred the largest loss, your punishment will also be the most severe. You will be relieved of your position and demoted to your previous role." The weight of his words sank in as the family head's gaze fell upon Arieh, leaving no room for negotiation or appeal.

Turning his attention to Rina, the family head addressed her directly, "With his demotion, the position is now vacant, officially reinstating the competition for my successor. To ensure fair competition, you will be reinstated as a board member and assigned to a company of similar size to the one Arieh will be transferred to."

The family head shifted his gaze to the center of the table, his voice carrying a sense of finality. "The remaining member's punishments will be announced one week from now, once the full extent of the losses has been tallied. On the same day, we will also discuss the countermeasures and plans for recovering from the loss. You have one week to prepare strategies for the recovery." With that, the family head promptly stood up and left the meeting room officially ending the meeting.

"Find all of those who had substantial gains during the crash and bring the list to me. I want to find out if it is either luck or if they knew about our plans ahead of time" George gave the order to the presenter when he realized that their gains were not up to their expectations.

"But sir, if they were privy to our plan, they would have likely employed a similar strategy of using multiple accounts for their trades. Consequently, it will be an arduous and time-consuming task to identify them, if we can even find the evidence at all," the presenter replied, unafraid to provide his rationale, fully aware that if he simply accepted the task and failed, he would face severe consequences.

"I am not concerned about the duration required to locate them. Their actions resulted in our anticipated gains of over a trillion being diminished to a mere 700 billion, with more than 300 billion being taken away from us. Do you think I care about the time and resources needed to find them? Just get it done," George ordered sternly, his tone leaving no room for any response other than compliance.

"Yes, sir," the presenter replied obediently before exiting the meeting room, allowing the family, and board members to have a private discussion among themselves.

"Why do you believe that someone had knowledge of our plans?" Aubrey inquired, curious to understand what his son had observed from the presentations after the presenter had left.

"Based on our calculations and numerous simulations, we had a comprehensive understanding of the events that were expected to unfold, and we made appropriate preparations. When the market crash occurred, everything transpired as planned, from the substantial loss of around 4 trillion to the subsequent recovery after a brief pause.

However, the significant deviation came in the form of our gains. Our projections indicated that our gains would surpass the trillion mark, but they fell short and amounted to only around 700 billion.

This suggests that either our calculations contained an error or an unforeseen factor intervened. The most influential factor that could account for such a substantial deviation from our expectations is the possibility of someone else being aware of our plan and taking measures to claim a share of our winnings," George elaborated, outlining his reasoning to the others.

"That's true. Ensure that you investigate the cause of the deviation and retrieve what was taken from us. However, let's not forget to celebrate the victory in the present moment. A win is a win, so let's celebrate it first before shifting our focus to uncovering the source of the issue," George emphasized, reminding everyone to appreciate and acknowledge their success before delving into the investigation.

Upon hearing his father's words, George composed himself and responded, "Yes, father. I intended to celebrate the victory, especially knowing that we managed to inflict damage on the Rothschilds as planned." He made a conscious decision to set aside his anger towards those who exploited their actions for personal gain, saving it for later consideration.

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"Good," Aubrey said, a smile gracing his face. He then shifted his gaze towards the other board members in the room, who had remained silent throughout the father-son exchange. "Let's reconvene for another meeting after the celebration," he announced, effectively concluding the day's meeting.

...…

Universal simulation.

"With the Morgans no longer in our path, it's time to escalate the revolutionary movements," Aron remarked to Nova.

[What do you have in mind] Nova asked excitedly.

"When Felix approached him to seek his assistance in acquiring the telecommunications companies, didn't we assure Adolf that gaining control over the internet would also provide us with the capability to monitor it?"

[Ooh, I see where you're going with this,] Nova responded with enthusiasm. [You want to leverage our control over the internet to manipulate Adolf into arresting the other revolutionary leaders. By eliminating their leadership, their groups will become leaderless, ultimately paving the way for Alexander's group to take charge.]

"Exactly," Aron confirmed. "Not only that, but it will create a sense of chaos and unrest in numerous cities, compelling Adolf to deploy military forces to suppress the protests. He won't want the protests to persist until the day of the event. By using him to send soldiers to these cities, we can strategically position our forces to take control of the local governing bodies in the cities when the time is right. It's like killing two birds with one stone."

[Should I also prepare to intensify the turmoil by spreading the news of their arrests immediately after they occur, or should I let it unfold naturally?] Nova asked.

Aron paused for a moment, contemplating Nova's suggestion. "I think it's best to let it unfold naturally for now," he replied, carefully considering the potential implications. "Allow the news of their arrests to spread gradually and organically. We want the impact to reverberate throughout the revolutionary circles, creating a sense of uncertainty and instability. It will further disrupt their cohesion and solidify Alexander's group as the dominant force to follow.

Let's adopt a wait-and-see approach and leave that option for contingencies, in case the public's reaction doesn't align with our expectations," Aron suggested, recognizing the importance of not trying to control every aspect of the situation.

[I will make the necessary preparations in advance,] Nova responded, revealing her intentions to develop alternate plans based on various potential reactions from the public.

"You do that, and I'll inform Felix about the plan," Aron said as he logged out intending to call Felix and discuss the details of their plan, assessing whether Felix would be able to execute it himself or if they needed to assign someone else to carry it out in his stead.

...…

"Can you handle it, or should I assign someone else to take care of it?" Aron inquired, seeking confirmation from Felix after explaining the task he wanted him to undertake.

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"I'll handle it, no need to worry about me. In fact, it's better if I take care of it," Felix assured Aron. "By being the one to carry out this task, it will appear as if we are making efforts to regain his favor after the mishap of providing free internet data to the citizens for an extended period, which caused him some losses. It will help create a perception of us trying to mend the situation."

"I'll arrange for someone to accompany you, just as a precautionary measure in case anything unexpected happens," Aron informed Felix.

"Sure," Felix replied, and after a brief further conversation, they concluded the call.

Immediately after ending the call, Aron dialed John's number.

"Yes, sir," John responded promptly upon answering the call.

"I need you to send someone to accompany Felix tomorrow when he goes to the presidential palace," Aron stated directly, as he was sure that John would want that too.

"I will dispatch him right away, sir," John responded promptly.

With that, Aron ended the call and immediately logged back into the universal simulation.

...…

A week later.

[

(Turmoil in Eden)

Eden, a land once filled with hope and aspirations for change, now finds itself caught in the midst of a shocking upheaval. The visionary leaders who had passionately championed the cause of the people and fought for their rights have been confronted with an unexpected twist of fate. Just a fortnight prior to the eagerly awaited annual celebration, anticipated to be a grand platform for their protest, all but one of these revolutionary figures have been apprehended, leaving the populace stunned.

The arrests were executed with remarkable secrecy and precision, catching the revolutionaries off guard and plunging the movement into disarray. The sudden absence of their revered leaders created a void that seemed insurmountable, and the people of Eden were left grappling with the profound implications of this abrupt turn of events.

In response to the arrests, a tidal wave of protests erupted, resonating throughout the vast majority of Eden's cities. Squares and streets became the bustling epicenters of these demonstrations, drawing together citizens from all walks of life who were united in their desire to voice their grievances. The sheer number of protesters was a resounding testament to their unwavering resolve: the people of Eden were no longer willing to further tolerate the stifling of their fundamental human rights.

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As the protests gained momentum, Adolf, the dictator presiding over Eden, found himself confronted with an arduous predicament. In a bid to quell the escalating unrest and reinstate a semblance of order prior to the commencement of the celebratory events, he made the controversial decision to deploy military forces across various locations throughout the nation. This deployment intensified the atmosphere, thickening it with tension and unease as the people and armed forces stood in stark opposition to each other

…..

...…

...

...

...…

...

...

]

After reading the news article about the turmoil he had participated in causing, Felix said "Looks like the beginning of the end has begun." as he realized that the revolution was nearing with each passing second.

Two weeks later.

"Do we really have to go?" Lilungulu asked his father as he got into their car.

"Yes, we must. If His Excellency Adolf doesn't witness sufficient attendance at the event, our lives will become even more challenging," January, Lilungulu's father replied as he ignited the car's engine and departed from the garage, commencing their journey.

As their car traversed the streets of Edenia, the capital city of Eden, they observed the glistening roads that had been diligently cleaned throughout the preceding week in preparation for that day.

"They have completely eradicated any remnants of destruction and littering that resulted from the protests following the arrests," Lilungulu said.

"This time, I had hoped that the protests would continue until their release, or perhaps His Excellency would postpone the festivities for another week, but the serenity and cleanliness of the streets convey a different message, thanks to their presence," January said, pointing towards the soldiers patrolling the streets.

"I've heard that over twenty thousand soldiers have been mobilized, with eight thousand of them stationed in Edenia. They have been patrolling the city for the past three weeks, ensuring everyone behaves," Lilungulu commented, his use of the term "His Excellency" tinged with mockery. "Do you think he would cancel the parade? Not even a nuclear war would make that happen."

His father chose to ignore Lilungulu's mocking tone, recognizing that they shared similar sentiments. Instead, he simply stated, "However, there seems to be a distinctiveness to their mobilization this time."

"What is it? I don't see anything different. They're just soldiers doing the opposite of what they're supposed to do," Lilungulu asked, seeking clarification.

"Usually, when the military is mobilized to handle protests, there are reports of deaths resulting from the violence inflicted by the soldiers.

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However, for the past three weeks, there has been no news of deaths at all. Instead, there have been reports of mass arrests only.

Surprisingly, those who were released stated that they did not face the usual torture during their detention, despite the poor conditions of the holding facilities," January explained.

"I believe it's due to today's celebration," Lilungulu interjected, pausing briefly before continuing. "Perhaps he wants to avoid being the sole high-ranking participant on his own celebration day."

"What do you mean by that?" His father asked.

"I mean, the protests themselves have already caused a significant decrease in the number of international guests attending the event. Now, imagine if deaths were reported amid these cancellations. The remaining guests might cancel their attendance as well to avoid further scrutiny and backlash on their own sides," Lilungulu elaborated, providing a detailed explanation.

The conversation between father and son persisted as they reached their destination.

After parking the car, they alighted and started walking towards the main street, where the celebration and parade were scheduled to take place three hours later.

...

Three hours later. 𝐛𝗲𝐝𝗻𝗼𝘃𝐞𝗹．𝗻𝐞𝘁

Luxury cars, heavily guarded and adorned with opulence, began to arrive one by one, carrying international guests to the venue.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Mr. Sergei Lavrov, arrived, followed by the Chinese Minister Wang Yi, Cuban Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Belarusian Minister Vladimir Makei, Venezuelan Minister Elías Jaua, North Korean Minister Ri Su-Yong, and numerous other dignitaries. Each guest was promptly guided to their assigned seats on the magnificent and extravagant stage.

Five minutes later, a convoy of luxurious and armored cars arrived, coming to a halt. Two individuals emerged from the most extravagant car, impeccably dressed in suits, opening the door for Adolf to step out.

As he emerged, his fervent supporters erupted into ecstatic cheers, prompting him to wave to them as he made his way towards the stage. Despite having met all of the guests during the previous week, Adolf greeted them as if it were their first encounter.

After exchanging pleasantries, he returned to his seat. As he took his place, a synchronized firing of cannons resonated, marking the commencement of the ceremonies.

The flag bearers started their march towards the flagpole, arriving precisely at the 43rd shot, symbolizing the dictator's age.

With the flag securely fastened to the pole, everyone in attendance stood as the military band initiated the national anthem.

The soldiers stationed at the pole began to hoist the flag, synchronizing the pace so that it would reach the top precisely as the anthem drew to its conclusion.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed citizens, loyal followers, and esteemed guests," Adolf began his speech immediately after the national anthem concluded and the applause subsided.

"Today, as I stand before you, I am overwhelmed with profound pride and gratitude for the unwavering support you have bestowed upon me and our illustrious nation. Together, we have conquered adversities, fortified our determination, and paved the way towards a resplendent future."

His speech persisted for half an hour, weaving a tapestry of promises, achievements, and aspirations. His words gracefully floated in the air, casting a potent spell that stirred the hearts and minds of his devoted subjects.

As soon as the speech concluded, the conductor's baton descended, setting the musicians in motion. The band filled the air with a symphony of harmonious melodies, captivating the audience's senses.

Simultaneously, a distant rumble grew gradually louder, capturing everyone's attention. All eyes turned skyward to witness a breathtaking spectacle.

The fighter jets of the air force soared above, their graceful maneuvers leaving trails of vibrant colors behind, accentuating the azure backdrop. Helicopters whirled elegantly in the air, adding to the awe-inspiring display.

When the airshow concluded, and without a moment's pause, Air Force General Christopher Hartman bellowed, "MARCH!" Instantly, the soldiers standing at attention began their synchronized march, their disciplined steps resonating with precision and strength.

Arrayed in immaculate uniforms, each soldier brandished their weapons. Keen observers would notice a meticulous detail—the gleaming shine of these arms as if they were newly unboxed for this momentous parade.

In the wake of the marching soldiers, the air resonated with the growl of engines as a formidable convoy of tanks and armored vehicles rumbled through the streets.

The parade continued its majestic procession, weaving its way through the heart of the city. Flags fluttered in the gentle breeze, while cheers erupted from some enthusiastic onlookers, adding to the atmosphere of grandeur.

As the final tank rumbled past, the dictator Adolf stood atop the platform, a glint of contentment in his eyes.

He delivered his closing remarks, bidding farewell to the jubilant crowd before descending from the stage.

With the ceremony coming to an end, he made his way towards his awaiting car, intending to depart for his presidential palace.

Amidst the commotion and amidst the supporters' cheers, an unexpected sound pierced the air. "Bang!" A shot was fired, its trajectory ricocheting and striking a guard who had been dutifully holding the car door for Adolf.

Reacting swiftly, the remaining guards sprang into action. Without hesitation, they grasped Adolf by the neck, forcefully guiding him into the car as they surrounded him before shutting the door behind him. wasting no time the car started moving the moment the door was closed.

The situation mirrored itself for the other foreign ministers as they, too, were hastily ushered into their cars. Without concern for those in their path, the vehicles accelerated forward, each diplomat racing in a vibe of to each their own.

While the diplomats' cars raced and vied against one another on their way to the airport, their respective security teams that were stationed at the airport adopted a contrasting approach. Instead of engaging in a competition, they chose to collaborate.

In a remarkably efficient display of coordination, the security teams swiftly assumed control of the airport, seamlessly surpassing the airport security personnel. They skillfully secured the perimeter, while maintaining a vigilant watch over the surroundings as they waited for their respective ministers..

After a 20-minute wait, the first minister's car arrived at the airport, swiftly followed by the other diplomats' vehicle. Without any delay, the security teams sprang into action, rushing towards their own diplomats' cars.

Swiftly opening the doors and forming a protective shield around the diplomats, covering them with their jackets and ballistic shields.

Wasting no time they began moving towards their respective planes which were already powered on and ready for departure, only waiting for their passengers.

Once on board, the planes swiftly initiated their departure procedures and began moving towards the runway. The runway, devoid of any other aircraft, bore testament to the temporary control exerted by the short-term security team.

Having taken charge of the airport, they had also assumed control of the air traffic operations. They postponed all scheduled takeoffs, ensuring that no aircraft was on the runway during this critical period.

Additionally, incoming planes were directed to enter a holding pattern, circling in the air until they received clearance for landing.

One after another, the planes began to take off. The only factor causing a delay between their takeoff was the required distance to avoid wake turbulence.

...

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Inside one of the departed planes.

"Report!" Sergei Lavrov, the Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs, exclaimed once the airplane had taken off and he was certain of his safety.

"Coup d'état, sir. The city is in turmoil, so we don't know who is behind it yet," answered one of his guards.

"Why didn't we have any prior knowledge of this? Are our assets in the country just playing around?" Sergei asked, his anger evident as he found himself at ground zero when it all began.

"There was no indication whatsoever. But whoever he is, he is powerful.," the guard answered.

"What makes you say that? If he is powerful he would have chosen another day, not today where there are almost ten thousand guards in the city. Did you contact Moscow to inform them about the situation? " Sergei answered back.

"We attempted, but no communication can go out or come inside," the guard reported back.

"What do you mean by that? You were able to coordinate operations between the security team with me and those at the airport. How is it possible that you failed to establish contact with Moscow?" Sergei asked in surprise.

"It appears that those responsible for this coup deliberately left our frequencies open to facilitate our safe evacuation but intentionally blocked outside communication to prevent our countries from learning about the coup and potentially sending assistance to Adolf," the guard explained.

"SHIT, they are cunning and powerful," Sergei exclaimed as he came to the realization that those orchestrating the coup were aware of their encrypted frequencies yet deliberately left them open to facilitate their escape. Furthermore, they possessed highly advanced technology capable of blocking all forms of communication from leaving the country. "It's a complete communication isolation. Even we wouldn't be able to achieve such a feat on such short notice," he added.

Chapter 141 Ensuing Chaos

Aron, who was watching the parade from within a real-world synchronized time bubble in the universal simulation said, "If you were unaware of the military's inherent weakness, you would assume they were of world-class caliber."

{All those weapons originate from Adolf's private forces' warehouse, and they will be promptly reclaimed and returned to them. As for the cars appearing brand new, their impeccable condition can be attributed to a skillful paint job.} Nova, as always sitting near Aron, answered immediately.

Observing the situation, Aron asked, "Is everything proceeding according to plan?"

Nova reported, {Yes, everything is in place. And with a majority of the private forces' weapons in the hands of the soldiers participating in the parade, dealing with the private forces will be easier than anticipated. At the moment we are simply waiting for the first shot to be fired before I issue the order to everyone, signaling them to make their move.}

As they kept their eyes fixed on the unfolding events, they remained watchful until the parade eventually concluded. The pivotal moment arrived when Adolf stood up and commenced his walk towards his car.

Aron, seeing this, his voice tinged with anxiety, he said, "It appears that the awaited time has arrived."

Nova reassured Aron, sensing his unease, by saying, {You invested ample time in planning every detail with me, so don't fret about any potential mishaps. If your forces face difficulties, remember that you are fully capable of taking matters into your own hands.}

"Thanks," Aron managed to say, but before he could finish his sentence, a gunshot resounded from the screen displaying the parade. Aron exclaimed, "Finally."

With prior knowledge of the imminent events, Nova, who had made thorough preparations and already gained control over the uplink facility responsible for broadcasting the parade's video feed to the international audience, initiated the transmission of an alternative feed. This feed, meticulously simulated and rendered, aimed to deceive international viewers, leaving them completely unaware of the unfolding situation.

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Simultaneously, Nova utilized her control over CONNECT to start monitoring all internet activity, intercepting any information that had the potential to inform the world about the ongoing coup.

Furthermore, she employed the radio signal transmission towers to jam all radio communications, whether encrypted or not, except for those utilized by the evacuating foreign ministers heading to the airport.

By doing so, Nova aimed to facilitate their coordinated escape while mitigating the risk of attracting unwanted attention and potential backlash from the international community if they were detained.

Leveraging the communication infrastructure, she orchestrated the synchronized efforts of the coup forces, ensuring strategic cohesion and efficient execution of their planned actions.

While doing all of those she was also harnessing the sensors embedded in the personal devices of all citizens, online-connected cameras, and any accessible sensors within the country, employing this vast network to create a digital replica of the nation.

By continuously updating and redesigning the plan based on the reactions of Adolf and his forces, Nova rendered any countermeasures they devised obsolete the moment she became aware of them.

This adaptive approach allowed her to maintain a strategic advantage, constantly staying ahead of the opposition and adjusting the coup strategy accordingly.

...

The streets in which the parade took place.

As soon as Lilungulu and his father heard the gunshot and witnessed the security team swiftly escorting Adolf and the other visitors away, they wasted no time.

They swiftly joined the multitude of frantic individuals, all attempting to escape the scene, and hurried towards where they had parked their cars.

Their primary objective was to reach their vehicle and return home before something terrible happened to them. ｂｅｄ𝚗ｏ𝚟𝚎𝚕.𝚌𝚘ｍ

Amid the frenzy, people resorted to pulling and stomping on one another in their desperate attempt to ensure their own survival.

Some even went to the extent of pushing their slower-running partners aside, prioritizing their own well-being.

As time elapsed, the chaos intensified with nobody present to restore order, causing the situation to spiral further out of control.

When Lilungulu and his father finally reached their parked car, their clothes were tattered from grappling with others who were trying to shove them aside in their haste to run ahead.

Without wasting a moment, they immediately boarded the vehicle, casting aside any sense of etiquette or rules, January accelerated with a sense of urgency, driving as if there were no tomorrow.

"What the..." January couldn't help but utter those words in astonishment as he was compelled to stop. The road ahead was congested with military trucks overflowing with heavily armed soldiers, all moving in the same direction.

"Where are they going?" Lilungulu asked his father, his voice trembling in fear and a slight tinge of sadness evident as he realized he had lost his bag amidst the commotion.

"They are heading towards his excellency's private forces headquarters," January replied to his son.

Lilungulu, perplexed by the situation, further asked "Why aren't they attempting to restore order and quell the chaos?"

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Before his father could answer, a military truck equipped with a loudspeaker began broadcasting an official announcement, capturing their attention.

"Attention, citizens of Edenia. This is an official announcement from the Military," the voice echoed through the speaker.

"Due to the current circumstances and in the interest of public safety, a curfew is being implemented across the entire city.

This curfew will take immediate effect and will remain in place until further notice.

We kindly request that you return to your homes immediately and remain there until further instructions.

Anyone found outside their residence one hour from now, unless en route to their homes due to distance, will be subject to arrest."

"They have begun enforcing it," January replied to his son, his voice filled with concern, as the distant sound of the announcement grew fainter.

In a hushed tone, almost ensuring that his son wouldn't hear, he quietly muttered, "I hope it will be resolved by tomorrow," his words carrying a hint of worry, as he knew or suspected what was unfolding.

...

Back to the site of the parade.

Moments after the onset of chaos, the soldiers who had taken part in the parade received the order to board the military trucks that had transported them there, along with their weapons.

Wondering why they were not ordered to control the chaotic public, the soldiers boarded the trucks only to find boxes filled with magazines inside.

Their surprise grew when they received another order: "Within those trucks, you will find boxes containing magazines. Load your weapons with them immediately."

Following the command, the soldiers swiftly loaded their weapons with the ammunition from the magazines as the trucks began moving in a synchronized convoy, transporting the armed soldiers to various locations throughout the city.

During the journey, the soldiers received detailed briefings from their commanders regarding their objectives upon arrival. These commanders had been previously informed and briefed on the plan weeks ago, actively participating in its development.

Some of the soldiers who were quick-witted immediately grasped the unfolding situation, while others who were slower to comprehend took a bit longer to realize the true nature of the plan.

However, regardless of their individual understanding, no one made an attempt to stop or resist.

The prevailing sentiment among the soldiers was a collective weariness of being continuously regarded as second-rate military personnel compared to the dictator's private forces.

This shared frustration among the soldiers served as a catalyst, igniting a common purpose and driving their collective agreement to the orders.

"Let's go," exclaimed some of the soldiers, their faces displaying a mix of excitement and contentment as they welcomed the unfolding events.

However, alongside their happiness, there were also traces of apprehension and fear lingering within them for the face-off that was about to happen.

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...

In addition to Edenia, other major cities within Eden, including Oasisville, Blissfield, Astoria, Avalon, and several others, were engulfed in chaos.

However, this turmoil did not stem from the gunshot incident; rather, it was the direct consequence of Alexander's call to action.

The protesters had already begun their demonstrations earlier in the day, but it was upon receiving news of the incident that Alexander issued the order for their actions to become more aggressive.

As soon as they received the order, the protest leaders in those cities immediately directed the groups towards government offices.

This decision instilled fear in some of the protesters who were aware that soldiers were stationed at these locations and would respond with violence to disperse them. Despite this knowledge, and with a sheep-like mentality, they continued to follow the directives of their leaders.

Upon reaching the government buildings, they were taken aback to find all the soldiers had vanished, leaving no one to impede their progress.

Encouraged by this unexpected turn of events, the protest leaders forged ahead, and their followers grew increasingly emboldened. As they advanced towards the government building, they began wreaking havoc and vandalizing government properties along the way.

With each act of property destruction, their audacity swelled further. When they finally reached the government building, guided by the leaders' influence, they forcefully kicked down the barricades and stormed inside, swiftly taking control.

Fueled by their pent-up anger stemming from the experiences under Adolf and his family's leadership, they unleashed their wrath by vandalizing and demolishing the properties within the buildings.

Chapter 142 "BOOM"

"Testing, one, two, three," exclaimed a soldier gripping a microphone inside a truck brimming with speakers, completely disregarding the perilous circumstances surrounding him. His sole focus remained on ensuring the seamless operation of the system.

A glance at the surroundings would reveal a staggering sight: over four thousand soldiers encircled the headquarters of the dictator's private forces, locked in a tense standoff with the ill-equipped private forces.

The majority of their state-of-the-art technological equipment was loaned to the soldiers for the parade, aiming to demonstrate to the world their possession of cutting-edge weaponry.

As a result, they found themselves outgunned by the military they were constantly compared to and believed to surpass.

Caught completely off guard, they remained oblivious to the fact that Adolf had been attacked. Unbeknownst to them, Nova intercepted the communication intended for their awareness, providing Adolf with a false sense of security by assuring him that they were en route to protect him.

Having completed the microphone test, the soldier proceeded to deliver the mandated announcement: "You are encircled entirely. Surrender immediately, or you will be compelled to do so at the cost of substantial casualties." His voice remained utterly composed, devoid of any hint of emotion.

"You guys know who is backing us right? Are you still determined to persist with this?" a response echoed from the megaphone held by an individual within the building.

"It appears you have made your choices. We will not entertain surrender for the next thirty minutes," the soldier retorted in response to their reply. He then grasped his radio, contacting the command center and reporting, "Sir, they have declined our offer."

"Instruct the soldiers to withdraw by five hundred meters," came the response from the other side of the radio.

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"Yes, sir," acknowledged the soldier promptly. He immediately relayed the command to all the soldiers, instructing them to withdraw by six hundred meters, including an additional hundred meters for good measure.

...

Inside the building.

"Looks like our threat worked," said one of the members of the private forces when he saw soldiers moving away from the building.

"I really hope so. We're short on weapons since they took them for the parade, and I hope they don't know that. Otherwise, they'll hold on until our weapon barrels melt from overuse before they catch or kill us."

"But what did they mean by not accepting surrender for the next half an hour if they were going to leave us?" he asked, his eyes still fixed on the window as he observed the soldiers continuing to move until they finally came to a stop far away from the building.

to the activities of the people in the building, pulled their joysticks upward, causing their planes to ascend in altitude. They continued "KWAAAAAAA!" Before anyone could answer him, they heard an extremely loud sound, and in unison, they all exclaimed, "FUCK!" as they immediately began scrambling towards the basement of the building.

The pilots of the two approaching fighter jets, paying no attention to the activities of the people in the building, pulled their joysticks upward, causing their planes to ascend in altitude. They continued to climb, losing forward momentum and instead gaining vertical speed. Eventually, they ceased moving forward entirely and continued ascending.

After reaching a certain altitude, they disengaged the afterburners and let the planes continue climbing upward until they completely lost momentum. As the planes started to descend, their trajectory led them directly beneath the building.

As the planes descended towards the building, the need for guided munition which the country didn't have disappeared. 𝒷ℯ𝓭𝓷ℴ𝓋𝓮𝓵.𝒸ℴ𝓶

Without hesitation, they uttered, "Bombs away," and pressed the trigger, releasing all the bombs attached to the hard points of their planes. The bombs plummeted towards the target, relinquishing control to gravity for their final delivery. Following the release, the pilots pulled their joysticks to level the planes and turned back in the direction they came from, making their way back to the base.

While the maneuvers executed by the planes appeared impressive, there was nothing remotely cool about the situation for those in the path of the oncoming bombs, as they desperately raced towards the basement, which had been reinforced to withstand the impact of bombings.

Unfortunately, the time it took for the pilot to execute their maneuvers and release the payload was merely a few seconds, leaving those in the vicinity with insufficient time to flee and reach the safety of the basement before the devastating payload reached them.

"BOOM!" "BOOM!" "BOOM!" The bombs, arriving with staggered microseconds between them, began detonating one after another. The building was engulfed in a series of devastating explosions, annihilating everything caught within their destructive force and leaving a trail of devastation in their wake.

In the aftermath of the bombings, the wreckage revealed a gruesome sight. Limbs and other body parts were scattered throughout the area, their presence a stark reminder of the devastating impact caused by one of the bombs exploding in a densely populated location.

Shouts of agony and pain echoed through the air as those who had lost limbs in the explosions cried out in anguish.

...

"SHIT!" The soldiers stationed six hundred meters away from the building couldn't tear their eyes away from the scene of destruction. They were witnesses to an act of sheer wizardry, as the pilots arrived, executed their maneuvers, dropped their payload, and departed without sparing a glance at the devastation they had wrought.

True to their word, the soldiers patiently waited until the exact thirty-minute mark had elapsed since their promise before they received the order to advance and apprehend all those who chose to surrender. However, for those who refused to surrender, they were granted permission to engage them with force, allowing a more aggressive approach.

In successive batches, the soldiers began entering the compound, their focus at its peak. The bombing eliminated any possibility of a resolution without one side surrendering.

...

"What the heck happened? Who fired the shot?" Adolf asked once he had regained his composure after arriving at his palace and receiving confirmation of his safety.

"We are still investigating, sir, but it will take a considerable amount of time to identify the person responsible. The shot caused a state of chaos, and everyone scattered in different directions, making it challenging to locate the individual. We will need to thoroughly review the available footage to uncover the perpetrator," his secretary reported, addressing Adolf's question.

"Now that you mention it, what happened to the foreign ministers?" Adolf inquired, suddenly remembering their presence. Disregarding his own country's minister, he expressed little concern for their fate, knowing he could easily replace them if necessary.

"When the incident occurred, the foreign ministers were swiftly escorted to their car and immediately taken to the airport. They left behind a few of their guards who couldn't board the plane with them, as they needed to ensure the safety of the airport until their departure. As of now, only some of their security guards remain, and they are scheduled to leave tomorrow once the planes are dispatched to pick them up," his assistant informed him, relaying the information received during the call inquiring about the situation.

"SHIT! Did you apologize to them for the commotion and promise to provide further details once we finish investigating?" Adolf asked anxiously, his tone betraying his concern about potentially losing their support.

"Yes, sir. I did apologize to them, and although they were hesitant, they reluctantly agreed," the secretary replied.

"FUCK! Call all the generals here right now! I need to ask them how the hell someone managed to bring a gun into a city with over eight thousand fucking soldiers!" Adolf shouted, attempting to channel his anxiety into anger and searching for someone to blame and punish, hoping to appease his own frustrations.

Completely oblivious to what was happening in his country all completely thanks to Nova having complete control over all communication channels within the country. She exercised her authority by manipulating and filtering the information disseminated to the public, ensuring that Adolf remained oblivious to the ongoing events.

Furthermore, Nova strategically positioned soldiers along all roads leading to the palace, instructing them to block any incoming traffic to prevent individuals who were aware of the situation from reaching Adolf and informing him of the external circumstances.

"Yes, sir," the secretary acknowledged, promptly leaving the office to fulfill the order of summoning the generals.

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...

Receiving the calls, the generals swiftly arrived at the palace, rushing to gather in the room. Adolf wasted no time in expressing his frustration, shouting at them the moment they entered.

"What the fuck is going on with your soldiers?" Adolf exclaimed, his voice filled with anger and impatience.

"Most of our soldiers were deployed to ensure there were no other protests or disturbances occurring, which led to the security at the parade location being understaffed," General Christopher responded, attempting to convey a sense of concern about his position in the midst of the situation.

"Do you realize that due to your negligent oversight, you have caused this day to end disastrously and put our diplomatic connections with friendly countries at risk?" Adolf yelled, his anger and frustration unabated.

The generals maintained their silence in the face of Adolf's outburst, choosing not to engage or respond to his tantrum. They listened attentively, their expressions stoic while absorbing his words and allowing him to vent his frustrations.

"Now, go find and bring the person who fired the gun here! I'm going to skin them alive," Adolf shouted in a rage, turning his back on the generals as a sign that he wished to be left alone.

"No, we are going to stay here," General Nathan declared, rising from his chair.

Adolf abruptly turned around while saying "What the fuck do ...", but the rest of his words froze in his throat as he completed the turn. He stiffened, his eyes widening in shock, as he found himself face-to-face with a Glock pistol pointed directly at him.

"As I said, we are going to stay here," Nathan reiterated, maintaining a firm grip on the Glock. He gestured for Adolf to take a seat, emphasizing his demand with a steely gaze.

Chapter 143 A Short Talk With Adolf

"WhaAaT ArE yOu Doing?" Adolf asked, his voice trembling with panic. The fear in his voice was palpable as he questioned the intentions of the generals.

"Someone has ordered us to keep a close watch on you until their plans are complete, after which they will personally visit to have a talk with you," General Ethan responded, a sinister smile forming on his face.

"Who is that person?" Adolf inquired, his mind racing to determine if he had unknowingly angered a powerful individual.

"You will find out when you meet him, so sit down or I'll make you," Nathan threatened Adolf, his tone laced with authority.

"Shit," Adolf muttered, his body trembling as he reluctantly took a seat. He realized that regardless of what had done, he was in for a long and troubling night.

...

Eden.

Gradually, one after another, governmental buildings and other strategic locations fell into the hands of the protestors, while in the capital city, the military continued to assert control.

As the night unfolded, the chaos intensified further, fueled by the growing awareness of government institutions being taken over in cities across the country. News of these developments spread rapidly, inspiring more and more people to take to the streets and join their fellow citizens in solidarity.

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Not everything went smoothly for the members of the revolutionary group attempting to seize control of government buildings. Despite being an unpopular leader, there were still some individuals who held favorable views of him.

This could be attributed to those who had directly benefited from his policies or enjoyed preferential treatment, often due to having family members employed within the government and benefiting from their association. These loyalists posed a challenge to the revolutionary group's efforts as they tried to defend the status quo and resisted the calls for change.

As a consequence, large-scale clashes erupted between these opposing groups in numerous cities, leading to a significant number of casualties. In response, Nova issued a directive for a portion of the military deployed in those areas to assume operational control over the police forces to effectively manage the situation and minimize the number of casualties resulting from the ongoing clashes.

By 10 o'clock at night, Adolf's government had completely lost control over the country, yet the majority of the world remained unaware of the situation unfolding within its borders. 𝘣𝘦𝘥𝑛𝘰𝘷𝘦𝑙．𝘯𝘦𝘵

...

"Why is it so quiet? At the very least, America should have already discovered what is going on through their satellites, as they should be monitoring the parade for intelligence," Aron asked Nova, expressing his confusion.

{Either the timing of the shot being fired happened at the same time when the satellites they were using to monitor and collect intelligence lost line of sight due to their orbit, and when the line of keeping it under wraps,} Nova explained to Aron.

"That makes sense. So, where do we stand with our plan?" he asked.

sight was restored, they only saw the chaos that had already ensued. Alternatively, they might have discovered the ongoing coup, but since they are not sure if it will succeed or not, they are keeping it under wraps,} Nova explained to Aron.

"That makes sense. So, where do we stand with our plan?" he asked.

{Almost everything is about to be completed. I think you should start heading to the presidential palace now so that by the time you arrive, everything else will have been completed, and dealing with Adolf will be the only task remaining,} Nova said to Aron.

"Sure, see you later," Aron said and logged out of the universal simulation.

Aron removed his virtual reality helmet and took a moment to stretch his body, feeling relief from sitting for an extended period. "Let's go," he said to John, as he opened the door and stepped out of the military truck. He carried the VR helmet in his hands as they prepared to proceed.

After disembarking from the truck, Aron began walking towards the presidential palace, which was approximately a kilometer away and visible to the naked eye. As he walked, an Eden soldier who had been assigned to lead a team and entrusted with driving and protecting Aron turned to him.

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The soldier saluted Aron with the utmost respect he could afford and said, "Have a nice day, sir."

"Yeah, you too," Aron replied, waving at the soldier, before continuing his walk towards the palace alongside John.

Throughout the coup, John remained by Aron's side, using the phone provided to him to stay updated with Nova's continuous updates.

The information included details about the operations carried out by Ares members in taking over several minor, yet heavily armed, private force bases scattered across Edenia. Instead of resorting to bombing these bases, which would have been excessive, the planes were reserved for targeting the main base, making it easier for the soldiers to seize control, considering Ares was still short on manpower.

His walk continued until he reached a distance of about three hundred meters, at which point Aron cast the concealment rune on both himself and John.

They continued walking, passing through the gates guarded by unsuspecting sentries who remained unaware of the ongoing coup happening across the country, diligently carrying out their duties.

Without pausing, Aron and John strode towards the building, their steps unwavering. Once inside, they maintained their determined pace, heading directly towards the room where Adolf and the general were present, not showing that it was their first visit to the premises.

Aron canceled the concealment rune on both himself and John before knocking on the door. After a brief pause, General Ethan cautiously opened the door to see who was outside. As he recognized Aron, he immediately greeted him with respect, saying, "Welcome, sir," while offering a slight bow as a sign of deference.

Aron and John entered the office without uttering a word. Ethan promptly closed the door behind them as they stepped into the room.

"Hello," Aron greeted Adolf with a wave, his eyes briefly glancing at Nathan, who still had his gun trained on Adolf.

"whO ArE yOu?" Adolf asked, his fear still apparent but slightly reduced.

"I've come to convince you to hand over the country and make a public announcement of it," Aron said calmly as he took a seat on the sofa, which Christopher had vacated for him.

Adolf, upon hearing Aron's words, burst into uncontrollable laughter.

Observing Adolf's reaction, Aron turned to Nathan and asked, "Did you do something to him, or has he gone crazy from fear or something?"

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"Looks like I have the upper hand here. As long as I don't make the announcement, my private forces will eventually realize that something is amiss and come looking for me," he said amidst his laughter, before calming down and continuing, "Here's a simple offer from me. I'll give you 24 hours to run if you leave me alone. After that, I will search for you, and when I find you, I will personally be responsible for skinning you alive." Adolf concealed his anxiety and acted serious in the hope that the longer he delays them the more the chance his private forces would notice his absence and take action.

Hearing what he said, Aron and the generals couldn't help but burst into laughter, finding Adolf's threats and attempts to intimidate them amusing. Adolf, bewildered by their reaction, asked, "You think I'm joking?" However, his question was interrupted as he saw Aron standing up and approaching him.

Nervously, Adolf exclaimed, "What are you going to do with that helmet? Are you trying to hit me with it? I'm warning you! Stop! Stop!" His voice grew more panicked as Aron drew closer.

"Reasoning with you is going to take too long," Aron replied calmly. "Torturing you would make it difficult for you to deliver a speech shortly after. While I could create a CGI version of you, it would require eliminating everyone in this building to conceal it. So let's make it easy for both of us." With those words, Aron forcefully placed the headgear onto Adolf's head.

Five minutes later, Aron removed the headgear and asked, "Are you going to make the announcement, or should I send you for another round?" He shook the headgear in his hand, indicating that he was prepared to use it again if needed.

"WAIT, WAIT, NO, NO, NO, NO, I'll do anything you ask, just don't put that thing on me again, please" Adolf pleaded, dropping to his knees in fear. He was terrified at the thought of having the headgear placed on his head once more to return to that place.

"What on earth did she do to him?" Aron tilted his head in curiosity, wondering what Nova had done to Adolf in the universal simulation.

"Okay, here's the speech that you're going to make," Aron said, handing Adolf a piece of paper containing the speech from his pocket. "But first, call your secretary and instruct her to allow the military entry to the palace for them to increase the security in this place, citing your concerns about potential threats. Understand?"

"Yes, sir, I will do so," Adolf wasted no time. He walked to his desk, picked up the phone, and immediately ordered his secretary to allow the military entry and increase the security of the palace upon their arrival.

Although his secretary questioned Adolf's decision to call for the military instead of his private forces, nothing a yelling or two from Adolf couldn't solve.

Two hours later.

At the stroke of midnight, everything came to a sudden halt. As the new day dawned, the restless citizens, who had been in a state of chaos, found themselves compelled to pause as every news channel began airing the same broadcast.

While this captured the attention of those who had their televisions on, the remaining citizens were intrigued by the simultaneous message they received.

As they unlocked their phones, they were greeted with a headline reading "Presidential Announcement" along with a link to the broadcast.

As a result, the entire nation fell into a temporary hush, as curiosity enveloped everyone regarding what Adolf was about to reveal. Would he issue threats, compelling them to return home, or would he offer concessions and pledge to alter the country's policies? The anticipation hung in the air, leaving the populace on edge, awaiting the impending announcement.

Adolf took his place at the podium, adorned with his presidential insignia, in a room bathed in a backdrop of vibrant blue. Amidst the static ambiance, he stood as the sole figure that stood out, embodying a stark contrast against the stillness of his surroundings.

"Mhh..." Adolf cleared his throat before he began speaking, "Dear citizens, I address you today with a heavy heart, burdened by the realization that the moment has arrived for me to let go of my hold on our beloved nation, Eden." As he uttered these words, he momentarily paused, needing to wipe away the tears that had cascaded down his face.

"With profound sorrow, I announce the relinquishment of my authority over the governance of our nation. The time has come for me to pass on this responsibility to a new leadership," Adolf somberly conveyed.

"Eden, our cherished land, has been a sanctuary of prosperity and harmony under my guidance. I have endeavored to lead our nation toward progress and shield our people from external perils.

Regrettably, recent events have unfolded in a manner that has eroded my authority, and continuing under such circumstances would only inflict further damage and suffering.

Faced with these challenges, I have engaged in dialogues with Alexander and his group—individuals who have displayed a profound commitment to the well-being of our nation.

They possess a deep understanding of the complexities of governance and the requisite expertise to lead us forward. 𝘣𝑒𝑑𝑛𝘰𝑣𝘦𝘭.𝘤𝑜𝑚

Thus, after thoughtful deliberation, I have concluded that their leadership is in the best interest of Eden and its people.

The specifics of the transition and the course of action going forward will rest in the hands of Alexander and those he chooses to assist him in the process of reforming our country.

Following my address, Alexander will address you, providing an overview of his plans after assuming the reins of government.

Thank you, and may God bless Eden and its people," Adolf concluded, gesturing a farewell to an absent crowd before exiting the camera's view.

...…

"Is he saying what I think he's saying?" One of the protesters, momentarily ceasing the act of breaking windows at the government office, questioned in disbelief as he watched the press conference.

"I believe he meant that he is dissolving the government or something of the sort, as he is entrusting the overhaul to Alexander, the only revolutionary leader who has managed to evade arrest," one of them responded, trying to interpret the implications of Adolf's announcement.

"But why would he do that? Unless he has lost his sanity, he is not someone who would make such a decision,"

"Are you oblivious or simply ignorant?" exclaimed another protester, frustrated by the lack of understanding. "I'm almost certain a coup has occurred, and Adolf was coerced into making that announcement. Let's hear what Alexander has to say." They watched intently as Alexander ascended the podium, eager to gain some clarity and insight into the unfolding events, realizing their limited access to information as low-level members had left them in the dark about the true nature of the situation.

...…

"Citizens of Eden," Alexander commenced his speech, intentionally conveying an expression of fatigue, reflecting the weight of recent events that had unfolded prior to the press conference.

"Today signifies the beginning of a new era in the annals of our nation. As my predecessor, Adolf, stated, I now assume the mantle of responsibility for our nation, a task I accept with the utmost honor," Alexander declared, pausing briefly to let the weight of his words sink in. "And as the newly appointed leader, my first imperative is to rejuvenate our ailing nation, to commence afresh. Therefore, I hereby declare the abolition of the current constitution of Eden."

"But let it be clear: the abolishment of the previous government does not imply that the atrocities committed in the past will be forgotten," he declared vehemently, pounding the podium with his hands for emphasis.

"Beginning with the former leader of Eden, Adolf, everyone who held positions within the previous government will undergo thorough investigation and face appropriate punishment in accordance with the provisions of the new constitution." His voice resonated with a mix of weariness and unwavering determination, revealing his unwavering commitment to holding accountable those responsible for the actions of the previous regime.

"Tomorrow morning, I will release the remaining revolutionary leaders who have been unjustly detained," Alexander announced, his tone conveying a sense of urgency and resolve. "I will engage in extensive consultations with them to ensure that the new government is structured in a manner that makes it impossible for situations like those that occurred during Adolf and his family's reign to ever transpire again."

Alexander then proceeded with his speech, outlining a series of promises and commitments regarding the changes he intended to implement within the country. With each word, he sought to inspire hope and confidence in the hearts of the people.

As Alexander's address neared its conclusion, he punctuated his speech by proclaiming, "Long live the revolution!" With that final statement, he bid farewell to the viewers of the press conference leaving the audience bewildered.

Even though many individuals could deduce that a coup had indeed taken place, given the hints scattered throughout the speech and the concluding words that solidified their assumptions, they still struggled to grasp the intricacies behind its execution.

To ensure a successful coup of Eden, it was widely understood that capturing Adolf, dismantling his private forces which constituted a significant source of his authority, and compelling him to make the announcement of his relinquishment was vital to avoid potential foreign sanctions from friendly nations would be imperative.

Simultaneously, the coup plotters would need to confront the challenge posed by the military, which had been enforcing a curfew in the capital after the chaos that ensued due to the unexpected gunfire.

Despite the complexities surrounding the coup and the confusion it caused, a prevailing sentiment of joy and relief permeated among most of the citizens.

The removal of the dictator had rekindled hope in their hearts, and faith was restored after the dissolution of the previous government.

Based on the people's reaction, Nova foresaw a discernible surge in the population to take place around nine months later.

...…

After concluding the press conference and returning to one of the palace rooms, Alexander respectfully bowed to Aron, expressing his heartfelt gratitude with a sincere "Thank you very much."

"This is the fifteenth time you've thanked me today," Aron said, feeling a sense of embarrassment as Alexander persisted in expressing his gratitude despite his attempts to stop him. "As I mentioned earlier, I am also benefiting from this deal, so there is no need for you to feel such overwhelming thankfulness towards me."

I understand that, but I still feel the need to thank you," Alexander said, emphasizing his gratitude. "Even though I had been hoping for changes in our country since my teens and joined the revolutionary group to bring about that change, I'm convinced that nothing substantial would have occurred without your investments and the assistance you provided us."

"Alright, I accept your gratitude. Now, please take a seat. " Aron said, gesturing for Alexander to sit down so they could continue their conversation.

As Alexander took his seat, he wasted no time and asked, "Apart from the abolition of military institutions, do you have any suggestions for the clauses in the Constitution?" He was eager to hear Aron's opinion and see if he could accommodate any additional ideas.

Aron, deep in thought with his hand resting on his chin, took a brief moment before responding, "I do have some suggestions that can help you avoid potential pitfalls that may arise and cause problems for you in the future."

"Please, go ahead," Alexander said respectfully, urging Aron to share his suggestions.

"There are too many to discuss, and it would take a considerable amount of time. Put this on, and everything will be explained to you," Aron said, handing the VR headset to Alexander.

Curiosity piqued, Alexander decided to trust Aron's judgment and put on the peculiar-looking helmet. He resolved to ask questions later if he didn't understand the purpose behind wearing it.

After putting on the headgear, Alexander settled onto the sofa. Meanwhile, Aron left the room, finding several soldiers standing guard outside the office.

After he instructed the soldiers to ensure that nobody entered the room except for himself.

He embarked on a leisurely walk through the palace, fully aware that despite the time acceleration of five to one, it would take Nova a considerable amount of time to thoroughly explain everything to Alexander.

White House, Situation Room.

After briefing him about their suspicions regarding the situation in Eden, the CIA director asked President Obama, "Sir, what course of action do you suggest we pursue?"

"Firstly, how certain are you about this information?" Obama inquired about the level of confidence in the intelligence, seeking assurance before making a decision that would rely heavily on it.

The CIA director responded, gesturing towards the screens displaying satellite feeds. "There are two potential interpretations of the current situation. One possibility is that it signifies a coup, while the other suggests that the military is attempting to compel Adolf to disband his private forces." A few of the screens showed satellite feed of military personnel blocking the routes to the palace and the others showed the military surrounding the headquarters of Adolf's pirate forces, providing visual evidence to support the director's explanation.

Shortly thereafter, the screen displaying the soldiers encircling the private forces' headquarters revealed the sudden arrival of fighter jets. In a dramatic turn of events, the jets unleashed a devastating bombardment upon the building, leaving destruction in their wake.

"Seems like it's indeed a coup," remarked the CIA director, realizing that the military's decision to eliminate Adolf's private forces without attempting any negotiation indicated a complete lack of intention to engage in dialogue with him.

As soon as the CIA director concluded his statement, President Obama turned to the secretary of defense and issued a decisive order, stating, "Instruct the Pacific fleet to reposition one aircraft carrier group towards their location."

The secretary of defense inquired, "Sir, are you planning to support the military in overthrowing the dictator?"

"I will decide once we have a clearer picture of how the situation develops. However, we must be in proximity to effectively enforce any decision we reach." With his decision made, Obama stood up and departed the situation room, returning to his office to resume his duties.

The secretary of defense selected one of the numerous phones and dialed Admiral Harry B. Harris Jr., the Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, to relay the president's directive.

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...

Morning.

The online world erupted as viewers witnessed the press conference featuring Adolf and Alexander.

Speculation and humorous memes flooded social media platforms in response to the announcement.

Numerous individuals engaged in speculation regarding Adolf's circumstances during his speech, pondering how he was coerced to give power.

Countries that maintained amicable relations with the former dictator, remained conspicuously silent throughout the ordeal. However, they did clarify that their ministers had safely returned despite the occurrence of the coup.

The global response to the situation appeared relatively subdued when considering the typical scale of reactions from different countries.

This was primarily due to many nations grappling with the aftermath of a recent flash crash that occurred just a month prior. As a result, they opted to adopt a watchful stance, intending to observe unfolding events before expressing their opinions on whether to acknowledge the new government or adopt a more stringent approach akin to the treatment of Taiwan.

Amidst the tumultuous situation, the United States announced the dispatch of an aircraft carrier battle group to ensure a secure transition of power in the country.

However, astute observers recognized this action as a veiled warning to the new leadership of Eden. It served as a clear message that the United States was closely monitoring the developments and would not hesitate to respond if Eden aligned itself with Russia or China, implying that such a choice would be met with regret.

The United States found it imperative to take such measures due to their strategic positioning. With China and the rest of Asia to their northwest, the USA to their northeast, Australia to their southwest, and the American continent to their east, Eden's location held significant importance.

Any nation that established a friendly relationship with Eden and managed to establish a base there would gain a substantial advantage over the other, thereby necessitating the United States' proactive approach.

If China were able to establish bases in Eden, it would grant them direct access to America, resolving their predicament of having their navy confined to the Indian Ocean due to the absence of nuclear-powered submarines. With a military presence in Eden, they could also pose a threat to ships transiting through the Panama Canal, potentially exerting control over a part of the American economy through a chokehold.

The same holds true for Russia. Despite their proximity to America, they would gain a new avenue of attack by utilizing long-range bombers while avoiding the heavily guarded North, where NORAD is mostly focused on.

This would allow them to launch strikes on the US from a different direction, necessitating a considerable amount of time and money for the United States to prepare effective countermeasures similar to those in place for the northern border shared with Canada.

But they could only watch with curiosity as Eden faced the challenge of resolving this predicament. The question remained: which side would they choose to align themselves with?

...…

Eden, the presidential palace.

"Which side do you believe I should align with?" Alexander asked Aron, who was in the room with him.

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"How many countries have reached out to you in an attempt to sway your decision regarding which side to align yourself with?" Aron inquired.

"Quite a few. The list includes countries such as America, Russia, China, Australia, the UK, France, Germany, and several others. They can all be categorized into three distinct groups: those siding with America, followed by Russia, and then China," explained Alexander.

"What were their requests, and what incentives did they offer in return?" Aron inquired, seeking further details on the discussions with various countries.

"America and its allies had proposed financial and security assistance but requested the allocation of certain islands to establish military bases.

China, on the other hand, expressed interest in building military bases as well, offering financial aid and the inclusion of Eden in the Belt and Road Initiative—a comprehensive infrastructure development program.

Russia also sought islands for military bases, and in exchange, offered financial aid and assistance in locating natural resources within our economic exclusive zones" Alexander outlined the offers and requests made by different countries during the negotiations. 𝚋𝚎ｄｎｏ𝚟𝚎ｌ.ｎ𝚎𝚝

"Politely decline each one of them, explaining that to prevent international turmoil, you have chosen to maintain a neutral stance," Aron stated.

His statement prompted Alexander to frown, clearly indicating his disagreement with Aron's suggestions.

Observing Alexander's reaction, Aron inquired, "What? Do you disagree?"

"Yes," Alexander replied apologetically.

"Tell me the reason," Aron said, wanting to understand Alexander's perspective.

"Looking at the country's current state, we truly need financial aid to rebuild and develop. Although these foreign nations are demanding excessive concessions in return, the financial assistance they offer is desperately needed at the moment.

Since we are transitioning from a dictatorship, we can't even request loans without excessive leverage.

However, if we negotiate with one of these countries, I believe we can remove the condition of military bases by citing citizens' disagreement pointing at Adolf's private forces as an example." Alexander explained his reasoning.

"Do you believe you possess the power to negotiate with them? NO. Whichever country you choose, they will exploit you without limits.

They will assist in a manner that turns you into a dependent nation, preventing you from rising and attempting to remove their influence from your country. And if their attempts to hinder your progress fail, they will fund and train a rebel group that will serve as their puppets, aiming to overthrow and replace you.

Remember this: they offer you nothing but addictive honey. They will make you dependent to the point that whenever you face trouble, you will be forced to turn to them for help. But in exchange for their help, you will always have to sacrifice something enticing to them." Aron said, disagreeing with Alexander's reasoning and pointing out the risk agreeing to their offer brought to Eden.

"Then what do you suggest we do? We are in dire need of a substantial amount of money to revive the economy, and it seems that no one other than them is willing to provide it readily," Alexander stated wearily, his tone reflecting a sense of being trapped with limited options.

A smile spread across Aron's face as he responded, "Don't worry. If your primary goal is to rebuild the economy, I can assist you with that."

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"How?" Alexander asked with curiosity.

"All you need are investments in the country, and I can make that happen. I plan on relocating my company to this country and start injecting billions and billions into its economy. This will enable the country to uplift itself from its previous state without having to rely on another nation or compromise with them," Aron paused for a moment before he continued.

"And remember, by remaining neutral, it means that all these countries will constantly attempt to win you over to their side. They won't treat you harshly until you make a choice," Aron reminded, emphasizing the potential advantages of maintaining a neutral stance.

Even though he could compel him to do as he pleased, having someone willingly comply rather than being coerced ensures they are less likely to cause future troubles.

After a brief moment of contemplation and agreeing to what Aron had said, Alexander chose to trust Aron once again.

Recalling the first time he trusted him based on his gut feeling, and how Aron had fulfilled his promise, Alexander decided to heed that same intuition and agreed to place his trust in Aron once more.

Another reason was that Alexander had used the peculiar helmet provided by Aron. Considering the possibility that Aron might establish a manufacturing plant for those devices, which Alexander was confident would be highly sought after, it meant that Aron could generate substantial income for the country through that product alone.

He also believed that Aron had more plans up his sleeve beyond just that, which further bolstered his decision to place his trust in him.

Agreeing to remain neutral presented a new predicament for Alexander. "I can refuse the other two nations since they might only bring harm in the future, but how should we handle the situation with America, considering they have an aircraft carrier en route to our location?" Alexander questioned, expressing his concern.

"For that, I have a solution," Aron said, reaching for a phone and dialing Rina's number.

"Hello Aron," Rina greeted as soon as she answered the phone call.

"Hello, how are you?" Aron inquired, returning the greeting.

"I'm doing well, how about you?" Rina asked in response.

"I'm doing well," Aron replied before getting straight to the point, saying "I called because I was hoping to utilize some of your family's political influence."

Upon hearing what Aron said, she smiled, happy for finally having the opportunity to reciprocate the help she had received from him. "Sure," she replied. "I will gladly assist you."

"By now, you must have heard the news about the coup that took place in Eden, right?" Aron asked.

"Yes, I was just reading a report about it," Rina replied and then asked, not discounting the possibility, "Was it you?" knowing full well that Aron was entirely capable of such an act if he so desired.

"Yes," Aron answered without hesitation, proceeding with his request as if he hadn't just confirmed his involvement in toppling the government. "I want you to ensure that the aircraft carrier returns without taking any action upon its arrival."

Rina, taken aback by Aron's response, was momentarily stunned, causing her to forget to reply. Aron, noticing her silence, asked, "Can you do it?" in an effort to snap her out of her frozen state and bring her attention back to the phone call.

"Sorry about that. I was just taken aback by your confession," Rina apologized for her momentary lapse in response.

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"Don't worry about it. I can understand the surprise. Even I would be taken aback if someone I was speaking to confessed to causing a coup," Aron replied, eliciting a laugh from Rina.

"So, you're only requesting that they turn the aircraft carrier around, correct?" Rina asked once she had calmed herself down.

"Additionally, when the country announces its neutrality, ensure that they support it, masking their support as a preferable alternative to their enemy having been chosen instead of them" Aron added.

Rina, though slightly surprised that Aron didn't push for the country to align with America, responded, "If they're going to declare neutrality and not align with another country, it will be easier for me to persuade them to halt the pressure. Consider it done," she assured after understanding the direction Eden intended to take.

"That's good," Aron replied, a smile spreading across his face.

"Is there anything else you need from me?" Rina inquired.

"At the moment, no. However, in the coming months, I'll require your assistance a few more times," Aron stated.

"With the help you have provided me, don't worry about a thing. If you need anything from me, I'll always be there to assist you to the best of my abilities," Rina responded.

"Sure, then talk to you later," Aron said, bidding farewell to her. Upon receiving the reply, he ended the call.

Turning to Alexander, who was visibly surprised by the swift resolution of the problem, he said, "Consider it solved. You can now focus on important matters concerning your country. Regarding the economic stimulus, I will provide you with more details in the coming days when you have some free time, as I need to prepare for it."

"That was incredibly fast," Alexander exclaimed, his surprise still evident on his face.

"When you're as wealthy as I am, you come to know people in influential positions," Aron bluffed boldly, despite the fact that he didn't actually know anyone affluent or powerful apart from Rina.

"That's true," Alexander agreed, influenced by his perception of billionaires and their connections.

...…

A week had passed since the coup had occurred. During this time, Alexander and his newly appointed cabinet remained tight-lipped about which side they would be aligning with, stating that their utmost priority was the creation of a new constitution.

They emphasized that until this critical task was completed, they would not divert their attention to any other matters.

The aircraft carrier group, which had arrived a day after the coup, stayed in the country for a week but ultimately departed without any engagement, citing the absence of ongoing turmoil that warranted their prolonged presence in the country's waters.

With Rina's reemergence in the family competition and the influential individuals becoming aware of her renewed influence, her sway regained strength along with the spreading news. This newfound leverage made it effortless for her to ensure that America refrained from taking any actions against Eden.

Rina also took measures to secure America's acknowledgment of the country once the process of creating the new constitution was completed.

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On the other hand, Aron had been residing in the presidential palace throughout the entire week, dedicating most of his time to the universal simulation. He engaged in meetings with the think tanks that inhabited the virtual realm, utilizing their expertise and insights.

...….

(Inside the Universal Simulation)

Aron could be observed engrossed in reading the plan devised by the think tank residing in Lab City. The objective of the plan was to assist the country in its development, enabling it to rise above the legacy of the previous regime.

Aware that the government's support may not always be guaranteed, the think tank crafted the plan to also strengthen Aron's influence within the country.

The plan revolved around a simple yet impactful idea: establishing an infrastructure company.

This proposed company would serve as a mechanism to exert a significant grip on the country.

It would function in such a manner that, in the unlikely event that the government attempted to seize control or interfere with Aron's interests, he could utilize the company's influence to subdue them without resorting to using his private forces.

Aron understood that deploying his private forces would inevitably lead to the downfall of the government in question.

Therefore, the infrastructure company would provide a more subtle and indirect approach to safeguarding his assets and objectives.

This company would undertake the construction of most of the essential infrastructure to transform the country into a desirable place to live. Not only would the company focus on delivering high-quality products, but it would also strive to make them affordable to the point where people would question whether any profit was being made.

In the process of building these vital structures, Aron would provide employment opportunities to hundreds of thousands of individuals, offering them a chance to improve their livelihoods and elevate themselves from their previous circumstances as he gained influence over them.

The main project of this company involved the provision of electricity to the entire country, utilizing Lab C?ty's nuclear fusion technology. The cost-effectiveness of the energy produced through this method was expected to be so remarkable that it would create a significant advantage for his company, solidifying its position as the only provider in the market.

With an abundance of limitless and affordable energy at their disposal, The think tanks chose to plan all of the company's remaining plans to be designed to operate using electricity as the primary power source.

Another ambitious project from the think tanks involved establishing a comprehensive transportation network akin to the interstate highways in America.

However, instead of constructing roads, which fell under the government's purview, They chose to take inspiration from Russia's approach and planned to build a railway system spanning the entire country.

By connecting it to every part of the country, it would grant Aron unparalleled control over the transportation industry. Allowing Aron to hold a monopoly, further consolidating his influence and power.

These were merely two of the significant projects outlined in the comprehensive plan for the new company. The report revealed numerous other endeavors, including water desalination and various other initiatives. As Aron perused the document, a broad smile graced his face, and he couldn't help but feel a profound sense of satisfaction with what they had come up with.

"This is an exceptional plan," Aron remarked, placing the papers back on the table while the smile lingered upon his face.

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[I agree with you, sir,] Nova said to Aron, her voice laced with concern. [When they presented me with the plan, I conducted several simulations, and the results were indeed promising. However, we need to devise an explanation for the fusion reactor. If someone were to discover its existence, it could potentially lead us into a conflict with the world, similar to the BugZapper incident. but on a world scale.]

Aron's smile wavered for a moment, his expression revealing his contemplation of the potential consequences. He furrowed his brow and posed a crucial question to Nova, seeking a possible solution: "How long would it take to construct a single reactor?"

[Given that we lack the manufacturing foundation for such intricate technology, even with Rina's assistance in acquiring cutting-edge machines, it would take approximately a year to complete the entire construction process,] Nova responded, her tone reflecting the practicality of the situation.

As he processed Nova's response, he shifted his focus to another crucial aspect and inquired, "And how is the progress on the reverse engineering of the atomic printer?"

[The conventional version has been successfully completed,] she began, [but implementing it in the current real world is unfeasible due to the lack of necessary technology.] Nova delivered her report, outlining the progress on the reverse engineering of the atomic printer.

"And what about the runic version?" he asked.

[For the runic version, the progress is nearing completion, but they have encountered an obstacle in the final step,] Nova reported.

"What seems to be the issue?" Aron inquired, seeing if he could find a solution.

Nova proceeded to provide a detailed report on the challenge they were facing with the runic version of the atomic printer. [Although they have successfully reconstructed the atomic printer by integrating runes with conventional machines, and despite incorporating runic intent during its creation, they have yet to devise an effective method for accurately manipulating the runes,] she explained.

With a smile on his face, he stated, "If that happens to be the sole issue, I have a solution for it." As opened the system's shop to find the remedy for the problem.

[Sorry for the late upload I had to help with Eid preparations and ended up being late in completing the chapter.]

...

As he opened the shop, he searched for something that he remembered seeing during his previous search when he was searching for advanced computing technology to upgrade Nova's computer.

And there it was

[(Runic Computer)

Utilizes Runes as a medium, for the storage and processing of information. It functions based on the principles of magic, enabling access to its capabilities through the use of runes. This unique approach allows the Runic computer to...

(Price: 2 Billion sp)]

Upon reading the description and realizing that the price is four times higher than what he had previously paid for quantum computing technology, he was taken aback.

"Now that option is no longer viable," he said as he glanced at the amount of sp he possessed. "Even though the game has been released and has amassed a significant following, I still don't have enough sp," he sighed, shaking his head in disappointment.

"But do I really need to purchase the entire computing technology?" he pondered aloud, contemplating which specific technology would be most helpful in solving his current problem.

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"Show me precisely where they are encountering difficulties," Aron requested, wanting to identify the specific point at which they were stuck. By doing so, he aimed to devise an affordable solution that would enable him to overcome the problem without having to wait for his sp to accumulate to a substantial amount.

[Here is where they are encountering difficulties,] Nova said, handing Aron the details of the reverse engineering process. The specific part they were stuck on was highlighted in various colors to draw attention to it.

Aron began reading the report attentively, making an effort to comprehend everything to the best of his abilities. Whenever he encountered something he didn't understand, he would ask Nova to explain that particular part to him.

After dedicating several hours to reading the report with unwavering focus and seeking frequent clarifications from Nova, Aron finally succeeded in completing the entire document.

"Seems like all I need is to acquire the knowledge on integrating the technology with the Runes, enabling their interaction and mutual control," Aron exclaimed, a smile forming on his face. He had finally discovered a potential solution that appeared to be affordable, sparing him the need to accumulate billions of sp.

[Although it may not provide a complete solution, it should be sufficient for you to produce the necessary machines for the Runic Atomic Printer. You can then utilize it to create a conventional universal printer, which will subsequently reprint itself continuously,] Nova said upon hearing Aron's plan to address the situation.

"That's all I need to resolve this, and once we successfully manufacture it, everything else will fall into place," Aron stated, a smile adorning his face as he swiftly typed in what he needed from the system shop.

"There it is!" he exclaimed, clicking on the search result to examine its details and determine if it could provide a solution to the problem they were encountering.

[(Rune-Computer Integration)

This knowledge encompasses the fusion of runes with conventional technology. It was developed by the elven empire after the unification of the high elves and dark elves into a single empire.

The invention was necessary to facilitate seamless integration between the two races, as they employed distinct technologies. The dark elves utilized conventional computing technology, whereas the high elves excelled in the mastery of runic arts.

The high elf scientist, Zyrk'aelorin, collaborated with Thelviraendryn, the dark elf scientist, to bring forth this groundbreaking invention combining their expertise and knowledge to ...

(Price: 100 million System Points)]

As he observed the price, the smile on his face nearly faded, but it persevered, knowing that he could afford to purchase this technology. However, acquiring it would significantly deplete his sp, leaving him with only a minimal amount remaining.

"Since it will also have utility in other inventions, there is no downside to me acquiring it," Aron stated, as he proceeded to purchase the knowledge without hesitation.

The system wasted no time and promptly began assimilating the knowledge into Aron's brain. Throughout the entire process, Nova, together with Aron patiently waited for the system to finish the assimilation.

The instant the assimilation process was complete, Aron wasted no time and said, "Nova, it's done!"

Understanding the meaning behind Aron's words, Nova promptly attempted to access his brain in order to download his brain data. As usual, a screen appeared before Aron, seeking his permission for the attempted access to his brain data.

As soon as Aron granted his approval, Nova received access to the brain data, wasting no time in retrieving the newly acquired knowledge. After analyzing it, she transmitted the information to the minds of all the researchers in Lab City, ensuring they could incorporate it into their technological endeavors immediately.

"Which mineral on Earth meets the minimum requirements to be used as the medium for the integration device?" Knowing that she was done he asked.

[Tanzanite is the closest known material on Earth that can serve as the medium and provide sufficient effectiveness for the device to function without issues for a limited duration,] Nova responded to Aron's question, having analyzed the knowledge and simulated the required materials beforehand while showing Aron the information about Tanzanite.

"If I were to attempt purchasing Tanzanite from the market myself, it would be challenging to accumulate a sufficient amount for multiple trials in creating the medium. Ask Rina to gather as much Tanzanite as she can obtain," Aron stated after reviewing the information about Tanzanite presented by Nova.

A short while later, Nova relayed the message from Ava, saying, [Ava responded and mentioned that Rina will send whatever she manages to purchase within two weeks.]

"Good," Aron replied with a smile on his face, his attention shifting back to re-reading the plans devised by the think tanks.

...

January 1st.

Adolf walked calmly towards the podium in a makeshift press conference room, specifically designed to accommodate the hundreds of reporters from various corners of the world.

The country's coup captured the attention of the world. However, what made this coup particularly intriguing was the ongoing speculation surrounding its execution.

As time passed, increasingly peculiar discoveries emerged, making it nearly impossible for most people to shift their focus to other matters. The topic of the coup continued to dominate discussions and fuel curiosity among individuals

One of the peculiarities surrounding the coup was the international broadcast of the parade. Individuals who had posted the domestic feed realized that the rest of the world was viewing an entirely different broadcast. This discrepancy sparked lengthy debates and discussions, with people arguing over which feed was the original and which one might have been manipulated or edited.

As is often the case, self-proclaimed "experts" emerged, attempting to discredit the domestic feed by offering their own explanations. However, their attempts were quickly debunked when genuine experts appeared, exposing the fallacy of their fabricated explanations, leaving them embarrassed and the situation more complicated than it was before.

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This was just one of the many attention-grabbing aspects of the coup, which not only puzzled ordinary people but also intrigued governments. Task teams were established by the government to investigate and uncover the true methods and intricacies behind the coup.

As Alexander reached the podium, the flashes from the cameras taking pictures nearly doubled, causing him to squint his eyes slightly until he adjusted to the bright light.

"Mhhh," he cleared his throat, instantly hushing the room into silence as everyone eagerly anticipated his next words.

"Good morning, everyone," he began by greeting, pausing briefly before continuing his speech. "As many of you are aware, today marks the day when the new Constitution of Eden will replace the old, eliminating any remnants of the previous dictatorship within our government.

While it may seem contradictory that a government purportedly for the people has crafted the constitution without direct public involvement, I assure you that the majority of its content will be subject to amendments within the next two years, once we have gathered and considered the input of the public. Only a select few Articles will remain unamendable, carefully designed to prevent any individual with a significant following from introducing the same horrors inflicted upon our citizens by the previous regime.

In the new constitution, there are only three such Articles that cannot be amended.

Firstly, the Bill of Rights is enshrined to ensure the perpetual protection of citizens' rights.

Secondly, the structure of the government is safeguarded to prevent the concentration of power.

And finally, the dissolution of the military and its institutions to prevent its misuse against the people similar to what happened in the previous regime."Having delivered this statement, he paused, allowing those watching the press conference to absorb and contemplate the information he had just shared.

The expected reaction unfolded before him, evident in the expressions of the reporters in the room. They grasped the rationale behind the first two articles and their importance in safeguarding the rights and preventing abuse of power. However, the inclusion of the third article appeared to catch them off guard, leaving them puzzled and intrigued.

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...

As the reporter eagerly raised their hand, seeking further clarification, Alexander swiftly interjected, "Questions will be entertained once I have concluded my planned remarks." His response prompted the reporter to lower their hand, acquiescing to his request and allowing him to proceed with his speech uninterrupted.

"Moving on to the first article, which pertains to the Bill of Rights. This section encompasses the fundamental rights and freedoms inherent to all individuals, which shall be inviolable and protected from infringement by the state or any other entity.

These rights and freedoms include but are not limited to, the following: freedom of speech, religion, and assembly; the right to a fair trial and due process of law; the right to privacy and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures; the right to own property and pursue happiness and prosperity; the right to engage in the political process and be represented in government; the right to access education, healthcare, and other essential services necessary for a decent standard of living; and the right to be free from discrimination based on race, gender, ethnicity, religion, or any other arbitrary factor.

There are limitations on the exercise of rights and freedoms, which are defined by law and outlined in this constitution. These limitations aim to protect the rights and freedoms of others and uphold the public welfare. No individual shall be permitted to misuse their rights and freedoms to cause harm to others or to disturb the peace and stability of society."

Alexander paused to catch his breath after reading through the extensive list of rights and freedoms, allowing a moment of silence to let the audience process the information he had just conveyed.

"As for the second article, which pertains to the structure of the government, it focuses on the principle of separation of powers. The powers of the government shall be divided among four distinct branches: the legislative, the executive, the judiciary, and the oversight."

The legislative power will be entrusted to a unicameral parliament, whose members will be elected by the people through free and fair elections. The parliament will be empowered to enact laws, impose taxes, and approve the national budget.

The executive power will be held by a president, who will be elected by the people through free and fair elections and serve a single term of eight years. The president will serve as the head of state and government, responsible for executing the laws of the country and ensuring the well-being of the public.

The judicial power will be entrusted to a system of courts, with judges appointed by the president upon the advice and consent of the parliament. These courts will have the authority to interpret the laws, settle conflicts between individuals and organizations, and uphold justice within the country's legal framework.

The oversight branch, as its name suggests, will have the task of evaluating the laws and policies enacted by the government. Its role is to ensure that these laws and policies align with the current and future-oriented objectives of the country. By conducting thorough assessments, the oversight branch will contribute to maintaining a balanced and effective governance system.

As for the third article concerning the dissolution of the military and its institutions, it is crucial to address the issue of national security. With the abolition of the military, we recognize the need for an alternative mechanism to safeguard our nation's rights and prevent any exploitation.

After an extensive and confidential evaluation process, we have made the decision to entrust this responsibility to ARES." Alexander's statement left the audience intrigued about the details surrounding this arrangement, as he moved on with his speech without providing further information.

His speech continued for over half an hour, delving into the plans he had for the country and outlining the path they would be taking as a nation moving forward. He discussed various aspects, including economic reforms, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and social welfare.

"Now, I will be taking your questions," Alexander announced, prompting a flurry of raised hands from the reporters in the room.

After pointing to a reporter, Alexander nodded and gestured for her to speak. The reporter quickly introduced herself and wasted no time in getting to the question. "I think many people are wondering what or who is ARES, since you just mentioned the name. Could you provide some more information about it?" she inquired with curiosity in her voice.

"More details will be released when everything about them is completed and they are ready. The secrecy is necessary for national security reasons," Alexander responded, his smile unwavering. "I understand that citizens may be curious, but I kindly ask for their patience in this matter. Rest assured, transparency will be maintained as much as possible, and updates will be provided at the appropriate time."

Another reporter, who introduced himself as a CNN correspondent, asked, "What was the reason behind your decision to establish a single eight-year term for the president?"

"We opted for a single eight-year term because our evaluation of presidents in numerous developed countries revealed a pattern where many of them prioritize short-term gains to secure their chances of re-election, often at the expense of the country's long-term interests.

The eight-year duration allows the president ample time to formulate and execute long-term plans for the nation, ensuring they can see them through completion within a single term. This approach helps us avoid the pitfalls observed in countries with shorter presidential terms," elaborated Alexander, shedding more light on the rationale behind their decision.

"Could you explain the rationale behind your decision to introduce a new branch of government? Additionally, could you clarify the responsibilities this new branch will undertake?" Al Jazeera's reporter inquired. 𝙗𝒆𝒅𝙣𝒐𝙫𝒆𝙡.𝒏𝙚𝙩

"This branch will have the responsibility of ensuring that the country does not pursue short-term development initiatives that could potentially harm its citizens in the long run," Alexander replied, swiftly moving on to another reporter's question.

"When is the first election in the country scheduled to take place?" A Russia-1 reporter inquired.

"We have not yet made a final decision on the exact date, but we anticipate that the first election will take place within the next year or two. It is essential for us to allocate sufficient time to ensure that every elected position contributes meaningfully to the nation's welfare and is not merely a means to squander taxpayers' money," he answered.

A FOX News reporter asked, "What will happen to Adolf?"

"He will be subjected to a fair trial, just like any other citizen of the country, and will receive the same punishment that any citizen who has committed a similar crime would receive," Alexander answered.

"What will happen to those who were falsely accused and imprisoned by the previous government?" An NHK reporter asked.

"They have the option to apply for the reopening of their cases. If it is determined that they were falsely accused, they will be released from prison and provided with compensation for the wrongful time they spent incarcerated, as a means to compensate for the time they lost," he answered and continued choosing another reporter for them to ask their questions.

"There are international speculations suggesting that certain countries have offered various types of support, including financial assistance, in exchange for the allocation of islands to establish military bases to benefit from your country's positioning. Is there any truth to these speculations, and if so, have you made a decision regarding which country you will be choosing?" a China Central Television reporter asked.

"Although the allegations are true, we have made the decision to maintain neutrality and refrain from choosing any country. Our aim is to prevent the escalation of tensions in the world," Alexander replied.

The press conference continued for over an hour, covering a wide range of topics as the reporters utilized this opportunity to address the pressing questions to the new government. It served as a significant platform for obtaining detailed information, as prior to this conference, the government had only made announcements without providing further elaboration or details. The reporters made the most of this occasion to inquire about various aspects concerning the functioning and policies of the newly established government.

...…

"He is truly adept at public speaking," Aron remarked, observing the press conference where Alexander answered each question with professionalism and poise.

Nova responded to Aron's statement, saying, [If Alexander had indeed memorized the documents I provided him, it's no surprise that someone skilled at public speaking would have no trouble appearing as a proficient speaker.]

"And how is the public reacting?" he asked, disregarding her attempt at humble bragging.

Nova summarized the public and international watcher's reactions to the press conference for Aron, stating, "While it is generally positive, many individuals are still curious about the identity of Ares and why they were chosen for outsourcing over well-known mercenaries like Blackwater and others who have established their combat prowess.

Some people are focusing their attention on gathering more information about the fourth government branch and searching for similar models implemented by other nations.

However, the prevailing impression is that Alexander is dedicated to building a nation that prioritizes long-term planning, instead of pursuing short-term gains to impress the public, which could ultimately harm the country in the long run and jeopardize chances of the nation's future development."

"Looks like everything went according to plan. It's time I return to my attempt at making of the medium" Aron said as he immediately logged off and returned to continue his attempt at making the medium for the Rune - computer integration module.

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...

Three weeks before the press conference.

Aron could be seen in his usual position, laying on the bed with the headgear securely on his head. However, something was different today. He was sound asleep, both in the real world and the universal simulation he was currently logged in which was a rare occurrence.

Inside the universal simulation, Nova calmly observed Aron peacefully sleeping. It was a forced sleep, designed to prevent any mishaps from happening while Aron underwent the process of knowledge assimilation.

Unlike previous instances, this time Aron was receiving knowledge directly from his headset which was the first time, rather than it being done by his system

Even though Nova had conducted numerous tests that indicated there was no necessity to put Aron to sleep, she decided to err on the side of caution due to her not possessing complete and fully accurate data about the condition of the VR headgear and wanted to eliminate any chances of potential problems.

As an additional precautionary measure, the door leading to the room he was in was heavily secured, prepared to ward off any potential interruptions that could arise and disrupt Aron's assimilation process.

4 real-time hours later.

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"Ahhh, my head!" Aron groaned as Nova gently woke him up, instinctively reaching for his forehead, groaning in discomfort caused by the throbbing headache he was experiencing.

"It will pass shortly," Nova assured him, her voice comforting, as she gently massaged his forehead. Utilizing her control and authority within the universal simulation, she gradually diminished the pain, allowing Aron to slowly relax.

"Huh, what is this?" Aron curiously asked, finally realizing that the system's blue screen was displayed right in front of him.

"Aah," Aron exclaimed, as the realization dawned upon him. It was the customary reward he received for utilizing the system's knowledge, and this time he had been granted one for successfully assimilating the knowledge of atomic printers into his mind using the assimilation technique.

After taking a few moments to calm himself down, he spoke up, saying, "Materialize the materials I require for trials since I need to make it completely assimilate into my brain." talking about the well-known weakness of knowledge assimilation when it is conducted in a device that was not specifically designed for such purposes.

As usual, Nova materialized all the necessary materials, ensuring that this time all the machines Aron would be using for trials were of the same generation accessible for him in the real world wanting to provide a seamless experience and replicate the conditions he would encounter outside the simulation.

Over the next three weeks, Aron diligently conducted his trials, aiming to ensure a flawless production when he eventually started the production of the machine in the real world.

He faced many failures in the beginning, but with perseverance, he achieved a few successes. Allowing him to gain the confidence to carry out the process in the real world. Coincidentally, this newfound assurance coincided with Alexander's press conference to the world.

...…

Back to today.

After logging out, Aron swiftly departed from the room and headed straight towards one of the renovated warehouses located in the temporary base of ARES. This facility had been utilized by his private forces as they made preparations for the coup but soon they will be moving out and only use it as an emergency weapons warehouse.ραпdαs `n?ν?| сom

A considerable amount of time had passed since Aron left the presidential palace, as it was no longer suitable for him to reside there. Instead, he relocated to the current location, where they had ample space for the delivery and storage of the large machines he required for his endeavors.

As Aron swung open the gate to the warehouse, he couldn't contain his amazement and exclaimed, "Wow!" when he laid eyes on the array of machines nestled within.

Although Aron had witnessed their arrival, the machines had remained concealed beneath their covers. Due to his intense focus on practicing the assimilated knowledge, he hadn't found the time to inspect them closely. Thus, as he stood there, it marked the first occasion he beheld the machines after they had been unveiled, assembled, and patiently awaited his utilization of them.

"Having a president on your side certainly makes things easier," Aron remarked, recalling how effortlessly he acquired ownership of the manufacturing machines. The government had seized these machines, which were controlled by companies under Adolf's influence, enabling Aron to obtain them for his own purposes.

[You could have used Rina to get your hands on the latest generation of the same machines,] Nova jokingly complained, playfully talking about the alternative approach.

"It would take too long for the new generation of these machines to arrive," Aron explained. "Additionally, despite the government being taken over and many countries lifting their sanctions against Eden, America still maintains its sanctions.

They claim that they are waiting for the constitution of Eden to be revealed before making their decision.

So, Instead of wasting time waiting for new machines that would have to be smuggled out of America, these existing machines can fulfill our immediate requirements." Aron said as he powered on the machines, preparing to commence his work.

[Indeed, with Alexander's announcement that Eden will remain neutral and not take sides, and Rina's promise for America's acknowledgment of the new government, the sanctions have no choice but to be dropped,] Nova replied, reminding Aron of Rina's promise.

"Yeah, I know. Time to get to work," Aron said, wasting no time as he began preparing the CNC machines for manufacturing.

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He started by carefully selecting the appropriate cutting tools, fixtures, and work-holding devices necessary for machining the aluminum blocks that are going to be turned into the parts of the printer.

Simultaneously, Nova began calibrating the machines and programming them with the specific instructions required to accomplish the tasks at hand.

Once the machines were properly calibrated, Aron proceeded to load the aluminum blocks onto the work table of each CNC machine. Immediately after he completed loading them, guided by the programmed instructions, the CNC machines commenced their precise work of cutting, milling, and drilling the aluminum blocks, embarking on a journey to create intricate features and achieve the desired precise dimensions according to Nova's design.

Observing the machines diligently carrying out their tasks, Aron stood and watched for a minute, observing how the four CNC machines were seamlessly executing their respective works.

Aware that the machining of the aluminum blocks would require several hours, Aron decided to utilize this time to fabricate the medium necessary for the computer to manipulate the runes.

"Let's begin with the production of the integration module," Aron stated as he carried the crate that was covered in a clean sheet from the corner of the room and placed it on the table. before carefully opening it, revealing its contents.

Upon seeing what was inside, Aron said, "Although I anticipated her exceeding my expectations in terms of quantity, she truly went above and beyond and exceeded my expectations of her exceeding my expectations." He was taken aback by the significant amount of Tanzanite that Rina had collected within just two weeks and sent to him.

Nova, observing the amount through the cameras in the room, added, [It is enough for you to create at least three mediums as a redundancy in case one of them fails during production.]

"As they say, you can't be too careful," Aron remarked as started working on the integration medium

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...

He chose a square aluminum plate measuring one meter and proceeded to the adjacent room.

He sought a quiet space that would enable him to focus, as the task ahead demanded a significant amount of his concentration for an extended period of time which had taken him a very long time to train on it within the universal simulation.

After closing the door behind him, he placed the aluminum plate on the floor and took a seat beside it.

"Time to concentrate," he said to himself, taking deep breaths to calm his mind and gather focus before he begins.

Once he had calmed down sufficiently, he extended his right hand toward the plate, forming it into a gun-like shape with two fingers outstretched, and immediately began channeling Mana to the tips of these two fingers, focusing on accumulating the energy there.

The Mana concentration steadily increased as he kept it contained at the fingertip, not allowing it to disperse elsewhere, solely focusing on building up the energy until the Mana had reached a sufficient concentration.

With a deliberate focus, Aron released Mana from his fingertips, channeling it into concentrated parallel beams. The beams gracefully traversed a short distance before he swiftly halted their motion, causing them to instantly intersect and merge at the tip. In a seamless motion, they formed a triangular shape with the apex pointing directly toward the aluminum plate resting on the floor.

As soon as the triangle was formed by the two golden beams, Aron began carving intricate pathways onto the aluminum plate. With each movement of his fingers, a trail of golden lines appeared, marking the path he traced on the surface of the plate.

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He painstakingly continued to carve the lines with precision, transforming the aluminum plate into a complex network resembling intricate circuitry.

As the lines extended and interwove, the plate gradually assumed an appearance similar to that of mana pathways, trying to emulate the intricate channels within Aron's own body that facilitated the manipulation of mana.

For over three hours, Aron remained completely focused, his hand and eyes the only parts of him in motion. He did not allow himself a single moment of rest, aware that any interruption would necessitate starting the intricate process from scratch, resulting in a significant waste of time.

"Whew!" Aron exhaled a sigh of relief, wiping away the beads of sweat that had accumulated on his forehead after prolonged concentration. "The first step is finally done," he remarked, acknowledging the completion of this initial phase.

[Congratulations, Sir, but the machining process has been completed, and it's time to replace the aluminum blocks to avoid any unnecessary time wastage,] Nova informed Aron after she allowed him a moment to bask in the pride of his achievement and offer her congratulations.

"On it," he replied. Rising from the spot where he had been sitting for over three hours, Aron walked without feeling any cramps in his legs. His enhanced body, continuously augmented, had prevented restriction of blood flow despite the prolonged period of sitting.

He made his way back to the machining room and carefully removed the completed parts from the CNC machines. Using a cleaning rune, he cleaned the freshly machined components before placing them on a clean table for storage.

He then retrieved new blocks of aluminum and inserted them into the CNC machines before Nova initiated the machines once again, and they resumed their work, efficiently machining the newly added parts.

He then returned to the room where the plate with the beautifully drawn mana circuitry awaited him. Taking his previous position, he resumed his focus, settling into the familiar posture he had maintained while creating the pathways. Once again, he directed his attention and concentration toward the task at hand.

After re-establishing his concentration, he proceeded with the second phase of his task. Guiding his two fingers to a specific section of the mana circuitry, intentionally left open-ended for this purpose, he began the meticulous process of engraving runic letters.

Each stroke was executed with the utmost care, deliberate precision, and unwavering focus, ensuring that the runic inscriptions were etched onto the open end of the circuitry with absolute accuracy.

Letter by letter, the runic script was meticulously engraved into the plate, forming a beautiful and intricate word. However, Aron didn't cease supplying Mana to the runic word. This time, he closed his eyes, delving deeper into his concentration, fully aware of the significance of the moment.

As he was using runic intent for the first time in the real world, it demanded every ounce of focus he could muster, and he immersed himself completely in the task at hand.

The runic word, now radiant with a gentle glow, pulsated rhythmically at various intervals as Aron continued to pour his intent into the flow of mana directed towards the word, guiding it with purpose.

Slowly but surely, his focused intention instructed the mana, defining its purpose and the desired outcome he expected it to achieve. The pulsating glow of the runic word became a manifestation of the instructions embedded within and a testament to Aron's intent.

The pulsations continued relentlessly, intensifying and diminishing in varying intervals, persisting for over four consecutive hours. However, as the fifth hour approached, an unprecedented transformation occurred.

The pulsating runic word accelerated its rhythm, the speed doubling with each passing second. Its pulsations became so rapid and intense that they appeared to vanish entirely, leaving the word motionless and still. The once dynamic and vibrant display now gave way to a serene and static presence. 𝐛𝐞𝐝𝐧𝗼𝘃𝐞𝐥．𝗰𝐨𝗺

This state persisted for more than five minutes, during which an enormous amount of mana was being drained from Aron with each passing second. As the tenth minute approached, the runic word began a gradual shift in color, transitioning from its original golden hue to a gradual whitening.

Simultaneously, visible blood vessels started appearing on Aron's concentrated form, indicating the strain caused by the immense mana expenditure. Aron's runic heart worked tirelessly, absorbing and collecting mana from the surrounding atmosphere, preventing his body from entering a state of mana deprivation.

"Trrrrrrrm." A resonant sound echoed through the room as the runic word reached its final state, transforming into a pristine shade of white.

Aron's eyes slowly opened, revealing a mixture of anticipation and excitement as he beheld the outcome of his arduous five-hour endeavor.

"Whew." Aron exhaled a long sigh of relief as his eyes beheld the runic word, now completely transformed into a brilliant shade of white. A smile began to spread across his face, a reflection of his deep satisfaction and joy at witnessing the successful completion of his laborious task.

"I suspect that I would have fainted if it had continued for just a few more minutes," Aron remarked, the smile still gracing his face.

Nova playfully chided Aron, [You know, you could have started with the easier ones that required just a few instructions. But no, you had to dive straight into the hardest one from the beginning!]

"I felt it was necessary to tackle the hardest one first," Aron explained, a proud smile on his face. "If I had saved it for last and made a mistake, I would have had to start the entire process from scratch. But now that I've succeeded with the most challenging part, the chances of the rest failing are nearly zero. It was a calculated risk, and I'm glad it paid off."

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Nova voiced her disagreement once more, stating, [I still believe it would have been wiser for you to begin with a mid-level rune before venturing into using runic intent on the hardest one.]

Aron remained silent, his gaze fixed upon the radiant white runic word, a proud smile adorning his face. Deep within, he knew that he had every reason to feel immense pride for this remarkable achievement.

[Sir, you need to replace the machined part with new blocks,] Nova interjected, instantly dispelling the prideful expression from Aron's face. Her reminder served as a stark reality check, reminding him that he had barely made progress and still had a long way to go to achieve his ultimate goal.

Aron stood up from his seated position, made his way back to the machine room, and repeated the familiar process. He removed the completed parts from the CNC machine, carefully cleaning them before placing them on the designated table. In their place, he inserted fresh blocks of aluminum, followed by Nova initiating the machine once more. Satisfied that the process was underway, he returned to the room, ready to resume his work.

Upon his return to the room, Aron settled back into his familiar position, seated and ready to continue his work. Just as before, he focused his efforts on regaining his concentration, allowing his mind to settle and his focus to sharpen once again.

Once again, Aron positioned his finger on another open section of the mana vein and began the meticulous process of engraving a new runic word. With steady precision, he carefully etched the runic symbols until the word was fully formed.

As usual, his task didn't end there as he continued infusing mana into the runic word, imbuing it with his intent to ensure that the runic word would serve a specific purpose, tailored to his desired outcome, rather than functioning solely based on its inherent properties.

Aron diligently continued the process of writing runes on another open end of the mana circuit, infusing them with intent, and allowing himself a short break to rejuvenate. After a few minutes of respite, he would rise from his seat and proceed to the machine room. There, he would carefully remove the completed part, replacing it with a fresh block of aluminum, before returning to the room to resume his work.

This singular task consumed Aron's time unfalteringly for an entire month without any interruption.

To maximize his productivity, he used the VR headset, enabling him to experience five hours of restful sleep within a single hour of real-world time.

The discord server is now open, go there and join the discussion: /KptypY8dGh

...

·?θm FEB 1st.

"I just can't get over how stunning it looks," Aron exclaimed, admiring the finished engravings on the third plate.

[It is more aesthetically pleasing if it were crafted by a machine,] Nova remarked, having had experience with a machine-assembled version.

"Beggars can't be choosers, and in the present world, there is nothing capable of manufacturing them anyway," Aron responded as his hands gently caressed the plate.

The completed plates resembled an enlarged chip, with the conventional microscopic wirings replaced by intricate mana circuitry. The mana pathways connected each rune to another, forming a complex network within the medium.

At its essence, the integration module functions as a translator and intermediary, bridging the gap between the realm of runes and the digital world. The circuits facilitate the transfer of mana to the runes inscribed on the plates, enabling their activation whenever they are required.

Among the numerous white runes adorning the plate, one particular symbol captured the most attention. Positioned at the center, it stood out from the rest due to its larger size.

The rune at the center happened to be the rune of conversion. However, in this instance, it was going to be employed in a completely different context than its creator had originally intended.

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Typically, the conversion rune is utilized by rune users to transform neutral mana into affinitized mana. This process enhances the effectiveness of a rune, especially when the converted mana shares the same affinity as the rune being employed.

For example, if a runic user were to convert neutral mana into mana with a fire affinity, and then employ a fire rune, the effectiveness of the rune would be doubled compared to using the same amount of mana in its neutral state.

This feature was not particularly useful for Aron, as he possessed what could be considered boundless reserves of mana. Consequently, he never bothered with converting neutral mana into a specific affinity before utilizing it to activate the runes.

However, the conversion rune inscribed on the plate served a different purpose. Its role was not to convert mana but to act as a translator, transforming signals originating from a computer. Based on the instructions provided, it would manipulate the other runes on the plate according to the desired outcome specified in those instructions.

While the remaining runes on the plate were also created using runic intent, their sizes varied in proportion to the number of instructions they were imbued with during their crafting process.

"It's time to begin crafting the final parts of the mediums," Aron declared, reopening the box that had once contained Tanzanite's gemstones sent to him by Rina. However, this time, instead of intact gems, the box held nothing but a fine powder.

He had instructed one of the guards to take the Tanzanite gemstones and have them crushed at a company equipped with the necessary machinery for such a task.

He began pouring the powdered Tanzanite into the specially crafted glass containers that had been ordered by Nova specifically for him. Once all three containers were filled, he sealed them shut.

Aron then resumed his seat and, akin to his process of engraving runes on the medium, he began inscribing two runes onto each container.

However, this time, it took him merely an hour to complete the engraving on the first container, while the remaining two containers required an additional two hours each to finish the engraving.

This was because, in contrast to previous instances, this time Aron was imbuing a minimal amount of instructions into the runes using his runic intent.

As soon as he finished, Aron placed his hands on top of the runes inscribed on two containers and began infusing mana onto them with relentless fervor, as if there were no tomorrow.

A radiant glow emanated from the runes and in a matter of moments, a delicate shield materialized within each of the two containers, effectively isolating the Tanzanite powder within. Shortly thereafter, the powder itself began to emit a luminous glow, signaling the absorption of mana into its essence.

Gradually, the two containers began to fill with mana, with a significant portion being absorbed by the Tanzanite gems acting as mana stones, storing the magical energy that Aron poured into them. Once he finished filling the first two containers, he moved on to the remaining one, completing the process in a remarkably short span of time.

Content with his progress, Aron stood up and made his way to the machine room. There, he carefully removed the final components from the machines and carried them to a table that had been utilized for storing the completed parts numerous times over the past month.

"Tell them to come and move these machine parts," Aron instructed Nova. The parts needed to be transported to the same warehouse where the previous machined components had been sent when the table became filled with them.

[Finally, it's time to assemble the machine,] Nova exclaimed, her voice brimming with unmistakable excitement after she passed the order.

The ARES members entered the room and started handling the machine parts with utmost care and precision. They understood the significance of their task, knowing that whatever they were carrying held enough importance for their boss to dedicate over a month of his important time to their production.

Aron followed closely behind the ARES members as they made their way to the new building. This was where the previous machine parts he had crafted were relocated, and it was now the destination for the newly produced components as well.

As Aron stepped inside the building, he was greeted by a sight that filled him with joy. The impeccably crafted components lay before him, their surfaces gleaming under the light. Carefully arranged on a clean carpet, they awaited his skilled hands to assemble them.

The ARES members proceeded to carefully place the machine parts on the floor, mimicking the same meticulousness they had demonstrated when initially bringing them into the room. With utmost caution, they ensured that each piece was positioned securely and in its designated location.

"Now, let's commence the final assembly," Aron declared to himself, his excitement palpable.

Left alone in the room, he eagerly rubbed his hands together before swiftly and methodically collecting each part. Moving with precision, he transported them to the empty area of the room, where the culmination of his efforts would come together as he started the assembly.

Due to having practiced this procedure more than ten times within the universal simulation, Aron had practically memorized the precise locations for each part, eliminating the need for him to consult the instructions provided by Nova. His extensive familiarity with the assembly process allowed him to proceed with confidence and efficiency, effortlessly placing each component in its designated position.

Every individual piece seamlessly found its rightful place in the intricate puzzle of assembly. The mechanical components were carefully fastened using screws, bolts, and meticulously crafted connectors, ensuring their secure and precise fit.

The electrical and electronic elements were integrated with the utmost delicacy, their intricate wires guided through meticulously designed channels. With the deftness of his fingertips, Aron ensured a flawless fit, achieving a seamless harmony between form and function.

Gradually, the skeleton of the machine began to take shape, revealing its underlying structure. In tandem, a web of wires emerged as Aron skillfully managed the wiring, organizing, and securing them. As new parts were introduced, they gracefully concealed the carefully managed wires, contributing to the machine's evolving form.

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For over three days, Aron continued with his precise and methodical assembly, meticulously joining together over fifteen thousand parts of varying sizes and shapes.

Finally, as the final piece was put in place, the assembly was complete, unveiling a colossal rectangular box akin to the size of a school bus. The entire structure glistened with a flawless, mirror-like surface, composed of perfectly flat aluminum panels on all sides.

However, one particular area stood out—a conspicuous opening that signaled the intended insertion of a container within it.

[Congratulations sir] Nova exclaimed, expressing her admiration for Aron's accomplishment as he took a seat after completing the three-day-long assembly process.

"Thank you, Nova," Aron expressed his gratitude upon hearing her congratulations for completing the assembly.

"Now, we can consider your most pressing issue solved," Nova remarked, her excitement still evident in her tone.

"We can't be certain if it's functioning until we power it on," Aron admitted, although his beaming expression hinted at his underlying happiness upon completing the task.

[Don't worry, sir. Everything was made according to my standards, and I ensured that no mistakes were made,] Nova reassured Aron confidently.

"Then let's proceed with the testing," Aron said, rising from where he was sitting and making his way to the machine, clutching one of the mana containers in his hand.

Upon reaching the machine, Aron carefully inserted the Mana container into the designated opening, ensuring a secure connection. He then proceeded to link the machine to the electrical system of the building, establishing the necessary power supply for the upcoming test.

After connecting the machine to the power supply, he wasted no time in powering it up. However, the initial moments ticked by without any signs of activity. Nevertheless, Aron maintained his composure, fully aware of the underlying cause.

The mana container that was inserted into the machine gradually started to emit a gentle glow.

Simultaneously, the stored mana within the container began to trickle and flow into the mana circuits of the integration medium and with each passing moment, a radiant glow illuminated every part it encountered along its path.

This process continued until every circuit within the machine was saturated with mana, ensuring that all the connected runes had immediate access to the mana they required whenever the need arose.

As soon as the mana circuits reached their full capacity, the central conversion rune sprang to life, immediately initiating the connection to the machine's computer network.

The conventional computer component, which had now been connected with the medium, comprised the last of the five quantum computing chips that Aron had made for upgrading Nova's server.

Once it began receiving the converted signals from the medium, it instantly came to life, notifying Nova of the completion of its warm-up process and without delay, it initiated the power-up sequence.

The machine emitted a resounding "BRRRMMM" sound, akin to that of an ancient slumbering dragon gradually awakening after millennia of slumber.

Accompanied by this deep hum, the machine sprung to life, and the quantum computer wasted no time in conducting system diagnostics.

Followed by initiating a series of tests on the moving parts of the machine to ensure their functionality.

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[Sir, the diagnostics are complete,] Nova reported to Aron. However, Aron seemed entirely distracted and paid no attention to her.

Aron remained oblivious to Nova's report because, in that precise moment, a sudden "Ding!" reverberated, capturing Aron's focus, as a blue screen materialized right before him.

Initially, Aron mistook the appearance of the blue screen as a reward for successfully creating the medium. However, he soon recollected that he had already received his rewards upon completing the making of them.

As he read the contents of the screen, he grasped the purpose of the system prompt.

[

Congratulations.

The system commends you for achieving a feat that surpasses the technological capabilities of your world with minimal assistance from the system.

In recognition of this accomplishment, the system offers you a reward that it deems beneficial to you.

Would you like to accept the reward?

[YES] [NO]

]

"OOOOH," Aron exclaimed, filled with gratitude that the system had decided to reward him for his diligent efforts.

[What are you talking about?] Nova inquired, her confusion evident as she couldn't see what Aron was talking about.

"Oh, the system just sent a prompt saying that it is going to reward me for successfully building the Printer from research to completion with minimal assistance," Aron informed Nova, sharing the content of the message displayed before him.

[What is the reward?] Nova asked, her excitement palpable. She shared in Aron's joy, knowing that his success was also a victory for her.

"The system didn't specify the exact reward," Aron explained, "but it mentioned that it would provide something it considers helpful for my current situation."

[If the system stated that it will be useful to you, then it surely will be,] Nova responded, her excitement undiminished in her voice. She understood that the system possessed comprehensive knowledge about Aron, even more than herself and if the system deemed it important for Aron, then it must truly hold significance for him. 𝐛𝗲𝗱𝐧𝐨𝘃𝗲𝗹.𝐜𝐨𝐦

[I suggest you accept the reward after you load the materials into the printer. The printing process will likely take a significant amount of time as I need to calibrate the machine to collect data about its performance,] Nova suggested, offering her advice while leaving the final decision to Aron.

"Let's go with that plan," Aron agreed.

He picked up a large aluminum block that had been brought by the ARES members, as per his instructions when they brought the machined parts as he began walking towards the machine, ready to proceed with the next step.

Aron swung open the two large aluminum doors, revealing that a significant portion of the printer's interior was hollow.

Carefully, he placed the aluminum block on the floor within the hollow space, ensuring it was positioned correctly.

Closing the doors behind him, he said, "You can start the test."

Nova promptly transmitted the command to the quantum chip within the machine, causing the chip to begin executing the instructions uploaded onto it by Nova, initiating the test as directed.

Without delay, the hollow section of the machine, containing the aluminum block, became enveloped in a protective shield. This shield securely locked the block inside, ensuring that the external world remained unaffected by the imminent events occurring within its confines.

Once the shield had fully activated, the white-colored disintegration rune positioned atop the machine sprang to life. Instantly, it started disintegrating the aluminum cube, meticulously breaking it down atom by atom. With each passing minute, the disintegration process advanced, until, by the tenth minute, not a visible trace remained of the aluminum block that once occupied the space.

As the disintegration of the aluminum block concluded, the white disintegration rune dimmed, and in its place, the white collection rune activated. This new rune swiftly began gathering the aluminum atoms inside the shield, carefully storing them on one side. Subsequently, it encapsulated the amassed atoms with an additional small shield, effectively containing them and preventing any escape. The shield was specifically designed to confine the atoms, ensuring they remained securely within its bounds.

Once the collection of the aluminum atoms was complete, a series of runes began activating one after another. Each rune played its designated role in a synchronized manner. Gradually and with meticulous control, the atoms were released from the small shield in which they were initially confined. Intercepting their path, another rune guided the atoms towards a specific location. Upon arrival, they were promptly handed over to yet another rune, which forcefully reconnected the atoms together, reversing the process performed by the disintegration rune.

Atom by atom, they were meticulously rejoined as the intricate design took shape, as each atom found its precise place in the construction.

While the intricate atomic printing process unfolded inside the printer, Aron settled into a seat nearby. Deciding to accept the system's reward, he confidently pressed [yes] on the prompt, which resulted in a surge of knowledge beginning to be assimilated into his brain.

After an hour had elapsed, Nova spoke up, addressing Aron, "Sir, the printing process has been completed."

"Let's take a look at the finished product," Aron said, a smile lingering on his face as he thought of the reward he had received from the system.

With the smile still on his face, he walked over to the machine, opened it carefully, and retrieved the completed product.

"It's beautiful," Aron couldn't help but express his admiration as he inspected the completed product.

Not a single imperfection marred its surface, giving no indication that it had undergone any machining process.

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Every component was precisely manufactured to its required dimensions, with deviations only on the atomic scale. This level of precision surpassed any printer or production machine currently in existence(earth) by several million generations.

Moreover, it consistently maintained this remarkable accuracy, eliminating concerns about errors. In the rare event of a mistake, the completed product could simply be disintegrated and remade without generating any waste, except for the electricity consumed during the process.

"Give me the report," Aron said, he sought to review the detailed report outlining the outcomes and observations now that the test has been completed.

[The atomic printer has met our expectations,] Nova reported, conveying the results to Aron. [It is capable of assembling approximately 30,120,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 atoms per hour. Which is equivalent to printing a five-cubic-meter block of aluminum within the same timeframe.]

"What is the limiting factor preventing it from achieving even higher speeds?" Aron inquired, aware of the printer's potential to surpass the current results.

[The limiting factor that prevents the printer from achieving higher speeds is the quantum computing chip inside it,] Nova explained the reason. [Its computational capabilities are currently at their maximum, as it needs to calculate the precise positioning of each atom and control the runes involved in the printing process. Presently, the quantum chip can print a maximum of 8,366,666,666,666,666,666,666,666.67 atoms per second.

However, the speed decreases when different types of atoms are required, as each type necessitates specific instructions for printing.]

"Well, with this printer, there's nothing that can't be achieved as long as we have the necessary materials," Aron said confidently.

"All we need to do is print new and larger quantum chips and upgrade your quantum computer into a quantum server, entrusting you with full control," he added.

[YAY!"]Nova exclaimed, celebrating the nearing of her upgrade. However, she couldn't contain her curiosity and paused to ask Aron, [So, what reward did the system reward you?] Her excitement was palpable as she eagerly awaited Aron's response.

[So, what reward did the system reward you?]

With a smile on his face, Aron replied, "It provided me with a fraction of the knowledge regarding MANA."

After hearing Aron's response, Nova said, [Considering the context provided by the system's previous statement, it seems that the knowledge is related to the ongoing research within the Golden City.]

"You are correct. With this newfound knowledge, the research in the lab city can be completed within a month at the most, as it addresses most of the problems they were facing," he affirmed, as he left the room and headed towards the vending machine offering drinks for the base residents

After grabbing a bottle of water, Aron took a refreshing sip. As he finished, he hesitated for a moment before he tossed it into the trash can having received an inspiration.

Without wasting any time, he briskly walked to his room to act upon the inspiration.

"Is something wrong?" Nova inquired as soon as he logged into the universal simulation, having observed his behavior at the vending machine via the CCTV in the building.

"No, I've just stumbled upon some inspiration. Display the list of countries to which the majority of the world's trash is being sent?" Aron asked, deliberately withholding the details of his inspiration, trusting that Nova would grasp its nature from his statement.

Nova replied, conjuring a holographic screen in front of Aron that displayed the countries involved.

[

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China

Malaysia

Thailand

Vietnam

Indonesia

]

As Aron read through the list, Nova couldn't help but inquire, [Are you considering becoming the recipient of those waste shipments?] as she continued to analyze the situation, trying to deduce Aron's intentions.

"Yes, after I took a sip of water and was about to dispose of the bottle, an idea struck me," Aron exclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement. "What if we collect the waste and disintegrate it, using the resulting material as a resource for our printer? It could serve as a kind of ink, you might say."

[That's highly efficient,] Nova chimed in, fully endorsing Aron's idea. [By establishing a sizable waste facility equipped with a disintegration system and atom packaging facility, we can effortlessly address the issue. We would have access to cost-effective materials that others perceive as worthless, whereas for us, they would be no different from the purest substances.]

"Exactly," Aron affirmed, building upon his plan. "I'll have a discussion with Alexander and propose a law that facilitates the importation of waste under the condition that it must not end up in landfills but instead be recycled. This way, we can ensure that we are the only ones who have the capability of meeting the standards of the laws."

[True, would you like me to arrange a meeting with him? After all, you were supposed to meet him and discuss potential investments,] Nova suggested.

"Sure, go ahead and arrange the meeting. It has been a month since I last saw him, and during that time, we only had one phone call," Aron recalled, reflecting on the limited communication he had with Alexander. "And that call only happened because I took a break to connect with my family, as we hadn't seen each other for over five months," he said as he laughed at the situation he was in. He was ghosting the president of a country.

[He said you're welcome to visit the presidential palace anytime, and he'll be available for a meeting with you.] Nova relayed Alexander's response.

"Let's meet him right away then," Aron said. "Now that the printer is sorted, everything else will fall into place effortlessly." He swiftly headed towards the bathroom to freshen up and prepare himself for the meeting with Alexander

...

As Aron's car navigated through the now bustling streets of the capital city, he couldn't help but notice a palpable shift in the atmosphere. Although the physical surroundings appeared unchanged, the expressions worn by the people told a different tale.

While the majority of people exhibited a sense of satisfaction and contentment with the changes unfolding, a small minority wore expressions of complete opposition. Their dissenting emotions stood in stark contrast to the prevailing sentiment, highlighting a divergence of opinions within the populace.

During the month when Aron was focused on his closed-door production, Adolf's trial had commenced and continued to be broadcasted live for the entire nation to watch.

The prevailing expectation among many people was that the punishment Adolf would receive from the trial would be severe enough to set an unprecedented precedent in the history of the young country.

"It feels great to be outside after such a long time," Aron remarked, his gaze sweeping across the surroundings from within the car. Being confined inside the base for over a month had made him appreciate the simple pleasure of being outdoors once again.

As the car pulled up to the entrance of the presidential palace, it became evident that the premises were heavily guarded by Ares members. Spotting Aron's arrival, they promptly saluted him and swiftly opened the gates without subjecting him to any inspection or security checks.

"Welcome, Mr. Aron," a graceful woman greeted Aron with utmost respect as he stepped out of the car, just before it drove away.

"Thank you, and you are?" Aron inquired, extending his hand for a handshake as a gesture of greeting.

"I'm Zoe, the President's secretary," she replied respectfully, acknowledging Aron's question while reciprocating the handshake. "I have been informed that he is expecting you, and it is my duty to welcome you and escort you to his office upon your arrival." Zoe's words carried a sense of deference, reminiscent of the tone Alexander had when speaking about Aron—an unmistakable display of respect for the man.

"Then, let's not keep him waiting. Lead the way," Aron responded with a warm smile, appreciating Zoe's promptness. 𝙗𝒆𝒅𝙣𝙤𝙫𝒆𝙡.𝒄𝒐𝙢

"This way," Zoe said, gracefully stepping aside and opening the path for Aron to proceed.

Gesturing toward the direction they needed to go, she guided him toward Alexander's room, creating a clear path for their journey.

...…

"Welcome," Alexander greeted, rising from his chair and approaching Aron with an outstretched hand for a handshake.

"Thank you, and I apologize for not keeping in touch frequently," Aron replied, reciprocating the handshake with a warm smile on his face.

"Don't worry about it. I understand that someone as busy as you is always occupied," Alexander assured, gesturing towards one of the chairs, indicating for Aron to take a seat.

"What beverage would you prefer?" Alexander inquired after they had settled into their seats.

"I will have mango juice," Aron answered without taking even a moment to think about what to drink.

The secretary, having already noted Aron's drink preference, excused herself and departed to fetch their drinks.

While they waited for the drinks to arrive, they engaged in casual conversation, passing the time with small talk. Once the secretary returned with the beverages and left the room, Aron and Alexander transitioned into a more serious discussion, delving into the matters at hand.

"How is your leadership role in the country going?" Aron inquired.

"All in all, I can say it's going very well," Alexander responded. "The international community has been receptive to us, especially after we successfully completed the new constitution.

Once America acknowledged the new government, other nations followed suit, with only a handful of countries holding back their recognition. However, there is one particular nation that remains significant in this regard."

"Esparia?" Aron asked.

"Yes, unfortunately, they have chosen not to acknowledge us and have been causing various challenges," Alexander responded with a tinge of annoyance evident on his face. "They have severed most of the diplomatic relations between our nations and completely cut ties with us."

"What is the cause behind their actions? Did they provide any specific reasons for their actions?" Aron questioned, contemplating a few potential factors that might have influenced Esparia's decision.

"During Adolf's reign, Esparia benefited significantly from various avenues that he provided.

However, since we assumed power, we have eliminated most of those avenues, effectively severing one of their major sources of income. Consequently, those who had been benefitting from the previous arrangement are now angered and retaliating.

They have stated that they will not rebuild the ties or engage in any positive measures until we guarantee them that we will continue the same arrangements that Adolf had with them," Alexander explained, shedding light on the situation.

"So, are there any detrimental effects on our side as a result of their actions?" Aron inquired, curious to know if Esparia's shenanigans were causing any significant harm to Eden.

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"Yes, indeed. During Adolf's regime, since he neglected to reinvest the country's funds into infrastructure, many of our import facilitation facilities have become outdated over time.

Consequently, a significant portion of our imports relied on Esparia's port, which had the capacity to handle large volumes of goods. From there, the goods would be transported to our country via cars and small boats.

However, with the port now denying our goods entry, a considerable number of goods have been confiscated and individuals who got their earnings from transporting those goods have been left unemployed. This has resulted in a large number of previously employed people being jobless.

Furthermore, our outdated airport facilities posed another challenge. Since the airport lacked modern equipment, Esparia had been the primary destination for refueling international planes coming to and from Eden.

With them severing ties with us, they have refused to service any planes originating from our country, causing many airlines to reduce their flights from a weekly to a monthly basis.

These examples are just a few of the damages incurred.

As for the reminder, while they may not individually hold the same magnitude when combined, they inflict pain on both the government and the citizens," Alexander elaborated, highlighting the extent of the harm caused by Esparia's actions.

"Since they are denying us access to their facilities, the solution is simple: we will build our own," Aron stated confidently, a smile adorning his face.

"Are you going to be the one building them?" Alexander asked, knowing that Aron knew the country's financial situation that was making it difficult to invest in the construction of new and large infrastructures at the moment.

"That, and much more," Aron replied, a smile playing on his lips as he slid a folder filled with stacks of papers toward Alexander.

[Since my computer still fails to open the ink stone website, I was forced to upload it using phone so there mistakes that I'm still trying to remove. Sorry for the inconvenience]

Alexander carefully reached for the folder that Aron slid towards him, taking his time. He then proceeded to open it and began reading through its contents.

Alexander's expression faltered before he could even finish reading the contents of the first page in the folder.

"Wait, you want to buy the Mystic Isle island?" Alexander asked, his surprise evident as he absorbed the grandiosity of the first thing written in the folder.

Among the myriad islands in the country, this particular one stood out as the largest non inhabited island. Its size alone surpassed that of a few small countries, making Aron's intent truly remarkable.

"Yes, nobody inhabits it anyway," Aron casually responded, as if it was no big deal.

"You're absolutely right," Alexander couldn't help but agree with Aron's statement.

Despite its vast size, the island posed significant challenges for habitation. Its lack of surface water meant that residents would have to rely on expensive groundwater extraction, a burden that the impoverished citizens of the country could ill afford.

Additionally, the absence of any infrastructure further discouraged settlement, rendering it an overlooked and unsuitable place for people to live.

With his question answered, Alexander continued reading the remaining information, and among the details, the most significant reason stated in the document was Aron's intention to transform the island into his primary production hub. It would serve as the central location responsible for manufacturing all the products envisioned by Aron's future companies.

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This revelation brought a smile to Alexander's face, as he was certain that with this plan, Aron would be able to employ over a hundred thousand individuals.

Knowing Aron's behavior, Alexander was confident that the employees would be well-compensated, potentially lifting more than a million people out of poverty through the job opportunities created on these islands.

With a contented smile, Alexander proceeded to the next topic on the page. The second page outlined the plans for entering the power generation industry, a sector that had traditionally been under the exclusive control of the government.

"We can change the regulations and make this happen," he said as he delved further into the details regarding the power generation industry.

He then continued reading the folder, completely engrossed in its contents. Throughout the process, Aron remained silent, observing Alexander as he conversed with himself and occasionally burst into laughter while absorbing the information.

The rest of the folder encompassed the rest of Aron's ambitious plans, including the construction of the world's largest airport, the establishment of three world-class ports, the development of an extensive railway network spanning the entire country, the creation of the largest recycling facility globally, and much more. With each passing page, Alexander's smile grew wider, as he became increasingly confident that these plans would provide employment opportunities for well over a million individuals. 𝘣𝘦𝘥𝑛𝘰𝘷𝘦𝑙．𝘯𝘦𝘵

"Wow, while I anticipated that you would devise a solution to boost the economy, I never expected it to be this comprehensive," Alexander couldn't help but express his astonishment once he finished reviewing the folder's contents. He made a mental note to delve into it in greater detail later in the day, after he had completed his schedule.

"I always strive to fulfill my promises," Aron replied, wearing a smile on his face.

"But most individuals would have simply spent a billion or two and considered that as fulfilling their promises," Alexander remarked upon hearing Aron's response. "However, just by glancing through these documents, I expect that it will cost you no less than a hundred billion dollars, if not more," he said.

"You're not far off from the estimated cost. It should be around a hundred and seventy-eight billion dollars, give or take," Aron replied.

"However, there are a few aspects of the plan that I'm unclear about. Would you mind providing me with additional details?" Alexander inquired, his surprise at the significantly higher cost than what he had expected evident, though he tried to conceal it.

"Sure, go ahead," Aron replied, opening the floor for questions.

"Why did you allocate such a significant budget for the construction of the airport and ports? While I, as the president of the country, would be delighted to see them built, I fail to see how you would profit from it," Alexander inquired, recalling that the budget for the airport and ports amounted to approximately 25 billion dollars.

"Although they may initially incur losses for me, the airport and ports will play a crucial role in facilitating the transportation of materials for my companies in the future," Aron explained.

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"By constructing them on a large scale right from the beginning, I can ensure that they will have sufficient capacity to accommodate our future needs. This approach saves me from the constant need to expand them whenever they reach their capacity. Considering my ambitious development plans once things settle down, it was a strategic decision to build them as the largest they will ever need to be."

"Is the same rationale applied to the railway network as well?" Alexander asked, seeking clarification. "I fail to understand the reason behind making it extensive enough to cover the entire country. Typically, for material transfer or transportation of finished products, most individuals would opt for a railway connecting the port to their industrial complex alone. Could you shed some light on this decision?" he inquired, raising another question shortly after receiving Aron's previous explanation.

"Aren't you supposed to be pleased that your citizens will also benefit from it?" Aron jokingly asked, evoking a playful response from Alexander. "While I am indeed happy about it, you could say it's just my curiosity driving these questions," Alexander replied with a smile on his face.

"Since I am already constructing a railway system, I made the decision for it to span across the entire country, facilitating the movement of logistics and people, potentially generating profits to offset the costs in the long run," Aron explained, emphasizing the economic aspect. He paused briefly before revealing the second reason behind the extensive railway network. "Additionally, it will provide ARES with access to every part of the country, easing the logistics of deploying our forces whenever they are needed internally," he added, highlighting the strategic advantage it would bring.

"Mhmm," Alexander murmured, nodding his head to indicate his understanding of Aron's reasoning.

"But why do you want me to visit these countries and negotiate agreements for them to send their waste to us, with the condition that they cover the transportation costs?" Alexander questioned, expressing his confusion. Among the various topics in the folder, this was one aspect that made no sense to him at all.

"I intend to recycle the waste and utilize it as raw material for the industrial complex, thereby enabling me to produce goods at a lower cost compared to my competitors in the same industry," Aron replied, concealing the fact that he possessed the capability to transform the trash into usable materials.

He was determined to keep his achievement a secret from the world – the fulfillment of an age-old dream of alchemists, the ability to turn waste into valuable material, a modern-day equivalent of turning base elements into gold, albeit in a slightly different manner.

"From the perspective of those countries, it will appear that you are attempting to win their favor by addressing one of their most pressing issues – the issue of overflowing landfills," Aron added, making Alexander recognize the potential diplomatic benefit behind his plan.

"That's true," Alexander acknowledged, rubbing his temples at the thought of having to visit those countries and negotiate such agreements. He realized that they might secretly laugh at him and mock the seemingly unconventional deal, viewing it as an attempt to win their favor through what might appear as a less than ideal arrangement.

He continued to inquire about the plans outlined in the folder, seeking to grasp the underlying rationale behind Aron's chosen investment areas. He was trying to uncover any insights or perspectives that Aron had identified within those specific fields, hoping to gain a deeper understanding of his strategic vision.

"Now, let's shift our focus to ARES," Alexander said, feeling content with the explanations he had received from Aron thus far. He transitioned to the next topic that required a thorough discussion between them.

"What specific details would you like to discuss about ARES?" Aron asked.

"According to the report I received from the Minister of Defense, John, last month, it mentioned that ARES has already assimilated the military forces and is now planning to expand its membership to form a two hundred thousand-strong army. Do you think such an expansion is necessary or perhaps excessive?" Alexander inquired, seeking clarification on the scale of ARES' planned growth.

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"No, it is not excessive. In fact, one could argue that it is rather modest," Aron responded calmly. "The target of forming a two hundred thousand soldier-strong army by the end of this year is just the beginning. We have plans to gradually increase their numbers until we reach half a million within a five-year period. Afterward, we will focus on stabilization," he explained, outlining the progressive growth strategy for ARES.

"Why do you intend to expand ARES to such a significant size? After all, we are not currently engaged in any conflicts or at war with any other nation," Alexander inquired, expressing his difficulty in comprehending the rationale behind the extensive expansion plans.

"While it may not be a full-blown military conflict, we are technically in conflict with Esparia, particularly in the economic sphere. Don't you think that with billions of dollars that will soon be injected into the economy could potentially escalate the situation, leading them to take more aggressive measures?" Aron posed the question.

"I understand the concern about appearing weak, but why do we need to expand ARES to such an excessive number of soldiers?" Alexander questioned after answering Aron's question.

"You remember the device I had you wear, don't you?" Aron asked calmly.

"Yes, it's hard to forget something that feels like it belongs only in movies," Alexander replied, his expression revealing his fascination with the device and a hint of addiction to its capabilities despite having used it only once.

"Do you believe the world will simply leave me alone when I release such a groundbreaking product, along with numerous other advanced technologies?" Aron posed the question rhetorically.

"SHIT," Alexander exclaimed, his realization sinking in. He began to understand the potential consequences of Aron possessing even more advanced technology. It dawned on him that there might be increased pressure from the rest of the world to make their products public, lest they face alienation or sanctions under various pretexts until they shared the technology with the international community.

"Now you see the reason, don't you?" Aron stated, observing Alexander's reaction to his earlier question. A shiver ran down Alexander's spine as he realized the seriousness behind Aron's words. "It has happened to me before. And that's when I came to the realization that, If you lack the power to protect what rightfully belongs to you, then you don't deserve to possess it.

That's why I plan to establish the world's strongest military—to safeguard what is rightfully mine," Aron emphasized, leaving no doubt about his determination and commitment.

The discord server is now open, go there and join the discussion: /KptypY8dGh

...

"However, there is a possibility that Esparia might view your mass recruitment as a provocation," Alexander mentioned, deliberately avoiding further discussion on the excessive number of soldiers he intended to acquire.

This implied a shift in his stance, indicating that he would now support this course of action.

"We don't need to concern ourselves with their opinion," Aron replied with a smile. "In fact, you should be reciprocating by isolating them as well," he added, further emphasizing his disregard for Esparia's thoughts and intentions.

"I share the same sentiment of not caring about their thoughts. However, their disruptive actions could pose challenges in our procurement of weapons from the international market," Alexander responded, indicating that his concern lay in the potential consequences of Esparia using their action of expanding their forces as an act of escalation of tensions.

"If you approve the plans in the folder, you won't have to worry about any of these issues. I have a solution that will resolve all our problems," Aron assured confidently.

"I will make sure they are approved by tomorrow. While I would prefer to do it immediately, I must consider the thoughts of the parliament.

If I act without their consent, people may accuse me of overstepping my authority and claim that we haven't truly changed, merely putting on a different facade," Alexander explained, providing his rationale for the one-day delay.

"Don't worry about that. But always remember, if they give you any trouble, I'll be there to help you solve those problems," Aron replied playfully.

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"Indeed, I'll keep that option in mind," Alexander responded, attempting to maintain a composed demeanor despite the impact of Aron's statement..

Despite the playful nature of Aron's response, Alexander never perceived it that way. He remained convinced that Aron's arduous efforts, such as navigating the approval process and other obstacles, were driven by a desire to uphold the status quo and peacefully pursue his plans, since if he were to resort to forceful actions, it would only amplify the complexities involved in accomplishing his objectives.

In Alexander's mind, Aron was believed to be capable of committing despicable acts if pushed to the extreme. An illustrative example of this was Adolf, whose encounter with Aron left an indelible mark on him.

The transformation in Adolf's demeanor before the press conference was unforgettable to him, as if he had encountered the angel of death and miraculously lived to recount the harrowing tale.

Despite the unsettling topic that came up, they managed to move on and engage in small talk about other subjects. Aron seemingly brushed off the somber atmosphere, while Alexander tried to maintain a facade of being unaffected. They continued their conversation for another ten minutes before finally saying their goodbyes, and Aron left the room.

"Have a nice day," Zoe said to Aron as she accompanied him to his car, bidding him farewell as he opened the door himself, instructing the driver to stay in the car.

"You too," Aron replied as he closed the car door. The vehicle gradually began its departure, making its way towards the external gate of the presidential palace.

"Where would you like to go, sir?" the driver, a member of ARES, asked respectfully.

"Let's go to John. I want to talk to him," Aron answered, settling into a more comfortable position in the car.

"Yes, sir," the driver responded as he drove through the gate, once again bypassing any inspection, just as they had done when they arrived. The car then proceeded towards the road that led to the former Military headquarters, as directed by Aron.

...… 𝑏𝑒𝘥𝑛𝑜𝑣𝑒𝘭.𝘯𝑒𝑡

"Welcome, sir," John greeted Aron as he stepped out of the car upon arriving at the headquarters.

"Thanks, how are you doing?" Aron asked, shaking hands with John.

"Thanks to you, I'm always doing alright," John replied with a genuine smile. His words conveyed sincerity, indicating that he truly meant what he said and was not simply trying to please Aron.

"Thanks to you too, I'm able to have peace of mind,"

Aron replied, expressing his acknowledgment and appreciation for John's dedication in ensuring Aron's comfort at the base.

Despite instructing John to leave behind only a few security personnel, John had exceeded expectations by arranging a significantly larger team capable of conducting even building raids, ensuring that Aron would not face any disruptions during that period.

It's not uncommon for individuals who go to great lengths to prioritize someone's comfort to inadvertently make mistakes or compromise other aspects in the process. However, what set John apart was his remarkable ability to prioritize Aron's comfort without compromising other vital considerations.

John's exceptional skills in balancing multiple aspects demonstrated his professionalism and unwavering commitment to his role.

"Let's continue this meeting inside, sir," John suggested, stepping aside to allow Aron to walk alongside him into the building.

"Tell me about the progress," Aron requested, after taking a seat in the head chair.

"With us taking control over the previous military, the construction of fifteen new military bases has started and is ongoing as fast as it can be done while maintaining the highest level of quality. They are expected to be completed within four months," John reported.

"Are any of the former soldiers causing any problems?" Aron asked, curious about how the soldiers were behaving under the new leadership.

"Yes, quite a few of them caused troubles at first. However, after they were thrown into military prison, the rest of them have been controlling themselves. But I'm afraid it won't hold them back for too long," John answered, indicating that due to a lack of discipline in their previous army, some of them have no respect for higher-ups at all.

"Keep them in control for three months. After that, I will help you teach them discipline and how to act respectfully," Aron said with a sinister smile on his face.

"I will do my best to ensure they behave until that time, sir," John said, acknowledging Aron's plan.

"How many recruits did you manage to enlist?" Aron then asked.

"At the moment, we have gained 20,000 recruits who are still undergoing training in different military bases," John answered.

"Only twenty thousand people applied for the military?" Aron asked, surprised by the lower recruitment turnout.

"We could have recruited and increased our numbers even more due to the increase in people's patriotism. However, we don't have the capacity to accommodate them at the moment, so we are trying to accelerate the construction of new training bases," John explained.

"And what about the intelligence department?" Aron inquired.

"As for the intelligence department, although we have started recruiting based on the information you provided, we are facing difficulties in training them at the moment. Most of us have extensive expertise in combat fields, but we lack proficiency in the intelligence department. Therefore, we are still searching for trainers from that specific field without drawing too much attention," John replied.

"How many people have you recruited for the intelligence department?" Aron asked, curious about the progress of finding individuals for that role.

"We have recruited about 1500 individuals for the intelligence department at the moment, and they are currently undergoing physical training," John answered.

"How long will their physical training take?" Aron asked.

"It will take about six months before they are ready to begin their next phase of training," John replied.

"I will take care of the trainer problem, so there's no need to continue searching," Aron stated, a smile on his face.

"Yes, sir. I will stop the search," John agreed immediately, placing his trust in Aron's words as he always did.

Aron continued the conversation, discussing various topics with John for the next two hours before leaving and starting his drive back home.

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...

"How have you been doing?" Aron asked Felix, who was on the other end of the phone as he was being driven home.

"I'm doing good, but I swear, do you have selective memory or something?" Felix replied, his voice dripping with playful sarcasm. "I mean, seriously, did you misplace your brain cells or did they go on vacation without telling you? How on earth did you forget to contact your friend for more than two weeks?"

"You should consider yourself lucky that I'm taking the time to reach out to you, even in the midst of my hectic schedule. I'm a person of great importance, you know." Aron retorted with a playful tone.

"Oh, have a little shame, Aron. You, who's practically jobless, trying to compare yourself to me? You seem to have conveniently forgotten that you left me in charge of one of your precious companies, Aron. Maybe I should just sell it off, that'll surely bring you back to reality!" He chuckled, clearly enjoying the banter and not willing to back down.

"Oh, I see how it is!" Aron replied, his voice brimming with playful self-importance. "Someone like me, with an abundance of options at my fingertips, has it much harder than you, who already knows their designated job. It's a burden, my friend, a curse of the privileged!"

He then switched to a mock ancient wise man's voice, adding, "The abundance of choice is nothing but a curse," before erupting into laughter.

"But seriously, what have you actually been up to for the past month?" Felix asked, his tone shifting to a more serious note as he brushed aside the previous banter.

"Well, it seems the moment of truth has arrived for both of you," Aron replied, his voice and expression now serious, devoid of the earlier lightheartedness. "If you're truly eager to know what I've been working on, then I suggest you pray for Sarah's swift arrival."

"Well, it looks like the suspense will finally come to an end next week," Felix replied, his voice carrying a hint of excitement and anticipation.

The discord server is now open, go there and join the discussion: /KptypY8dGh

...

[Welcome back] Nova said, welcoming Aron after he returned to the base and logged in to the Universal simulation.

"Thanks," Aron answered as he fell onto the fluffy couch that Nova had materialized for him.

[How was your day?] Nova asked after Aron returned and logged into the Universal simulation.

"Though exhausting, it felt good going out and meeting people once in a while," Aron said as he tried to get into a comfortable position.

Nova, seeing Aron trying but failing to get into a comfortable position, snapped her fingers and immediately put Aron in a comfortable position.

"Thanks," Aron thanked her for the help.

"How is the research on mana going?" Aron asked, inquiring about the progress now that they had obtained a small piece of information relevant to their research that had been gifted to him by the system.

[Despite only a few days passing here, we have made multiple consecutive breakthroughs in the research,] Nova answered, displaying a list of the breakthroughs that the scientists in the Universal simulation had achieved after receiving the gifted knowledge.

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As Aron read the list of breakthroughs, he couldn't help but exclaim, "Oh my God!" when he came across the report about the energy density of mana.

"The potential of mana as an energy source is beyond anything I could have imagined. Just think of the possibilities and advancements we can achieve with this discovery!" he said with a smile on his face, showing that he was extremely excited by what he read.

Nova, observing Aron's reaction, added, [That is the average energy density of mana, but the report doesn't encapsulate everything since the research is still ongoing. However, at the moment, what we can say is that the purer the mana, the more energy-dense it becomes.]

"What differentiates the quality of mana?" Aron asked, setting aside the list in front of him.

[The runes collecting it,] Nova responded.

Aron nodded, understanding the concept. He then asked, "So, with the runes and the runic knowledge we currently have, what is the quality of mana that we can collect?"

Nova replied, [With the runes and runic knowledge we currently possess, we can only collect what we consider to be low-quality mana. However, despite labeling it as such, it is still the most dense energy source on Earth.]

"How about my heart? What is the quality of mana it is collecting?" Aron asked, his curiosity evident in his tone.

Nova responded, [At the moment, your heart is collecting what we consider to be medium-quality mana. However, we believe that the quality of the mana it is collecting is intentionally limited. This limitation allows your body to gradually evolve and adapt, preparing it to handle the storage and utilization of higher-quality mana in the future.]

"Mh..." Aron hummed while nodding his head, indicating that he was contemplating Nova's answer.

After a brief moment of silence, he spoke up with a smile, "Send someone to buy the materials needed to produce more VR devices. I'll need them for when I have a meeting with my friends." 𝒷𝓮𝒹𝓃ℴ𝓿𝓮𝓁.𝓬𝓸𝓂

Nova acknowledged his request, replying, [Yes, sir.] She swiftly transmitted the order to the personnel stationed at the base, who promptly began the process of procuring the necessary materials as instructed.

[Are you going to tell them everything?] Nova asked, curious at what he planned to tell them.

Aron, while caressing his chin, replied thoughtfully, "Not all of it. I'll share everything except the information about the system."

He continued, "As they say, the best-kept secret is the one not told to anyone. Although I trust Felix and Sarah to keep the secret, even without the runic contract that I will use as an assurance.

However, the runic contract itself that I have been using is only at the lowest level of a runic contract. This means that if someone with the capability to nullify the contracts were to emerge in the future, they could potentially force Felix and Sarah to reveal the secret. It's a risk I'm not willing to take."

Aron further explained, "Another reason for keeping the information to myself is that I am the only one who has the protection of the system from mind invasion.

If someone else were to possess even a slightly similar neural technology and put it on Felix or Sarah, they could instantly gain knowledge of the secret without them even having to speak a word."

[That's true,] Nova said. [Are you keeping the system a secret because if someone knows about it, they might deduce that you need a specific form of currency to access the system's knowledge? Consequently, they might take steps to prevent you from earning that currency, effectively blocking your access?]

"Yes, based on the descriptions of the items I purchase from their shop, it is evident that we are not alone. The technology mentioned in those descriptions suggests the existence of numerous intelligent races that are far more powerful than humanity." Aron's response indicated that he is not concerned about humans finding out about this, but rather he fears that if a human discovers his secret, it could inadvertently expose his greatest advantage to a potential enemy in the future.

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[That's true,] Nova said, concurring with Aron's thoughts.

They carried on discussing various subjects until Nova interrupted with an update.

[Sir, the materials you ordered have arrived and are now stored in the printer room,] Nova informed him, referring to the materials Aron had requested.

"Let's go and create new VR headsets and upgrade from the one I'm currently using," Aron said as he walked through the gate and logged off from the universal simulation.

...

Aron carefully placed the materials one by one into the atomic printer, ensuring they were securely in place. In the past, when he was creating the quantum computer, he had to use premium materials to prevent any failures. However, this time the materials he was using were more readily available in any country, yet they still contained the necessary atoms to produce the required devices.

"You can start," Aron said to Nova once he had finished loading the materials into the printer.

As before, the machine came to life with a roar, drawing in enough power that it caused the lights in the room to flicker. Aron couldn't help but react to the impact it had on the surrounding electrical devices. "Why didn't this happen the first time?" he asked, curious about the difference.

[As you recall, the first time the machine was not operating at full power, so there were no issues. However, this time I activated the printer at its maximum capacity, which caused a significant surge of electricity that exceeded the grid's capability, forcing me to throttle it down to avoid a blackout,] Nova explained.

"Let's not overexert the grid; we should keep it within its limits," Aron advised after understanding the situation.

[Yes, sir,] Nova replied obediently as she continued the printing process for the VR devices.

...

A week later.

Aron walked into the conference room of the hotel where he had stayed previously, and there he found Sarah and Felix waiting for him. Spotting them, he waved in their direction while scanning the room.

"Have you been waiting for long?" Aron asked, curious about their arrival time.

"No, we only got here a few minutes before you," Sarah replied, standing up and making her way towards Aron, who was also walking towards her.

"Welcome to Eden," Aron greeted Sarah warmly as he embraced her upon reaching him.

"Thank you. How have you been?" Sarah replied, reciprocating the hug.

"As I always mentioned during our calls, I'm doing fine," Aron responded. He then inquired, "Have you had enough rest since you arrived?"

"Even if I hadn't rested enough, I wouldn't have rested until I knew everything," Sarah replied with a playful tone. She turned towards Felix, who was sitting on the side, clearly filled with anticipation and said "Felix even called me last week, urging me to come as early as possible. The closer it got to today, the longer the days seemed for him."

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"She was just as excited as me, she's just better at hiding it," Felix retorted, playfully accusing Sarah back..

After a few more playful exchanges, they finally settled down and took their seats in the room for their discussion.

"Put these on," Aron instructed, sliding a futuristic-looking case towards each of them.

Curiosity piqued, Felix asked, "What are these glasses for?"

"They're a gift from me," Aron replied, his smile widening. He chose not to elaborate further.

As Sarah opened the case and laid eyes on the glasses inside, she was captivated by their unique design. "Wow, they're beautiful. I've never seen this design before," she exclaimed, clearly impressed by the aesthetic appeal of the glasses tailored to her.

Felix, upon observing the glasses Sarah received, remarked, "You really know us." He noticed that the glasses he received had a different design, tailored specifically to his preferences.

"Say that to Nova," Aron thought to himself, acknowledging Nova's contribution to designing the glasses based on his memories of the two of them. She had tailored the design to align with each person's subjective beauty standards.

Without wasting any time, Sarah and Felix obediently put on the glasses, their curiosity overriding any lingering questions. However, as soon as they placed the glasses on their faces, their expressions stiffened.

"Welcome," a beautiful woman greeted as she materialized out of thin air, standing before Sarah and Felix.

The surprise on their faces remained shattered for a brief moment as Nova raised her hand, and a holographic screen materialized in front of them.

The words displayed on the holographic screen were simply: "Are you going to keep what will be discussed here today a secret?" with the options to respond as [YES] or [NO].

Without uttering a word, in what could be considered instinctual,they all pressed [YES] simultaneously, wanting for the screen to disappear. In an instant, the holographic screen vanished, and a gentle golden light enveloped them, gradually merging with their beings.

Donning his own glasses after he saw the golden light, he introduced, "Allow me to introduce Nova, my assistant." as he pointed at Nova who was standing before them.

As Aron spoke, his voice seemed to pass right through them, their attention captivated by the overwhelming surprise evident on their faces. They were so engrossed in their astonishment that they failed to hear the words he uttered.

Despite their expressions freezing in astonishment, the synapses in their brains continued firing relentlessly, as if there was no tomorrow. Their cognitive faculties worked tirelessly, attempting to piece together an explanation for the extraordinary sight unfolding before them.

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Once Felix regained his composure, he directed his question to Aron, his voice filled with curiosity. "Aron, what is all of this?" Felix inquired, his voice tinged with intrigue as he removed the glasses, causing Nova to vanish before his eyes, and then promptly put them back on, only to witness her reappear once again.

"Augmented reality?" Sarah questioned, her comment revealing her growing familiarity with the tech industry, having held the position of CEO at a tech company for over a year.

"You're halfway there," Aron replied, a smile gracing his face.

Sarah expressed her disbelief, noting, "But the technology shouldn't have advanced to such a level. At the conventions I've attended, the best they could achieve was a bulky hologram, which relied on perfect lighting conditions to maintain its form. Even a slight deviation would cause it to lose its coherence."

"How did you manage to fit all the functioning components inside these glasses and make them work?" Sarah inquired, inspecting the slender frames of her glasses. They appeared no different from regular eyewear, except for their elegant design.

"The glasses are printed, enabling me to fabricate the intricate machinery within the frames and other components," Aron explained. As he spoke, a 3D animation materialized before them, illustrating the inner workings of the glasses. The animation revealed how the glass within the eyewear served a dual purpose: functioning as a conventional lens for vision while also acting as a quantum chip, responsible for computing tasks in both virtual reality and augmented reality experiences.

As for the components responsible for showcasing augmented reality and enabling the full dive capabilities of the glasses were printed directly within the glass handles

The wearer of these glasses can be regarded as a walking supercomputer, courtesy of the remarkable computing capabilities housed within the chips embedded in the glasses.

"Wow," Sarah couldn't help but exclaim. Being well-versed in the tech industry, she was aware that the current printing technologies lacked the reliability and precision required to print such intricate components at such a small scale.

"Who created the machine?" Sarah promptly inquired, unable to conceive of a printer that could achieve such minute and accurate printing capabilities.

"I created the machine," Aron responded.

Sarah, detecting an inconsistency in the narrative, questioned him further, "Are you joking with us? Since when did you possess the knowledge of mechanical engineering technology?"

Aron clarified, "Not precisely me personally, but the entities I created conducted extensive research on the machine. My sole responsibility was to bring it to life in the physical world."

"What do you mean by 'real world?'" Felix inquired, seeking clarification from Aron regarding his previous statement.

Aron responded, "Everything was accomplished within a simulation program that I created. You could consider it the foundation of most of my technological endeavors." This answer left both Felix and Sarah perplexed, struggling to grasp the full meaning.

Growing weary of the fragmented explanations, Sarah spoke up, requesting a comprehensive account. She expressed her frustration, stating, "Could you please explain everything from the beginning? It feels like we're missing crucial context in each explanation, context we would have understood if we knew the full story."

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Aron nodded understandingly, a smile gracing his face, and thus began to recount his story from the very beginning, ensuring they would have a complete understanding of his journey.

"It all began after I was expelled from university," Aron began his narrative. "As I found myself at home, grappling with my depression and the weight of a daunting, debt-filled future, a sudden burst of inspiration struck me. Wanting to escape the bleakness of my thoughts, I took immediate action and started writing lines upon lines of code. The inspiration flowed like a broken dam, guiding my every keystroke."

He paused briefly to catch his breath, reflecting on those transformative moments. Then, with renewed vigour, he continued, "During that time, I managed to keep my depression at bay for the following week, as the inspiration fuelled my coding endeavours. It was as if a burst of creative energy had swept over me. And it was during this period that the foundation for Nova was laid."

"And that marked the birth of Nova," Aron declared, his voice filled with pride and admiration as he pointed towards Nova, who had gracefully settled into one of the chairs, seamlessly blending into the environment as an augmented object.

"With her as my assistant, and as an Artificial General Intelligence, I entrusted her with the task of learning from the internet, focusing her attention on cyber security.

Despite the limitations of my outdated computer, after a week of learning, she acquired enough knowledge in the security field to assist me in building the first version of BugZapper.

Utilising BugZapper's capabilities, I discovered vulnerabilities in a large data centre, granting me complete access. I then uploaded her to the data centre, leveraging its substantial bandwidth to facilitate her ongoing learning and expand her knowledge.

After a week of continuous learning, she surpassed human intelligence, prompting her to make a collective decision to halt her learning. The concern arose from the fear of being discovered due to her ever-increasing knowledge, which also caused her physical size and spatial requirements within the data centre to expand.

During that time, she assisted in identifying vulnerabilities in various companies' programs, and with the help of Felix, we capitalized on these weaknesses by selling them to them, earning rewards for our efforts.

Using that money I built a company, made Sarah the CEO of it and made her build a data centre with a budget of more than a quarter of billion.

While the data center was being constructed, we completed the final version of BugZapper and subsequently released it to the public.

Prior to its release, we had entered into an agreement with NATO and shared the software with them.

Once the data center was completed, I migrated her onto that server and provided her with the freedom to learn without any constraints. After she had finished acquiring knowledge, we collaborated to develop a simulation program. Through this program, we simulated various phenomena.

During that time, I was shot, and the spy sent by the Russians stole my program from me. While I was in a coma, the Americans issued an order for the company to hand over my program as well.

When I eventually woke up from my coma, I surrendered the program to the Americans and promptly began searching for countries with unstable governments. Eventually, I decided on Eden as my target.

With Nova's assistance, I successfully located one of the leaders of the revolutionary movement and struck a deal with him with the promise of providing financial support to his group and aiding in the overthrow of the existing government.

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Simultaneously, I deployed Felix to Eden, tasking him with acquiring all the telecom companies through bribery, persuading the dictator to permit the buyout. By consolidating these companies under a single entity, I gained complete control over Eden's internet infrastructure.

Harnessing this infrastructure, I gradually fostered discontent among the citizens, fueling their animosity towards the dictator. As their anger reached a boiling point, I encouraged them to join Alexander's group, effectively bolstering their collective strength.

Additionally, I strategically purchased the loyalty of Eden's military generals, solidifying my influence within the country.

Moreover, I began assembling a private military force by recruiting former special forces personnel.

"Throughout the entire saga, she engaged in continuous simulations. After conducting several million simulations, we eventually acquired the necessary knowledge to construct a quantum computer. Without wasting any time, I swiftly proceeded to build the quantum computer, and once again, I transferred her into the new computer.

With the newfound increased computing power, our simulations persisted and evolved with each passing day. Finally, the long-awaited moment arrived. Backed by my private forces, Eden's military, and the resolute protests of Alexander's group, we successfully orchestrated the overthrow of the existing government. In its place, we installed Alexander as the leader of the newly formed government, marking a significant shift in power and governance within Eden.

After the successful coup, the simulation program yielded a series of remarkable breakthroughs.

One of the notable discoveries was the advancement in virtual and augmented reality technology. Another groundbreaking innovation was the development of atom-by-atom printing technology, enabling the creation of previously unimaginable objects that were once deemed impossible to construct." Aron paused, taking a deep breath, and concluded, "That's the essence of the story, or at least a summary of it. Do you have any questions?"

As Aron observed his friends, jaws dropped in awe from the abundance of information they had just received, he couldn't help but think to himself, "Damn, maybe I should consider a career in acting!"

The discord server is now open, go there and join the discussion: /KptypY8dGh

... 𝐛𝐞𝐝𝗻𝐨𝘃𝗲𝗹.𝐜𝐨𝗺

The next fifteen minutes passed in complete silence as Sarah and Felix absorbed the information they had just received.

By the fifteenth minute, Felix was the first to break the silence, his reaction surfacing before Sarah's. Unlike Sarah, Felix had mentally prepared himself for this moment, having harboured high expectations due to his prior knowledge of the coup being orchestrated by Aron.

"Damn," Felix muttered, his voice filled with disbelief. He instinctively adjusted his glasses, which had been displaying visual evidence throughout Aron's detailed account. The evidence presented left them with no reason to doubt Aron's statements in the slightest.

"How did you manage to convince the general to support the coup, knowing that they would ultimately lose the power they previously held?" Sarah asked, regaining her composure after Felix's exclamation.

"There's a saying that it's better to be a servant in a palace than a common man in the streets," Aron replied with a smile.

"So, let me get this straight," Sarah questioned incredulously. "You're saying that they agreed to become your subordinates because you promised them a position among the servants in your palace?" Sarah found it hard to believe that individuals who had tasted power would willingly relinquish it to become mere pawns in a powerful army.

"If you recall, in my account, I mentioned 'One of the notable discoveries was the advancement in virtual and augmented reality technology,'" Aron replied, deflecting Sarah's question. "What do you think I meant by that?"

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Sarah offered her interpretation, stating, "Perhaps it implies that the technology already existed, and what unfolded after the coup was simply a tremendous advancement of that technology."

"Correct," Aron affirmed, and before them materialized a peculiar-looking headgear. "This," he continued, pointing to it, "is what you would refer to as version 01 of the technology. Its initial breakthrough coincided with the development of quantum computers during the same time period." Aron proceeded to provide an explanation.

Felix, puzzled by Aron's explanation, interjected, "But how does this relate to convincing the generals?" He was still uncertain about the connection between the advanced technology and the generals' agreement to participate in the coup.

"Allow me to demonstrate," Aron replied cryptically. Before Sarah and Felix could react or inquire further, an abrupt sensation overcame them, causing them to slump back in their chairs as if they had lost consciousness.

As Sarah and Felix regained their senses, they found themselves in a completely different environment. Startled and bewildered, they looked around to find Aron standing before them, a wry smile on his face. "Welcome to my universe," Aron greeted them, fully aware of the shock they had just experienced.

Wanting to proceed with his explanation without further delay, Aron snapped his fingers, and just like that, everything seemed normal for Sarah and Felix. They were astounded, even more surprised at how quickly they had adapted to the new environment, as if it had become their new normal in an instant.

Aron's smile grew wider as he explained, "What you just experienced is just one of the capabilities of the glasses and helmet you witnessed. Whoever wears them can be forcefully logged into this realm, unable to resist or escape whatever I manipulate within it. Inside here, She is in complete control of everything." He gestured towards Nova, who was standing alongside them, emphasising that she held the reigns within this realm.

Felix couldn't contain his astonishment and exclaimed, "Oh my god!" The implications of Aron's statement dawned on him, and he realized that once logged into this realm, Aron held near god-like control and could manipulate everything within it. The realization sent shivers down Felix's virtual body, giving him goosebumps as he contemplated Aron's statement.

Overwhelmed by the chain of surprises, Sarah and Felix hadn't even stopped to question why their virtual bodies mirrored the sensations of their physical selves without any discrepancies.

The realization hit them as they felt the goosebumps, prompting them to pinch and grope themselves in an attempt to find any hint of an error that would reassure them this was merely a simulation. Their actions reflected a desperate search for a flaw that could ease their growing unease.

Aron, understanding the need for Sarah and Felix to acclimate themselves, chose to remain silent and allowed them time to adjust to their surroundings. However, he did teleport them to a luxurious and comfortable room within a grand location, specifically designed to facilitate the continuation of their conversation.

Half an hour later.

After meticulously inspecting every detail of the room, touching the leather upholstery of the comfortable chairs, examining the intricately carved timber of the heavily decorated door, savoring the delicious drinks in the cups, and even scrutinizing the hairs on their own bodies, Sarah and Felix finally began to calm down.

They realized that, for the time being, they had to set aside their exhaustive inspections and focus on continuing their conversation. They made a mental note to revisit their investigations once the meeting had concluded.

Continuing the conversation from where it had paused, Felix inquired with concern, "Did you torture or mistreatment them, after bringing them here?"

"I didn't go to such extremes. What I did was simply instill an overwhelming sense of fear towards me. As a result, they have reached a state where they will unquestioningly obey any order I give them," Aron explained, a smile spreading across his face as if he were discussing something positive.

Felix and Sarah exchanged bewildered glances, their confusion growing as they wondered if they were somehow perceiving a different meaning than what Aron intended.

Sarah, attempting to divert her attention from Aron's unsettling smile, posed an astute question. "Is this why you chose to handle the task personally in Eden instead of delegating it, as you did with Felix when he acquired the companies?"

"Yes, nobody else knew about the technology, and it had to stay that way," Aron responded, his smile persisting. "That compelled me to take matters into my own hands."

Felix, making a connection between Aron's previous peculiar travel plans and his current involvement, asked, "Is the reason for your personal involvement here similar to when you embarked on your trip throughout Europe, or is there something else at play?"

"Yes, indeed," Aron replied, his satisfaction evident as Sarah and Felix demonstrated their astuteness in connecting the dots based on the information he had shared.

Sarah's voice carried a mix of curiosity and excitement as she asked, "What did you do in Europe? I'm really curious to know what transpired during your trip that required you to spend over three months there."

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"It is better that I show you rather than explain," Aron replied. Without further delay, Nova swiftly teleported them, transporting them to the skies above Lab City.

"Behold the fruit of my extensive travels throughout Europe and America," Aron declared, paying little heed to the astonishment displayed on Sarah and Felix's faces as they beheld the massive city sprawling beneath them.

"Explore the city at your leisure and return here after twelve hours. Your physical bodies in the real world are being safeguarded, so don't worry about any harm coming to them. Enjoy your time as the time compression ratio here is five to one," Aron instructed, swiftly teleporting Sarah and Felix to different locations within the city before they had a chance to inquire about the phenomenon of time dilation.

After regaining their composure, Sarah and Felix began their exploration of the city, utilizing the interface provided to them by Aron. They carefully read the instructions and details displayed on the screen, instantly comprehending how to navigate and utilize the interface for their tour.

Sarah wasted no time in acquiring the research labs list and selecting the one focused on computing technology. In an instant, she found herself transported to the chosen location. As her eyes opened, an astonished expression crossed her face, and her mouth fell open in awe.

Before her stretched endless rows of server racks, each holding an array of what appeared to be quantum computer chips. The information she had obtained about the lab confirmed her suspicions—these chips were being optimized to seamlessly operate as a unified entity.

Similarly, Felix decided to start his exploration within the industry he was already familiar with. Upon his selection, he found himself teleported to a lab where rows upon rows of server racks, filled with quantum chips, stretched out before him. However, the purpose of this particular lab differed from the one Sarah had visited.

Here, the focus was on communication technology, specifically optimizing the utilization of quantum teleportation as a means of transmitting information.

While Aron had already harnessed this technology for instantaneous communication between his quantum computer at home and his watch, it still hadn't reached the stage of mass communication for millions of devices. The researchers in this lab were diligently working towards achieving that goal, and they had been achieving consecutive breakthroughs every few days.

Sarah and Felix began their lab tours one by one, swiftly moving from one lab to the next as soon as they satisfied their curiosity in each. As the twelfth hour approached, they found themselves instantly teleported back to the city's skies, having only explored approximately nine research labs. Their progress accounted for less than a quarter of a percent of the total number of labs present in the city.

Surprised by their sudden teleportation, Felix questioned, "Twelve hours have already passed?" He couldn't believe it, as from his perspective, it felt like he had spent no more than three hours exploring the city's labs.

"Yes" Aron confirmed, settling into the chair that Nova had materialized for them in the sky.

Sarah, after glancing at the screen she had used to navigate the city, exclaimed, "According to the progress bar here, I haven't even visited one percent of the research labs in the city!" She was astonished by the sheer scale of the remaining unexplored labs, realizing that their tour had barely scratched the surface of what the city had to offer.

"Don't worry," Aron reassured them. "I've granted your glasses access to this place, so you can revisit it whenever you want in the future. However, remember to log out after you pass through the Rashomon gate when you come here on your own." Aron pointed towards the distant Rashomon gate, which became visible only when he zoomed in due to its considerable distance from the city.

"Why do we need to log out after passing through the Rashomon gate?" Sarah inquired, her tone expressing genuine curiosity rather than arrogance.

"As I mentioned earlier, the time acceleration here is set at five to one. If you log out directly from here, your brain will undergo a sudden transition from experiencing time at five times the normal rate to returning to the regular pace. Such a drastic shift will break your mind." Aron explained.

Felix raised an important question, asking, "If the transition from accelerated time to normal time is potentially harmful, how is it that we didn't feel any negative effects when you forcefully logged us in earlier?"

"When I forcefully logged you in earlier, I actually teleported you into a time bubble where time was not accelerated." Answered Aron.

"Why didn't you make it impossible for people to log out from this accelerated zone? It seems like a straightforward solution to prevent any potential harm." She asked, wondering why such a precautionary measure wasn't implemented in the first place, considering the potential risks involved.

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"I didn't consider that aspect since I was the only one accessing this world from the outside. " Aron admitted with a touch of embarrassment.

[Actually, I've already taken care of that, there's no need to worry about it] Nova said, her arm gently patting Aron's back

"But why are we still up here in the sky? I just can't get used to it," Sarah asked, attempting to shift the conversation and spare Aron from further embarrassment as she gazed down at the city beneath them with an unwavering sense of curiosity.

[No other reason, it's just cool that way,] Nova replied, addressing Sarah's question.

"I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that you're an AI," Sarah admitted to Nova, engaging in their first conversation since being introduced to her.

[Thank you] Nova replied, offering a smile that caused both Felix and Sarah to blush, captivated by her beauty and radiant smile.

Feeling her face flush with embarrassment, Sarah turned to Aron and exclaimed, "Did you intentionally design her appearance like this?" She tried to conceal her own feelings, using Aron as a scapegoat for her reaction since she couldn't blame Felix, who was also experiencing the same trouble.

"No, I didn't. All I did was give her a name. The choices regarding her appearance were entirely up to her," Aron explained, raising his hands in a gesture of innocence to demonstrate that he had no control over Nova's decision regarding her look and body.

[He's telling the truth, although it was the name he gave me that sparked all of this,] Nova chimed in, playfully teasing Aron further, causing Sarah and Felix to burst into laughter.

Aron's expression expressed a sense of feeling betrayed by Nova's mischievous remark, adding to the amusement of the situation.

"Seriously, why is it that way?" Sarah inquired, leaning closer to Nova in an attempt to gather more information and further tease Aron.

[Even though the name itself is neutral, the data I collected shortly after being named indicated a slight leaning towards the female side. That influenced my decision to choose a female voice, and later on, when we had access to a powerful computer, I designed my body in that gender,] Nova explained, shedding light on the factors that influenced her choices.

"You see, I even gave her a neutral name, but she herself made the choice of her gender," Aron stated, casting a sidelong glance at Sarah and Felix, seemingly proud of Nova's answer that removed suspicion from him.

"If she had chosen to be a man, what would you have done?" Felix asked this time.

"Reboot her!" Aron said in such a serious tone, that it triggered laughter from all of them. It was the first large laugh that they shared since Aron had given them the glasses, and it served as a much-needed release after experiencing a cascade of surprises that nearly overwhelmed their emotions, bordering on short-circuiting their brains.

After a few minutes of laughter, they finally regained their composure, and Aron spoke with a serious tone.

"Since you are already aware of my story and reasons, I would like you to initiate the process of relocating the company's registered location from America to Eden," Aron said, addressing Sarah directly.

"I will begin the process as soon as I return to America next week," Sarah replied in a serious tone not asking any further questions, as Aron's previous explanation had already covered most of the details she would have inquired about had she not been aware of them.

"That will greatly assist you," Aron said, and Nova promptly materialized a folder, handing it over to Sarah.

"Now I really wish I had an assistant like yours," Sarah remarked, appreciating the efficiency with which Nova handled Aron's tasks, also admiring the elegance of Nova's slender hands.

"I will provide each of you with an assistant, but it will take some time. I need to build a server for them first," Aron explained, casting a gaze towards both Sarah and Felix.

"Oh," Sarah replied upon hearing Aron's words, then asked, "Are you planning to build something similar to the one that is in the research labs here?" wanting to understand the scope of the server Aron intended to create.

"Yes, but on a much larger scale than what you saw in the lab," Aron responded.

"Wow," Sarah exclaimed, taken aback by the sheer scale of Aron's plans. She was certain that such a powerful server would be capable of rivaling every computer in the world combined, without even considering it a challenge.

"If you encounter any difficulties during the process, such as government interference or any other obstacles, inform me immediately, and I will solve it as swiftly as possible," Aron stated, redirecting the conversation back to the main topic at hand.

"Indeed, I anticipated the government's potential resistance, particularly using our NATO deal as a pretext for impeding the relocation on grounds of national security," Sarah acknowledged, demonstrating her awareness of the possible challenges that could arise due to the existing agreement.

"What about me? Am I going to remain the CEO of CONNECT, or are you going to sell it now that your use of it is over?" Felix asked.

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"No, I'm not selling the company and letting someone else have control over my access to the internet once again," Aron replied firmly. "As for you, Felix, you will remain as the CEO of the company. However, it's time for us to start the process of expanding," Aron continued, as Nova handed Felix a folder as well.

The folder contained detailed plans outlining how CONNECT would expand in the upcoming days.

Taking a quick look at the contents of the folder, Felix raised his head and said, "I couldn't help but notice that all of the plans in here are domestic."

"You're right about that," Felix responded, nodding in agreement. "The company is going to focus on developing various industries in Eden. This approach aims to expedite the country's development and address any challenges that GAIA technology may currently face due to its existing state."

Felix chuckled in response to Aron's comment. "So, I guess that makes me responsible for the domestic market, and she's in charge of the international market," he joked, playfully acknowledging their respective roles in the company.

"Exactly," Aron chimed in, building upon Felix's statement. "I want Eden to be in its best possible shape, as it's crucial for the development I have planned for my companies. I chose this country because I wanted to have control over my ventures, but that doesn't mean I'm willing to settle for substandard quality within the country. That's precisely why I created CONNECT—to ensure that we can improve and elevate the standards, not only for my companies but for the entire country."

Sarah and Felix's simultaneous exclamation of "Ooooh" indicated their genuine admiration for Aron's foresight and forward-thinking mindset.

They were impressed by his ability to envision the future and take proactive steps to address potential challenges himself and not depend on anyone else to do it for him.

Amidst the impressed expressions, Nova interjected with a playful tone, [Hey, just so you all know, I was the one who came up with those ideas!] Her words immediately wiped away the fake prideful expression on Aron's face, leading to laughter from their friends and Aron himself.

It was a lighthearted moment, filled with camaraderie and good-natured teasing among the group.

A week later.

An article was published, followed by an announcement that caused ripples throughout the country and the world. The news spread like wildfire, capturing the attention of people from all walks of life. Speculation and anticipation mounted as everyone eagerly awaited further details about the groundbreaking revelation.

[(A Bold Move)

In a surprising turn of events, GAIA Technology, the global tech giant, has announced and initiated the process to change its registered country while simultaneously purchasing an entire island in Eden. This decision has ignited speculation regarding the undisclosed promises made by the president of the country to GAIA's CEO, Sarah, during her recent visit.

The news of GAIA Technology's intention to change its registered country and acquire an island in Eden has generated intrigue and excitement. However, not everyone has unanimously approved of this move. The government of the United States, GAIA's current registered country, seems to be less than thrilled about the company's imminent relocation.

Reports indicate that the U.S. government is actively trying to hinder the process and retain GAIA Technology within its jurisdiction. The exact reasons behind this opposition remain unclear, but speculation suggests concerns about the potential loss of a major tech player and the subsequent economic impact.

The unexpected decision by GAIA Technology has undoubtedly made waves in the tech industry and beyond. It remains to be seen how this bold move will unfold and what impact it will have on the global tech landscape.

...,

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...

]

Although the individual events mentioned in the article would have garnered some attention on their own, it was the combination of both occurrences that provided a substantial amount of information, fueling the rise of conspiracy theories worldwide.

During the discussions, conflicting claims emerged with some people alleging that the president had offered them tax exemption, while others suggested that the company was attempting to exploit cheap labor from its citizens. However, both GAIA technology and the government of Eden maintained an unsettling silence throughout the debates. They released only minimal amounts of information, seemingly satisfying curiosity but withholding any further details, citing ongoing discussions as the reason for their limited transparency.

...…

"Indeed," Aron remarked to Sarah, engaging in a conversation within the universal simulation. "It seems that their actions are indeed causing significant issues for us.".

"Yes, initially they dangled the possibility of tax breaks and other incentives to encourage our company to stay," Sarah explained, presenting the scanned documents to Aron within the virtual simulation. "However, when we declined their offer, they swiftly resorted to threatening us with forceful measures, such as denying the necessary processes to keep our company operational in the country."

"Understood," Aron replied confidently. "I'll make sure to resolve this issue before the week's end." With that, the meeting concluded, and Sarah promptly logged out of the simulation to resume her work.

[Sir, the final section has been printed,] Nova informed Aron ashe was thinking about his conversation with Sarah.

"Instruct them to transport the printed section and the remaining parts to the island," Aron instructed.

[Done, should I proceed to call Rina right away?" Nova inquired, having fulfilled the assigned instructions promptly.

"Yes," Aron replied, and Nova promptly created a temporal bubble and dialed Rina's contact information.

"Hello," Rina greeted as she answered the call on the very first ring.

"Hello there. It seems you were anticipating my call," Aron responded with a smile, noting the promptness of the answer.

"Yes, I just read the article and figured you might reach out to me for assistance in resolving your predicament," Rina replied, a smile adorning her face as she engaged in the conversation.

"You're absolutely right. I do need your help to ensure a smooth resolution," Aron acknowledged, being open with her and sharing the details.

"I've already begun the process, and they have agreed to cooperate on the surface. However, they will maintain a tough stance to demonstrate their concern for the company. At the last moment, they will use the excuse of a worker forgetting to submit an important folder before the deadline to give up on their attempts to block you," Rina informed Aron about the government's plan to continue their facade throughout the process.

"Thank you for your assistance," Aron expressed his gratitude, feeling a sense of pride for choosing to help Rina in her time of need.

"Don't mention it. I believe we've moved past that phase," Rina responded, assuring Aron that their previous exchange of help was no longer a topic to dwell on.

"I do have another and a rather difficult request to make of you," Aron confessed, feeling a touch of embarrassment at continuously seeking Rina's assistance despite his right to do so.

"Something challenging, you say? Now that's the level of favor I was hoping you'd ask of me, as it allows me to begin repaying you for the help you've provided," Rina replied, her tone brimming with enthusiasm.

"What is it?" she inquired, curious about the nature of the request.

"A few kilos of tritium," Aron requested with a sheepish smile, fully aware that his unconventional plea would likely catch her by surprise.

"Did I hear you correctly? You're requesting a few kilos of tritium?" Rina exclaimed, clearly taken aback by the unexpected nature of the request.

"Yes, that's correct," Aron confirmed. "I'm in the process of building a reactor, and I require tritium for the initial ignition phase. Additionally, I need a sufficient amount to reach a sustainable level, where it can be continuously produced through the interaction with lithium," he explained, providing a brief summary of why he needed the tritium. "I understand it's quite a challenging request. Is it going to be impossible for you to fulfill?"

Upon hearing Aron's question, Rina shook her head, momentarily setting aside the questions she had about his nuclear reactor. "It's not impossible, but I must admit it will be quite challenging," she replied honestly. "However, I need to know when you will need the tritium. Time is a crucial factor here. Can you provide me with a timeline?" she inquired, keen to understand the urgency of the request.

"By the end of this month," Aron responded.

"If it's by the end of the month, it will be impossible to procure tritium in America," Rina stated, prompting Aron to begin saying, "If that's the case, then no probl..." However, before he could finish his sentence, Rina interrupted him, continuing her response and causing Aron to pause mid-sentence.

"I can't obtain it from America within such a short timeframe, but I can source it from Israel. Would that be acceptable to you?" Rina asked, seeking clarification on whether the tritium had to specifically come from America.

"I really don't mind where it comes from, as long as it's the required material," Aron replied as he realized that Rina's offer to procure tritium from Israel was a viable solution.

"Then I will see you in Eden next month," Rina declared, her statement leaving Aron surprised by the turn of events.

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"What? Why are you planning to come to Eden yourself?" Aron asked, clearly taken aback by this unexpected development.

"What? Did you think I could simply send the package without being present? The tritium needs to be transported in a diplomatic bag to ensure it can pass through security without being searched," Rina explained. "Additionally, I have a personal curiosity to see the reactor and ask you a few questions about it."

"Then I'll be waiting to welcome you at the airport," Aron replied warmly upon hearing Rina's explanation for her visit.

"Okay, I'll contact you later to update you on the progress," Rina confirmed. After receiving Aron's response, she concluded the call and began the process of fulfilling Aron's request, determined to find what he needed.

Aron contemplated the phone call and considered a meaningful way to express his gratitude to Rina for her assistance. He turned to Nova, seeking her input. "What do you think would be a suitable token of appreciation for her help?" he asked, his gaze fixed on Nova, awaiting her perspective on the matter.

Nova made a suggestion in a tone that conveyed her awareness of Rina's limitations. [I propose providing Ava with a new home,] Nova said, acknowledging that Ava's confinement to the private network had become restrictive, akin to being trapped in a cage. [By helping Ava, she will, in turn, increase her assistance to her.]

"I had already planned on doing so," Aron responded. "It's essential to ensure Rina's safety, as she will continue to assist me in the future as well." Aron

[Then, how about giving her the glasses?] she suggested, after hearing Aaron's response to her previous suggestions.

"That is a good idea," Aron said as he thought about Rina's words. "It will make facilitating communication with her easier."

[It is better for you to start moving to the island with the pieces and begin assembling them upon arrival, considering the assembly process will take you about a month to complete,] Nova reminded Aaron. Her words prompted him to immediately log off and make his way to the port, where a boat would transport him and the first batch of the parts to the island.

Upon their arrival on the island with Aron, they swiftly carried the first batch of materials and transferred them to a waiting car for transportation to a destination located a few kilometers away from the makeshift port where they had docked the boat for unloading the parts.

When they reached the destination, they proceeded to unpack the objects from the car and arranged them on the ground as neatly as possible. Without delay, they swiftly made their way back to the port in order to retrieve another batch of materials.

Due to the sheer quantity of large parts that needed to be transported, they had rented over ten boats to facilitate the transportation process. With thousands upon thousands of components to be moved, this arrangement allowed for efficient carrying of the materials.

In order to ensure uninterrupted material transfers and prevent congestion, they had to set a limit of ten boats. This number was determined as the maximum capacity to maintain a smooth flow of materials without any boats waiting idly.

"Let's get started!" Aron exclaimed, now alone. He eagerly rubbed his hands together before shouldering one of the heavy machines that normally required three guards to carry as he moved it to an empty field and swiftly returned to pick up another one which he carried and carefully placed it next to the first part he had set down.

This process continued, with Aron tirelessly carrying and assembling more than a hundred and fifty small and large parts. Gradually, they began to interlock, forming the framework of the machine, which was gradually taking shape and nearing completion.

"Phew!" Aron let out a sigh of relief as he finally completed the assembly of the machine. After six hours of continuous work, he felt a sense of accomplishment and relief wash over him.

"Now it's time to insert the battery and power it on to start its operation," Aron said, making his way towards a black box that had a cubic meter in size.

The box was adorned with faint golden lines that seemed to be obscured by the dominant ominous-looking black color. It sat atop a small, four-wheel puller. Aron approached the box and began to pull it towards the assembled machine, still on a wheelbarrow.

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When he reached the machine, he effortlessly lifted it as if it were weightless foam, positioning it perfectly within the designated opening that snugly accommodated the box.

After carefully positioning the box, Aron placed both his hands on top of it, directly over the spot where it was installed in the machine. He then began infusing mana into the box, and in response, the box started to emit a gentle glow, with golden lines appearing and intertwining on its surface as the box eagerly absorbed the mana that Aron was pouring into it, as if feeding on the energy.

It took Aron over six hours to fully fill the box with mana, which had transformed into its liquid state, representing the densest form of mana. The black box, adorned with runes, had an active shield that securely contained the mana within it, preventing any leaks or disruptions.

After completing the mana infusion, Aron commanded, "Power it on." Without hesitation, Nova, who was having conversation with Aron to pass time while monitoring the proceedings through an advanced earpiece equipped with a new version of a VR & AR interface, swiftly activated the machine as instructed.

As the golden lines on the black box began to emit a radiant glow, the machine hummed with an energetic vibration. Suddenly, with a resonating "HRMMM" sound, the machine sprang to life and started descending from its original position.

Inch by inch, it began to vanish, gradually receding as if being absorbed into an unseen horizon, akin to a ship disappearing on the distant edge of the sea.

For approximately ten minutes, the machine continued its descent, gradually vanishing into the ground. As it fully disappeared, a square-shaped hole remained, steadily increasing in depth as the machine continued its journey beneath the surface.

Once the machine reached a depth of approximately fifty meters, it came to a halt and began disintegrating the surrounding ground, meticulously breaking it down atom by atom. The process was deliberate and methodical, steadily expanding the hole where the machine had disappeared.

Throughout the entire process, Aron stood at a distance, observing the ground where the machine had descended. While doing so, he remained engaged in conversation with Nova, maintaining their ongoing dialogue as the transformation unfolded before them.

Although it may appear that Aron was simply standing idly by, in reality, he was actively involved in the process. Using the augmented reality capabilities of the earpeace, he was able to witness and monitor every aspect of the machine's transformation beneath the ground. Nova provided a real-time visual display, allowing Aron to stay fully informed about the ongoing progress.

As Aron observed the remarkable disintegration occurring at the atomic level, he couldn't help but express his awe. "Disintegrating things at the atomic level is truly a game-changer," he remarked, captivated by the sight of rocks, sand, and everything in the vicinity being torn apart. The process left behind a progressively expanding hole, showcasing the immense power and potential the machine had.

Indeed, the machine operated in a manner that efficiently disintegrated the atoms without storing them. Instead, the disintegrated particles were dispersed and carried away by the wind, eliminating the need for Aron to collect any resulting waste. This innovative approach eliminated the conventional requirement of manually excavating and handling the debris, streamlining the process and reducing unnecessary labor.

Recognizing the lengthy duration required for the completion of the ongoing machine's task, Aron made the strategic decision to utilize his time by commencing the assembly of other machines whose parts had already been transported to the site.

...

Six hours later.

With the machine sitting silently in the middle, there lay a substantial circular pit stretching two hundred meters in length from one side to the other and plunging fifty meters deep. Its presence left a remarkable impression on anyone who cast their gaze upon it.

"Begin placing the parts into the hole in the same order you brought them," Aron said, turning to Daniel, who held the responsibility of leading the ARES members tasked with transporting the materials from the temporary warehouse to the island.

"Yes, sir," Daniel replied, echoing the unanimous agreement of the ARES members to Aron's directive. Despite his curiosity piqued, Daniel decided to hold his questions for a more opportune moment, planning to approach Aron once he had completed his tasks and was available for discussion.

What intrigued him the most was how on earth such an enormous hole had materialized within a matter of hours. This was just the beginning of his queries; another pressing question was the whereabouts of the excavated soil. There was no trace of it in the vicinity of the meticulously shaped hole, leaving Daniel baffled as to its mysterious appearance.

At that moment, Daniel simply attributed the rapid progress and the absence of soil to one of their bosses' remarkable ability as he continued doing his work.

With over a hundred parts already deposited into the hole, Aron descended into the cavity and promptly began assembling the components that were already in place.

For the following three weeks, this synchronized routine persisted. ARES members diligently transported parts from the temporary warehouse to the island, placing them into the hole one by one, while Aron simultaneously assembled the incoming components without missing a beat.

After three weeks of relentless work, Aron finally completed the assembly of the final part among the multitude of components he had meticulously printed for their purpose on the island.

As the ARES members watched the entire process unfold, witnessing Aron's steady progress in assembling the colossal donut-shaped machine, a sense of fulfillment washed over them. The satisfaction they felt was undeniable, having been integral to the project by diligently delivering the parts required for its construction.

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Once Aron had completed the assembly of the final parts on the donut-shaped machine, he swiftly redirected his attention to the ARES members. With urgency in his voice, he instructed them, "Help me bring that box over here," gesturing towards the storage box housed within the machine that had been used to excavate the massive hole.

As they successfully transported it to his location, he directed them, saying, " Put it here," and pointed to the sole square-shaped aperture on the enormous machine.

"Great job. If you'd like, you can take a break," Aron informed them, placing his hands back on the box. Just as before, he began infusing it with mana, replenishing its nearly depleted reserves..

Ignoring Aron's suggestion to rest, Daniel and the rest of Ares' members opted to observe his actions closely

"Sir, if you don't mind, may I ask a question?" Daniel inquired after half an hour had passed, noticing that Aron's hands remained on the box while he appeared relaxed, leading Daniel to assume that he had finished whatever he was doing.

"Certainly, go ahead," Aron replied, interrupting his conversation with Nova to entertain Daniel's question. 𝙗𝒆𝙙𝙣𝒐𝙫𝙚𝒍.𝒄𝒐𝒎

"What is this machine, and why are we building it out of nowhere?" Daniel asked respectfully, his curiosity evident in his tone.

"A nuclear reactor," Aron responded with just those two words. The members of Ares who were observing him momentarily stiffened at the revelation before relaxing once again.

Witnessing their momentary fear followed by a quick return to calm, Aron couldn't help but chuckle. He understood that his answer had initially startled them, but they swiftly reassured themselves, knowing that Aron was present with them. They realized that even if something were to happen, Aron would be there to heal them, just as he had done on previous occasions.

"You don't need to be concerned about radiation. The device hasn't been activated yet because I am currently charging the battery necessary to initiate the process," he explained, tilting his head and gesturing towards his hands that were placed on the black box they had brought for him.

"Yes, sir," Daniel replied, feeling completely at ease after Aron's statement.

"Do you have any more questions?" Aron asked when Daniel fell silent, possibly due to some of the words in Aron's previous statement about filling the battery. Daniel had remained quiet, watching anxiously, afraid of disturbing Aron's focus once again.

"Yes, I have a few more," Daniel replied respectfully.

"Then go ahead and ask them," Aron said. Despite having conversations with Nova, Felix, Sarah, Rina, and his family, he hadn't really had a conversation with anyone other than them in a very long time and he wanted to experience that interaction once again with his respectful subordinates.

"Did you create those clouds?" Daniel asked, pointing at the sky, which was covered by dark and large clouds. Upon closer observation, one could notice that the clouds had a brownish color to them.

"Not exactly me, but it happened as a result of the machine's excavation and a few other factors," he answered with a smile.

"How did digging a hole result in such large and dark clouds?" another man from Daniel's group asked, unable to comprehend the connection between the two. 𝚋ｅｄｎ𝚘𝚟ｅｌ.ｃｏ𝚖

"That machine excavates by breaking apart atoms, and once they are fragmented, their lightness allows them to be carried by the winds," Aron explained, gazing at the sky. "Typically, they would be carried away by the wind, dispersing far from here. However, since we are near the ocean, the moisture level is high. The broken atoms are captured by water atoms, which, as they rise and accumulate a sufficient amount, contribute to the formation of clouds. These clouds become dusty in appearance because, as the water atoms combine, they bring along other atoms from the ground, causing them to amalgamate. This combination of factors results in the unique color of the clouds we see."

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"But how did they persist for more than three weeks?" another member asked, recalling that the clouds had continuously covered the location, whereas there were no such clouds when they first arrived to bring the first batch of materials.

"Do you know what clouds are made of?" Aron asked the man with a smile on his face, indicating that he wasn't mocking him but rather setting the stage for an explanation that would make it easier to understand the subsequent answer.

"If I recall correctly, cloud formation involves water vapor, wind for transportation, and altitude for cooling, although I'm uncertain if those are the only factors," the man replied, indicating his grasp of the process at a fundamental level.

"You're absolutely right, but a few additional conditions come into play as well," Aron agreed. "One of them is atmospheric stability, which determines the vertical movement of air masses and influences cloud formation. Another crucial factor is the presence of condensation nuclei, which are tiny particles like dust, pollutants, or even salt crystals that provide surfaces for water vapor to condense upon, aiding in the formation of clouds."

Observing the man's puzzled expression when he mentioned condensation nuclei, Aron realized that there was some confusion. He proceeded to clarify, "Condensation nuclei are the particles onto which water vapor condenses, forming small water droplets. Once these droplets gather and combine, the process you're familiar with takes place, leading to the formation of clouds."

Aron then continued with what he would have said if the man had fully answered his question. "This place meets all the conditions for cloud formation except for one crucial element: a significant quantity of condensation particles. As I mentioned earlier, these particles can be dust, pollutants, and various other substances. Now, consider this: What do you think will occur if we introduce a substantial amount of these missing particles?" Aron concluded his explanation with a thought-provoking question.

"Clouds," Daniel exclaimed, immediately grasping the connection and understood where Aron was leading with his line of thought.

"Correct," Aron affirmed, pointing to the sky. "And thanks to that, we have successfully averted any prying eyes that might have witnessed everything we were doing." A smile graced his face, indicating satisfaction with the outcome.

They engaged in a lively exchange of questions and conversation, with Aron answering their inquiries and reciprocating by posing his own queries. Meanwhile, his hands remained steadfastly in the same position for the next five hours, ensuring that the black box was adequately filled with mana.

For the remainder of the week, prior to receiving the shipment of tritium from Rina, Aron utilized the time to construct the surrounding infrastructure and empty areas within the hole that housed the sizable fusion reactor, which occupied over half of the space. He meticulously worked on creating a suitable environment around the reactor to support its operation.

...

A week later.

"Welcome," Aron greeted Rina warmly as he received her at a small airport specially arranged to accommodate her private plane.

Aron had deliberately selected this airport to ensure Rina's safe arrival, as he suspected that her brother may have already dispatched individuals to monitor her movements. However, such concerns were nullified at this airport, as he had taken the precaution of renting the entire facility for the day. All the airport employees had been granted a day off, leaving only Aron and a select group of ARES members present to welcome her.

"You've certainly become quite a formidable force," Rina remarked, her gaze sweeping across the nearly deserted airport, where only a small group remained, consisting of herself, Aron, her trusted guard Alex, her secretary Chloe, and a few ARES members maintaining security.

"I do my best to protect what belongs to me and ensure it remains in my possession," Aron replied with a smile, fully aware that Rina would comprehend the underlying meaning of his statement.

"But the speed at which you gained power is truly astonishing, and it's impressive that it hasn't gone to your head," Rina responded candidly, making no effort to conceal her thoughts or observations.

"In my free time, I've devoted myself to studying history, and from it, I've learned that arrogance often leads to downfall. Consequently, I've made it a personal principle to avoid succumbing to such traits," Aron explained, maintaining a smile. "Furthermore, I have someone by my side who will remind me whenever I begin to exhibit any signs of arrogance. It helps keep me grounded and focused on the right path."

"Fortunate indeed," Rina remarked, her voice carrying a subtle hint of envy towards that someone who could play such a vital role.

Aron noticed the change in Rina's demeanor and, not fully comprehending its meaning, sought to clarify his point. "Don't you also have someone who fulfills that role?" he asked, gesturing discreetly with his eyes towards her secretary standing behind her.

"That's true," Rina acknowledged with a smile, noticing Chloe's blush and the happiness radiating from her.

"Where is the cargo?" Aron inquired, his gaze shifting towards Alex, noticing that he was empty-handed.

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"In the cargo compartment of the plane. However, it's quite heavy as it's stored in a sturdy stainless steel container. You'll need a few people to assist you in carrying it," Rina informed Aron, scanning the area around him and noticing that there were no individuals nearby except for those maintaining the perimeter check, who were located at a considerable distance.

"No need for them. I will handle it myself," Aron declared confidently. He began walking towards the plane, rolling up his shirt sleeves to reveal his well-toned and defined muscles.

Rina, skeptical of Aron's ability to lift the object since it necessitated the strength of more than four people and had to be hoisted using a small crane due to its weight exceeding 300 kilograms, trailed behind Aron silently. She intended to advise him to summon his subordinates once his attempt to carry it proved unsuccessful..

As Aron approached the aircraft and accessed the cargo compartment on the side, he discovered a solitary box securely tied down with an excess of cables. With a smile on his face he began the task of untying each cable meticulously, one by one.

With each cable successfully removed, Aron positioned both hands around the box and effortlessly lifted it, as though it weighed merely a kilogram or slightly more. Remarkably, not a trace of strain appeared on his face, indicating his absolute composure and ease with the task.

Astonishment overtook Rina, her secretary Chloe, and the bodyguard Alex as their eyes widened, almost bulging out of their faces, witnessing Aron's astonishing display of strength that defied all logic.

Their disbelief and surprise intensified as he began to walk, maintaining a firm grip on the box, towards the parked cars, situated roughly three hundred meters away from the plane.

The distance he had to cover while carrying such a substantial weight seemed quite daunting.

"Finally, it's done," Aron declared, securing the box inside the trunk of the car and discreetly inscribing a protective rune on it. He closed the boot door with a sense of accomplishment. Turning to the still stunned Rina, he inquired, "Will they be joining us in our car, or should I provide them with a vehicle to follow us?"

"As far as I know, this country lacks the necessary development to facilitate the construction of a nuclear reactor within such a short timeframe. Did you actually begin this project a year ago? And how were you able to maintain its secrecy all this time, to the extent that even the American government remains unaware of its existence?" Rina inquired while they were driving in the car that was transporting the package.

Close behind them, two cars trailed closely—one carrying Alex and Chloe, and the other transporting a few members of ARES—while the remaining members stayed at the airport to maintain a security perimeter until her return.

Instead of addressing the question, Aron posed a reminder. "Do you recall the call I made to you, seeking your assistance in finding tritium?" he asked Rina.

"Yes," she responded.

"That was the day when I initiated the construction, and we only completed it a week ago," he explained upon hearing her answer.

"Are you suggesting that you managed to construct an entire reactor within a span of three weeks?" she asked, gazing at Aron's face in search of any signs of jest, but she was taken aback to see his expression completely serious, devoid of any indication that he was joking.

"Allow me to ask you something," Aron said, turning towards her. "Do you recall the significant event that took place in Eden, which garnered global attention following our conversation?"

"I do remember hearing about a massive cloud that appeared on the island your company intended to purchase, and it seems to have persisted over the past month..." she paused abruptly, realizing the implications. She then asked with a mix of shock and curiosity, "Was that your doing?"

Aron chose not to respond verbally, but a smile on his face and his focused gaze on the road confirmed Rina's suspicion. It became clear to her that he was indeed responsible for the commotion surrounding the appearance of the cloud.

"What method or material were you employing during the construction that resulted in the continuous appearance of clouds for over a month?" she asked, her confusion lingering as she struggled to grasp the connection between construction and the cloud phenomenon.

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"To put it briefly, I had already manufactured all the necessary components beforehand, and they were then transported to the island for assembly, which accounts for the three-week construction timeline I mentioned," he explained briefly.

"Oooh6 but aren't buildings of that nature subject to specific safety standards and often require substantial concrete shielding to protect against radiation and other hazards," she asked, genuinely intrigued. "Did you also construct the necessary shielding beforehand, just like the other parts?" Rina inquired, eager to understand the details of Aron's unconventional approach

"No, the construction I'm working on is not a conventional fission reactor; it's actually a fusion reactor, which involves a different process altogether," Aron clarified. "And when it comes to blocking radiation and other hazardous particles, I've developed a new technology that eliminates the need for concrete shielding," he explained.

"Fusion reactor?" Rina exclaimed, clearly taken aback by Aron's assertion of having constructed such an advanced technology. "But how can you be certain that it will work? Numerous countries are collaborating in extensive research within the field, and they haven't yet achieved a stage where they can sustain ignition for more than a few seconds," she explained, her voice reflecting a mix of surprise and skepticism, once she regained her composure.

"For them, it may indeed be ongoing research with the hope of a breakthrough. However, in my case, the technology has already reached a level of maturity that allows me to consider it ready for the commercialization stage," Aron clarified, expressing his confidence in the advancement and readiness of his fusion reactor technology. 𝙗𝒆𝒅𝙣𝙤𝙫𝒆𝙡.𝒄𝒐𝙢

Rina's barrage of questions continued as she probed deeper into the feasibility of Aron's accomplishments. "How did you manage to achieve all of that? As far as I know, assuming it's true, you only became wealthy a little over a year ago, which doesn't seem like enough time to secretly fund extensive research and assemble a team of experts without drawing attention. Additionally, the research phase alone usually takes a significant amount of time before yielding results that can be deemed ready for commercialization," she inquired, her curiosity driving her to seek further clarification.

"I possess a solution that bypasses all of those challenges," Aron replied, his voice carrying a hint of intrigue. As the car gradually decelerated, he skillfully parked it in a designated spot near a port, where a waiting boat could be seen.

"Let's go," Aron stated, casting a glance at Rina before stepping out of the car, signaling for her to follow suit.

"But they will need to stay here," Aron directed, pointing towards Alex and Chloe, who had also parked their car and exited it.

"Of course," Rina responded, comprehending the significance of Aron's forthcoming revelation. It was evident that whatever he was about to reveal was of the utmost confidentiality, requiring a minimal number of individuals to be privy to it.

Rina swiftly instructed Alex and Chloe to remain where they were and await her return.

Complying with the order, they stayed behind, observing as Aron hoisted the weighty box and accompanied Rina towards the boat stationed at the port.

Within a short span, the boat set off from the port, departing from their view.

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...….

"Oh my god!" Rina couldn't contain her astonishment when she laid eyes upon the machine that stood at the center of the chamber. Its imposing presence, combined with its captivating design, left her in awe.

She found it difficult to fathom that such a massive and intricate machine had been constructed within a mere three-week timeframe.

The sight before her was simultaneously intimidating and strikingly beautiful, evoking a mixture of admiration and disbelief.

"I will go ahead and place it where it is needed and return as quickly as I can," Aron declared, even though Rina hadn't yet managed to gather her thoughts and respond to him.

Holding the box firmly in his grasp, he descended the stairs that led down into the hole, disappearing from sight.

Upon reaching the lower area, Aron carefully placed the box inside a sizable opening that already contained ten 50-liter water bottles. After securely positioning the box, he closed the door, ensuring it was tightly sealed.

After closing the door, Aron promptly made his way back to where Rina stood. He retrieved a glass box and handed it to her, instructing, "Put these on before we begin the process of initiating the reactor's ignition."

As Rina opened the box and discovered a pair of clear glasses inside, she couldn't help but express her confusion. "While these glasses are certainly beautiful and align with my taste, I'm curious as to their purpose. You're aware that I have clear vision, right?" she questioned, raising an eyebrow inquisitively.

"I understand your confusion, but trust me and put them on for now," Aron insisted, sensing that explaining their purpose would be time-consuming.

Rina, realizing that Aron was not intending to provide an immediate explanation, chose to comply and put the glasses on. She trusted that the reason for wearing them would become evident as events unfolded, and she was curious to uncover the purpose on her own.

"Good. Nova, start the process." Aron said as he proceeded to put on his own glasses, fixing his gaze upon the hole. Prompted by his actions, Rina followed suit, her curiosity piqued as she observed the scene, eager to witness what would unfold before them.

...

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As soon as Aron gave the command, Nova swiftly assumed control of the reactor. She tapped into the mana stored within the black box, which was promptly converted to usable electricity through a combination of mana and advanced technological innovations housed within the box.

As the temporary electrical supply from the black box began powering the reactor, Nova swiftly accessed the control parameters of the small opening containing the water bottles and the box Aron had placed inside. With precision, she activated the disintegration rune within, causing the water bottles, their contents, and the box containing the tritium to disintegrate completely.

The liberated tritium from the box and deuterium atoms from the water that was in the bottle were promptly collected and swiftly transported to the ignition chamber for the next phase of the process.

Once the ignition fuel was carefully positioned within the ignition chamber, Niva swiftly activated the shield rune, which materialized and enveloped the inner wall of the donut-shaped chamber, forming a protective barrier. Without hesitation, she then initiated the magnetic coils, generating powerful magnetic fields within the chamber.

Next, she activated the radiofrequency heating, neutral beam injection, and electron cyclotron resonance heating, gradually increasing the temperature of the fuel to the necessary threshold for initiating the fusion reaction.

"FWOOOOM," the reactor emitted a deep growl as the fusion process intensified. Within the reactor, the shield momentarily quivered in response to the high-energy beams that resulted from the fusion reaction.

Meanwhile, the magnetic fields successfully contained the plasma, enabling the magnetohydrodynamic generator to begin converting the fusion energy into usable electricity.

The reactor resonated with power and potential as the intricate interplay of forces and processes harmonized within its core.

The electricity generated by the magnetohydrodynamic generator was transferred to a transformer, initiating the conversion of electricity into liquid mana. Subsequently, the liquid mana was directed through a series of pipelines that led outside the reactor, where it was poured into openings on the surface.

Once released, the previously contained mana evaporated and merged with the surrounding atmosphere, joining its fellow particles.

After successfully igniting and generating electricity for the first time, Nova promptly conducted a second diagnostic to thoroughly assess the entire system.

When the results came out and there was no problem, she decided to operate it at a lower output to avoid shutting it down completely.

By doing so, she ensured the continuous production of tritium through its interaction with lithium. This decision was crucial because relying on Rina to fetch tritium again would be nearly impossible.

Overwhelmed by the rapid sequence of events she had just witnessed, Rina found herself paralyzed, unable to make even the slightest movement. Her brain was fully consumed with processing and comprehending the extraordinary sights that had unfolded before her eyes.

The moment she put the glasses on, it marked the beginning of a chain of surprises that were about to unfold as a screen had appeared in front of her, displaying the words "Terms and Services" with a few clauses listed beneath it.

However, before Rina could even begin to read the contents of the screen, the ignition process commenced, demanding her immediate attention. The urgency of the situation compelled her to hastily press the "Accept" button trusting her trust on Aron, allowing her to divert her focus entirely towards the unfolding events that lay before her.

Considering the considerable distance between Rina and Aron, it was simply impossible for her to visually observe the reactor inside the hole. Even if she had been able to see it with her naked eye, there would have been no discernible external changes to the reactor that could have indicated the initiation of the process.

However, because she had worn the glasses and had already agreed to the terms and services, she was able to see through the reactor, despite the ground obscuring it from her view. Not only that, but she could witness the entire ignition process as if she were an atom contained within the reactor.

Each sequence in the reactor ignition process lasted only a few microseconds, but for Aron and Rina, it felt as if those microseconds were stretched into hours. Through the computing capabilities of the glasses they wore, they were able to observe the entire process with remarkable detail, capturing every last aspect.

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When the ignition process was completed seconds after Aron ordered Nova to do so, it felt as though hours had passed for Aron and Rina, who had been witnesses to the entire process

Aron managed to regain his composure after a few seconds of being impressed. However, Rina remained locked in, experiencing a whirlwind of three different emotions simultaneously, brought on by the overwhelming revelations she had received in the past few seconds.

She felt a rush of excitement as she contemplated what she had witnessed and envisioned a future full of possibilities with Aron by her side, assisting her in her future endeavors.

Simultaneously, she was struck with surprise at the incredible level of technology that Aron possessed, surpassing not only America but also leaving every country in the world miles behind in terms of advancement.

However, mingling with her excitement and surprise was a lingering sense of fear. She couldn't help but feel apprehensive about the extent of Aron's capabilities and what he might be capable of accomplishing given more time than he had previously had and how the world will react to it.

Throughout her life, she had never experienced this level of fear towards anyone or any family. She had been born and raised in a family that could be considered at the very top, where power and influence were inherent. Even their rivals, the Morgans, hadn't instilled this particular kind of fear within her. Their power, though challenging to comprehend, was explainable as it had been accumulated over generations. It was a result of a long lineage of power acquisition, much like her own family. However, Aron was different. He stood alone, and within a little over a year, he had managed to ascend to such extraordinary heights of power without relying on anyone's assistance. This rapid and independent rise in power was what truly sent shivers down her spine.

While Aron hadn't yet reached the level of power that her family held, She knew he had access to enough information to be certain that he was rivaling the entire intelligence community of the US government in terms of knowledge and as the saying goes, "Knowledge is power".

From her perspective, Aron's only apparent weakness seemed to be the minimal physical manifestation of his power. In comparison to the immense forces that the Morgans, the Rothschilds or other powerful families could wield, his physical presence seemed almost non-existent.

However, she recognized that this perceived weakness would soon fade away as Aron had created an environment for himself that would enable his meteoric rise in power both physical and metaphorical.

It was only a matter of time before he would transcend his current limitations and become a force to be reckoned with on all fronts.

"War," she said, breaking the silence after fifteen minutes. Her voice carried a tinge of worry and fear, not directed at Aron, but for Aron and what their relationship might face as a consequence of it.

"What do you mean?" Aron asked, seeking clarification. Although he had a sense of what she was implying with the word "war," he preferred to be certain rather than relying solely on his own interpretation of her words.

"If the world becomes aware of what you just accomplished here," she began to explain the implications behind her use of the word "war." "Or even if they discover the existence and capabilities of these glasses," she added, touching the device on her face. "There will be a relentless pursuit to obtain them. People will go to extreme lengths and stop at nothing to acquire this technology." As she spoke, her eyes started to well up with tears, and she looked at Aron with a mixture of concern and worry.

In her mind, she perceived Aron as someone who, while not entirely naive, had shown her the technology without fully considering the consequences. This was what frightened her the most.

She believed that as soon as powerful individuals learned of the technology's existence, her own family would be among those at the forefront, striving to seize it from Aron. Consequently, she would be forced to choose sides, and she already knew which side she would align with. This realization terrified her because she saw no possibility of her chosen side emerging victorious in such a conflict.

"Calm down," Aron said gently, placing his hand on her shoulder and giving it a reassuring rub as he sought to comfort her and ease her worries.

As Aron's hands rested on her shoulders, Nova activated the glasses to help instill a sense of calmness within her. While the glasses couldn't directly control emotions, they could assist in amplifying existing emotions. In this case, they aided in amplifying the calming effect that Aron's presence and Rina's own efforts had already initiated. With the glasses' assistance, Rina was able to gradually calm down, allowing herself to be soothed by Aron's comforting presence.

"I understand your concerns, but please don't worry. I've already considered all of those potential consequences even before I began building that machine," Aron reassured her, maintaining unwavering eye contact as he spoke. His gaze conveyed sincerity and conviction, aiming to alleviate her fears and doubts.

"No one who knows about this technology will disclose it to anyone else. They are individuals whom I trust implicitly. As for how confident I am that they won't betray me for financial gain, well, that remains a business secret. Rest assured, no one will have knowledge of it unless I deliberately choose to make it known. Do you understand?" Aron concluded his explanation with a question, seeking confirmation that she had comprehended the gravity of his statement.

Rina took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before responding, "It appears that in my moment of surprise, my thinking became limited, leading me to reach conclusions based on fragmented information. I apologize for hastily jumping to conclusions and expressing my concerns in such a manner." She couldn't help but feel a tinge of embarrassment for revealing that side of herself to Aron.

"Don't worry about it," Aron reassured her, his hands still resting on her shoulders. "I understand why you had those concerns. If I were in your position with limited information about me, I might have thought the same." His words conveyed understanding and empathy, reassuring Rina that her initial concerns were valid, but he had accounted for them.

"By the way, how do these glasses even work?" Rina asked, attempting to change the topic and divert the conversation away from her moment of embarrassment.

She hoped that delving into the technical aspects of the glasses would help shift the focus and alleviate her blush-inducing predicament.

Aron, aware of her intentions, responded, "The glass panels of the glasses serve as the chips, while the handles house the remaining computing components."

"Wow," Rina exclaimed, unable to contain her astonishment, as she contemplated the immense level of technological advancements required to achieve such a remarkable feat.

"how was the chip engineered to be embedded within the glass while still maintaining its transparency like regular glasses?" she asked.

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He responded by saying, "The glasses have been printed."

Curious about the capabilities of the glasses beyond what was demonstrated during the ignition process, she asked, "What else can these glasses do?"

Aron proceeded to explain further, leaving Rina even more astonished. "To put it simply, these glasses are like a wearable supercomputer, surpassing even the power of your family's private network where Ava resides," he clarified. Continuing his explanation, he added, "Currently, your glasses have the ability to seamlessly utilize both augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) without any limitations."

"Are you referring to the VR where people wear those bulky, glass-like devices on their eyes?" she inquired. "Can these glasses achieve the same VR experience?"

"No, not quite. I was referring to Full Dive VR," he clarified. "It's an experience that completely transports you to a whole new world. As for the AR, you have already been experiencing it throughout the ignition process, and even now, since you can still see the reactor." Aron explained with a smile gracing his face.

"How does this augmented and virtual reality actually work?" she inquired, removing the glasses and attempting to look through the mirror without wearing them only to result in the AR view of the reactor to disappear.

Seeing what she was doing, he laughed and started to explain "The glasses don't simply display objects on the lenses; instead, they send signals directly to your brain, creating a visual perception that is indistinguishable from real-world objects.

This approach ensures that the virtual objects seamlessly blend with your surroundings, regardless of how far your vision extends beyond the glasses' coverage. If the glasses relied on projecting images onto the lenses, the objects would disappear as soon as they moved out of the glasses' field of view."

"So, when are you going to show me the VR thing?" Rina asked Aron while they were on the boat, returning to where they had parked her car. They needed to reach the presidential palace so that she could have a meeting with the president and discuss her plans to invest in the country. That was the excuse she had given for coming to Eden.

"Since it's a VR experience, you'll need to be in a lying position for safe usage. You can try it out when you're on the plane back after the meeting," Aron replied.

"Oh, sure. But doesn't it cause any connection lags to the server and other similar issues due to the distance I will be?" she asked.

"No, the glasses communicate with the server using a phenomenon called quantum teleportation. This means that even if you are on the other end of the universe, you will always have instantaneous connection to the server," Aron explained.

"Wow. How do you manage to acquire such groundbreaking technologies in such a short span of time?" Rina asked, clearly taken aback by Aron's possession of yet another revolutionary technology that had the potential to captivate the world.

From her perspective, the concept of instantaneous communication regardless of distance seemed to address one of the significant obstacles that had been holding humanity back on Earth.

"When you log in, many of your questions will be answered," Aron said, deliberately withholding further details.

His response only intensified Rina's anticipation, making her wish for time to pass quickly so that she could finally log in and satisfy her curiosity by receiving those long-awaited answers.

"Based on what you mentioned earlier, you said it's a walking supercomputer, more powerful than my family's private network." She said, talking about the glasses. "Does that mean I can transfer Ava into it and have her accompany me at all times?" Rina inquired, expressing her desire to have her helpful assistant with her constantly.

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"Although it is technically possible, currently you can't transfer Ava into the system. The majority of the computing power is being utilized to handle the load that the server would typically handle. This is because the existing server is nearly full. However, a new server is currently being built," Aron explained, providing the reason behind why she can't.

"It's not a problem, but if you need any assistance in expediting the procurement of the server equipment, you know you can count on me, right?" Rina offered, expressing her willingness to help Aron speed up the process based on his explanation.

"Yes, I appreciate your offer. Currently, the procurement of the necessary parts is not an issue, and it's mainly a matter of time for the machine to be built. It should be up and ready within a month or two," Aron responded, smiling at her kind offer stemming from her being unaware that the server farm was going to be composed entirely of quantum chips and proprietary tech from the LAB CITY.

"By the way, do you have any plans to make purchases or investments in the country during your meeting with the president, or is it mainly a discussion without any specific actions in mind?" Aron inquired, curious about Rina's plans for the meeting.

"Since you arranged the meeting for me, I've decided to seize this opportunity and make investments in the country. With your presence here, I'm confident that any purchases or investments I make will yield significant returns," Rina replied, a confident smile gracing her face as she expressed her strategic thinking and the potential for substantial gains from her planned endeavors.

"How much do you intend to spend in the country?" Aron inquired, curious about the magnitude of Rina's planned financial endeavors.

"5 billion. Do you have any specific investment suggestions where you believe the value will undoubtedly rise in the future?" Rina asked, half in jest and half seriously, indicating her willingness to consider Aron's insights for potentially lucrative investment opportunities.

"If you've heard about the country's investment plan, you'll know that my company, CONNECT, is planning to construct the world's largest airport, along with several major ports that will rank among the world's largest. We're also exploring other large-scale investments. What do you think about doing something similar?" Aron proposed, subtly suggesting that he wanted Rina to join him in similar endeavors, potentially serving as a partner or ally when the topic of monopolizing the country's industries arises in the future.

Aron understood that while he could choose to ignore the criticism that might come his way, it would be beneficial to have someone to share the burden of scrutiny. Having a partner to share the criticism would help deflect some of the attention and prevent the sole focus from being on him.

"Now, that's a good one! Don't worry, I hope you won't feel threatened by my investment," Rina responded with a playful tone, indicating her agreement and appreciation for Aron's suggestion.

Having contemplated a similar investment but hesitating due to concerns about potentially overstepping Aron's generosity, Rina had set her plans aside. However, now that Aron had expressed his support and indicated no objections, she felt empowered to proceed with her own project. With a renewed sense of confidence, she resolved to move on with her previous investment plan.

"You can rest assured, there's no need to worry about that," Aron replied with a reassuring smile, alleviating any concerns she may have had.

"With that in mind, I suppose I should consider increasing my investment amount," Rina stated, casting a sidelong glance at Aron, observing his reaction to her remark.

"How much are you considering?" Aron inquired, maintaining a composed expression.

"I'm considering increasing the investment to around 45 billion," she revealed, gazing at Aron still waiting to gauge his reaction to the substantial figure she mentioned.

"Good," Aron responded, a genuine smile adorning his face. Rina's observation was confirmed as his reaction reflected genuine approval and enthusiasm for her decision.

Rina's curiosity got the better of her, and she couldn't help but inquire, "How much are you planning to invest?" Her question was driven by a desire to compare their investment amounts, hoping to understand if the magnitude of Aron's investment played a role in his reaction.

"Around 178 billion," He replied.

In response to Aron's nonchalant delivery of the massive investment amount, Rina's reaction was the complete opposite. Startled and taken aback, she fumbled, accidentally dropping the glass she was holding. Startled, she coughed, almost choking, as she struggled to regain her composure.

"Are you okay?" Aron asked, concerned, as he quickly reached out and handed her a napkin to clean herself up.

"Holy shit," she exclaimed, still in disbelief, as she took the napkin from Aron and began wiping her now messed-up outfit. "Where on earth will you be investing all that money?" she added, her astonishment evident in her voice.

"About 75 billion will be allocated to ARES projects, such as acquiring lands for military installations and other military initiatives," Aron explained briefly. "As for the remaining hundred billion, it will be utilized for projects aimed at improving the country and constructing infrastructures that will not only benefit my company but also prove advantageous to the citizens. The goal is to address any potential obstacles faced by the company while ensuring that the benefits extend beyond my organizations alone."

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Rina's astonishment grew as she listened to Aron's explanation. "Wow, when you mention ARES, I can't believe you were able to persuade a country to disband its military and hire your company as its security replacement. Not only will they pay you, but they'll also allow you to expand your forces using their citizens, all within a legal framework that provides you with a loophole to grow without attracting much scrutiny. That's truly a master stroke," she said, expressing her admiration for Aron's strategic execution of his plans to reach such a remarkable position.

"They are not paying me any money," Aron clarified, his tone reflecting concern that Rina might have misunderstood something.

After hearing Aron's statement, Rina sought clarification, asking, "What exactly do you mean by 'they are not paying me any money'?"

"They are solely responsible for paying the salaries of the soldiers, while I am responsible for all other aspects," Aron explained.

Rina, still surprised by the revelation, inquired, "Why did you choose to structure the arrangement that way instead of negotiating for a substantial payment from them?"

"There are several reasons, but one of them is that the country in question is what you might call an infant country. They simply don't have enough financial resources to cover all the additional expenses beyond soldier salaries. Even the salary they are providing for the soldiers is already a significant burden for them. If I were to make them responsible for the rest, it would place an overwhelming strain on their budget." Aron proceeded to explain the rationale behind his decision.

"Moreover, by taking on the funding responsibility, it effectively eliminates the need to constantly seek additional funds every time there's a need to expand your forces." Rina acknowledged, expressing her surprise at Aron's foresight.

As Aron remained silent, Rina interpreted his response as confirmation that her assumption was indeed true.

On the other side, Nova, who had been attentively observing the entire interaction between Aron and Rina from the moment Aron handed her the glasses, allowing her to perceive Rina's emotions, couldn't help but let out a scoff in response.

"Did you receive any information from our informants in Eden?" Areh asked her secretary.

"No, sir. It appears that due to the significance of her meeting, the president arranged for her to land at one of the country's domestic airports to avoid attracting unwanted attention," Charlotte replied, answering Arieh's question.

"What on earth does she intend to do in that country that she rushed there directly from her visit to Israel?" Arieh asked, as he attempted to speculate on Rina's motives for visiting the impoverished nation

"I believe it's possible that she intends to invest in the country while it is still in a vulnerable phase," Charlotte suggested, offering her perspective on what Rina might have been up to.

"I understand that, but if that's true, it would be a foolish move on her part," Arieh commented on Charlotte's suggestion regarding Rina's actions.

"What do you mean by that, sir?" she asked, curious about his reasoning behind the statement.

"We had a board meeting where it was suggested that we invest in the country while it is struggling. However, during the meeting, we discovered evidence indicating that the country is on the brink of bankruptcy.

As a result, we decided to wait until it reaches that point before making any moves. By waiting, we can obtain more than double the value of our investment compared to what we would have received if we had invested now.

Rina was present at that meeting, so she should be aware of this information. It's puzzling why she would choose to invest her limited funds there when she could wait a little longer and acquire assets at a significant discount.

Additionally, let's not forget that Rina is still in debt, and it appears that she suffered significant losses during the flash crash a few months ago.

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So, she is currently searching for ways to raise money in order to repay the bank when the repayment period arrives. Otherwise, she risks losing the competition once again," Arieh explained, shedding light on Rina's financial situation and his concerns about her decision-making.

"It appears that she may have panicked and was concerned about missing out on the opportunity to invest during the initial rush when the country finally falls," Charlotte suggested, offering her perspective on Rina's actions.

"I had the same thought. However, if she proceeds with the investment and the country indeed goes bankrupt, her earlier investment would likely decrease in value by at least half, rather than doubling," he said, pausing for a moment to reflect. "It seems like she may have taken such a drastic measure out of fear that I would take over her debt. She's placing a bet, hoping that the country doesn't collapse," he added, a smile appearing on his face as he contemplated the possibility.

Curious, Charlotte inquired, "What would happen if the country successfully avoids bankruptcy and manages to sustain itself?"

Arieh explained, providing his reasoning for why the country's avoidance of bankruptcy is impossible. "It is highly impossible, as the countries that could potentially help them avoid bankruptcy are also the ones seeking something in return for their financial assistance.

Since the new government previously rejected their offers of help, these countries are going to proceed slowly when approached for assistance again. They aim to teach the new government of Eden a lesson about how the world operates.

Consequently, they will only provide aid once the country has already gone bankrupt," Arieh stated, indicating his belief that the country's bankruptcy is inevitable.

He added, "However, in the unlikely event that the country manages to avoid bankruptcy, it would become one of the rare nations to maintain true neutrality. In that scenario, we would have missed the opportunity to enter the country early and reap the majority of its benefits.

As for those who had trusted and made bets on its stability would have likely gained the upper hand. But I must emphasize that this is merely a hypothesis," he concluded, acknowledging the potential outcome if the unlikely scenario were to occur.

"Ahaaa," Charlotte exclaimed, finally grasping why Arieh regarded Rina's decision as unwise.

...…..

Aron stood at the port, observing as Rina was escorted by a convoy of cars carrying members of the Ares members as they began their journey towards the presidential palace, where Rina was scheduled to have her meeting with the president.

After the meeting, she would be accompanied back to the airport to depart the country.

[Why didn't you personally accompany her to the meeting?] Nova inquired as Aron boarded the boat and began his journey back to the island.

"She will be engaged in a lengthy meeting with Alexander, and I can utilize that time for more productive endeavors. Moreover, I will have the opportunity to meet her again in virtual reality when she is departing, so there is no need to waste time unnecessarily," Aron explained as the boat accelerated, sailing away.

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[Good,] Nova replied with a smile, content with Aron's response.

"What's the meaning behind your reply?" Aron asked, still puzzled by Nova's response.

[Oh, it's nothing. I'm just glad that you're able to think clearly], Nova replied.

"Anyway," Aron said, deciding to let it go and redirect his attention to navigating the boat.

...

"Finally, they successfully transferred it in one piece," Aron remarked, his gaze fixed upon the atomic printer positioned in front of him, adjacent to the fusion reactor. The surroundings were brimming with containers upon containers of raw materials.

"Now, let's power it up and commence with the crucial tasks," Aron declared, reaching for a cable emerging from the fusion reactor. He connected it to the atomic printer and promptly powered it on.

"Nova, initiate the printing process for the parts required to build a larger atomic printer," Aron instructed, prompting Nova to begin printing the components necessary for the construction of the main printer. This new printer would be responsible for producing parts for all the upcoming projects once its construction was complete.

Nova promptly responded by increasing the fuel consumption of the fusion reactor and ramping up its energy output to supply the atomic printer with the maximum amount of energy it required to operate at full power.

This ensured that the printer would no longer be limited, as it had been during its time in the warehouse.

With the printer operating at full power, it swiftly commenced the printing process, fabricating the parts within a matter of seconds. The only factor causing any delay was Aron, who had to swiftly remove the already printed parts and insert new materials for them to be disintegrated and subsequently printed again. There was no moment of rest for Aron as the process continued relentlessly.

Aron tirelessly continued the process of removing completed pieces and inserting new materials into the printer without pause. For the next five hours, he remained the sole factor slowing down the process.

Despite this, they achieved remarkable progress, printing over a hundred thousand large parts and more than fifteen million small parts. Due to the printer's capability to produce around ten thousand small pieces simultaneously, the production rate remained consistently high.

"I truly need some rest," Aron admitted, lying down to catch his breath and rejuvenate. However, his relaxation was interrupted by Nova's announcement, [Sir, Rina is calling you].

"Hello," Aron greeted as he put on his glasses, causing Rina's face to materialize in front of him.

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"I'm still amazed by how all the technology is packed into these glasses," Rina expressed, her gaze fixed on the real face of Aron that appeared before her while his augmented presence sat in the chair across from her inside the plane.

"You'll become accustomed to it as time goes on," Aron reassured her.

"It appears that you were occupied, so let me get straight to the point," Rina said, after adjusting the setting to see Aron's real surroundings, revealing him surrounded by a massive pile of machined parts with no one else present. "I called to inform you that I had a very positive conversation with Alexander. He was thrilled to hear the amount I intend to invest in the country and assured me that since you arranged the meeting, I won't encounter any obstacles in obtaining the necessary approvals for my investments," she explained.

"That's great news," Aron responded with a smile upon hearing Rina's positive update.

"So, do you have sufficient time to show the virtual reality to me?" she inquired, curious about Aron's availability for the task.

"Unfortunately, I won't be able to personally guide you through the virtual reality experience, as I have some work that needs my attention," Aron explained. "However, Nova will be more than capable of showing you the VR. She'll assist you with anything you need," he added, prioritizing his work on building the printer for his upcoming plans.

"Nova?!" Rina exclaimed, her initial disappointment swiftly replaced by surprise upon hearing the name.

"What's the matter?" Aron asked, taken aback by Rina's unexpected reaction to hearing the name Nova.

"Why wouldn't I be surprised? I've heard so much about her from Ava. Whenever Ava spoke about Nova, there was always a sense of reverence in her tone," Rina explained, clarifying the reason for her astonishment.

"Oh, in that case, the introduction between you two should be smooth," Aron responded with a smile as he promptly instructed Nova to initiate the introduction process.

"Oh my god," Rina exclaimed as she opened her eyes, finding herself standing in front of a lush grassy area with a breathtakingly beautiful scenery. She had logged in with high expectations, but what she saw surpassed even her wildest imagination.

Rina, driven by curiosity and a desire to test the limits of the virtual experience, began touching herself, searching for any discernible differences from her real body. She even went as far as plucking her own hair, hoping to find some imperfection or irregularity.

"Wow," she exclaimed, momentarily disregarding the slight pain from plucking her hair. She was captivated by the intricate details present on the strand in her hand.

Her mind raced, attempting to comprehend the immense computing power required to render such a scene with such exquisite detail, blurring the lines between virtual and real to the point of indistinguishability. The sheer level of realism left her astounded and in awe.

[Welcome,] Nova greeted as she suddenly appeared, catching Rina off guard.

"OH MY GOD!" Rina exclaimed in fear upon hearing the voice and witnessing Nova's sudden appearance.

[Don't worry, it's me, Nova,] Nova reassured her, attempting to calm her down with both her words and the glasses Rina was wearing, while she concealed the amusement on her face.

"You scared me, appearing out of nowhere..." Rina began to speak, but her sentence trailed off as her fear subsided, allowing her to finally set her eyes on Nova. She couldn't help but be captivated by Nova's beauty, which rivaled her own but in a different way, causing Rina to mutter a quiet "fuck" under her breath.

[Don't worry, you are beautiful too,] Nova replied, offering a comforting reassurance to Rina, who was still enamored by her.

"Ah, sorry about that," Rina said, feeling a sense of embarrassment for her earlier behavior. She then added, not backing down, "It has been a while since I saw someone as beautiful as me."

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Nova was slightly taken aback by Rina's confident statement, as she had grown accustomed to Aron's humble demeanor over their long time together. Rina's bold statement, backed by her undeniable beauty, caught Nova by surprise.

"Nice to meet you, by the way," Rina said, extending her hand for a handshake. "I've heard a lot about you from your daughter," she continued, acknowledging the reputation that preceded Nova.

[Nice to meet you too,] Nova replied, also extending her hand to reciprocate the handshake.

"Let's start the tour, shall we?" Nova suggested, wanting to start the tour and continued their conversations as they toured the VR. 𝗯𝐞𝗱𝐧𝐨𝘃𝐞𝐥.𝗼𝗿𝐠

Nova proceeded to give Rina instructions on how to navigate the virtual reality (VR) environment. Shortly after, they were teleported to various locations that Aron had granted Nova permission to show Rina. However, certain areas and information were kept secret, as there were things that needed to remain undisclosed.

...…

Aron, who had been sitting, quickly rose from his seated position as soon as his call with Rina ended. He began walking towards the towering mountain of machine parts, determined to continue the task at hand.

"Nova, how is the robotics research going?" Aron asked with a glimmer of hope, hoping to receive some positive news from her.

[Although some of the technologies are mature, the combination of them is still not fully ready,] Nova answered, providing him with a summary of the current situation in robotics research.

"Okay," Aron said, acknowledging the information, and chose not to say anything further. He understood that any additional input from him would be futile, as he knew the researchers were always working with unwavering focus and dedication.

Following that, he slowly started combining the pieces one after another before he paused and asked, "When are they going to arrive?"

[They are on their way, sir, and will arrive in fifteen minutes,] Nova reported, providing him with the answer to his question.

"Good, as I need them to expedite the process here," Aron said as he continued assembling the atomic printer.

Fifteen minutes later, two trucks carrying people arrived, and approximately forty individuals stepped out of them. They promptly formed two straight lines, their gaze fixed straight ahead, awaiting further orders from Aron.

"Good evening," Aron said, pausing the assembly process and walking towards the assembled group.

"Evening, Sir!" The forty people greeted back in unison, their voices synchronized and filled with respect.

"Good. We are going to be working and not stop until we are done with assembling everything there," Aron declared, pointing towards the mountain of machine parts behind him. "Understood?!" he emphasized, expecting a clear affirmation from the group.

"Yes, sir!" they replied in unison, immediately after his question.

"Now, one by one, come to me, pick up your glasses, put them on, and take a seat, and wait for the process to start," Aron instructed the soldiers, without providing any further explanation.

Without questioning, they obediently began to approach him one by one. As they received their glasses from Aron, they promptly put them on and took their designated seats, following his orders without hesitation.

Nova wasted no time, as soon as the first person took a seat, she immediately began assimilating the knowledge on how to assemble the machine parts in front of them.

Five minutes later, when all forty ARES members had taken their glasses and were sitting down, assimilating the knowledge, Aron asked, "How long is it going to take?"

"Twenty more minutes," Nova reported.

"Why is it taking so long for them?" Aron asked, expressing surprise at the amount of time it was taking for the ARES members to assimilate the knowledge about assembling a machine. He couldn't help but compare it to the quick assimilation of knowledge he usually experienced from the system, which often took even less time than what they were currently going through despite being more extensively complicated knowledge.

"Sir, comparing yourself to them is unfair. Although I can't access the full brainmap of your brain, I'm pretty sure the system is a few billion years ahead in technological advancement, and due to it being directly inside your brain, it makes it easier to assimilate compared to those who are using glasses," Nova responded.

"Haha, that's true," Aron laughed in acknowledgment of her statement. He realized that he had become accustomed to the rapid pace at which everything was being done around him, to the point where twenty minutes of knowledge assimilation seemed relatively long.

Twenty minutes later, the first person who had put on the glasses initially stood up from where he was sitting and promptly returned to the line where they had stood before Aron distributed the glasses. He patiently waited for his fellow soldier to finish going through the same process.

Aron continued to wait for the remaining ARES members to complete their knowledge assimilation before commencing any further actions.

After another five minutes, all the members had finished the assimilation process and immediately joined the standing soldiers, forming a unified group ready for the next phase of their mission.

"Anyone who still doesn't know what to do?!" Aron asked the soldiers who were now standing.

"No, sir!" they replied once again in unison, their disbelief still evident.

"Good, let's start," Aron said, and without any delay, the ARES members immediately began moving to their respective locations, guided by the glasses they wore. They swiftly commenced assembling the parts assigned to them, displaying their newfound knowledge and skill acquired through the assimilation process.

...

A week later.

Aron stood at the apex of the massive structure, closely observing the ongoing assembly process.

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Nova seamlessly integrated and processed all the data collected through the glasses, swiftly analyzing the intricate details and generating precise instructions.

Using the glasses, Nova transmitted real-time guidance to the crane operator, ensuring accurate movements and seamless coordination.

They were now in the final stages of assembling the LAP (Large Atomic Printer), a colossal structure that stood fifty meters tall above ground and extended twenty meters below ground, with a remarkable width of three hundred meters.

The intricate process of aligning the various components, connecting the intricate wiring, and ensuring the precision of every mechanism was nearing its completion.

The printer's crucial components, including the computing parts, were located 20 meters underground.

Above ground, within the 50-meter space, there existed nothing more than an open warehouse.

This warehouse served as the loading area for raw materials and as the site for the printing process.

This arrangement enabled the printing of large objects as a single unit, relieving both Aron and others from the burden of having to assemble small parts in order to operate the machine.

"And with that, we are done," Aron declared with satisfaction as he tightened the last screw in the now fully assembled Large Atomic Printer. The imposing machine stood before them, radiating a striking green color, signifying its readiness for use.

Throughout the construction the sky remained veiled by a persistent brown cloud, a testament to the ongoing construction activities. The machine responsible for excavating the hole for the fusion reactor had not ceased its work, relentlessly continuing its digging operations.

"Load the raw material inside and clear the building," Aron said in a normal voice. However, with the glasses on him, the order was transmitted to all the people wearing the glasses on the island, prompting them to immediately start loading the material into the printer.

Due to the size of the atomic printer, it took approximately three hours for them to load the raw materials and evacuate the building to their designated evacuation location.

Although the assembly of the printer's more than a million parts was considered complete, the interior of the printing side appeared incomplete, resembling a skinned animal. However, this was not a mistake but rather a deliberate part of the plan.

"Nova, start the testing," Aron said once he was confident that everyone had reached the evacuation point.

[Yes, sir] Nova replied, and without delay, she began by ramping up the power output of the reactor and directing it to the printer, initiating the power-up process.

"TRrr!" The ground beneath Aron and the Ares members trembled violently as they watched the power-up process commence, resembling an earthquake in progress.

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The shaking persisted, growing in intensity with each passing second, showing no signs of abating. However, Nova swiftly activated the vibration dampeners on the ground, causing the tremors to gradually diminish. The vibrations slowly subsided until eventually, no more shaking could be felt, indicating that the printer had successfully powered on.

Immediately following the successful power-on of the printer, Nova activated the printer's disintegration function. It swiftly began disintegrating the material within its printing chamber, simultaneously separating the atoms into their respective elements. These elements were then efficiently stored in the printer's atom storage, based on their composition.

After storing the atoms, Nova proceeded to initiate the printing process for the covers inside the printer. It skillfully crafted and installed covers, elegantly concealing the once exposed areas and transforming the previous tangle of wires into visually appealing walls.

Thanks to its increased size and ample power supply, Nova accomplished the printing of all the covers for the printer astonishingly quickly, completing the task in just two seconds. In the first second, it scanned the open wall to ensure precise measurements, while in the second second, it rapidly printed and installed the covers, effortlessly transforming the interior into a polished and streamlined environment.

Aron and the Ares members, witnessing the entire process through their glasses, couldn't contain their astonishment and involuntarily gasped in awe.

"Hyuuuuu. It works," Aron exclaimed, releasing a sigh of relief. He felt a sense of relief because it was his first time building something significant, and not by himself, but with the assistance of others. Therefore, it was only natural for him to have some concerns about the possibility of something going wrong.

"Congratulations, sir," one of the Ares members said, extending their congratulations to Aron for the successful functioning of the machine.

"Congratulations to all of us," Aron replied, acknowledging the collective effort of everyone involved. He recognized that each team member had worked tirelessly to ensure the swift completion of the assembly.

"THANK YOU, SIR," they replied in unison, expressing their gratitude after Aron's response.

"Good, get some rest as we are starting the next project when the preparations are done," Aron stated, and they promptly responded, quickly taking a seat to rest without wasting any time or complaining at all.

[Sir, the digging is over, should I start printing the machines for the next project?] Nova asked Aron, who was also seated, taking a well-deserved rest.

"Go on," Aron replied.

Without delay, Nova accessed the atom storage and initiated the printing process for the next project.

The first items she started printing were four wheeled machines that bore no resemblance to anything existing in the world.

Remarkably, as the atoms were being assembled to form the vehicles, they were also being fueled. By the time the printing process was completed, the vehicles were fully fueled and ready for use.

The vehicles powered on and began moving autonomously outside the printer under Nova's control. They formed a convoy, driving for approximately five kilometers until they reached the site where the new underground hole had already been dug by the first machine. The hole had only one entrance, reminiscent of an underground car parking entrance, leading to a chamber-like room deep underground.

The vehicles followed their leader and entered the underground entrance, gradually disappearing into the depths.

They traveled approximately three hundred meters underground until they reached the opening. As the opening was revealed, its massive size became apparent, stretching for about a kilometer on all sides.

However, due to the recent completion of the hole, it was engulfed in pitch darkness, obscuring the view for anyone present.

The vehicles, equipped with sensors, wasted no time in admiring the view, for their purpose was not to appreciate the surroundings but to swiftly move to their designated locations underground.

While the initial convoy of vehicles proceeded to their designated locations, another convoy arrived, freshly printed and ready for deployment as Nova continuously printed and dispatched the vehicles to the underground site.

Upon reaching its designated location, the first vehicle came to a halt and began emitting a soft glow. Instantly, within a fifty-meter radius of the vehicle, a concrete-like material began materializing. The machine integrated within the vehicle initiated the printing process, crafting the material into its dry state.

Indeed, although it resembled concrete, the material being printed was several generations ahead of any conventional concrete aggregate found in the world. With the ability to manipulate and control the strength of the material by combining atoms during the printing process. She utilized the research from the Lab City to make the material as robust and strong as possible, surpassing the strength of any existing concrete.

In a matter of minutes, aided by the presence of over fifty vehicles, the entire underground chamber underwent a remarkable transformation. The collective printing resulted in the rapid concreting of the entire space, leaving no area untouched.

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With that now over the vehicles seamlessly transitioned to the next phase of their task.

A metallic surface began to be printed onto the concrete, resembling a rug being unfurled. However, beneath its smooth exterior, the metal revealed a textured underside with intertwining pipelines forming a labyrinth of parallel lines.

The printing process experienced a slight delay as they depleted their atom reserves midway, forcing them to pause their work until a vehicle arrived with a fresh supply of atoms before they could resume the printing process.

Undeterred, they resumed the printing process and diligently covered all the walls of the underground chamber with the metallic surfaces. This included not only the side walls but also the ceiling walls, ensuring a consistent application of the material with its intricate maze-like structures underneath.

As these events unfolded, a separate machine resembling a pipe began disintegrating atoms, excavating a tunnel with a diameter of one meter. This tunnel originated from the chamber and extended towards the location of the fusion reactor.

Following closely behind the excavation machine was another identical apparatus, which specialized in constructing walls within the tunnel, effectively forming a pipeline.

Upon completion of their tasks, the machines departed from the underground area, leaving behind a remarkable sight. For those capable of peering through the darkness, they would witness futuristic walls adorning every surface within the underground opening. Intricate, maze-like passages concealed beneath metal panels connected to the walls, forming a network that intricately linked to the finished pipeline. One end of the pipeline was connected to a transformer, which in turn was linked to the fusion printer.

The vehicles made their way back to the atomic printer, where Nova, without delay, swiftly disintegrated each of them, reducing them to their previous state of atoms before being stored in the same storage from which they had originated.

[Sir, the construction of the room is complete] Nova informed Aron, signaling that all aspects of the building had been successfully finished.

"Let's get to work," Aron said to himself as he rose from his seat, where he had been resting with the other members of ARES.

He began walking towards the completed construction site, which prompted the ARES members to do the same, following his lead.

This compelled him to say, "Not now, you guys continue resting. The preparations are not done." They immediately nodded in agreement and sat back down to continue their rest.

As Aron walked towards the location, he was suddenly intercepted by a vehicle that resembled a golf cart. He couldn't help but laugh as he recognized it as Nova's creation.

Expressing his gratitude, he boarded the golf cart, which promptly started driving itself towards the underground construction site.

"Oh my god, it's cooking in here," Aron exclaimed as the car he was in began descending underground. He could feel the heat emanating from the underground, making the surroundings even hotter.

Immediately, Nova activated the vehicle's air conditioning system, swiftly cooling the air surrounding Aron and alleviating the intense heat. Aron couldn't help but express his gratitude once again, feeling a wave of relief as the cool air enveloped him.

[You are welcome] Nova replied calmly, as she continued controlling the vehicle.

When the car arrived at the underground opening, Aron was greeted by an overwhelming wave of heat. Despite Nova's best efforts, the air conditioning in the car struggled to cool the air around him as quickly as the intense heat replaced it.

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"Let me handle it," Aron said determinedly. H as he swiftly casted the cooling rune on himself, channeling its power to cool down his blood. As the chilled blood circulated through his body, he felt an instant cooling effect that countered the oppressive heat.

With his body temperature regulated, he confidently stepped out of the car, now at the center of the massive room in the underground construction site.

After Aron stepped out of the car, it promptly departed, leaving him alone in the pitch darkness of the underground construction site. However, with the glasses on him, they granted him the ability to see in darkness as if he were outside in broad daylight.

"Let's get started," Aron said, his gaze fixed upon the ceiling.

With a deep breath, he began to channel his mana, focusing on casting a rune.

Without delay, a colossal cooling rune materialized. The underground chamber erupted in a golden magical light(for those who could see mana) as the rune grew, expanding to a massive size of five hundred meters in length and breadth.

Following that, Aron steadily elevated it until it reached the rooftop where it began to sink partially into the roof, integrating itself with the structure.

Once the rune had firmly embedded itself on the roof, Aron closed his eyes, entering a state of deep concentration. For the following five minutes, he focused intensely, infusing the rune with his intentions. Shortly after, the rune shimmered and transformed into a radiant white hue, signifying that it had been fully imbued with his intent.

Within that brief span of time, Aron's had imbued his intent for the rune, which was to maintain a consistent temperature of 15 degrees Celsius within the room, regardless of external factors.

The rune, fueled by the supply of mana, would ensure the desired temperature was sustained. However, the amount of mana consumed by the rune would vary based on the degree of cooling required.

The greater the temperature difference, the more mana would be expended to achieve and sustain the desired conditions.

As soon as the rune turned white and the room's temperature began to drop with its activation, Aron abruptly ceased supplying mana to the rune. Instantly, the rune's luminosity dimmed, and the temperature swiftly reverted to its previous hot state.

Nevertheless, for those attuned to the flow of mana, the rune remained visible.

Without hesitation, Aron commenced the casting of another rune. However, this time he allowed it to expand in size until it encompassed the entirety of the chamber. The rune grew exponentially, absorbing the maximum amount of mana Aron could release at once as his heart worked tirelessly to replenish the reserves.

Lowering the immense floating rune until it gently touched the ground, allowing it to sink into the material covering the floor. He closed his eyes once more, immersing himself in deep concentration as he began to infuse his intent into the rune.

While Aron remained immersed in his task of etching intent onto the rune, Nova, stationed outside, initiated the operation of the printer that had been in standby mode. Springing it to life, ready to commence the next printing session.

In a matter of moments, the printer worked its magic, rapidly producing rack after rack of servers at an astonishing pace. The room quickly filled with hundreds of server racks, appearing seemingly out of thin air.

However, these server racks bore little resemblance to the commercial servers commonly seen. Their unique design and appearance set them apart, hinting at the difference of what was inhabiting inside them.

In a fascinating display, the printed server racks extended the wheels they were equipped with and autonomously began moving themselves out of the printer.

As they exited, new server racks were promptly printed in the space they vacated, ensuring a continuous stream of production.

Nova continued printing until she had produced a hundred thousand self-driving server rack-like objects.

They began making their way towards Aron's location while he remained focused on imbuing his intent into the rune.

This time, the process required a substantial amount of time, stretching over two hours before Aron finally ceased his focus. By then, the rune had transformed into a brilliant white hue, signifying that his intent had been successfully imbued into its very essence.

"Are the servers ready?" Aron's voice echoed into the void, disappearing into the engulfing darkness.

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[Yes] came a response from Nova.

"Then bring them in, and summon the ARES members as well" Aron commanded, settling himself down as he awaited the execution of his orders.

[I don't recommend it, sir,] Nova replied, respectfully advising against the idea. She added, [The extreme heat would undoubtedly be fatal for them.] emphasizing the grave danger posed by the intense heat.

"Ah, I completely forgot about that. Let them rest," Aron admitted with a chuckle, realizing his oversight.

Within a few minutes, the server racks began arriving one by one in the underground chamber. Without wasting any time, they autonomously moved to their designated locations.

The first server rack made its way to the farthest corner of the room, swiftly followed by the second and the third, and subsequently, the remaining racks fell into formation.

Each server rack finding its rightful place, aligning themselves in an orderly manner as per their given instructions.

The mesmerizing and meticulously choreographed display carried on for an hour, as row after row of servers arrived in a continuous stream. The room gradually filled with the one hundred thousand server racks, their presence creating a silent anticipation.

Now forced to stand at the entrance, Aron observed the chamber now filled with server racks, a smile of deep satisfaction gracing his face. In this moment, he reflected upon the arduous journey that had brought him to this pivotal stage, where his vision of attaining boundless computing power was on the verge of becoming a reality.

"Light it up," Aron exclaimed in a palpable tone filled with anticipation and excitement as he watched the rows and rows of the servers in front of him.

[Yes, sir]

Nova responded and right after that, the fusion reactor responded to her command as it increased its energy production output that was being collected by the magnetohydrodynamic generator and was promptly sent to the transformer which without wasting a single second was immediately converting the electricity into mana, sending it to the pipe which had started the race of pouring mana down the pipe.

The tunnel screamed with energy as more and more mana continued pouring into it, simultaneously, the transformer screamed, converting all of the energy into mana which due to its high energy density, allowing it to carry a hundred more energy units for the same amount when compared to most of the dense energy on earth.

After the first bits of mana arrived at the underground chamber, they immediately rushed out of the pipe and started dispersing into the maze-like structures that lay beneath the futuristic-looking metallic wall which covered the entire underground chamber.

And as more mana continued to arrive, the already present mana in the mazes was forced to move forward, slowly filling the maze opening next to it.

This continued for five more minutes, after which, if someone could see the behinds of the walls, it would seem to them as if the surrounding of the entire room was being blanketed by the mana, filling every nook and cranny of maze in the chamber all the way to the mazes that were present at the top of the chamber and was being held in the place by the constant pressure that was caused as the result of the mana being continuously produced and sent to the chamber the very instant an opening appeared.

The moment the whole chamber was filled with mana, Nova activated the rune on the rooftop. Indicating that it had begun working, the rune started radiating a gentle white light like any rune that had intent on it was activated.

As the rune gained full power, the temperature in the room immediately started dropping drastically, causing the heat in the room to recede while being replaced by cold air.

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Shortly after that, the air that had been coming from the room transformed from its usually hot air into that of a cooling breeze, prompting Aron to immediately cease supplying any more mana into the cooling rune in his body, which had been continuously busy cooling his blood throughout his time underground. Now its activation was no longer needed.

Through his glasses, Aron observed the temperature indicator in the room had started rapidly dropping and continuing to do so until it settled at fifteen degrees, neither increasing nor decreasing from that number no matter what happened further.

After another fifteen minutes of maintaining the temperature at a constant fifteen degrees, Nova then activated the second rune on the ground.

This rune also wasted no time in coming to life, as if it was a beast that had been finally released from its cage.

With the second rune covering the entire room, the whole space was now colored into a white color for those who were capable of perceiving mana.

And once the rune on the ground had completely come to life, slowly the server rack-like machine started to hum synchronously as they emitted a dim blue light, indicating that they were now coming to life as well.

The server racks were being powered by the electricity, which was produced from the rune present on the ground and was converting the mana back to the electricity. This electricity was then immediately transferred to the server rack machines through the superconducting and locked wheels, which had brought the server racks into the chamber.

The electrical energy was then swiftly directed towards the batteries that were being used to power the motor, which had initially brought them here and at the moment had changed their purpose and had started working as a power supply and electricity regulator for the server racks.

With the server racks now receiving full power, the synchronous hum which in itself would have usually been a normal sound became deafening due to the sheer number of server racks in the room – being not just a few but a total of one hundred thousand at the same time due to all of them being activated at once, amplifying the sound to such a degree.

And if it weren't for Aron's magically enhanced body, the sound was enough to have caused his ears to burst.

However, the sound gradually started subsiding until it completely disappeared, leaving behind a room that was now bathed in blue and was an indication that the server was now working at its full potential. Meaning that the Quantum server was finally online.

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Every server rack was filled to the brim with quantum computers and since the server racks didn't need to come with cooling systems and the rest of the components, other than quantum computers there was nothing other than the quantum chips within them.

Within each server rack resided over a billion qubits, which in itself meant that every single rack was around two hundred thousand times more powerful than that of Nova's previous quantum computer that was at Aron's home. And with a hundred thousand server racks present in the underground room, the whole server boasted a power of twenty billion times more powerful than her previous quantum computer setup.

[Sir, the quantum server is online.]

Nova reported shortly, as the room returned back to its eerie silence despite the machines being powered. 𝘣𝘦𝑑𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝑙.𝘯𝑒𝘵

[Should I initiate the transfer sequence for myself and the universal simulation?] She asked, the excitement clearly evident in her tone.

"How long is it going to take?" Aron inquired, remembering that the previous transfer had taken Nova several weeks to completely move herself from the GAIA technology server to the quantum computer.

[Although I can complete the transfer in a second, it's possible that it might result in me short-circuiting the grid where I'm residing in America. However, if I do it while considering those grids in mind, I can do it in fifteen seconds, and while it would stress the grid but it will be able to handle the stress without causing damage] Nova explained.

"Do it, but be careful not to strain the grid too much, as that might attract unwanted attention," Aron instructed, to which Nova obliged and informed Aron that it was going to take a minute to completely transfer herself and everything from the quantum computer, after which she waited for his approval before starting the process.

[The system will be going offline for a period of ten minutes as the server is undergoing an update process, we apologize for any inconvenience.!]

After delivering the announcement to everyone wearing the glasses, Nova immediately logged out any users who were in VR and blocking their access to the servers, forcing all of the glasses to automatically switch to offline mode while using the quantum chips within them to assist in helping their user in whatever activities they were doing as long as it wasn't about logging into the VR.

Following that, Nova officially began the process of data transfer.

However, she didn't immediately start the transfer as that process was impossible to do before she had established a connection between the quantum computer and the quantum server.

Immediately, Nova initiated the quantum entanglement process which didn't take long or cause any problem for her due to the control she had over both the server and the quantum computer.

Once the connection was completely established, Nova immediately commenced the data transfer process, transferring enormous amounts of data every second, the amount of data transferred from the computer to the server was enough to rival the yearly data transfer of the internet.

A minute after the data transfer process had started, it came to a completion and was then immediately followed by Nova switching the computer she was using as a communication platform to communicate with Aron since all of her data was now stored there.

As for the quantum computer at Aron's home, it had entered hibernation mode.

From this moment onwards it would be acting as nothing other than a data transferring node. Now its purpose was to receive the data that had previously been sent to the GAIA technology server while the quantum computer was being primarily used for keeping the universal simulation active.

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The moment the new server received all the information, it immediately took over and resumed doing the functions of the previous quantum computer, but this time at a much faster pace, which was a benefit obtained from the increased computing power.

Although all the previous processes had resumed, Nova chose to stop herself from resuming one particular process since she wanted Aron to be present with her when this process took place. Hence she said, [Sir would you like to watch the expansion of the universal simulation?]

"Sure," Aron agreed and took a seat, after which Nova immediately logged Aron into the VR system.

When Aron opened his eyes, he didn't find himself standing in his usual place, rather, he was standing in space alongside Nova. Their size was so massive that even the earth seemed no larger than a tennis ball in comparison to them.

With Aron now present along with her, Nova allowed the universal simulation access to over seventy-five percent of the quantum server. In response, the simulation immediately began to expand with Aron and Nova being the sole witnesses of this unfolding event.

As the Universal Program was granted access to this immense upgrade in computing power, the simulation, which was once confined and encompassed only a small fraction of Earth, started expanding.

It swiftly outgrew its previous constraints, the expansion beginning within Earth itself. And with meticulous precision, the program was able to simulate every inch of the planet's surface, breathing life into its digital replica.

Ranging from the majestic mountains to meandering rivers, from the bustling yet towering waterfalls to even the remote wilderness, every single detail was intricately recreated. The virtual Earth pulsed with vibrant energy, a flawless mirror image of its real counterpart.

Yet, the program's ambition could not be quenched at simulating Earth alone. Bolstered by the colossal computing power, it ventured further and started expanding into simulating the vastness of space, extending its reach to encompass every celestial body within the Solar System.

The planets, once non-existent, now materialized with astonishing precision in their details. The red deserts of Mars, the gas giants adorned with swirling bands of color, the icy moons with their fractured surfaces and the billions of rocks in the asteroid belts– all were brought to life within this simulation.

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However, the expansion didn't seem to be content with the boundaries of the Solar System either. With each passing moment, the simulation's reach stretched further, transcending the limits of humans' very imagination.

The simulation broke free from the confines of the protective membrane that safeguarded the Solar System from the ravages of this cosmic onslaught which were being sustained by the sun, venturing into simulating the uncharted void beyond, emulating distant corners of the universe.

The expansion continued unabated, the program still thirsting to simulate more.

It expanded further into the cosmic expanse, simulating remote stars and their accompanying planetary systems.

The simulation breathed life into these celestial realms, meticulously recreating a vast tapestry of these celestial wonders – supernovae, binary star systems, and exotic exoplanets nestled within their habitable zones.

The simulation pushed the boundaries of the known universes which remained just as theory, as the program employed every ounce of available computational power available to sustain the unfolding expansion of the cosmos.

Aron and Nova watched in awe and disbelief as the continuous expansion of the universal expansion remained ceaseless while they kept watching, everything was thanks to Nova continuing to expand their proportions to keep up with the increasing size of the simulation.

They witnessed as the simulation size continued expanding, increasing the number of things simulated not halting until they saw the famously known detail – the spiralling illustrious image of a galaxy known as the Milky Way, revealed itself before them, followed by the immediate halt of the simulation program finally stopping the expansion after it had simulated the last part of our galaxy, the galaxy encompassing shield that was responsible for protecting our galaxy from the harsh conditions of the universe.

"Wow," Aron exclaimed, his hands remained on his face all this long since he had been witnessing something that would evoke the physicists to die just from the excitement of this awe-inspiring display that unfolded before their naked eyes.

In the underground basement, Aron's amazement surged even further as he envisioned the vast amount of knowledge and the universe's secrets that he had uncovered, all thanks to the galaxy rotating before his eyes.

Meanwhile, Nova inquired to the still enthusiastic-looking Aron, [Should I further increase the time acceleration, or do we stick to the usual five to one we had thought of before?]

"How much can you increase it?" Aron asked.

Nova replied, [We can increase it up to fifty-five times, but that's only possible when no one has logged in to the system. And currently, despite having our atomic printer, Earth's material advancements are still lagging behind in this aspect. The necessary materials required to ensure the safety of virtual reality logins, where time moves 35 times faster than the real world, don't exist yet, and to obtain them, we'll need to venture out into the unknown."

"So how much time acceleration is safe enough for the users to log in without facing any harm with the ability of the current devices?" Aron inquired as he was about to conclude his next course of action.

[Maximum of ten times, however, if the logout time is to be extended to five more minutes, I can make the time acceleration go up to fifteen times.] Nova answered.

"Alright, accelerate the time to the maximum capacity we are capable of right now and at the same time open a new instance of the universal simulation. However, stop right after we are done with simulating the earth, we will use that for the people who will log into the universal simulation," Aron ordered after taking a short moment to consider everything.

[Done] Nova reported back shortly since she had immediately raised the time acceleration of the prime universal simulation to thirty-five times faster than the real world, while simultaneously opening a new instance and simulating the earth, expanding the simulation until it simulated the moon, before halting there.

"Use the brain data of the scientists we have as an example and populate them in all those habitable planets in the galaxy. However, make sure that their bodies are exactly the same as would be if they had originated from here. Also, give them the knowledge of how things work, but don't give them answers to everything. Let them start most of the things by themselves from scratch, I want to see how they develop, since that might give us an insight if there were aliens on any of those planets based on their thinking process and technological advancement," Aron said, pointing out what he had thought in order to use the universal simulation to the best of its ability after witnessing one of its advancements.

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[Although it won't provide us with a one-to-one comparison, it's better to have at least some base information as to when we encounter them] Nova said as she followed the orders, birthing trillions and trillions of lives in the universal simulation, bringing all of them to life inside all the 29 billion habitable planets situated inside the universal simulation.

While the process was going on, Nova asked, [Should I make them capable of reproducing?]

"Yes, make it accessible to them so that we can witness how different cultures emerges due to the increase in their number" Aron nodded in excitement, realizing the potential.

His order was followed by another question from Nova, [How about death?]

"Of course, with death always chasing behind, they will be forced to make more innovations, or that's what I think of it. Maybe they might even try to overcome it by inventing new technologies," Aron said while explaining the reason behind his thought.

[What about the ones in the lab city?] Nova asked after another moment.

"The ones in the lab city, leave them to be immortal, but allow them to reproduce since I want to see what will be the result if the children are raised in an environment filled completely with geniuses from different fields," Aron said as he started imagining some super kids that would be roaming the city, excited with the thought, he couldn't help but ask, "How long is it going to take?" 𝗯𝗲𝐝𝗻𝗼𝐯𝗲𝗹．𝐨𝗿𝗴

[Since I need to individually make their bodies capable of adapting to their respective planets, to finish the populating process of all of the 29,235,673,456 habitable planets, it will take me about three hours.] Nova replied.

"Sure, take your time," Aron said, logging out to do one last thing before he left the basement.

Upon logging out, Aron immediately put his hand on the door, the only opening to enter the server room.

He then cast a shield Rune, that was soon etched onto the open metallic-looking doors. After five minutes of Aron's focus, the Rune turned white before he closed the heavy doors. Shortly after this, Nova immediately reacted by powering the shield rune that was etched on the doors, making it to be immediately covered by a blue hue, effectively blocking access to anyone without permission from trying to enter the server room.

Following that, he immediately boarded the golf cart which, just like the first time, drove itself out of the underground, transporting him to the surface.

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...

[The server is back online, sorry for the inconvenience we caused!]

Sarah received the notification while she was still in the middle of a meeting with a group of lawyers.

Being the only one who can see and hear the notification, she simply smiled and ignored it, continuing the meeting as she asked, "So, the leftover process should be completed by next month, right?"

"Yes, ma'am. Although during the first phase, we were faced with a high level of repelling attempts, it disappeared after some time and the rest of the phase only required some time to be completed," one of the lawyers nodded in agreement.

"Even if this is good, I suggest that we don't let our guard down as they might be just letting it fester before making a comeback with an even more powerful attempt than previous," suggested another lawyer, immediately after the first one answered Sarah's question.

"That's true, and we should keep that in mind. I don't want any trouble or obstacles to appear in the process anymore," Sarah agreed.

"Yes ma'am, but also..."

This back-and-forth conversation between the lawyers and Sarah as they discussed the remaining steps that were required during the process of changing the company's registered country.

"Any chances that it is man-made?" asked James Comey, the FBI Director, directing his question to the CIA Director, John Brennan, during a meeting with the President, the Vice President and a few other people in the Oval Office.

"Based on the analysis of our intelligence, the likelihood is very high," Answered the CIA Director. 𝒃𝒆𝒅𝙣𝒐𝒗𝙚𝒍.𝒄𝒐𝒎

"Based on what?" Biden chimed in, asking for clarification with such a conclusion.

"Long before the clouds continued to form and started appearing, there was a huge transportation operation taking place on the island. We could barely count as over a hundred thousand machine parts were being transported onto the island," he explained.

"So, are you saying that those machines are the ones responsible for this phenomenon? Are they perhaps testing some weather control weapons or something?" Obama, who had been listening throughout the meeting this whole time, asked.

"We can say with a high probability that they are not some weather control machines," answered John while shaking his head.

"How so?" Obama frowned.

"We sent the satellite images taken by our intelligence collection satellites to DARPA for analysis and they informed us that for such a huge phenomenon to occur, it would require a machine that is about ten times larger than what the part in the picture. Furthermore, it also had to consistently produce new clouds, given the range of the phenomenon." John said as he continued to explain further.

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"Also they stated that if there really is such a machine that is capable to do such a feat, the energy requirement of such a device will be nearly impossible to sustain within a country like Eden, further assuring us of their analysis."

"So, did they come up with any reasonable explanation for this strange phenomenon?" the Secretary of Defense asked with a frown.

"Yes, although they suggested that although there are few more explanations, this is the one of the reasons for having the highest likelihood behind the phenomenon," John said as he handed the POTUS folder to the rest of the attendees for letting them to read, while continued explaining to them as to what might be the cause behind the gray clouds in Eden.

"So, you're telling me that all of the clouds that were being produced for more than a month were a result of some mining that was taking place. If so, why didn't such a phenomenon occur anywhere else in the world?" Obama asked after reading the information in the document.

"As the explanation on the next page states, it is the result of the combination of a perfect location, with the perfect conditions being met, along with the perfect catalyst," John explained, having difficulty believing himself for what the scientists have spoken.

"How about we send the dragon lady (U-2 spy plane) to find answers to all of our questions?" Biden suggested.

"Although we can do so if the analysis of the cloud being collected is caused by the mining, it is going to be impossible to know what is going on underneath as the clouds are acting as cover for what is really happening. If we make it fly below the clouds, we will be visible to the naked eye and it might risk causing a backlash from the world, as Russia and China might interpret this as us threatening the country to force them into choosing our side," answered John.

"That's also true," the secretary of defense agreed, as his gut was telling him that something suspicious was going on under this veil.

"Keep looking for more solutions," Obama said, receiving a nod from all of the attendees present in the Oval Office.

"You should remain," Obama said, pointing at the FBI Director.

The others understood that the meeting was over, so they immediately left the office, leaving behind only Obama, Biden and the FBI Director, James Comey.

"Sir," James said after they were the only ones left in the room.

"How is the decryption of the data which we keep collecting on that man's house?" asked Obama with a serious face.

"We are still working in collaboration with the NSA, using their supercomputer in UTAH, however, by their estimates, the closest time we can decrypt them will take us a few centuries, Sir," James explained, lowering his head, feeling embarrassed with what he was saying.

"So, you are saying that the data coming from that house is encrypted heavily enough that even the current world-leading supercomputer would need centuries to decrypt? What the heck lies in that house?" Obama frowned, not at all satisfied with what he was hearing from the Director of the FBI.

James then explained, "We suspect it to be an experimental computer which he had made during his one-month visit to a university lab, but we can say this for certain that yesterday, we received information about a massive spike in energy consumption from his house for a period of a minute before it returned back to normal. We are planning to use this incident as an excuse to get access to the house by sending our people as the grid officers to investigate the cause of this incident."

"Good, because whatever it may be, I need answers. He is in the process of moving his company from the clutches of our reach and then there is also someone powerful looking out for him, rendering all my efforts to try to block his attempt futile," Obama said with an ashen face as he continued.

"So, I need something from this investigation as quickly as possible so that I can use it as a means to infinitely delay the process," Obama said, his tone indicating that he was fed up with the power of a few families blocking his attempts from stopping a golden goose who was trying to escape his country's clutches.

Dropping a heavy weight on the shoulder of the FBI Director as his last attempt would be a deciding factor as to whether Obama can have a chance at stopping GAIA technology from leaving or if he would be made to watch the goose fly away without being capable of doing anything.

While the President had finished his meeting with his subordinates, somewhere else.

"We have already hired around a hundred thousand people and from our cooperation with the government, we have already been able to buy more than 50 percent of the land required for our projects," Felix reported to Aron, meeting inside the second universal simulation that solely stimulated Earth.

"How much of the railway network land have we already purchased?" Aron inquired further.

"Since most of the land is passing through the wilderness most of the time, we were able to acquire about 89 percent of the railway network land, as for the remaining portion of the land, since we have to negotiate with different land owners, however, the negotiations are also in the last steps and this matter should be resolved within this month," Felix answered, as he presented the information about railway land acquisition.

"That's good news. We can begin the construction immediately," Aron said, a smile gracing his face. "If we start the construction by this month when will be the closest estimate for the railway to be completed?" he asked after a moment of thought.

Nova, who had been standing behind Aron, replied, [It will take about 15 months if we divide the whole railway project into thousands of small parts and assign multiple builders for the construction of those portions. Later on, when these constructed parts are combined, we can send them to initiate the construction in another region. And if they work in three shifts of eight hours, the work will continue without any break. However, for the project to achieve that goal of completion, you would need about three times the current amount of workforce which you have already hired] she added by the end.

"We can increase the workforce once the project has started, so based on your estimates, it should take about 17 months for construction of the entire rail network to finally end," Felix chimed in.

"Can't it be finished earlier than that?" Aron asked, concerned that he might not be given enough time by the world before other interferences would emerge, trying to interfere with his growth. 𝘣𝑒𝑑𝘯𝘰𝘷𝑒𝘭．𝑜𝘳𝘨

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[The limitation is manpower, sir, although we will be able to increase the number of people in the project, it won't be cost-effective. However, we can simply focus on a part of the railway that is of the most importance and start the construction by solely focusing on its completion in a matter of a few months. After that, we can just repurpose the workers to expand the rail network, finishing it in a year or two.] Nova suggested, offering another approach.

"That makes more sense. We indeed could start by focusing on the railway network from the airport and the ports to the island. And once that is done, we can then immediately start expanding the network within the city and other cities, finally linking the rest of the country with the rail network. This will act as an artery, keeping the country connected and at the same time, provide good paying jobs to its citizens for a period of a year and a half," Felix agreed after hearing Nova's suggestion.

"How long will the construction of the ports and airports take?" Aron asked when the topic was brought up in the conversation.

"For the airport, we can make it operational in a matter of six months, but the whole project's completion is to be expected to take two years," Felix answered about the airport and continued to answer about the expected completion time for the ports. "As for the ports, it will take about 9 months to make them operational and about two years for their complete compilation."

Upon hearing their response, they took a moment to think about ways to expedite the process even faster.

"How about we do it this way? We create large, moving atomic printers and just label them as the machines we made to ease construction," Aron suggested his idea, wanting to understand how they thought about it.

"Isn't that the same as revealing our atomic printers to the world?" Felix asked after hearing his friend's suggestion.

"No we are not going to make it print and build everything, all it will be doing is act as an assistant to the construction project. For instance, it can be used to produce and fabricate the pieces while the workers will be responsible solely for the purpose of construction. This will make sure that the workers only focus on the construction and won't have to worry about the production of the material for the construction." Aron explained as he further continued.

"We can also create another one which looks similar to the caterpillar construction vehicle that will be responsible for constructing the Runway. As for the question about who will be controlling it, all we have to do is send ARES members who will be given the responsibility of building railways and ensure that the other workers can focus on their tasks without poking their noses in it," Aron said, diving deeper into his reasoning.

"As for the ports, we can send something similar to the fabricator which we will be sending in order to aid the airport construction, but we'll also send another one that will be responsible for the complete underwater construction, allowing for the atomic printer there to work to its full potential without having a need to be worried about anyone being able to see what it was doing and start asking suspicious questions"

Aron continued, getting even more excited as he spoke.

"For the rails, we can just build one that looks like an existing railway constructing car which exists in the world and all we need to do is have the people construct a two-hundred-meter long railway section, upon which we will then immediately put the machine and send the workers a few hundred kilometers away for them to construct another patch of two-hundred-meters railway again. This way, we can finally have about hundred of these machines working on different sections of the railways' network, connecting the rails while they build the parts of rails before they finally meet their fellows and connect them"

Aron finally paused, taking a breather before turning to Nova and asking her with an expectant look in his eyes, "Is it feasible while ensuring that no one, even in the slightest, suspects that we have such unimaginable capabilities?"

Chapter 175 Blueprint of Progress

𝚋𝚎𝚍𝚗𝚘𝚟ｅｌ.ｃ𝚘𝚖

Meanwhile, Nova, who had already simulated the situation millions of times while Aron was suggesting the idea, replied a second after she was asked, saying, {It is feasible.}

She paused shortly before continuing, { For the ones that will be sent at the airport and ports, as long as we make the machines look like something that can be found elsewhere in the world, we can trick them into thinking of them as just mobile fabrication machines that aid in construction.}

{As for the ones responsible for the railway construction we can do that too, but we will need to design at least three different-looking machines to avoid raising suspicion. One that will be responsible for cleaning and strengthening the ground the rail will be passing by. The second will be responsible for laying the foundation on the strengthened ground, while the last one will be responsible for laying the rails on the laid foundation. If we proceed to do it this way, we will be able to avoid any suspicion about having a printing technology and would only make people believe that we've had a breakthrough in the construction technologies, though groundbreaking, it will still be digestible enough for people to convince themselves with.}

{We will also need to program them in a way such that they would operate similarly, making their assumption appear true, such as reducing the speed of material production and a few other adjustments.}

Nova took a pause before continuing, {As for the one that will be responsible for underground construction, there's no need to worry about any of the above problems since we can simply make the water murkier and impossible for the people to see the underground construction. We can leave it with its full range of capabilities.}

When Aron heard Nova's agreement to his plan after she had done a few alterations to it, he grinned from ear to ear, satisfied and excited. With those machines alone, the discovered it.

"Then we can just utilize similar machines for the rest of our projects, right?" Felix time required for the complete completion of the project would be cut from two and a half years (which was already exceedingly fast enough) to a matter of a few months, which would be nothing more than making a historical milestone.

Felix, on the other hand, remained surprised by what he heard from both Aron, who gave such a crazy idea, and Nova who made this crazy idea become applicable to their situation without risking the revelation of the technology to the world.

"That's true, with the machines now involved in the projects, it means that we can start the remaining of the projects at the same time without having to delay them due to a shortage of workers," Felix said after taking a moment to collect his thoughts, not at all expressing what he was feeling since he had prepared himself beforehand knowing well that he will always be surprised by Aron and his assistant and thus wasn't disappointed at all when Aron solved one of his problems moments after he discovered it.

"Then we can just utilize similar machines for the rest of our projects, right?" Felix asked.

"Not all at the same time, as that would raise a large number of questions on how we are even producing those machines in such a short period. There will be a need for a delay in their arrival at different projects," Aron answered, showing that he didn't need Nova's help to think that far.

They continued their conversation, discussing how to use the machines to expedite the other projects that would be starting simultaneously with the airport, railways and ports. One of these projects being the official headquarters of Aron's companies.

After they finished discussing and approving the modified plans, while Felix was waiting for the log-out time, he asked Aron, "But what happened to the city? Why has there been no one in it since the announcement of the upgrade?"

"Due to the increase in computing power, the simulation grew to the size of a galaxy and to receive the most benefits from it, I had to accelerate the time there as much as possible. But this also became dangerous for people to log in and out of it with their current devices. So, I ended up starting another instance of the simulation that solely simulated the Earth and increased the time dilation to the maximum capacity that the devices can handle. As you are experiencing now, it requires you to wait for about five minutes to log out," Aron explained.

This time, Aron's reply surprised him even though Felix was prepared, even in his slightest imagination, he would never have imagined that the update would result in such a massive evolution. What surprised him, even more, was that this entire process had occurred within just a few minutes, as the server went offline for exactly about the amount of time before it came back online.

This meant that the simulation had gone from being the size of a small country to the size of a galaxy in a matter of seconds. As he tried to fathom what type of computing power was required to accomplish such a monumental expansion, he realized that his brain was failing to comprehend it, even with his wildest imagination.

It took him a minute or two to slightly calm down before he decided to ask a question that came to his mind.

"Now that you mention it, I remember you saying that you are going to give us assistants after you have upgraded the server. Was this upgrade the one you were referring to during that statement?" Felix asked, knowing that having an assistant like Aron's would significantly ease his job.

"Yes, I'm in the process of creating them. In a few days at most, I will send them to you," Aron answered with a smile, hiding his slight embarrassment. Although he hadn't forgotten it and had only postponed it a little. But Felix's question reminded him that it would only take him a few minutes to finish creating them. So, he promised himself to start with the making of these assistants the moment Felix logged out.

"Really?!" Felix asked, the excitement on his face was too hard to not be noticed for even the most non-social person to understand its meaning.

"Yes," Aron confirmed, but before Felix could even reply, he was booted out of the system as the waiting time for his logout was over.

"Now, Nova, let's get to work and send the assistants to them as fast as possible. It seems like they really need it," Aron instructed.

{Yes sir} Nova replied as she immediately materialized different profiles of the people who had the glasses and whom they were going to be making assistants for.

This meant Sarah, Felix, John and a few high-level ARES members had their profiles materialized in front of Aron.

"Create an assistant for each one of them that will match with their personality while also focusing on making sure that the assistants are the most helpful to them in their specific fields," Aron started to give instructions on what the assistants should be like.

{How much computing power should I allocate to each of them?} Nova asked.

Taking a moment to consider, Aron answered, saying "They should be small enough for them to be able to operate independently on the glasses of the people they will be assisting, while leaving the backups on the servers, just in case"

{Done} Nova responded the moment Aron finished his answer, causing Aron who was the most likely to not be surprised by her speed to be astonished for a moment before he calmed down and said "Send them"

Nova wasted no time, sending the assistants to their designated users.

{Done}, after a moment, she confirmed.

Chapter 176 Meeting with John

"How are the tensions with Esparia going on?" Aron asked John in the VR after he had called for him, to which he immediately came without wasting any time at all.

John reported, "They have increased soldiers on the border and have also been trying to cause some troubles for us. As a result, we reciprocated their actions and sent additional reinforcements to the border. Additionally, we've deployed a few boats to patrol the waters we share borders with them."

"Any chances that it goes out of control?" Aron asked.

"Chances are not zero, but as long as we keep discipline on our side, the uncertainty of starting a shootout will remain on them," John reported confidently..

"What are our chances if a shootout occurs?" Aron inquired.

John's response was straightforward, not sugarcoating anything, "Both on the ground and in the water, we have almost no chance of winning."

"Mh…" Aron hummed in thought before asking, "I can understand that the outdated equipment for the navy branch may be the reason for the possibility of losing on the water, but what is the reason for us losing on the ground if the weapons are still in good condition?

John explained, "There is no discipline among the soldiers sent there at all, and as you had ordered, we implemented a way to force them to restrain themselves from causing troubles. However, it's only a short-term solution, and it won't be effective in the long run. Cracks in our control will start to appear soon."

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John then asked, "Is your plan to instill discipline in the soldiers going to take longer than the requested period?"

"If I remember correctly, there should be about two weeks until the three-month period I asked from you, right?" Aron inquired, trying to determine the remaining time to the promised period.

"Two weeks and a few days, sir," John answered promptly.

"Good, then choose five thousand of those who are most likely to cause problems and prepare for them to be sent immediately when I tell you to do so," Aron instructed.

"Yes, sir," John replied, acknowledging the order.

Aron then inquired, "Any chance it is going to interrupt some of the security-keeping tasks?"

"At the moment, since we only have tensions with Esparia and no one else, most of our forces are focusing on that. So we can send five thousand of them without facing any problem other than a slight crunch in shifts. Nothing they can't handle," John reassured, outlining that the current situation allows for such a move without compromising overall security tasks.

"If there is no problem with that, then you can send them since they will only be spending two weeks, nothing more, nothing less," Aron said, affirming the decision. He then paused for a moment before adding, "From tomorrow onwards, start sending a group of 50 from the original ARES members as well. They too will need to receive refreshment and new weapons training."

"Yes, sir, I will do so. But can I ask a question?" John sought permission to inquire further.

Aron nodded, signaling John to proceed with his question.

"Are you going to send them to this world to train?" John asked his question.

"Yes, but not to a peaceful world, per se," Aron replied, pausing before continuing, "At first, the needed knowledge will be assimilated into their brains. Then they will undergo a one-month training to ensure that the knowledge has been properly absorbed. Following that, they will be sent to war against a technologically advanced foe, similar to them. I want them to gain experience and understand the harsh reality of war. Additionally, I will be using this to identify if there are smart individuals among them who can come up with new strategies. It will also serve as their final test."

John raised a concern, "Doesn't that increase the risk of the technology being leaked to the world?"

Aron explained his approach, "If we can upload knowledge, then it means we can also upload fear into their consciousness without them knowing. This will automatically prevent them from talking about the technology."

"Understood," John replied, feeling impressed by Aron's careful planning and the measures taken to safeguard the technology and maintain secrecy.

Upon seeing John's expression, Aron spoke, "Your assistant will be responsible for coming up with those contingencies in all of your plans, so use her help as much as you can." 𝗯𝐞𝐝𝗻𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥.𝐜𝗼𝐦

"Yes, sir," John replied promptly. He had already intended to maximize the use of the assistant's abilities from the beginning, considering she was specifically sent by Aron to aid him.

Furthermore, John continued, "Also, sir, I want to inquire about your plans for weapons procurement. While our troops will be well-trained after they are sent to you, if we still possess outdated weapons, winning wars or skirmishes will prove exceedingly difficult."

"Follow me, and let me show you the answer to your question," Aron declared. In a blink of an eye, before John could fully comprehend the situation, he found himself already transported into the midst of the skies above a chaotic city, where the thunderous sounds of explosions echoed through the air.

When John opened his eyes he couldn't believe what he was seeing under him.

that they were firing at. However, as he raised his head and looked beyond that distance, he finally spotted the target of their relentless assault.

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The scene was overwhelming, with buildings in flames and smoke billowing all around. The ground shook from the impact of the explosions, and the sound of distant gunfire added to the atmosphere of conflict and chaos.

In the midst of the ongoing battlefield, John found himself witnessing unfamiliar and advanced weapons wielded by the soldiers engaged in combat. .

As John tried to compose himself from the intense scene he had just witnessed, a sudden explosion erupted amidst the group of soldiers on the ground. The soldiers were engulfed in a fiery blast, and John's heart sank when he saw the devastation caused by the shell.

He quickly turned his attention towards the source of the attack, but to his surprise, there was no visible sign of the assailant. The tranquil blue sea stretched out before him, offering no clues as to the origin of the fired shell. It became evident that the one who attacked possessed long-range weaponry, far beyond the range of his vision from the sky.

Upon turning his gaze back to the explosion site, he discovered that the soldiers had fainted and were lying on the ground. Surprisingly, apart from that, it seemed that the explosion had not caused any other harm to them.

His assumption was swiftly validated as he witnessed one by one, the soldiers on the ground waking up, retrieving their weapons, and returning fire. With his focus solely on them, he came to the realization that there was no one within a kilometer's vicinity that they were firing at. However, as he raised his head and looked beyond that distance, he finally spotted the target of their relentless assault.

A group of enemy soldiers stood approximately two kilometers away, and to his amazement, the shots fired by the soldiers were hitting the enemy soldiers with remarkable precision each time they pulled the trigger.

As he turned his gaze back to the soldiers on the ground, a sudden disturbance caught his attention. Something swiftly passed by them, hitting the ground nearby, and before he could comprehend what it was,

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!

Chapter 177 What Technological Supremacy In Warfare Looks

Like

The ground under them shook violently as the shockwave rippled through the air. Dust and debris quickly engulfed the area, making it difficult for him to see clearly.

In a split second, he reacted instinctively, leaping towards Aron, attempting to shield him from the explosion's shockwave. But as he did so, it dawned on him that they were inside a virtual reality simulation. And in here, no real harm could befall them unless Aron consciously permitted it.

Understanding the truth, he let go of Aron and swiftly returned to his previous location he used to be before the explosion occurred. With a sense of relief and newfound clarity, he resumed his observation of the ongoing battle, knowing that their safety was assured.

Raising his head, he focused on the distant horizon to trace the source of the bomb. Two fiery embers glowed at the edge of his vision, confirming his suspicion that the bomb had been dropped from a fighter plane.

However, his fleeting sense of calm was shattered as another torrent of bombs descended upon them. Yet, this time, he remained assured that they were safe. Lifting his head, he beheld a colossal fleet of bombers showering explosives upon them, akin to grains of sand falling from the sky.

Yet, their impending doom was short-lived, for the shells from the tranquil ocean swiftly annihilated the fleet of bombers. Then once again, the ocean regained its composure, just as it had on its initial encounter.

For over thirty minutes, chaos ensued while Aron remained silent, observing the unfolding war around them. John, on the other hand, could only spectate, feeling the intensity of the battle. Finally, without a word, Aron teleported both of them to a warehouse brimming with weapons.

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"Let's take a look at the weapons then" he said, making his way to the first rack adorned with a collection of sleek, identical, futuristic-looking guns.

Aron explained, "This is Model 1. We're currently referring to it by that name until we come up with something more befitting of what it can dish out." He picked up two of the guns and handed one to John, who promptly began scrutinizing it closely.

As they inspected the guns, John suddenly found himself transported to a shooting range, accompanied by Aron's continued explanation. "This is what you can call a railgun," Aron clarified, "It utilizes electricity which is stored in the form of mana inside the shell of the bullet instead of the usual gunpowder to accelerate bullets along the rails on the barrel. The railgun's design enables it to shoot over very long distances, as long as there's sufficient electrical support for firing at that range." 𝑏𝑒𝘥𝑛𝑜𝘷𝑒𝑙.𝘰𝑟𝑔

Pausing briefly, Aron swiftly resumed his explanation."As part of its advanced features, it's equipped with a smart scope containing a computer chip that gathers data from all the gun's sensors. This chip then processes and relays the information either to the scope itself or to a soldier's headgear if he is wearing one," Aron explained, handing John a military headgear that seemed to materialize out of thin air.

"Put it on," he instructed, in which John wasted no time and put it on.

With the military headgear securely in place, John experienced an immediate transformation in his perception of the the headgear activated, a golden wave emanated from it, extending to cover a vast 3-kilometer radius and collecting data from the entire 6-kilometer diameter.

Within this expansive range, the headgear collected and processed all available information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, within its 6-kilometer diameter.

At the periphery of John's vision, he could see details about the number of people within the six-kilometer bubble. Currently, there were only two individuals present: himself and Aron, who was marked in green to indicate he was a friendly contact.

The headgear also provided real-time information about John's weapon, displaying that he had fifty bullets remaining in his gun's magazine. This knowledge would prove invaluable in the heat of battle.

Upon turning his gaze towards Aron, a distinctive name appeared above his head, written in elegant golden letters: "ARON MICHAEL(G)." The "G" designation revealed that the headgear's information identified Aron as the General of ARES.

But before he could look around more to get used to the headgear, the headgear issued a warning about the presence of enemy forces entering the 6-kilometer bubble, John's attention snapped to where the indicated threat was coming from.

Even though they were completely obscured by buildings, the headgear's advanced technology allowed him to see the complete outlines of the approaching enemy group.

John focused his attention on a single enemy, and immediately, the headgear sprang into action, displaying an astonishing array of details about the adversary. It showed every piece of equipment the enemy had, from the type of gun he carried to the number of bullets in his magazine.

Additionally, the headgear revealed information about the thickness of the enemy's armor and much more.

Realizing the significance of this level of information, John understood the immense advantage it granted him. Knowledge of an enemy's gear and capabilities was a game-changer in combat.

Having access to such details meant that if you are the enemy, you are better off jumping into a volcano, as in doing so there is at least a chance of you surviving from that than surviving from someone who had that much amount of information about you on the battlefield.

Aron's swift and precise action left no room for hesitation. As soon as the enemy took cover behind a wall that provided no other protection except the wall itself, Aron opened fire without a moment's delay.

With the railgun's extraordinary capabilities, the bullet pierced through the 2.5-kilometer distance, effortlessly penetrating the wall and striking the enemy with deadly accuracy.

The enemy, caught off guard and unable to comprehend the speed and accuracy of the attack, fell victim to the fatal shot, succumbing instantly before he could even react to the danger he was facing.

Now with an assurance that he could fire at the enemies after he saw Aron firing at them, John quickly raised his gun and aimed at the highlighted enemies.

As he raised his gun, he witnessed the headgear's real-time feedback, displaying a red dot that precisely indicated the bullet's trajectory if fired at that moment. This feature allowed him to gauge where the shot would land, ensuring a more accurate aim.

Upon aiming at the first enemy, the red dot turned yellow, accompanied by a warning that the bullet's path would be blocked by the obstacles on the way, making the shot futile.

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John heeded the advice and immediately moved on to the next target, as indicated by the headgear's green light, signaling an optimal shooting hesitation, John fired his gun, and in a matter of moments, the targeted enemy collapsed, taken down by the lethal shot.

The headgear's data analysis was proving to be an indispensable ally, guiding John's decision-making in real-time combat scenarios and allowing him to maximize his efficiency and ammunition use.

The silence of the gun's firing was deceptive, as its low hum remained unnoticed amidst the intensity of the battle. However, the recoil from the powerful railgun was nothing short of astonishing. Even with John's enhanced abilities due to Aron's healing bombardment, the force exerted by the weapon's firing was substantial, slightly pushing him backward with the firing of the shot.

Now with John having gotten the gun's feel, he swiftly shifted his attention to other enemies, firing the weapon with precision every time the headgear indicated a sure hit. The seamless coordination between his actions and the tactical data led to a swift elimination of the remaining foes.

In a mere ten seconds, every enemy on the battlefield had been neutralized. Aron skillfully dispatched about half of them, while John efficiently handled the rest. Their combined proficiency, aided by the advanced technology, resulted in a remarkably swift and decisive victory over their adversaries.

"how does it feel?" After all the enemies had perished, Aron asked John.

"Unreal!" John exclaimed, brimming with excitement. "With just this gun and the headgear, I'm confident that a trained infantryman could take on a team of special forces and emerge victorious, as long as he maintains his distance and prevents them from closing in." John's elation was evident in his every gesture, and his rapid breaths reflected his realization of how these two technologies could enable an ordinary person to eliminate a well-trained group of special forces.

"Indeed, this is just the beginning," Aron said with a satisfied smile on his face, before they found themselves back in the warehouse, and since John was still wearing the headgear, he was now presented with detailed information about each weapon within the 6 km diameter of the warehouse.

However, given the immense size of the warehouse, the data he was seeing was approximately 5 percent of the weapons present.

Chapter 178 Printraction

printraction [ ; ) New word I came up with combining construction and printing into one]

Few minutes before the weapons demonstration was set to begin.

Nova had been observing Aron's meeting with John. The moment John asked if Aron was prepared for what he had planned to do in order to instill respect and patriotism within the former soldiers who were on the verge of causing trouble, Nova immediately got to work while Aron assuringly answered John that he would be ready in time and John should be preparing for the first batch consisting of five thousand members that they will be sending, as requested by Aron.

At the Fusion reactor site.

Nova immediately checked the stock of new materials that had been continuously sent to the island since day one and haven't stopped yet.

And noticing that the stock seemed sufficient enough for her to begin working with the next phase of the construction on the island, she immediately got to work. ｂ𝚎ｄｎ𝚘ｖ𝚎𝚕．𝚘𝚛𝚐

She initiated the phase by increasing the energy production of the fusion reactor once again, as the printer came to life and started disintegrating the containers that were about to fill the warehouse to the brim.

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Hundreds of containers started disappearing at once and in their exchange, massive machines with tracks were being printed. This continued until all the containers within the warehouse were gone, now in their place stood a massive array of similar tracked machines, which wasted no time and immediately left the printer.

After they left the printer, about ten among these hundred printed tracked machines headed towards the fusion reactor which at the moment, although was not completely covered underground, still looked shabby and the few machines that arrived there were responsible for solving that.

These machines immediately set to work and started printing a building, which upon its completion would be standing on top of the reactor and will be serving as the main control room for the reactor. Here scientists and other personnel responsible for monitoring the reactor will be stationed.

Meanwhile, the remaining hundreds of machines were heading to a large patch of forest, dividing themselves into smaller groups and going to different parts of the forest, however, if one looked at them from a bird's point of view, they would discover that they had aligned together, forming a square, covering a distance of ten kilometers from all sides.

Immediately after making this formation, the machines started their work as they started sinking into the ground, continuing to do so until they reached a depth of sixty-four meters, after which they stopped sinking further and then started moving sideways, disintegrating the soil that came in their direction as they moved ahead, followed by the disintegrating of the trees on top of this soil and storing the atoms of these trees and soil in their containers while at the same time straightening and strengthening the ground as they passed while printing the stored solids within the ground, compacting it and making it the strongest it might have ever been.

With hundreds of these machines acting in synchronous motion, the digging, straightening and strengthening of the ground went pretty quickly, resulting in the task being completed in a matter of two hours, leaving behind a perfectly measured square hole that was sixty-four meters deep and ten kilometer in length on all it's four sides, a pretty massive task that would have taken humans months to complete to the desired perfection.

However, after doing their task, the machines didn't leave the hole since they had completed only the first phase of their task and were merely waiting for their next order to continue their work.

A few seconds later, they entered an idle mode, then some new vehicles arrived before stopping right where the hole began and then started dropping the atom storage containers one after the other into the hole. The machines in the hole did nothing other than wait for the whole process to be completed before they could continue with their work.

After dropping about tens of thousands of atom storage containers, the machines that were dropping them stopped and left the vicinity, before returning back to where they had come from.

With their retreat, the machines on the ground sprang back to life as they made their moves. One by one, they started collecting the containers before loading the atoms inside of them into themselves, disintegrating the container carrying the atoms immediately after and repairing any damage caused by them after being dropped from the height of sixty-four meters.

Now that all of the atoms in the containers were being loaded into the machines and the containers were disintegrated, the vehicles immediately started phase two of the construction which was the laying of the foundation.

With all the machines working in unison, they started printing a meter-thick foundation on top of their previously strengthened ground which took them about half an hour to finish, leaving behind a smooth, solid base at the bottom of the hole which was now completely filled with the printed material.

The machines then moved to the next step, printing columns to support the structure that would be printed at the top of these columns later on.

Hundreds of thick columns were now being printed on top of the already printed surface, reaching a height of about twenty meters from the base of the hole, which was about halfway to the surface before the machines came to a synchronized halt, allowing the columns to take shape.

They then continued printing, but this time it was done sideways, now slowly but surely they were completing the construction of the bottom-most basement floor which now had a ceiling that was at a height of twenty meters, pretty large for such a wide floor.

When the floor construction was completed, the machines seamlessly returned back to printing another stretch of columns, once again not taking a pause until they had reached a height of another twenty meters from the surface of the new floor, before immediately moving ahead to print the ceiling for this new floor.

They then repeated this same process for the third time, in which similar to before the columns were raised for twenty meters before printing a ceiling which was now exactly rested on the surface, forming a perfectly flat top.

With the lowermost foundation being one meter thick reducing the depth of the hole to sixty-three meters and the three ceilings, each being a meter in thickness, this further reduced the depth hole to zero, leaving behind a three-floor basement.

However, the machines didn't stop there. Some of them started printing new columns while others started printing walls for the massive building that was being constructed.

Chapter 179 Touring the Warehouse

After completing the basic structure of the underground building, the machines started printing the walls, however, this time they were joined by a new batch of similar machines as they helped in the construction of the building much faster. But, the batch of these new machines wasn't all there for the construction of the walls. Instead, some of them went to the massive square holes that were left by the previous machines while they were printing the rest of the building, each of these holes was more than twenty meters in length from all sides and had a number of over fifty.

These holes were strategically placed in similar positions in all of the printed floors, indicating that they were left there for a purpose and these new machines immediately started to accomplish their purpose as they started printing what appeared like electromagnetic rail beams that were being placed in the four corners of the squares, extending directly from the topmost to the lowermost floor of the building and while these rail beams were being printed they were also fused with the printed floor, making sure they were completely secured, not falling out of its designated position unless the whole building were to fall with it.

For those who might have watched the ongoing construction a little bit, they would have immediately realized that these square holes left behind were nothing but elevator shafts and those railgun beams were what will be used to move the elevator, capable of carrying any heavy loads, no matter how much weight they carried, as long as electricity was provided to raise the elevator, removing the need to put a weight limit on them since this building was supposed to be housing many machines in the future which would be quite a problem if it had elevator wasn't capable of carrying weights exceeding a certain weight limits.

Now, with the new machines assisting in the printraction of the new and massive building, the construction of the five more floors at the top was immediately taken care of in a matter of hours, leaving behind a colossal building project that had a total of eight floors, three underground and five floors on the top, was completed in a day, which would have taken humans a year or more for its completion.

The building's size itself was intimidating, but the emptiness on its inside was scarier since the machines had only printed the shell of the building, leaving behind all the interiors and all the necessities to be accomplished by another batch of machines, after that the whole building will have all the necessities and would be complete and operational ready within a week, and this in itself was an unimaginable feat.

(Image here)

...

Meanwhile, back to Aron and John.

John now found himself being bombarded with vast amounts of information as if there was no tomorrow just a few moments before the headgear computer immediately filtered all of them and only displayed the information for the things that John was directly looking at.

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His eyes laid on the cabinet of weapons he had used before had come from with their stats appearing in front of his face and now that the headgear was allowed access to the server of the warehouse, the information was now even more detailed than what it previously was.

[System Overview: Model 01] (Image here)

Power Source: Mana in Bullet casings

Projectile Type: Kinetic Slugs

Muzzle Velocity: 2,000 m/s

Maximum Range: 6 Km

[Power Levels]

Magnetic Coils: Optimal

Cooling Systems: Operational

[Operational Status]

Targeting Systems: Locked On

Ammo Count: 50/50

Barrel Temperature: 38°C

Railgun Alignment: Calibrated

[Safety Precautions]

Secondary Safeties: Engaged

Unauthorized Access: Blocked

Emergency Shutdown: Available

[Firing Mode]

Single Shot: Enabled

Rapid Fire: Disabled

Burst Fire: Disabled

[Maintenance Schedule]

Next Checkup: 2 weeks 𝚋𝚎𝚍𝚗ｏ𝚟𝚎𝚕.ｏｒｇ

Maintenance Status: Up to Date

He was surprised to see all of this enhanced amount of information that the headgear could now access thanks to the new credential that allowed him to access all of the new information..

He then moved his head to the next rack which had handguns that had a make style similar to the previous guns, wasting no time the system responded and displayed its information.

[Model Information: Model 02]

Power Source: Mana in Bullet casings

Projectile Type: Electromagnetic Rounds

Muzzle Velocity: 1,500 m/s

Maximum Range: 1750 meters

[Power Levels]

Magnetic Coils: Optimal

Fusion Cell: Stable

Cooling System: Active

[Operational Status]

Targeting Systems: Locked On

Ammo Count: 25/25

Barrel Temperature: 32°C

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Railgun Alignment: Calibrated

[Safety Features]

Safety Lock: Enabled

Grip Authentication: Activated

Emergency Deactivation: Available

[Firing Mode]

Semi-Automatic: Enabled

Burst Mode: Disabled

Full Auto Mode: Disabled

[Size and Portability]

Compact Design: Yes

Weight: 500 mg

[Maintenance Schedule]

Next Checkup: 1 month

Maintenance Status: Up to Date

And holy shit, the handgun version of the model did not disappoint him at all since it was packing comparatively more firepower than any conventional rifles used by any other country's military.

The standoff distance of this handgun was almost the same distance as any enemy weapon's maximum firing range.

(Standoff distance refers to a weapon's ability to outrange the enemy's weapon. )

Aron continued to demonstrate the other weapons available in the warehouse. With John wearing the headgear, the process of introducing him to the various weapons became much faster and more efficient.

"As for that," Aron said, pointing at a shelf with different-looking bombs that lacked boosters behind them, "that is what they call the 'That Direction Remover.' It's responsible for removing the original direction it's sent towards, and you've already seen it in action, albeit in its weakened version."

"Regarding the boosters for it," Aron explained, gesturing towards a rack displaying different sizes of boosters, "they are inserted after the mission is already planned. There are three types of boosters: long-range, medium-range, and short-range. These boosters enhance the capabilities of the 'Direction Remover' bombs depending on the specific mission requirements."

"Is this the bomb dropped by the fighter jet?" John inquired, his eyes scanning the details of the various-looking bombs on the shelf shown to him by the headgear, all bearing the same name but distinguished by different numbers at the end.

[Model Overview]

Name: That Direction Remover Type 01-05

Purpose: Precision Demolition & Neutralization

Version: Type 01, Type 02, Type 03, Type 04, Type 05

[Specifications]

Blast Radius: Adjustable (50m - 15000m)

Payload Type: High-Mana-Explosive

Activation Method: programable

Deployment: Aerial, Sea or Ground-Based

[Safety Features]

Arming Mechanism: Secure

Remote Encryption: Active

Fail-Safe: Enabled

[Customization Options]

Blast Yield: Low, Medium, High

Delay Timer: Programmable

Directional Impact: Omni-directional or Selective

[Power]

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Power Source: MANA

Power Level: Stable

[Status Check]

Type 01: Ready for Deployment

Type 02: Ready for Deployment

Type 03: Ready for Deployment

Type 04: Ready for Deployment

Type 05: Ready for Deployment

"Yes, that was the weakest version," Aron replied, providing further explanation. "Its setting was to explode at a time when it would cause the most damage to the designated targets. In that instance, it was the soldiers who survived the initial attack that faced the impact of the explosion." Aron answered and explained.

"By the way, how did the soldiers manage to survive such a concentrated explosion?" John inquired, his curiosity growing even stronger. Having read the bomb's description, he knew that surviving such an explosion, even in a bunker, seemed improbable without sustaining serious injuries. Moreover, it would require the bunker to have at least twenty-five meters of concrete or granite between them and the blast to stand a chance of survival."

Chapter 180 Making Their Move

"By the way, how did the soldiers manage to survive against such a concentrated explosion?" John asked.

"They were using one of our experimental technologies known as the C-Kinetic Shield MK-II," Aron answered as he materialized something that appeared like a thick smartphone and handed it to John who was immediately shown the details of its technology.

[Model Information]

Name: C-Kinetic Shield MK-II (Testing Version)

Size: Compact, Smartphone Thickness

Purpose: Prototype Testing & Evaluation

Power Source: MANA

Charge Status: 85% 𝚋ｅｄ𝚗𝚘𝚟ｅ𝚕．𝚗ｅｔ

Backup Power: NONE

[Shield Strength]

Energy Absorption Rate: 75% (Variable)

Regeneration Rate: Testing

Coverage Area: Partial Protection

[Status Check]

Shield Activation: Testing

Tactical Mode: Engaged

Adaptive Deflection: Testing

Overload Protection: Unstable

[Features]

Kinetic Absorption: Limited Test Data

Particle Barrier: Experimental Field

Mobility Enhancer: Test Enhancements

Reactive Adaptation: Ongoing Evaluation

[Maintenance]

Health Status: Under Evaluation

Self-Diagnostic: In Progress

Service Required: Frequent Updates

Note: The C-Kinetic Shield MK-II is currently in the testing phase. It is not completely operational and its performance is subject to the ongoing evaluation. Use it with extreme caution, as there is a possibility that it may not provide complete protection in all situations.

"It should be ready for real combat use in a few real-world months after a version ready for military use is be completed," Aron finished his explanation while he gave John enough time to read through the description of the device.

"When it is officially ready for combat use, it will be a revolutionary tech and might make it almost impossible to lose a fight when someone has this on," John muttered in excitement as he imagined how it would be like when going full haywire on a group of enemies with this type of shield on him which will allow him to fight without any fear of death.

"As long as it has enough energy to sustain the fight," Aron added after seeing the expression on John's face, knowing exactly what he was thinking.

"How long can the energy last when the final version is on rollout?" John asked, curious about for how long this shield would be able to protect the soldiers.

"As long as it is not shot upon, the energy will only be depleted after a month of the shield being in a constant active state. However, that is for standby, every time the shield is forced to block a projectile, the energy will be depleted and the more powerful the thing that hits the shield is, the more energy will be drawn from the power source. So, it might last, maybe a full day of constant combat," Aron explained.

"That still gives enough time for the soldiers to deal heavy damage to the enemies," John remarked upon hearing Aron's answer.

"Yes, but it won't be carried separately by the soldiers. It will be stored inside the soldier's kinetic skeleton.," Aron added.

"Mh…" John nodded his head, understanding that having it come integrated with the kinetic skeleton would ensure that it remained in a place where falling due to some mistake would be almost impossible when compared to if the soldiers were to carry it themselves.

"Then what about the artillery that shot down the bombers?" John asked, recalling how the intimidating bombers were shot down by artillery fire instead of missiles.

"Those came from an electromagnetic rail gun from an island located a hundred and fifty kilometers away from the battlefield," Aron answered as he showed John the footage of the railguns turning and firing in a sync, having the shells fly the whole distance of more than a hundred kilometers in a matter of three seconds before downing the bomber fleets.

John's eyes almost popped out of their sockets in astonishment after hearing that the distance from the bombers and the time it had taken for the projectiles to reach and hack down the bombers.

His mind was envisioning having the country covered with these systems, creating a shell coverage, allowing it to stop anything from entering the country's airspace without permission.

Aron continued to show him the different weapons within the warehouse, almost causing the General to lose his life by a heart attack since he couldn't get used to the advanced technology that he was being continuously shown, and with each item that passed, the next would have an even higher level of novelty. Having at least one of such advanced weapons was the dream of every military, however, Aron had all of them stored in a massive warehouse where they were waiting for their need to rise.

…..

At Aron's house in America.

"What can we help you with?'' Donald, the head of security at Aron's house, asked the two men wearing vests and hats with a logo he recognized from the local electric utility company as they tried to enter the compound of the house.

"We have been sent from the company to investigate the source of the energy usage spike that had occurred a few days ago from this house," answered one of the men as he rummaged through the bag on his back after setting the toolbox in his hand down.

"Here are our credentials and the order from the company for the checkup we are supposed to conduct in this house," said the man after finding the necessary documents from his bag.

Donald took the documents and read them carefully, not skimping on anything on the documents before taking out his phone and calling the utility company's customer service.

When they answered the call, he asked them if there was a scheduled check-up on the house and provided them with the address so that they could verify it in their systems.

After receiving a positive answer from them, Donald allowed the two to enter the fence as he escorted them to the front door of the house where rang the doorbell and waited with them for a response.

The doorbell's ring echoed throughout the house, prompting Rose, Aron's mother, to get from the sofa and head to the door to see who it was.

The door's surveillance feed displayed Donald and two people whom she didn't recognize, the two were wearing hats and vests which had a symbol she recognized as belonging to the local electric utility company.

Pressing on the microphone button, she asked "Donald, is there a problem?"

"No Ma'am. They are from the utility company and were sent to take a look at the cause of the power consumption surge that occurred a few days ago," Donald reported immediately after he was asked.

"There was a power surge in the house?" Rose murmured, quite surprised by such an anomaly having occurred in the house without her being unaware of it.

"It seems so, Ma'am, that's why they came to check if there is something wrong with the wiring and to see if it is dangerous to those occupying the house," Donald explained.

"Come in," Rose said as she immediately pressed the button to open the door, not wanting to waste any time since she was worried there might still be some potential danger.

"Sorry for the disturbance, Ma'am," the two men said after entering the house.

"No worries," Rose replied, her eyes turning to the side as Michael, Aron's father came after noticing his wife raising her voice slightly out of nervousness.

"Where is the distribution panel?" the utility worker asked moments after Rose explained the whole ordeal to Michael.

"It is in the basement. Donald can take you there," Michael answered, prompting Donald to take further action, understanding the underlying meaning behind Aron's father's words. This meant that Donald needed to keep an eye on them as Michael knew that the basement was the place where his son's impromptu server or something was stored, which resulted in Aron spending most of his time there.

"I will lead the way," Donald said, taking off his shoes and wearing slippers, giving the two men slippers to wear too before he guided them down the stairs, heading to the basement.

Chapter 181 The Morgan's Move

"What is the analysis saying?" Aubrey, Morgan's Family Head inquired to the slightly trembling presenter who was overly nervous, which was in stark contrast to his confident demeanor during the previous conference where he had given an idea that had earned him praise from Aubrey.

"Why are you quiet? Do you want to piss me off," George, the Family Head's Favorite son asked, confidence evident in his voice and personality since he had been the favorite son after he had been successful in executing the attack on the Rothchilds and inflicting heavy damages on them.

"The thing is, the suspected individual seems to be in the process of dumping billions into the country, pumping the economy with large amounts of dollars in the country and increasing the confidence in investors, reducing the chances of the economy collapsing to a lesser degree than what we had previously calculated," he paused to take a breath as his heart was almost trying to jump from his chest from all the nervousness.

"To what percent does it fall?" George asked, narrowing his eyes.

"It fell from a 96 percent certainty to 34 percent and is still continuously falling. If the trend continues this way, not only will it reduce the bankruptcy chances to zero, the economy itself will start raising and recovering from the damage, which will be quite detrimental to us," explained the man.

"That's not good," one of the board members remarked upon hearing the alarming fall of numbers.

"Anyways, can we stop it from continuing to fall?" asked another board member, his face indicating his reluctance to lose this chance, since he had managed to gather a pretty large chunk of money and planned to double it by buying assets at a cheaper price after the country went bankrupt.

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"Well, we could start by pressuring the American government to prevent the company from being allowed to do the complete transfer process, which will force a large chunk of their funds to remain in America and can't be used in the process of helping the Eden's economy. However, that would most likely result in him selling the company and cashing out his money. And even if he doesn't choose that option, it is very unlikely that he will face a money crunch," explained the presenter.

"What do you mean by that?" asked Aubrey even though he had his own suspicions.

"From our investigation in finding out who had taken the second most wins, we have come to the conclusion that he is the most likely winner, coming second behind us," answered the presenter.

"But how did he manage to avoid being discovered by us for such a long time and how did he even know of our plans?" asked George, his face was expressing curiosity, as he was certain that the plan was kept under a high level of secrecy, through which even the moles of the Rothschild Family couldn't get a whiff of, allowing them to be inflicted by such heavy damages.

"Although we don't know exactly how he got to know about it, we suspect that he has a program that, by the fifth minute of the crash, managed to deduce that it was a flash crash and the market was bound to return back to normal when the circuit breaker was activated. He chose to use thousands of burner accounts to massively profit from it, before becoming the second beneficiary of our attack." 𝙗𝒆𝒅𝒏𝙤𝒗𝒆𝙡．𝙤𝒓𝙜

The presenter paused for a moment trying to catch a breath before continuing, "As for how the program knew that, the highest likelihood comes from it being a result of machine learning, similar to how they reported his company's AI work. If he can create such a sophisticated program to work on such small devices, what are the chances that he has one that uses his company's data center as its computer for learning and helping him in things like financial speculations? As for how sure we are, we conducted an investigation and found that all of the company's programs both the BugZapper and the GAIA OS, are using Amazon's servers for their online services which leaves behind the two hundred million data centers with no other use for the company other than what we speculated."

When the Morgan's Family Head heard the reasoning, he couldn't help but be convinced. He raised his head, which had been resting on his hand's support under his chin and said, "So what are the other remaining suggestions that can bring back the chances of the country's collapsing economy once again to the ninety percent, other than blocking his company's moving there, as it seems that there is powerful backer helping him with that?" he asked.

"Although we can't block his cash which is entering the country, we can employ a measure that will make others who had brought their money to the country and were planning on investing it to earn massive profits have no choice but withdraw their investments and escape with their cash," the presenter said. This time, his nervousness and worry had completely disappeared and his once lost confidence was regained when he found out that Aubrey and his son didn't choose to punish him for the miscalculations on his previous plan that almost resulted in them losing a fat meat which was almost ready for their eating.

"And what is that plan?" asked George in a tone which indicated that he was now getting annoyed at being put in suspense, which immediately knocked the regained confidence of the presenter off the window, making him realize that he had messed up.

Immediately reflecting on himself, he coughed and said, "Using Esparia as the chess piece for our plan to scare the investors."

"Ooh…. I see where you are going with the idea," George said and added, "Are you planning on making them attack Eden through the borders where both sides have been amassing forces for the past two months?" he asked, speculating what the plans were about.

"Yes, that is the very plan. And since there were already tensions between them due to Esparia blocking access to their ports and confiscating the imports for Eden, it won't be something that no one expected and they won't be suspecting someone else to be behind this either," added the presenter.

"Good good. This will reduce their already lower credit rating in the world and make many people hesitant on lending them money since there is no chance of them being able to pay back. It will also make the hyenas leave the country since they aren't sure of the new forces that have replaced the weak military but still absorbed the former soldiers' ability to win the fight which risks the country falling and them losing their investment. A genius, really genius move," the George said, feeling satisfied with the plan they had come up with.

Aubrey, thinking a little further, asked, "Is this the best plan where we will be benefiting no matter the outcome?"

"Yes sir. If Esparia wins the war and ends up taking over Eden, since we are the ones financing them, we will be the first to choose the spoils of war. And if they end up negotiating a deal, we will delay it as far as possible until all of the money in the country flees while also devaluing the currency for the most benefits," answered the presenter, showing that they really had thought this for much longer.

"Good, then you are heading to Esparia tomorrow and have a meeting with their President. Make sure you return with an agreement from them. Money shouldn't be a problem. Tell him we can arrange clean money for him in an offshore account where he can use it at any moment he wants without having to worry about any of it implicating him negatively," said Aubrey, his tone carrying a hint of satisfaction with the way they had come up which will allow them to, for sure, receive the largest share of the country when everything came to a conclusion.

Chapter 182 Nova playing Sim City

𝚋𝚎ｄ𝚗ｏｖ𝚎𝚕．ｃｏ𝚖

A real-world day has passed since Aron had started showing John the weapons in the warehouse, meaning a total of fifteen days have passed in the universal simulation already.

During this period, Aron had demonstrated to John everything that was in the warehouse and even the experimental ones that were still under the process of research. This was then followed by him taking the soldiers to where they would be receiving their training after Aron called for them.

Meanwhile, Nova, who had just finished decorating and furnishing the building, shifted her focus to the decoration of the surroundings of the building.

She started doing so by building a large parking lot, immediately followed by building a massive park surrounding the building, ensuring that the atmosphere surrounding the building doesn't appear to be mismatched, destroying its beauty.

She also followed by starting to build infrastructure leading to the building since one of the pipeline digging and one pipeline printing machine had also been working diligently as they were building a massive pipeline extending for kilometers, reaching to the ocean and connecting the building to the abundant water source.

Before the water was sent through the pipelines, the ocean water passed through a printer of sorts which wasted no time in removing all the salts and other impurities present in the water and then the filtered and pure water was sent down the pipeline, to be used by the facilities for their needs.

At the same time, the machine was also collecting and storing the deuterium atoms, which were retrieved and transported to the reactor after the atomic storage tank became full to be used as fuel for the fusion reactor. Tritium, on the other hand, was continuously being produced within the reactor through the interaction of neutrons with lithium, so it could be said that the future energy needs of the facility were being met by using the ocean.

Not stopping there with just the infrastructure projects, Nova moved on to construct a road which will be connecting different parts of the island. And instead of using the method of printing asphalt, she was employing a revolutionary method that could be considered almost magical.

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The printer-like road making machine was disintegrating the sand below it and rearranging the atoms in a robust and rigid lattice structure. By arranging the silicon and oxygen atoms found in sand in a diamond-like lattice for the first layer, Nova was creating a highly robust and strong structure.

And since the machine was not just printing one layer, each layer was employed with a different means of strengthening the road in different ways.

With the first layer of the sand molecules (Oxygen and Silicon) being arranged in a Diamond-like Lattice Structure, the layer following that was arranged in a Hexagonal Close-Packed (HCP) Structure, where atoms were formed in a tightly packed layer in a hexagonal pattern. By using this configuration, Nova maximized the strength of the atomic bonds.

The following layer was made using Nanosheet Formation where nanosheets made of silicon dioxide were incorporated to provide additional strength and flexibility to the road, allowing the material to be able to withstand bending and deformation.

The layer after that added structural reinforcements, introducing structural reinforcements, such as dislocations or impurity atoms, to strengthen the material and prevent crack propagation. If that could even happen.

With all these meticulous processes, different layers were being used to make one thick material and were continuously printed on top of each other until a half-meter deep structure was materialized, taking its rightful place on the now strengthened ground.

Although the process might seem to have taken a long time for printing, the whole process had been done within microseconds, allowing the machine to print a twenty-meter wide road with a length of ten meters in a matter of ten seconds.

And with about ten more machines of about fifteen meters in length working along the first machine's side, printing another road simultaneously for all the different directions, the entire island was becoming the first place to witness and receive the honor of having its atoms being disintegrated and rejoined to create a novel material that was deemed too good to be used as a road surface.

Thus, the world's hardest, strongest, and most flexible road, destined to last for centuries without damage was born.

A middle finger to the Romans road engineers.

A similar but different thing was happening on the center of the wide roads that were being printed. A railway was being printed on the empty middle space heading wherever the road was heading.

However, Nova didn't stop with just the construction of the road and the rail network, a new batch of machines that had been driving for about half an hour finally arrived at the makeshift port that was being guarded by the Ares members with guns in their possessions. A few speed boats could also be seen to be patrolling from a distance, making sure that no one is able to approach the island, as the knowledge of whatever was being created on the island could potentially plunge the world into chaos.

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The machines didn't even pause for a second as ten of them continued driving, entering the water as if they were a malfunctioning Tesla's autopilot. Slowly but surely, the machines started disappearing into the water, but even if that was happening right in front of them, none of the Ares soldiers did anything to stop the machines.

The other ten machines that were left behind by those that tried to commit suicide by water, took no short than a few seconds to scan the whole makeshift port before immediately starting to disintegrate everything that could be seen on the port.

The soldier had already received orders to retreat to a far distance and watched at the sight before their eyes in horror, as how everything that once excited, wasn't anymore, vanishing as if it were a mirage, remaining as only memories of these soldiers as a proof of their existence.

Being soldiers, they couldn't help but imagine what would happen if there ever comes a day when this technology would be used as a weapon. How could they even try fighting it?

The machines on the surface, not caring about the spectators, continued their work, working in tandem with the ones that went under the water as they started deepening the depth of the port to a massive depth of seventy meters, immediately breaking the record for the world's deepest port by over four times.

This depth extended for more than a kilometer parallel to the shore, clearly showing that they were planning on making the initial port about a kilometer in length.

Now that the disintegration process was completed, it was immediately followed by the machines starting the printraction of the port.

Part by part, slowly but surely, the port was coming to life. All of this happened in front of the eyes of the soldiers, who would never be able to forget this day of their life, knowing that this was merely the beginning of their bizarre adventures, as long as they continue working for Aron, if you ignore the fact of them being healed by him before.

Throughout the entirety of this ordeal, from Nova starting the construction of the massive building in tandem with the building on top of the fusion reactor, the construction of the water pipeline and the super strong road, Aron remained unmoving on his reclining beach chair with an umbrella protecting him from the sun and a thin veil of sheet covering his body, making him appear as if he was calmly sleeping while having a nice dream.

Meanwhile, in a meeting room.

"So, what did you find?" James Comey, the FBI director, asked the two men standing in front of the long meeting room table of high-ranking officials in the Bureau.

"Sir, in his basement, there is a server that seems to not have been upgraded since the time he bought it. And although its power consumption was minimal it was still indicated that it was actively being used. Also there was something else that was consuming enough power than what the entire house does.

Nothing comes to my mind that would cause such a machine to gobble such a high amount of electricity while maintaining abnormal silence," reported one of the men, and not much surprisingly, he was the one who had visited and inspected Aron's house under the guise of being an inspector from the power utility company.

"Did you manage to take a look at it?" asked Lisa Page, the FBI attorney.

"No, madam. There was a guard accompanying us throughout the whole process," answered the second man.

"So, this means that you failed to plant anything into the house that could provide us with continuous information from that household?" James asked, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration.

"Unfortunately, that's true," replied one of them.

"Now that it's out of the question, does anyone have an idea on how we can gather information from him that would be helpful enough to allow the President to have enough power to stop him from moving his company?" James inquired, his stress visibly increasing.

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"How about his friends?" One of the high-ranking members in the meeting room suggested.

"Most of them had abandoned him after he was expelled from the university and despite their attempts to reconnect with him, he ignored every single one of them, which leaves behind only two of his friends, Sarah and Felix. However, Felix is with him in Eden, while Sarah is the one who is responsible for moving the company, so we won't be getting anything from her either," Lana, a high-ranking member in the bureau answered, striking the option down while also making them know that she knew enough about Aron.

"Any other suggestions?" James added after hearing a response.

One of the two standing men raised his hand, asking for permission to speak.

James took a look around the table and seeing that there was no one who had a suggestion to give, he turned to the man and nodded, giving him the permission to speak.

"Since we've already started with our operation, why don't we continue with it?" He said and paused to see if he would be permitted to continue or if they were going to shut down his idea as soon as it began.

Seeing that no one interrupted him, he continued his suggestion, "From the manual I read during our preparation of inspecting his house, I remember reading a document about the electrical code violations," he paused for a moment trying to remember the details as much as possible before he continued.

"There is a part in the document that stated that after the inspection, if the cause of the problem is deemed to be a significant public safety risk, authorities might need to take immediate action to address the issue, such as temporarily disconnecting the machine or cordoning off the property until the hazards are resolved." He looked around at the people in the room before continuing.

"We can use this guise of public safety to cordon off his properties and have about a few days to inspect the servers in his house since most of the sensitive information should be there."

"The few days that we gain until his lawyers can force the court to make us leave his property should be enough for us to download all of the data in his home server for later analysis. We can also plant bugs in the house, though I'm afraid that he might do a bug sweep on the whole house after we are forced to vacate the house."

"In the court, our lawyers can argue that the vacating of the compound can only be obliged under the condition that we are allowed to take the machine that caused the power surge for inspection to avoid risking harm to the public. This gives us the ability to confiscate that strange machine and see if it is the stated 'State of the Earth' computer that has been giving us a headache when we tried to decrypt the data we intercepted from his house through the fiber optic nodes."

He finished his explanation for the plan he had come up with, perusing the room to see if they would agree to his suggested plan.

And when he saw their expressions, he knew that he had hit the jackpot, while a smile could be seen on Jame's face, indicating his satisfaction with the plan.

"That's a very good plan," James Comey nodded, the smile still gracing his face since he couldn't find any notable hole in it, but just in case, he turned to Lisa Page, the FBI attorney and asked, "Is it feasible?" 𝙗𝒆𝙙𝒏𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡.𝙣𝙚𝒕

"Though there needs to be some polishing, it is indeed a good plan. Although he might suspect that it was us, he can't prove it unless he has some connection to the higher-ups. Which he doesn't," she answered, causing the smile on James' face to widen even more.

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Shortly after, John said, "Since you came up with this plan, you will be the leader of the operation. Work with Lisa to polish the plan and choose anyone you want to be on your team. Whatever happens, just make sure that you have the data from his servers and that strange box back to the headquarters by the time the court forces us to evict the building. Understood?"

"Yes sir," the man answered with an excited smile on his face since his idea was accepted and now he was even allowed to lead the operation by himself.

"What's your name again?" James Comey asked, this time genuinely wanting to know the man's name since he had previously seen it on a document about the operation but didn't give it much of an importance, resulting in him forgetting it.

"My name is Peter Strzok" Answered the man.

"Peter Strzok, keep up the good work," James nodded, raising from his chair and patting his shoulder as he walked out of the room.

"Yes sir," Peter answered before turning to Lisa Page, smiling at her, trying to make a good impression since they would be working together in the upcoming days.

"Nice to meet you," he greeted.

"Nice to meet you too," Lisa Page replied, reciprocating the smile he gave her.

(For those who know them ?)

[Welcome back sir] Nova greeted Aron, appearing in front of him in her augmented reality form the moment Aron opened his eyes after logging off the VR, having just finished his meeting with John just moments Ago.

"It looks like you really went all out," Aron said after he opened his eyes and could see the side of the building rising a hundred or so meters in height, its length resembling a Titan wall. 𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘯𝘰𝑣𝘦𝘭.𝘰𝘳𝘨

[I decided to start earlier to make sure that no problem occurs midway and causes delays to the project] Nova reported.

"What do you mean by that?" Aron asked, quite puzzled.

[Based on my calculations using the variables and datasets that I have access to, it shows that there is a high chance that Esparia will escalate its actions, either due to either external influence or internal factors] She explained to the now completely focused Aron, who after hearing this report had lost any curiosity about the building behind him or about any of the other infrastructure that was still ongoing the printraction process.

"What timelines are we operating on?" Aron asked immediately.

[It depends on variables in action here, some of them even are projecting no less than two weeks, while some of the others project that it will take no less than a month before the first shot is fired] She clarified.

"That's enough time to have a first batch of graduates," Aron said, releasing a sigh of relief realizing that he had sufficient time to prepare himself.

[Also, while you were having a tour with John, through the CCTV network you built into the neighborhood, I discovered two people heading to your house. They did some inspections on the electric wiring network]

[After accessing the security database about the two people's visit, I found information about them that Donald had uploaded to the house's security team's database, showing a picture of their credentials. When I hacked into the listed company and got my hands on their employees' details, I found that it seems to have been registered just a few days ago. However, the documents were very skilfully edited to make it look like they had been working for five years] Nova took a break and finally came to a conclusion.

[Anyone who looked through their documents would think that they really had been working for the company for a few years] She reported and explained what she found.

"FBI?" Aron muttered with a frown after hearing the explanations while touching his forehead.

[Yes] Nova answered bluntly with a single word, not sugarcoating anything at all despite knowing that Aron hated this name the most, second only to the hate he had once had for Rottem.

"Looks like I need to buy a school," Aron said in a dry tone, not joking in the least.

Upon hearing that, Nova's servers immediately got to work to analyze the reason behind such a statement from him.

[School for who? Henry. As he was the only one in their family going to school.] She thought, procession the information.

[Where is the school going to be? Of Course, Eden. Meaning that Henry will have to move to Eden] she continued to deduce.

Adding a few more queries and answering them herself, Nova finally found the most likely reason behind Aron's words to be answered that way.

[You plan to use this incident as a way to convince your parents to move to Eden?] She asked.

"Yes," Aron replied with a smile on his face.

[Should I send a few of the remaining Ares personnel to America to move the quantum computer? I'm more than 97 percent sure that they will return with one of the more than 530,867 legal ways with which they could get their hands on the quantum computer] Nova suggested.

"No, leave it there. It is better if they take it. No, I very much hope that they do it," Aron muttered, the corner of his lips curving into a sinister smile.

Seeing that smile on his face, Nova knew either the FBI was in for a treat or the entire US government was about to learn a very valuable lesson the hard way.

Among her variables, Nova considered the task the quantum computer at his home had been doing after she migrated to the quantum server: Data transfer.

[Are you planning to let them have it so that you can have access to their classified network?] Nova asked after a moment.

"Yes, it's like killing two birds with one stone," Aron answered.

"Although I could have convinced my parents to move here peacefully, they would still entertain the idea of returning to America whenever they want. But if they were to see how the government treats me, they will also have the same feeling as I do. And after they move here, their nostalgia for America should gradually subside," Aron answered by explaining, giving Nova another reason as to why he wanted the quantum computer to be taken.

"Still, order the Ares members living in the surrounding buildings of my family's house to be on standby, just in case if something or someone tries to harm them during the period where I wait for the three letter agency to make their move," Aron ordered, asking for an increase of scrutiny of the Ares members that were living as normal people in nearly half the houses around his family's neighborhood.

[Yes sir. With the access to the entire CCTV network that you had built in the neighborhood, it's impossible for something to pass through without me noticing and informing them at once] Nova answered, assuring Aron, alleviating his worries.

"Good. Let's tour the building during that time," Aron said, rising from the beach chair he had been seated on throughout the time he had been talking to the AR of Nova through the glasses.

As he toured the lowermost floor of the building, Aron couldn't help but smile with satisfaction when he noticed that the pods were arranged in quadruple deckers, covering the entire floor with well-managed pipes coming from them, yet not destroying the beautiful arrangements.

"How many of them are here?" he asked.

[The floor has ten thousand pods and since they are in quadruple deckers (meaning there are three more on top of each pod on the floor separated by a space of a meter) it means there are forty thousand of them] she answered.

"Tell John to start increasing the recruitment of the soldiers since we can now accommodate forty thousand of them here for training at once, there is no need to waste the resources and leave them inactive," Aron instructed.

[Done]

The next day.

"Oh my god what the heck happened here?"

Gasped one of the fifty Ares soldiers who had been sent the next day, responding to Aron's order for them to come so that they could receive their training earlier than the rest of the soldiers who were scheduled to arrive by the next week.

And as the rest of the occupants disembarked from the messy boat, they noticed the massive new port which the soldiers knew didn't exist before, since some of them in this batch had helped in transferring the first batch of the materials to the island when Aron was about to start the construction of the fusion reactor.

The port looked new and futuristic, and though empty, it still commanded respect since it was built differently than any other usual port, it was a hybrid port for both the civilian and military vessels to dock on it without needing any specialized modifications.

Faced with the size of the port the boat those soldiers were in felt out of place finding itself in a situation where you take off your shoes in a house where everyone enters with their on them.

When they got off the boat after it was docked on the dock specifically made for small boats, they met with a few fellow members of Ares who had been on the island throughout its construction, helping Aron in quite a few things and had the honor of witnessing the miracles happening everywhere on the island during the past few months.

"What happened here?" one of the newcomers asked their fellow who was welcoming them on the port.

"I will explain it on the way. We're operating on a tight schedule," said the welcoming companion and before he immediately started jogging prompting the newcomers to start jogging behind him as well.

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"The longer I'm on this island, the more questions I have," remarked one of the newcomers as they jogged behind their escort until he noticed the two-hundred meter long train waiting for them.

"GET IN!" the escort shouted and the train's doors automatically opened as if waiting for them to get in.

One by one, the ARES members boarded the train, finding themselves inside a very luxurious train, which was a first-time experience for many of them.

Taking their seat, the door automatically closed followed by the train starting to move very smoothly, devoid of any friction, it was as if they were floating, which was also true since the train was electromagnetically propelled.

The journey took less than a minute and the soldiers' eyes widened as they beheld the massive building and developed infrastructure in the vicinity of the city.

A few seconds later, the train finally came to a full stop a few meters away from a door made specifically for the entry to allow those arriving by the train so that they could access the building with it.

One by one, they got off and passed through the door, finding a waiting room on the other side, respectfully taking their seats as soon as possible and started waiting for the following instructions.

...…

"Let's start, shall we?" Aron said as he observed the feed of the soldiers sitting in the waiting room, all showing a military demeanor, quiet and serious expressions on their faces.

[Yes] Nova responded and immediately released a sleeping gas in the room, the gas was subtle enough that the soldiers only realized that something was wrong only when they started to faint.

The moment they fainted, the native Ares members, who had been inside the island since the beginning, entered the room with a fleet of autonomous vehicles. They then started gently placing the soldiers inside the vehicles before they started leaving and headed to the massive elevator in the building, heading to the lowest floor of the building.

Upon their arrival under the floor, the unconscious soldiers were moved to the furthest pods where another native Ares member awaited, supervising the machine.

The machine carefully lifted a soldier, raising him to the highest pod and then placed the soldier in the pod. And now that the soldier was inside the pod, the native Ares member near the machine put the soldier in a more comfortable position making sure that his whole body was in the pod before pressing the button, causing the pod to close before releasing a low hum as it released a golden light inside which started scanning and mapping every atom in the soldier inside the pod and rebuilding and analyzing his body, which was then immediately followed by the optimization of the pod to the specifications of the soldier present in it.

The same process was repeated for all the fifty soldiers who arrived here by the train and were now inside the pods.

Upon completing their placement into the pods, all the soldiers in the pods were simultaneously injected with a needle inside the pod which granted the pod access to their bodies. Using this needle as an access, a strange-looking liquid was injected into them, the amount varied for each soldier since they were being given the exact sufficient amount that was best suited for them.

The liquid immediately started reaching every part of the soldiers' bodies, everywhere the blood could pass, the strange liquid also made its way, leaving a small part of itself along the way, including the brains of these soldiers.

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At the moment, the liquid did nothing to their bodies, similar to the first time when Aron had assimilated with the system.

...…

[Attention!] A voice commanded, reverberating inside a stadium as the group of fifty soldiers responded instinctively and arranged themselves into five lines, consisting of ten people each before they could even think of how the heck did they arrive there.

"Where the heck are we?" They wondered to themselves silently, still remaining in their attentive position since the last memory they have was about them waiting for a visit with their general "ARON" which indicated that whatever had happened to them had very likely something to do with him.

[I'm Athena and I will be responsible for your retraining. If you have any questions, ask them now,] Athena introduced herself, materializing in front of the soldier, scaring the shit out of them, however, they still managed to maintain their position.

Among the fifty men, eighteen of them raised their hands to ask their questions.

[Ask them at once and I will answer them] Athena said and following her orders, the latter asked her their questions at once.

"Where are we?" "How did we get here?" "Who are you?" "Can you introduce yourself?"

[You are inside the VR, as for your real bodies, they are inside a pod within the massive building that you had seen and are under the protection of Sir Aron, so don't worry about anything else and focus on your retraining] Athena began, answering all of their questions in one swift motion.

[I understand that my answer might have given rise to some new questions for you, so let me answer them immediately, not wasting both of our time]

[Your bodies have been injected with genetic enhancers specifically tailored according to each of your bodies and would help in enhancing your genetics and increase your body power, coordination, speed and many more]

[However, these enhancers are inactive at the moment and the only way for you to activate them is for your body to undergo the exercises needed to push your body to really reach that realm. When your brain starts to imitate this in order to activate the enhancer, the enhancements will be reflected into your real bodies] Athena paused explaining for a moment, letting the soldiers digest the information she just gave them.

After a moment, she continued, [If it is like that, then, why are you inside the VR for the training, instead of just injecting your bodies with enhancers and letting you train in the real world? The reason is that, here I can make sure that you don't get tired to the point of dropping dead, so you will train until I tell you to stop without worrying about your bodies being harmed in the slightest]

[Also, in this virtual environment, you can be shot at and shoot others without dying in real life, so the training here will always be with live munitions and you will also be fighting a real war against enemies of my choosing, which will be no different from real war scenario]

[But, before we proceed, let's start with knowledge assimilation. As for what it is, you will understand its purpose when it is over] Athena said and immediately all the soldiers sat down, their bodies doing so automatically without any of them ordering their bodies to do so consciously, however, before they could even wonder how this had happened, a massive amount of knowledge began to be dumped into their mind, this included knowledge on weapons, the routine of exercises they should do in order to maximize the benefits they will be receiving from the genetic enhancements drugs.

Aron wanted it to be that way so that the soldier didn't merely receive the enhanced bodies simply for joining his army, rather, he wanted them to work hard for their bodies and be rewarded exactly what they had worked for, nothing more nothing less.

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So, if you are lazy, you get little enhancements, and if you are a hard worker, you get the most of the enhancement serum.

[Now start running, I don't want to see any of you slacking around as sir Aron is watching everything] Athena commanded the moment the knowledge assimilation was concluded.

Hearing the order, the soldiers wasted no time and immediately started running towards the tracks on the stadium and started running by adopting a jogging manner, keeping a moderate speed since they knew they weren't stopping anytime soon, so preserving their stamina was important.

While they were running, they were using this time to constantly think about what the heck had just happened to them moments ago, reviewing through the knowledge they were assimilated with, they were now able to remember everything about weapons and tactics, something that they had never seen before, it was as if they had been using them for decades, but in reality, they haven't seen them even once.

...…

"How long is the cloud going to continue being sustained?" Aron asked, turning his head up to look at the ceiling, but he was actually seeing beyond it, watching the clouds with his glasses using the sensors built into the building to show him a view of beyond the ceiling.

The building had a massive sensor, the same technology that was used in the military headgear for the soldiers, but this was about a thousand times larger in size. It helped in seeing everything that was going on on the island, acting as the 3D CCTV, radar, lidar and every surveillance tech you can imagine, can be replaced by this massive sensor.

[No less than a week, I think it's about time you start casting the concealment rune on the building, or else you will be the talk of the world] Nova answered.

"I know, but at the moment I'm just stuck on how I should program the concealment rune so that it gives the impression that something has been happening without revealing the completed projects which will scare them," Aron answered with a wry smile.

[How about you conceal the building but leave the infrastructure visible? It would be convincing if they could see that for the past months you have built the infrastructure and with the satellite images of the atomic printer, it will be convincing for them to believe that we managed to build a warehouse over the past few months] Nova suggested.

"That's a good plan. Let's implement it that way," Aron agreed, returning his gaze back to the feed that displayed the soldiers still running, after which he asked, "By the way, how long are they going to be running?" Aron watched the soldiers who had been running for more than fifteen hours in VR time, meaning that he had been watching them running for over an hour without stopping for even a second despite looking tired while Athena didn't seem to be thinking of letting them stop anytime soon.

[For five hours of real-world time, which will be immediately followed by them moving to another training session that will last for a total of two real-world days before they move on to weapons training and warfare training and mock war trial as a final test] Nova explained.

"Athena is brutal," Aron laughed, feeling slightly sorry for the soldiers. 𝗯𝐞𝗱𝐧𝐨𝘃𝐞𝐥.𝗼𝗿𝐠

[Well, she is responsible for overseeing the military, so I had to make her think like them so that there are no misunderstandings] Nova answered, despite knowing that Aron knew why Athena was like that.

"How did John react after receiving the news of Athena?" Aron inquired, wanting to know if John had any reservations about Athena's role.

[The moment he received the news, the two had a ten-hour meeting. In the meeting, they start by knowing about each other, followed by John asking about her jurisdictions and command level]

[Athena reported to him that her command level is the same as his, however, she will be spending most of her time overseeing the military in its entirety, while John will be responsible for handling the daily working of the military and every other matter with the secretary you assigned to him]

[Upon hearing that, John was glad since he was worried that due to him having no experience in leading such a massive group, he might be doing things in a wrong manner and since there was no one to tell him whether he is doing it wrong, his actions might cause troubles for you, however, now all of his worries were thrown out of the window so he was happy and no problems like infighting or power struggle against her nor did something similar occur since he trusts you and your judgment more than he trusts himself] Nova answered, explaining Aron with what happened during that meeting.

"Good. Now let's hope that Esparia doesn't cause any troubles in the mean..." Aron stopped himself from continuing any further, realizing that he was about to invoke the forbidden spell of trouble.

Two days later…

"Man, she is not giving us enough time to rest," complained Jeremiyah as he sat down to use the little ten minutes of rest that was given to his team as a reward for completing their last course of exercises.

For the past month, Athena had done nothing other than making them train from one exercise to another. And with the training getting progressively difficult and longer with each new exercise, they were always being forced to always break the new limits that they had managed to raise due to their previous exercise.

During that period, they were only given one hour of rest every day and additional rest time was granted if they could impress Athena by completing a set of tasks faster than the time she had tasked them with. The moment they realized that they could gain more rest time by working harder, it resulted in them always working harder than what Athena expected.

[One last exercise and if you do it well I will give you a whole day of rest!] Athena announced as the soldiers rested, resulting in them rising from their places, full of enthusiasm while starting to do their last exercise of the month before they get one day of well-deserved rest.

...

A few hours later…

The soldiers could be seen sleeping in the barracks without any worry for the world since it was the first long sleep they had after the past month and these soldiers planned to use it to its fullest, however, Athena seemed to have different plans for them. 𝙗𝒆𝒅𝒏𝙤𝒗𝒆𝙡．𝙤𝒓𝙜

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"BOOOOOOOM" A shell exploded near the barracks, jolting the soldiers immediately awake. Without asking any questions, they rushed to the weapon's rack and retrieved their weapons for the first time, since they had assimilated the knowledge of these weapons into their brains a month ago.

Two soldiers picked up the military headgear and immediately put it on, powering it right after so that it could immediately gather the information in their vicinity. The data indicated that there was no one within a three-kilometer radius around them, giving them some relief, however, that relief only stayed for a short time before their bodies immediately tensed up as the headgear warned them of a shell which had entered the 6 km bubble around them. Moments later, the base again, sending debris of the shattered walls flying towards them.

While one of the soldiers was keeping an eye out for any more incoming enemies and warning his comrades if a new shell was incoming them, they weren't dilly-dallying, as they were wearing their gears and when one of them was done with gearing up, he patted the first soldier on the shoulder, taking his place as the onlooker, allowing for him to go and gear himself up.

Two minutes later, all the soldiers were now completely geared up, looking intimidating as their eyes reflected the thrill and the pent-up frustration in them, which they planned to vent on their enemies.

When the tenth shell struck the building, their headgear had gathered enough data to pinpoint where the enemy's location was and with enough accuracy, the headgear started to give them a rough direction to reach their enemy.

Dividing themselves into five teams of ten, each team chose its own leader and started heading in different directions. By doing so, they intended to expand their bubble of information, since they were on their own and had no headquarters to provide them with any further guidance, leaving them to rely on themselves.

Using their headgear's instant communication, which combined all the computing powers of the fifty headgears, making them act as one computer to increase the commuting power of the team, the teams started to move, and the map of their surroundings was continuously being updated continuously whenever they went.

Among the five teams, the most vigilant one was heading into the direction through which the artillery had been coming from. After walking for about twenty kilometers, their headgear finally started revealing them a heavily guarded enemy base.

With the rest of the teams not finding anything notable during their twenty kilometer walks they decided to regroup with their fellow soldiers before they made their move and launched their attack on the base.

An hour later, they finally recollected themselves and came up with the plan which wasn't difficult at all since they were able to see everything that was in the enemy base, allowing them to have a whole map of the base including the position of the people within it. And after forming a relatively easy plan, they started executing their moves.

Using the advantages of their weapons having a longer standoff distance to their favor, they initiated their attack while they were still three kilometers away from the base. One by one, the soldiers inside the base started accidentally dying with the assistance of a metal object which entered their bodies, which was of course, the strategic elimination carried out by the Ares members.

It took the personnel on the base more than ten minutes before they could realize that their numbers had been dwindling by a great extent since the Ares members prioritized taking out the enemies that were in places which wouldn't raise too much attention.

With the realization that the alarm had been triggered, the enemy soldiers from the base tried to return fire, but they were not sure where the killers of their comrades were. With some of the soldiers in the base panicking, they started firing randomly in hopes that they would force the enemies to reveal themselves, however, the Ares members who were positioned three kilometers away, other than simply observing, did nothing and started picking off the panicking soldiers. After killing a few more casualties, due to some smart thinker analyzing how the killed soldiers fell and knowing the general direction of where the bullets came from the enemy soldiers finally discovered Ares soldiers' direction was finally discovered.

This massacre continued, with the soldiers in the base desperately trying to locate where their attackers were as the Ares members flawlessly executed their plan, reducing the number of their enemies until only the commander of the base was the one who remained, which was also the result of their deliberate actions before they started heading to the enemy base, walking and capturing the commander.

[Congratulations] Athena appeared, causing the still tense soldiers to release a sigh of relief as they understood that with her appearance their test was finally over, however, wasting no time, they immediately lined up and saluted her.

Athena smiled and returned the salute before she announced [Now that level one has been passed, let's increase the difficulty] after which she teleported them away.

When the Ares soldiers opened their eyes, they found themselves in a military cargo plane that was taking them to an undisclosed location.

The only thing that had changed on them was the color of the gear they were wearing, indicating that this mission was going to take place at night.

While the Ares soldiers were making their way to their second test, Aron could be seen sitting at the center of the rooftop of the massive building with his eyes closed while the entire rooftop continued to glow in a golden color.

Slowly but surely, the color of the rune that was covering the rooftop started to turn to white. With that, Aron stood up from the spot where he was sitting and immediately went to the elevator which immediately took him to the ground floor.

Meanwhile, Nova got to work as she started providing Mana to the runes, causing them to immediately came to life and for those who could see the building from a bird's view, they would be able to see the entire of the building had started to disappear and in its place started to appear an image of uncompleted construction of a building, making it so that whoever wanted to photograph the building from the bird's eye viewpoint would only be seeing an incomplete building that was still ongoing its construction phase.

"Any tweakings that I might need to do?" Aron asked Nova to check if there were some inconsistencies in the images.

[No it looks just fine, Sir] Nova reported showing him what the satellites would be seeing if they were to look at the images of the island.

"Hmm, it looks good," Aron nodded as he smiled with satisfaction.

[Sir, John is inquiring if he should also send the trainees together with the first batch of the former soldiers. He needs to know it now so that they can start preparation right away and then begin arranging the logistics for their move] Nova informed Aron of John's request.

"Yes, tell him to send them too and also print the transportation boats which would make it easy for the transportation of the thousands of the upcoming visitors," Aron answered after giving a moment of thought.

[With such a massive number of soldiers being sent to the island, won't that attract more attention?] Nova asked in concern, wanting to know if he had thought about it.

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"No, they will simply think that we are bringing them to expedite the construction on the island," Aron answered, showing that he had already thought through all of that, earning him a smile from Nova.

[Also the construction machines are already being transported so it should start to speed up the progress of the construction of the airport, the railways and the ports soon] Nova reported, keeping Aron up to date on the other projects.

[As for the school search, you can buy one from the few I have found, however, they still are below your stated standards, so I suggest that you just build it by yourself] Nova also reported about the task she was given for finding a good enough school for Aron to buy.

"Let's not stress Felix with any more projects and postpone that until most of our big projects have come near a completion, because if I decide to build a school now, I won't be building just one, but start making a whole school chain which will allow me to train the future workers for my company personally."

"For now, Henry would have to be content with being homeschooled by me or going to one of the best schools you have found. The choice will be his," he answered, showing that while his ever-growing construction list continued to grow while his other projects were still not completed yet, which kept him busy, leaving no room for additional tasks at the moment.

[Yes, sir] Nova replied, confirming that she had already added it to Aron's future promises lists.

"How is military hardware production going on?" Aron asked as he reviewed the footage of the massacre that took place earlier in a fast-forward playback.

[Felix has already finished the procurement of the materials and the cargo ship transporting these materials is on its way as we speak and should arrive tomorrow and drop the cargo at our port. However, using the materials that were available, I have managed to print enough equipment to sustain a 1000 strong force, without any problem] Nova reported, informing that the production of the new weapons has come to a stop for the time being.

"With them, we should first build a surveying plane that would scan and map the entire country and record all of the available resources. Once that data comes to us we can buy those locations and start extracting the materials ourselves," Aron suggested before continuing.

"Given the country's size, it should have enough resources to allow us to sustain our material needs for quite a long time," Aron said and then thought of something.

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"If I'm not wrong, I remember that about a month ago, Felix had ordered a batch of materials for me, what happened to them?" Aron asked after he paused briefly as he remembered that there should have been one more cargo delivery that should have happened a long time ago.

[Esparia confiscated it during the transfer of cargo from the larger ship to smaller ones which could have docked on our ports] Nova reported.

"They are really getting bold, aren't they?" Aron sneered, with him now learning that they had taken his belongings by force and even kept them, he was even more eager for them to provide him with a justifiable reason to not whoop their asses.

Realizing where Aron was going with that statement, Nova suggested [It won't take too long] trying to postpone Aron's triggered happiness for a slight longer, knowing that she couldn't change his though neither was she even planning on doing, knowing very well that kicking their asses should act as therapy for losing BugZapper twice, once it was stolen and once it was legally snatched, but in both times he was forced into giving it up.

[By the way, what are you planning on doing with the guy who shot you? Did you forgive him or do you have any other plan in mind?] she asked, knowing that it would divert his attention from the Esparia discussion.

"Not at all, I am biding my time and by next week, with the arrival of the first batch of the five thousand former soldiers who would also be accompanied by the twenty-five thousand first batch of new recruits who have been receiving their training and along with them there would also be the intelligence department trainees. The agency's first real-world mission is going to be the apprehension of that fellow." Aron clarified with a smile.

[But aren't you going to make those who sent that man take responsibility too?] Nova asked further.

"Of course, I plan to do that as well but that will happen after I have him and have kindly asked him to give up all the information. And if he tells the truth, his punishment might be reduced, but if he lies, I will make sure that he will regret it" Aron confirmed with a sinister smile.

At the same time, somewhere else, someone felt a shiver run down their spine while their whole body trembled.

In the following few days, the massive military movement in Edenia put a slight sense of unease among the citizens of the state.

Buses after buses filled with soldiers were being sent to Edenia, the capital city, which was now filled with soldiers as they were being stationed in various hotels of the city and in any places where people could be accommodated for a short period of time.

The unrest continued to increase day by day until the president was compelled to make an announcement to address the rising anxiety of the citizens among whom the rumors were spreading that maybe they were preparing themselves for a war with Esparia and the soldiers were there to protect the city.

During the announcement, the president assured that the soldiers were here temporarily to prepare themselves to go for further training in a classified location. Although this slightly helped calm down the citizens, some of them still thought of the speech as a diversionary tactic to avoid causing a panic and as a result of this, people started panic buying things, in order to stockpile them in their houses in the worry that if a war were to break out there was a chance of the city would be imposed with a curfew.

However, by the fourth day, Sunday of the same week, the soldiers continued arriving in the city, their movements restarted with all of the buses carrying them and started heading to the same location: a small port.

This caused the people who were still worried to finally let out a sigh of relief as they finally were able to believe that the President's announcement was not a diversionary tactic.

"Holy mother!" a soldier exclaimed in shock as he got off the bus at the port and witnessed more than fifteen ships waiting for them.

"Start moving and boarding the docked ship, we don't have much time to waste!" shouted their commanding officer, forcing the dilly-dallying soldiers to start moving to the ships.

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The moment the ship was filled, it undocked itself and started making its way to the island. Soon after, its place was immediately taken by a new one which started boarding the newly arrived soldiers.

...

Esparia, on the other hand, had interpreted Eden's military's this movement as an escalation or at least they showed it outside that was how they were perceiving it, as an escalation and responded by sending more soldiers to the border, despite the capital city which the soldiers were being sent to was more than hundreds of kilometers away from their nearest border with Esparia, it seemed like they were just looking for a justifiable reason to do such things and now that they had found one, they were not going to let it go to waste.

With the increase in number of soldiers on the border on the Esparia's side, they also brought with them heavy military machinery, including tanks, artillery, and rocket launchers, as on the water side of the border, the number of military vessels increased, outnumbering whatever Eden had brought with them on the border, wanting to make sure that if a fight does happen, Eden doesn't have any chance of winning the fight.

These movements did not bode well with Eden's citizens who had most of their products' prices increased due to the Esparia's actions, blockading their products that would have normally been transported from Esparia's ports, the citizens were about to get fed up with their actions but the only thing holding them back was their worry of not being able to win the war, if the fight really broke up between the two of them and hence, they started directing their anger by wanting to increase the power of their country.

And thanks to that, the number of people joining the military had increased exponentially for that period of time, showing the citizens' enthusiasm for wanting their country to increase in power and not be bullied by their much smaller and only neighbor.

Adding on this, Nova doubled down the feeling of patriotism among the people, ordering the AI in Gaia OS to start pushing things that would make people feel patriotic and angry at Esparia, increasing the number of people joining the military even more, this caused Athena's stoic expression to turn into a smile as she was in joy knowing that she was getting a new batch of people to torture and strengthen for her master or Father.

...…

"Ptffffffff"

Fifty pods were simultaneously opened, releasing a slight puffing sound along with smoke as the massive handles were rising, revealing bodies that looked more like what a human would have been able to make if they had the capabilities of customizing their bodies.

Needles started coming out of their bodies as they were being retracted back inside the walls of the pods which was followed by the soldiers opening their eyes after a few minutes as they remained lying there for a few seconds before they were able to move themselves into a seating position.

As they raised their hands, they observed the changes that had taken place on their bodies which looked the same as they had become as a result of the excruciating training which they had faced in the VR world.

Realizing that they were finally released from that harrowing location and the brutal trainer who had made them sleep a total of only 35 hours in a whole month, which was immediately followed by endless battles with them being sent to different scenarios, fighting lengthier battles with more smarts enemies and the more they won, the more technologically advanced their enemies became, this had reached a point where even their advanced tech seemed inadequate due to how advanced their enemies had become, knocking away all of the confidence they had thanks to their advanced weapons, however, despite that, their enemy's asses were continuously being kicked, earning themselves a losing streak that would make ISIS feel sorry for them.

The only difference being the time it took for the enemy to lose each battle continued to increase every time as they had started using tactics and other means to try to reduce the disadvantage they found themselves being against.

Getting off the pods and despite their legs touching the ground for the first time in a week, they felt surprisingly energetic as they remembered what Athena had said about their body when they were logged in the simulation; she had told them that their body training would be reflected into their real world counterpart.

When they turned around and saw row after row of pods being lined, it sent goosebumps all over their body as they saw all of the pods were releasing a green light except the ones in which they used to be were the only ones having its light red.

They felt goosebumps as they realized that all of the thousands of pods that they could see continued to go on almost endlessly and were filled with occupants, meaning that their General was now providing training to more than a few thousand people, giving all of them the training which exceeded any training that any of special forces of the any other country could receive without having to worry about any of them inuring or dying during the training, resulting in a great loss of investment.

"The only disadvantage is the time it takes to complete the training," they thought to themselves, knowing that they had spent more than three months and two weeks inside these pods while they were receiving their training.

After getting out of the pods, they immediately walked to the closest elevator they could find, as they got closer, the doors of the elevator opened.

Upon entering, they noticed that the elevator was spacious enough to fit all of them at once and still have some space for more, after everyone was in, the doors of the elevator got closed and it started rising even before they could press the floor they wanted to go.

As they waited to reach their destination, the screen inside the elevator was showing various information, including the time, date, temperature and other miscellaneous things, however, the soldiers' eyes were stuck on one thing: The date.

Initially, they thought that it would have been a mistake but then considering the amount of technology that might have been needed to accomplish what they had been through, they came to the conclusion that the technology they have is too advanced for it to miss such a mistake, thus, they came to a shocking realization which they didn't want to believe, the more than three months they had spent in the stimulation while training was nothing but a week in the real world.

"They are fucked!" one of the soldiers remarked, feeling sorry for Esparia and the consequences of their actions.

Knowing that thanks to them fucking around way too much, they were about to find out what it was to suffer.

The rest of the people on the Elevator nodded in agreement to the man's words, but in their minds, they were still thinking about how the heck did they experience three and a half months in a matter of a week.

Ding!

A notification sound was heard followed by the opening of the elevator doors, revealing Aron standing in front of them in an impressive military uniform, his shoulders each donning 5 stars with the stars and it was without a doubt made of what could be called exotic materials.

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The first star, the farthest one from his neck, had a dark blue or near black color and was made out of the mineral Lapis Lazuli, this was a symbol of water and the star symbolizing his command over the Navy.

The second star, made from Emerald, represented the army with its green color and the forest where their responsibilities lie the most, symbolizing his control over the army.

The third star, crafted out of Aquamarine, revealing its light blue hue, acted as the color and the symbol of the endless sky, representing his control over the air force.

The fourth star, reflecting the light hitting it, was made out of Quarts, acting as the color representing the intelligence branch of the military and symbolizing his control over it.

The last star, made of Galaxyite also known as the Nebula stone, showcased its captivating patterns of deep blue and green colors resembling a celestial galaxy or a nebula, it represented the amalgamation of all the branches but also carried his vision of the future of his forces expanding into the vast universe.

The soldiers, though surprised and impressed by the uniform's design and how cool it looked and fit him, wasted no time and immediately saluted Aron in unison, feeling honored by being the first people to be witnessing him donning the uniform.

Aron returned the salute from the soldiers which allowed them to return their hand back to their hips, but they still continued to maintain their attention formation and waited for further orders.

"At ease," Aron said, immediately followed by their reaction to the order, getting into the at ease position without wasting a single second.

"Good," Aron nodded his head in satisfaction seeing that the soldiers weren't doing it in the american style but rather in the way they had been taught by Athena who had designed these routines after a few simulations and creating the one she deemed to be both visually appealing and the beneficial for the health of the soldiers applying them.

"Since you are the first batch of graduates from the training camp, I decided to come and see you the moment you left the pod and perform the inspection. However, due to the occurrence of some complications, it looks like our greetings have to be cut short. You will be escorted to your resting rooms so that you can rest before being immediately dispatched with your new gear to the borders of Esparia. There seem to be some indications that they will be making their moves anytime now," Aron spoke, his voice devoid of his usual friendly tone. At the moment, he was speaking as the General and the highest commanding person of Ares, or what people thought as the Edenian military, hence his tone carried dignity and authority.

"Understood?" He asked after he finished.

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"Yes, sir," all of them answered in unison. Showing no signs of displeasure or worry could be seen on their face, as they knew that the enemies they had faced in that world were a hundred times more difficult to fight against than the American army and despite that they still were able to manage to hold their ground. Right now, they were only excited about testing the types of equipment in the real world where they were confident of having technological supremacy over the enemy. They wanted to overcome and heal the trauma of their past losses and emerge victorious.

"Good, you can start by putting these on before you are escorted to where you are supposed to go," Aron said, pointing at the box that contained glasses, earphones-like devices along with many other things, each of the devices had a name on them, these were the equipment that was designed based on the preferences of the soldiers whose name was on these devices.

Upon saying those words, Aron immediately started walking back to the part of the building where Nova had arranged his personal residency during his stay on the island. which was nothing other than the most beautifully decorated living space.

And although it occupied only a small space in the building, the size of this suite was extremely massive, surpassing many luxurious Suites that boasted their large size.

The soldier immediately picked up the devices which had their names on top of it and knowing what the devices were, they wasted no time and put them on.

As soon as they did so, they were immediately welcomed by the voice that caused them to subconsciously tense up, because the voice belonged to the trainer who had made them go through a hellish training, Athena.

However, no time was wasted and they were immediately given directions to go to their respective rooms, upon entering, they found thousands of doors stretching so far as if the series was never going to end and each of them had been directed to a different room.

Entering the room, they found nothing that they could complain about, everything looked luxurious, with a box at the table which contained their uniform and each of the uniforms was perfectly tailored to their specific body size.

The next day, as the Soldiers woke up, they cleaned themselves and donned their military uniforms, which bore an insignia that was unique and didn't have any affiliation to any of the branches of the military.

Their uniform had a special insignia which signified that they were a special team which was sent only when a few people were deployed for a special mission or when there was an infiltration task.

As they left the team's quarters, each soldier carried a bag which from the looks of it appeared to be extremely heavy. But surprisingly, the soldiers carrying the bags seemed to not be bothered even in the slightest as they made their way while carrying more than 350 kilos on their backs, without having the need to exert any strength at all. 𝒃𝒆𝙙𝙣𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒍.𝙘𝙤𝙢

Following instructions which were provided by Athena through the gears which they were wearing, they entered the elevator.

And much to the surprise of everyone, upon boarding the elevator and after the door got closed, the elevator immediately started rising to the higher floors instead of descending to the ground floor, soon they realized something as the elevator didn't stop and continued to make its way to the highest floor.

Soon, their curiosity was also answered after a few moments as the elevator finally came to a stop and its doors opened, revealing an expansive flat rooftop

And at the moment, the rooftop housed five super massive helicopters, which the soldiers were sure were unlike any others in the whole world. These helicopters looked futuristic and were intimidating even as they remained powered off for the time being.

Without wasting any time, all of them started boarding the helicopter which they had been designated to. As the door closed, the pilots powered up the helicopters, immediately showcasing the difference between the remarkable capabilities of these helicopters which were far superior to the rest of the world. The rotor went from being completely idle to rotating at full power in just ten seconds while being scarily silent enough for many soldiers to think if it was still operating in low power mode, but contrary to what they had thought, the helicopter wasn't going to get any louder than what they were hearing at the moment.

The massive reduction of noise from the rotors was the result of them being rotated by using the electromagnets instead of the usual rotor system, which at the same time eliminated the need for any mechanical connections, reducing the number of things that could possibly go wrong in a normal rotor driven helicopter.

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At the same time, due to the reduced friction and mechanical losses, it also allowed the helicopter to have a much longer flight endurance while having a reduced fuel consumption and with the energy denseness of the fuel, the helicopter now had the capability of flying for three days straight without having the need to refuel during the period.

With the helicopter now being completely powered on, the pilots immediately lifted them off without having to worry about the other helicopters causing a problem for them as the only thing the pilot had to care for right now was to control where and how he wants to direct the helicopter to go, as for how this feat was accomplished, it was thanks to the advanced flight controlled system which will use all of the control surfaces available for it to control to bring the given command to life without failure, while the pilot only had to focus on navigating the machine, leaving everything else in the hands of the system.

With the helicopter started, it quickly started gaining altitude until it reached its ideal altitude and then immediately started heading to its designated location where these soldiers would be stationed until the batch of new trainees graduated.

Aron on the other hand was inside his living room, observing the helicopter as they departed and were heading to the border. A sigh of relief escaped his lips realizing that his worry was now lifted.

...

45 minutes later.

The helicopter landed a few kilometers away from the temporary base that was set at the border, without letting any soldier in the vicinity have the idea that helicopters had entered their surroundings.

Both sides failed to pick up the presence of these helicopters on their radars, which in itself was nothing to feel proud about, knowing that the radar systems being used were pretty outdated.

The soldiers got off the helicopters one by one and soon enough, the helicopters lifted off, leaving them on the ground by themselves. With the helicopters gone, the soldiers immediately started walking to the bases that were established on the borders of Eden.

...

[Sir, they've arrived] Nova reported to Aron about their arrival.

"What is Athena's next course of action?" stopping what he was doing, Aron asked the question.

[She plans to gradually start reducing the number of soldiers on our side to minimize the casualties on our side in case the other side starts firing] Nova reported back.

"Good. By the end of next week, we should have all of the soldiers now stationed there to be withdrawn from that border. How are your calculations regarding when they are going to attack going?" Aron then inquired.

[That task has been delegated to Athena and she predicts that to happen at the latest by the end of the month. Us starting the rotation of our soldiers will be seen as the window of opportunity, increasing the chances of them launching an attack during that period] Nova reported.

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"Excellent. It's about time that we have our confiscated material returned back to us," Aron said without a sliver of worry because he was sure that the fifty soldiers that were stationed there were capable of dealing with the enemies as long as they had enough ammunition, especially since Athena had sent with them an overkill of them.

...

At the same time, on Esparia's base on the opposite side of the border, an order was received which was sent through the military encrypted channel.

After the order was decrypted, it was immediately sent to the commander of the base who read it, immediately resulting in the formation of a smile on his face as if it was precisely something that he had been hoping to happen.

There was only one sentence written on the decrypted message: Start the preparation for entering paradise.

"Hamisi, come in," he called for his assistant to enter the room, disposing of the paper into the shredder.

"Sir," Hamisi saluted after entering the room.

"Call the high-ranking officers and inform them we have an emergency meeting," he commanded without wasting any time.

"Yes, sir," Hamis replied with a salute before immediately leaving the room in a hurry to accomplish the orders given by the commander.

"The ultimate art of war lies not only in deceiving the enemy but also in mastering the art of self-deception, for therein lies the true path to strategic supremacy."

It was a serene day in Eden as usual, with the sun gracefully rising over the horizon, painting the sky in the shades of pink and orange. And together with the tranquil appearance, the minds of the citizens were already preoccupied with two topics that also seemed to dominate every conversation in the state.

The First and foremost was the incessant buzz surrounding the ongoing construction worker recruitment.

Since January, the construction industry had been in a state of perpetual motion, with a single company being responsible for all of the activity, clamoring for labor to fuel their ambitious projects. 𝓫ℯ𝓭𝓃𝓸𝓋ℯ𝓁．𝓬𝓸𝓂

Eden seemed to have started its journey on the ladder leading to high-speed progress and development, and the demand for construction workers didn't seem to be showing any signs of abating even after several months had passed along with hundreds of thousands of people already being hired by them.

As the city's skyline morphed with each passing day, the construction sites stood as a testament to the nation's determination to push forward and start recovering from the brutal dictatorship of Adolf whose trial was still ongoing with more and more atrocities being revealed to the public with each day that passed.

The allure of steady employment and the promise of contributing to Eden's burgeoning infrastructure drew people from all corners of the country, seeking opportunities to better their lives.

Amidst the hum of construction machinery and the hustle of workers, the second topic of concern reverberated through the city's streets and town squares.

A growing number of young men and women were joining the army, with their ranks swelling in response to what they perceived as Esparias' provocative actions.

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Thanks to these provocative actions of Esparia, including confiscating and blocking access to Eden citizens' cargo that had passed through their ports and increasing the number of soldiers on the borders the two nations shared with them, had ignited anger and a sense of patriotism among the citizens.

The allure of defending their homeland and protecting their recently hard-won peace which they just had tasted the sweetness of and have started cherishing it was a call that resonated deeply within many, prompting them to join the military.

With the government encouraging and supporting the recruitment drives to bolster its military forces, the once-peaceful society found itself at a crossroads.

The rhythmic cadence of construction works and the resolute footsteps of the new soldiers who were joining the ranks became the soundtrack of the nation that was on the brink of a change.

Yet, amidst this turmoil of hiring and militarization, an undercurrent of unease had also begun to pervade in the conversations. The internet, which had been the lifeblood of Eden's interconnectedness, thanks to the whole internet being owned by one company which had increased the number of investments into the infrastructure, began to falter, its slowdown perplexing and unnerving the people.

At first, the glitch was attributed to technical issues, but as the problem continued to persist, the government websites were the websites that were the most affected. It started with them becoming unresponsive, which was initially quickly solved without causing any harm, allowing the citizens to think that it really was just a technical issue…

However, at the same time, rumors of cyberattacks and clandestine interference from the external forces swept through the population like wildfire. The government's silence only acted as the required fanning of those rumors for those who always needed to find something or the other to talk about in order to keep themselves distracted about their own miserable lives. This worried the normal citizens who were concerned about preserving their recently gained freedom.

Thursday marked a turning point though, a seemingly ordinary day, which immediately turned into a not-so-ordinary day anymore as the residents of the country woke up and found themselves to be in the situation of middle ages since all the websites were showing the same error message: "404 not found" meaning that their access to the internet was no longer a right but was turned into a privilege for those who could circumvent the blockade.

When they turned on the TV to see if they could learn something or the other from the conventional media, however, their jaws dropped when they saw the ongoing emergency broadcast.

On the television, the military's spokesperson was making an announcement and the words coming from his mouth did nothing but only served to increase the worry of the viewers and listeners.

"As the spokesperson for our nation's armed forces, I am here to provide you with an objective update on the events that occurred last night. Eden has experienced an attack from our neighboring nation, Esparia."

This sentence alone caused the earth beneath many's feet to shake.

"Under the cover of darkness, Esparian forces breached our borders and targeted several strategic locations within our border bases."

The spokesperson then took a pause and then continued.

"As a result of this unprovoked aggression, we have incurred casualties and witnessed significant damage to our infrastructure on the border we share with them."

"However, our heroic soldiers responded swiftly and bravely to defend our homeland during this unexpected assault and are still engaged in a fire exchange with the enemies as we continue to keep our promise of protecting every inch of our nation's land."

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There was anger and will to fight in his voice.

"At present, our military is actively engaged in implementing countermeasures to secure our borders and ensure the safety of our people. We are mobilizing additional resources to assess the extent of the damage caused by the attack."

The spokesperson spoke in a tone that conveyed the gravity of the situation, his face indicating that the fight against Esparia was going to be challenging, but their determination not to give up no matter was what helped in alleviating the previous hate the citizens had towards the military, realizing that this military was different and more committed towards the nation…

...

A few hours before the press conference.

[Sir, they have started their movements] Nova spoke through the house's speaker system waking Aron up from his sleep. It was the first time in a long while that he wasn't spending his time in VR.

"What is it?" Aron asked the moment he woke up and opened his eyes after Nova spoke to him, despite her voice being very calm when she first addressed him.

[Esparia has finally started mobilizing their military vehicles and will soon begin firing the first artillery shells at our bases on the border] Nova reported.

"Good, what is Athena doing?" Aron inquired about Athena's course of action.

[She ordered for the other soldiers to start retreating in order to avoid any casualties when the fight starts and also to leave the 50 members to make their moves without worrying about endangering their fellow soldiers unnecessarily]

[As for the helicopters, she had already loaded them with "that direction remover" and sent them to the water side of the borders. She also has ordered our navy vehicles to start retreating, since they would end up as needless casualties as a result of the upcoming fight] Nova reported Athena's plan of action.

"What about the evacuation, how is it going?" Aron asked about the fate of the normal soldiers who had been sent there to act as a response to the other side's increasing provocations.

[Since we only sent those who had previous military experience, the evacuation is going better than if we had sent inexperienced personnel in their places] Nova reported back.

"Good, now show me what is going on in the fields," Aron said as he put on the glasses and returned to lying back as he logged in to the VR. A moment later, Aron found himself inside a massive building that had what looked like thousands of people looking at different feeds, systems and data, all reporting to Athena whenever they found something important for her to make decisions based on the intel they were providing.

In front of Aron were two massive screens that showed the information on the ongoing situation at the borders, displaying the movements of the Esparian soldiers as if there were informants among them. However, all of this information was being collected by one powerful system known as "Henry's eyes" which was being flown by two drones that were circulating the two border regions Eden shared with Esparia, areas which had a massive military presence.

The name "Henry's Eyes" was inspired from his younger brother because the engineers had gotten the inspiration from the data of how Henry's eyes had evolved and thanks to that, they managed to build the tech that replaced the radar technology in the military.

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This tech was already integrated into almost every device that needed a detection method. The glasses and other VR devices had been using this tech to get access to data from the real world, the same could be said for the military headgear, all the way to the inside of helicopters, eliminating the need for radars and other traditional sensors in them.

The tech worked by creating a bubble with it at the center, collecting every bit of data within that bubble which is then collected, which was then analyzed and displayed by the device, giving one an unprecedented amount of information and the capability of viewing the information from any point of view as long as it is within the bubble.

"They are really planning on bulldozing through us and continue moving to take over the whole island before they move to the other island and take over them," Aron murmured as he observed the number of soldiers that were stationed behind the borders.

[Yes, after hacking into their government system, this is just the beginning of their plans and some of their plans even include the complete takeover of Eden] Nova reported.

"When was this plan uploaded into their system?" Aron asked, wanting to see the timeline of how these events had come to be.

[It was logged minutes ago before I woke you up] Nova reported.

"Any hint about who might have given them the boldness to make such large movements?" Aron asked knowing that Esparia wouldn't have made the move by themselves.

[I suspect it to be the Morgans, during last week's flight that was heading from America to Esparia, the devices on the plane connected to our internet infrastructure, allowing me to receive information about the devices inside the plane.

Strangely, despite most of the devices being powered by using GAIA OS, a few of them weren't using it, which was strange, So, I decided to investigate them and found out that one of them was working for the Morgans.

I had his information when I was collecting data about their plans against the Rothschilds, So, I immediately placed a bug on his phone before it got out of range and although throughout his visit he kept the phone powered off, the bug I put on his phone continued collecting location data.

And after he powered the phone back on after returning to America, I received a summary of the locations, which also included the residences of powerful people in Esparia and many of them have their names included in the uploaded plan] Nova lengthy reported.

"So it's them again," Aron smiled when he heard the name, immediately realizing what they were planning to do with this war. When Rina visited to bring him the tritium he had requested. She had informed him about it during that period and also warned him to be careful.

[They have started moving] Nova informed Aron. At the same time, the room that was filled with people started getting chaotic as the screen displayed the moving soldiers who had started trespassing into the border into Eden, officially starting their invasion plan.

...

"Time to get to work, boys," the team leader of the fifty remaining members on the now empty base said as Athena immediately uploaded the information into their headgears as they were already fully geared with all the tech a soldier would need.

They immediately started walking towards the group of soldiers that were ten kilometers away from them and this continued until they were about five kilometers from the convoy of soldiers. The convoy stopped, allowing the fifty soldiers to lie on the ground and start aiming, waiting for the other side to start making their moves. At the same time, Athena was informing the soldiers as to why the convoy stopped.

"BOOOOOOOM" And the answer came right after, as shells started falling on the base that they had left empty.

[Now you have the justification to fire back] Athena spoke into their ears in a tone that showed her excitement, finally, she was getting the chance to put into practice in real life what she had been training for her whole life in the simulation.

Her excitement caused the soldiers who heard it to have goosebumps over their bodies.

Eden-Esparia Maritime Border.

"Do they even know that we are already in their waters?" asked the assistant commanding officer aboard the leading vessel that was at the rear of the Esparia's fleet, which was spearheading itself and prepared for a faceoff with Eden's Navy at the maritime border.

"Even if they know, they won't be able to do anything about it anyway, so what's there to worry about? Still, make sure that our soldiers are not full of themselves and continuously keep their eyes on the sonars to make sure there are no mines left behind in our way to victory," the fleet commander responded, as he turned to the right side, glancing at the multitude of vessels on both sides of the fleet, causing a smile to bloom on his face as he imagined the future ceremony were he would be rewarded for trashing Eden's navy.

Just to his right, he could see more than 15 vessels lined and that was the same for the number lined up on the left side, making a total of thirty vessels that were entering the waters of Eden, ready for their face off which would rather be described as a massacre.

"Yes, sir," the assistant commanding officer replied, immediately picking up his radio and relaying the instruction to all the vessels in the fleet.

However, just as he was about to continue his conversation with the fleet commander, an announcement resounded across all the fleet radios and it was even audible to those who don't have radios, in fact, the sound was so crisp and clearly heard as if it was being announced a few meters near them.

[Attention all Esparia Navy vessels,

This is a warning announcement from Eden's Navy.

We have detected your entry into Eden's territorial waters, and we demand an immediate explanation for your presence in our sovereign waters.

Be advised that unauthorized entry into Eden's waters is a serious violation of our territorial integrity and will not be tolerated. We are closely monitoring your movements, and any provocative or hostile actions will be met with a firm and decisive response.

In the interest of de-escalation and maintaining regional peace, we urge you to identify yourselves and your purpose for being in Eden's waters. Failure to provide a valid and satisfactory explanation may result in serious consequences.

]

"Looks like they found us. I would have been even more disappointed if they hadn't," the commanding officer muttered, maintaining a smile on his face.

He picked up the radio and responded, "This is Esparia Fleet commander. We are here under the order of the Commander-in-Chief, the President of Esparia, in retaliation to you firing the artillery at our base along the land border. Surrender immediately, or you will be forced to do so," his voice carried the pride of being on the powerful side where he was sure that no matter what the other side's response was, he would always be the one to emerge victorious in the war.

[If you don't turn around within thirty seconds, you will regret having said those words] A counter response came with a tick in each second that followed, indicating that it was a counter. [You have a vote in how things turn out, but whatever you choose, it better not be with continuing your trespassing act] The warning concluded with finality with no word after that.

"They really have a well-worded soldier," remarked the assistant commanding officer, though he didn't even dare to think about asking the Commander on whether they should continue to proceed or not. He just kept his head high, showing his confidence, as the Commander raised his radio for the second time and sneered, "Big words used by weak people, but this will also be our last warning. As soon as the thirsty seconds you gave us are up, we will be the ones firing the first shots if we haven't received your declaration of surrender."

He then immediately announced to his fleet while still being in an open channel, showing how little he thought of the other side's words, as he said with disdain, "When the thirty seconds are over, fire at them," he ordered the fleets of four gunships they had bought in bargain from America a few decades ago.

"Yes sir," the response came from the gunship crew, showing their unwavering confidence as they ordered the soldiers to start the preparations for firing the first round of artillery when the timer reaches zero, similar to their Commander, they did so without even trying to move to a secure channel, giving the entirety of the ordered without worrying about the other side doing anything that could so something from preventing on doing so or consider them a dangerous adversary.

Athen, on the other hand, remained silent, taking note of the actions that completely showed disrespect to Eden's military, however, she simply saved all of these recordings, knowing that they would be useful in the future.

Ting, ting, ting, ting.

TING!

The Type2 Bomb, strapped with a booster that was hanging on the helicopter about thirty kilometers away, was released as the pilot pulled the trigger after he was ordered by Athena. 𝙗𝙚𝙙𝒏𝙤𝙫𝒆𝙡.𝒄𝙤𝒎

With her timing as immaculate as it could be, she had timed the launch of the bombing order exactly when she was sure that there were very little number of imaging satellites over them to avoid letting them have the image of "That direction remover" while it was on its way to the Esparian fleet which still believed that they had the upper hand.

"Fire!" Esparia's commanding officer announced through the open channel and the four gunships responded as they fired without even locking onto their targets, considering that these were just warning shots.

Amidst the flying shells of artillery fired from them, "That direction remover" passed right between each other, one meant as a warning and the other's purpose was clear, as Athena was not joking at all, since they had disrespected her Father's forces, she had decided that they should be given a long-lasting lesson.

"What is that?" Those were the very last words uttered by the commanding officer and many soldiers in Esparia's fleet, being too late to realize that their appointment with the grim reaper had already been set as a sun emerged before them.

The bright light turned the dark ocean into daylight. There were exactly a period of 20.27 seconds of utter silence as the helicopter pilot watched as his face lit up with the light from the explosion about thirty kilometers away before the deafening sound of the explosion finally caught up to him.

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM

Despite the heavy shockwave, the flight control computer of the helicopter took control and made the helicopter remain unaffected, not even the slightest shake resulted from it.

[You shouldn't have taunted and belittle father like that] Athena said in a serious tone after the first "TDR Type1" bomb detonated, obliterating with it a total of fifteen Esparia's military vessels after they ignored her warning announcements, clearly indicating that as long as you ignore her warnings, Athena won't hesitate to use your death as an act of lesson for her soldiers.

NORAD Cheyenne Mountain Complex, Colorado.

The specialists and soldiers at NORAD were engaged in doing their usual routine which included monitoring the radar and satellite data and keeping an eye on whether Russia will be playing their usual game of sending T-95 bombers to the Pacific airspace of the US and Canada.

ALERT!

"HIGH HEAT EXPLOSION DETECTED - PACIFIC OCEAN - EDEN-ESPARIA BORDER"

A loud notification was heard throughout the situation monitoring room as the massive screen in front of them displayed the information coming together with the alert coming from the Ballistic Missile Early Warning System (BMEWS) satellite constellation. The system showed what it suspected to be a high heat explosion it caught on its extremely highly sensitive infrared cameras loaded on the satellites constellation.

The computer systems in a complex began displaying crucial information about the detected high-heat explosion. This information included the location and other relevant details to help the specialists, soldiers and the commanders to assess the situation rapidly.

Following the protocol, the command center then started notifying the higher authorities and military leadership using the secure communication channels.

In Russia, a similar situation was happening as their early warning information system from their Missile Attack Warning System (SPRN), situated in the Russian Aerospace Forces had received the alert regarding the explosion.

China, too, was not much far behind as their incomplete Yaogan series of satellite constellations didn't fall much behind in detecting the heat from the massive explosion, alerting them of the events that were going on between Eden and Esparia in the middle of the night.

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This incident marked as the start of attracting the massive eyeballs on the ongoing war theater where countries scrambled to find out who hit whom and exactly how were they even able to accomplish that feat of detonating such a massive explosion, enough to trigger their satellites, all of those countries who were in the know started changing the orbits of their imaging satellites so that it could pass over Eden in an attempt on imaging the location where the explosion had took place, trying to piece the whole picture as to what was going on. And at the same time, they were trying to establish communication between the two countries where the detonation had taken place, to understand the detonation that had occurred at their border.

...

"Oh my god," the helicopter pilot exclaimed in response to the explosion that had taken place as a result of him pulling the trigger and launching the bomb.

'Yep, they had come for it, but that was definitely a deserved overkill.' He thought to himself when he remembered how they belittled his nation's military and had tried to threaten them in their very own territorial waters.

As for the soldiers in the surviving boats, despite being grateful that they had survived, now they were also guaranteed with a burden of a lifetime of PTSD. Most of them had their ears bleeding due to being in such close proximity to the massive sound and shockwave, a shockwave that carried the last voices of their now minced soldiers.

In their eyes, the arrogance they once carried had completely vanished, with its place occupied by horror and fear that could be seen deep within them. Their will to fight had turned into a history and the expectation of glory and medal had forced them to question as to how they even thought that they would be winning the war in the first place.

[Hello to the remaining survivors, if you want to surrender, now is the time and anyone who doesn't show his intent to do so will be visited by a second package] Athena sent out a second announcement before the Pilot fired a row of bullets to act as a warning and thanks to the guns being made of railgun, it managed to reach the debris field where even now the debris of more than fifteen boats could be seen as it was slowly sinking with the bodies of all the soldiers littered everywhere in pieces, one looks and the others surviving boats finding themselves in not a good condition.

Upon hearing the announcement, all the soldiers immediately ran to the nearest radio they could find to announce their surrender without showing a hint of trying to fight back.

And just like that, a war where the enemy expected that they would win victory with a landslide, sadly ended with the victory of the weaker side, simply by detonating a single bomb, taking with it the entire high-level commanding structure, leaving only the boat leaders in the commanding ladder and now using their commanding power, they were taking the boats through Eden's water, following the instruction given to them in order to surrender their forces.

This was a war where an entire Navy fleet fought and lost against a single helicopter of the defending nation without facing any retaliatory fire in return.

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...…

A few minutes before the Pilot had been ordered to send "TDR bomb" a skirmish on the land border had erupted by the rain of artillery fire from Esparia's forces as the vehicles carrying soldiers were at a hold, waiting for the chaos caused by the artillery fire to disorient the soldiers before they started making their moves.

Three kilometers away from the nearest vehicles of Esparia, fifteen among the fifty soldiers could be seen lying down in cover at different distances from each other, their guns aiming and matching in the direction where the vehicle fleet was situated, the sky above was covered by artillery shells which passed and were heading to their border.

[Take out the commanding structure] Athena ordered, using the long-range data collected from "Henry's eyes'' and integrating what it into the headgears the soldiers were wearing, highlighting the people she wanted to be removed to elicit surrender from the enemy forces.

The moment the highlighting was done, the soldiers wasted no time in pulling the trigger in unison followed by the sounds of bullets leaving their electromagnetic acceleration barrels, finally embarking on their last journey for reducing a few souls from the living side of the universe.

A few seconds later, the entire high-level commanding structure, that had been in the situation room within a tent that was situated about six kilometers away from the fifteen soldiers, preparing to watch and direct how the entire situation takes place, ceased to breathe, severing their access to the living realm. The bullets marked the first objects to take human life, with the artillery fired by their soldiers being ranked second, having killed 23,532 ants that had their nests on the base of Eden. ｂｅ𝚍ｎｏｖｅ𝚕．ｃｏｍ

The rest thirty-five of the fifty soldiers had their guns aimed at the vehicles that carried people on the next line of command within the massive convoy of military vehicles, waiting for the artillery rain to subside.

Their headgear turned red, highlighting a few people it deemed important enough for them to die before the rest of the fleet.

"BANG" A silent, synchronous sound echoed in the loud night going unnoticed except by the ones who fired it…

After the death of the remaining commanding structure in the convoy, the soldiers finally realized that something was terribly wrong. Some of them even heard the sound of the mirror shattering followed by the sound of a coconut busting, which attracted their attention and forced them to take a look at what was really going on.

But that was not all, some of them had been having a conversation with their comrades, just before the person they were conversing with had their heads suddenly explode in front of them, spattering all of their brain matter over their faces, giving them a horrific experience and a very expensive PTSD to recover from.

Although killing people was good, Athena had practically dismantled all of the existing command structure, rendering any effort of recovering from what had happened in a short period of time almost impossible. And throughout this whole fiasco, artillery shells continued to be fired by their forces since she had already decrypted all the radio signals on the island and was impersonating to be the authentic command, ordering them to continue firing until they ran out of shells, planning to end the war by the end of this very night.

The artillery squadron asked no questions as they were sure that if a problem occurred, they wouldn't be the ones to be blamed for it since the order came from the higher ranks. They continued firing the shell relentlessly, as if there was no tomorrow, making little adjustments in the firing angle after every few rounds.

While the shell were still flying over them, the soldiers in the convoy had now fully come to the realization of what had just happened and started panicking, that was when the first person fired their guns in the direction of Esparia's camp, with that, the rest soon followed as they had came to a conclusion that the snipers must be coming from that direction.

Athena silently observed as the Esparian soldiers fired their guns in panic, with some of them trying to run back towards the artillery squadron for their safety, some of them were even hiding in the tanks or in the armored cars. This was immediately followed by the driver of those vehicles starting to retreat, trying to get as far away from the chaos as possible, to increase their chances of surviving.

However, the moment they started firing, some soldiers shot their own fellow comrades in a fit of panic, escalating the chaos even further.

And with more than fifty vehicles trying to retreat at once, another level of chaos now erupted amidst the cars as the driver of every car tried to be the first one to leave this chaotic zone.

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[Surrender now and you won't be killed] An announcement was heard through all the radio communication devices, this caused a short moment of lul among the Esparian soldiers on the border as they wondered if they had heard it correctly.

Alas, despite the warning, the artillery continued to be fired as if they hadn't heard the order while they remained oblivious to the chaos that was going on just a few kilometers away from them.

Athena, who had deliberately made it that way as she wanted to demonstrate another feat of force to convince the soldiers to follow her order, sent the order to the pilot of the massive helicopter hovering over the same location since the massacre had started, to release the TDR type.

Wasting no time, the pilot followed the order and pulled the trigger, releasing the bomb which was immediately followed by the booster strapped on it to get ignited as it embarked on its final mission, a journey of being a part-time grim reaper, though just for a brief period of a second.

The soldiers who had paused for a moment continued their attempts to escape once the artillery team continued firing heard a sonic boom coming from the Eden's base and by the time they raised their heads, they could see a white colored tube looking object with a fireball behind it for a brief second before it passed by them. Realizing what it exactly was, the soldiers immediately dunked down, trying to take cover and when they noticed that nothing had happened, they turned their faces towards the direction the bomb had gone.

To their shock, they immediately saw a massive explosion occur exactly five kilometers away from them, it was as if a massive light bulb had been lit up.

And exactly 14.6 seconds later, they were honored with being the very first humans on land to have an enmasse collective loss of hearing, similar to what their counterparts at the sea had experienced.

At this moment from the deepest part of their hearts, they understood very well that the artillery squadron was no more. The moment their hearing returned, they heard the same announcement they had heard before the artillery squadron was wiped out, causing them to understand that if they failed to comply with the given instructions, they would be the missile's next target.

As the saying goes– "It only takes one coward to determine the entire outcome of a battle." The moment the first soldier dropped his weapon, it was as if a domino had started to fall as soldier after soldier followed suit, dropping their weapons and raising their hand high while facing the Eden base's direction, hoping that whoever had fired that bomb or missile could see them clear enough and not do the same thing to them as he had done to the artillery squadron.

However, there were a few brave ones in the midst of the surrendering soldiers, but after the third soldier tried acting heroic and had his head burst out of nowhere, the rest of the soldiers didn't dare to do anything that would make them be deemed as defiance. They now were aware that there was an angel of death somewhere on the other side, who was ready to take them to after life the moment they tried doing anything funny.

[Now, with your weapons left there, start walking to our base. Remember, the moment any of you try doing anything funny, he will be killed. Of course, you are welcome to test our theory] Athena announced once again and at the same time another soldier's head was blown off. When those near him glanced at the dead soldier, they caught the sight of a hidden handgun next to him, this increased the level of fear they had against their enemy as they failed to imagine how the heck the enemy whom they still haven't seen could see that one among them had hidden the gun behind his back.

One by one, they started walking, officially beginning the march of life as they tried to walk as fast as they could, lest they also had their heads popped like watermelons similar to those who had fucked around and ended up being fucked out of the very life.

Just like a jock, the war that had started abruptly also ended abruptly, finishing the entire war with a landslide victory. The only loss on the winner's side was the base that was shelled, with no casualty sustained by them. The entire war had come to a conclusion in a matter of fifteen minutes with the losing side having lost more than two hundred and fifty soldiers altogether, along with it taking the title of the world's shortest war from the Anglo-Zanzibar War which had lasted for only about 38 to 45 minutes

The presidential palace, Esparia.

Inside the situation room, the President of Esparia, Samuel, could be seen quietly sitting, eagerly waiting for the reports of their ongoing invasion on Eden, and from his expressions, it could be said that he didn't seem to be worried about anything going bad at all.

"Do we still have the radio problem?" He asked the Esparias Military General, who was with him, along with several other high-level members of the government and among them there was a person who didn't have any of such lofty position in the government and yet was allowed in the room and was, in fact, even given a chair right next to the President, he was the spokesperson sent by the Morgan's after the first visitor from them had observed the situation and returned back to report to them.

"We suspect that the other side is trying to disrupt the rhythm of our operation, but you don't have to worry, Mister President. We are confident of winning this fight with a landslide victory," answered the general, trying to make it so that the President doesn't later try to undermine his glory.

The president looked at the representative of the Morgans and just as he was about to start his conversation with him, a secure phone line started ringing, causing the president to stop and glance at it as the general picked up the phone and put it on loudspeaker since he didn't want to repeat what the conversation might be about. 𝒷ℯ𝒹𝓃𝓸𝓿ℯ𝓁.𝒸ℴ𝓶

"Go on," the general said, allowing the caller to start speaking.

[Good evening, Mr Samuel and the rest of the members] Athena's feminine voice greeted from the other side of the phone, causing the people in the room to tilt their heads in confusion and make them wonder if a soldier was messing with them despite knowing that he could be punished for such an act?

"You do know that you will be heavily punished for not following the military protocol, right?" the general stated in an intimidating tone, trying to make the soldier know the weight of what he had just done, "I will ask the President to forgive you under the assumption that you were too excited for the good news you were about to present to us. So, go on and say it without wasting our time," he added.

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Athena, who had been quiet throughout the reprimanding words of the general, answered while saying, [Had I been a soldier of your country, that would have been something scary and reassuring to hear from you. Unfortunately, I'm not one of them. I'm calling from the secure phone the currently dead commanding structure had in their planning tent to inform you that we have all of your remaining soldiers under our temporary prison, as prisoners of war] She said in a serious tone, making the members hearing her words to subconsciously believe that whatever she was saying was no longer a joke since no one was dumb enough to play such a foolish prank on them given the current situation.

"You seem to have lucked out and managed to gain connection to our encrypted communication, planning to play a game of minds with us in the hope that we stop our invasion. But you're barking up the wrong tree, you should have used this chance to beg for the conditions of surrender," Samuel said after realizing the caller was indeed from Eden's military.

[I really can't be bothered to give further explanation. Call this number after you are informed, I don't think it should take long] Athena said before ending the call since she had enough time to play mind games with them.

"Logan, do you think she is serious about what she said?" Samuel asked the general after taking a short moment to ponder whether their enemies were serious or just bluffing.

"They must be bluffing, Mister President. Through all of our simulation, we are sure that there is not even a slim possibility of them ending up as the winners in this fight," Logan answered with a pride tone, showing how confident he was of winning the fight, to the point of not even considering the chance of the call being real.

At the same time, he started disconnecting all the power cords to the phones in the room to prevent any chance of eaves droppings happening through the infiltrated secure communication lines. Not taking any chances.

"Then how do you explain about the radio being jammed moments after we crossed the border and not receiving any report through any other channels for the past 20 minutes since the war started?" asked the representative of the Morgan's, opening his mouth for the first time since the start of the operation.

They only knew him as the representative, because that's what he had introduced himself as and hadn't even given them his name.

"Due to having a problem with funding allocation, we haven't upgraded the radio of all the soldiers. So they might have the ability to jam them but that doesn't mean that they have won the war. We can explain all of it if they might have got help from the telecommunication giant, CONNECT," Logan said, trying to give an explanation on how the jamming might have been made possible.

"If they are that powerful, why did they fail to stop us from disturbing their government infrastructure and almost their whole internet infrastructure, slowing down the internet and even removing access to their government websites?" asked the representative from the Morgan family.

"Our communication infrastructure is not as advanced as yours, which allowed you to make them suffer. But their communication juggernaut of a company should at least have the capability of blocking certain radio signals. Despite being outdated, if they were to use CONNECT's infrastructure, they should still be a few generations ahead of the most prevalent communication system we have.

So, it should be easy for them to do that. Nonetheless, that doesn't stop us from bulldozing them, all we have to do is bomb their base and kill or capture the rest of them," Logan retorted back, finding that the situation he was in right now was quite embarrassing since he was defending the enemy's capabilities by explaining how they could do such a thing, yet at the same time, also try to show the man that he was confident of them winning this fight despite the other side having the advantage of information infrastructure.

"Why don't we just send a helicopter to the war theater so that it can bring back information on whether everything is going as planned or not?" suggested Logan, trying to end the discussion as the more he discussed this, the more uneasy he started to become. He found the reasoning made by the people in the room was logical, the only discrepancy here being that the Eden's military couldn't have gained so much expertise in such a short period of time.

"That makes the most sense. Go on and order for a helicopter to be sent there and bring back the information as soon as possible," Samuel said, trying to mediate and prevent the two people from starting an argument and also in order to make sure that his second batch of payment would be delivered to him upon receiving the news of the successful start of the operation.

Logan immediately called for his assistant and gave him the order, avoiding the use of phones in the room since they were already infiltrated.

Under the cover of darkness, six heavily armed helicopters lifted off from one of the well-lit military bases in Esparia. Each helicopter carried two pilots and four soldiers who had been armed to the max, heading in two directions for executing a dangerous mission that was handed to them, one was headed towards the land border and the other to the water border close to the first, where a great massacre was already expected to have happened.

Although Athena deliberately called through the secure line from their land base and only talked about having some prisoners of war, she didn't specify where the prisoners originated from, as she wanted Esparia to still want to continue the war.

Because if the war were to end this way, Esparia would still have the delusion that they had lost merely because the other side turned out to be lucky and had hit them back in surprise, believing that they could win with enough preparations from their side.

She wanted to solve the problem from the very root and prevent it from ever raising again.

The helicopters heading to the land war theater were the first to arrive after a forty-five minutes long flight. At first, they were expecting to be able to see the ongoing fight with the barter trade of bullets taking place, however, nothing of such sort could be seen which in itself was weird and scary.

In fact, the whole scene before them looked deserted.

"Ground Base, this is Recon-1. Over!" The leading helicopter pilot tried to establish communication with the ground base.

"Ground Base, Recon-1 on approach. Requesting radio check. Over." The pilot repeated his attempt to establish communications with them once again.

"Ground Base, this is Recon-1. We are within visual range. Requesting immediate contact. Over." He repeated the communication establishment request for the third time and when he received no reply after waiting for a short period, he immediately said, "All Recon units, this is Alpha 1. Standby in a holding pattern above the vicinity of the base. Maintain radio silence until further notice. I'm going to establish communication with the Home Base to inform them about this. Over."

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Beta: "Copy, Alpha 1. Holding in position and maintaining radio silence. Over."

Gama: "Roger that, Alpha 1. Standing by and ready to support. Over."

Delta: "Affirmative, Alpha 1. Holding pattern and radio silence in effect. Over."

Alpha 1: "Good. Maintain visual contact with the landing zone and keep your sensors on high alert. We need to be prepared for any potential threats. Over." He reminded the pilots of the other helicopters to be careful, while immediately started to establish communication with the home base and informed them about what they had seen.

"Home Base, this is Recon 1, we're at the designated recon zone, but we've been unable to establish communication with Ground Base so far. It seems deserted. We've spotted unusual holes that should be the result of a large explosion. Over." He informed them at once.

"Copy that, Recon-1. Can you provide visual and photographic evidence of your discoveries? Over." The home base responded at once, asking for more information.

"Affirmative, Home Base. Activating the onboard cameras for documentation. Sending images now. Over." He responded, immediately starting the process of establishing data transfer with the Home base.

"Received the images, Recon-1. Excellent work. Maintain position until further notice and still remain cautious. We will analyze the data and advise your next steps. Over." The home base reported that they have received the images and ordered the pilots to remain on standby.

"Understood, Home Base. Standing by until fur..." he had just said till then, when…

"BRRRRRRRRRRRRR" 𝘣𝘦𝘥𝘯𝑜𝘷𝘦𝘭.𝑐𝑜𝑚

They were attacked by bullets that started raining on the helicopter all of a sudden, out of nowhere, hitting only the non-threatening part of the helicopter that was enough to make it incapable of continuing its flight but not bad enough to cause them to explode.

"MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY" All the pilots in the three helicopters entered an emergency response, controlling their helicopter they tried their best to make their landings as smooth as possible and reduce the amount of injuries they would be sustaining after the crash landing.

They started their emergency landing by detaching all the bombs and rockets that they had brought in preparation for an attack and ditching their external fuel tanks which they had brought in preparation for long operations, however, now they were nothing more than additional firewood that would cook them if it exploded upon their emergency landing.

And thanks to them taking that measure and their expertise that was honed over a long period of time, they managed to land alive, albeit not completely unharmed, the injuries were light enough as they survived and managed to get off the helicopter with nothing threateningly harmful.

"Welcome!" That was the first word they heard after they had finished thanking god for keeping them alive.

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The soldiers among the group immediately raised their guns, pointing them in the direction where the sound had come from.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you," came a response as they noticed that about fifteen people, who from head to toe were completely donned in futuristic-looking gear, had their guns pointed at them, at the same time, the opponents fired their guns in unison without any further warning, resulting in their bullets to break the guns in the hands of the soldier, causing them to have a mini heart attack as they were both scared for their lives and at the same time impressed with the coordination among these soldiers.

The situation grew tense as the two sides faced each other, uncertain as to what lay ahead.

However, after a moment, the pilots and the few soldiers immediately raised their hands in surrender while the afraid Alpha 1 asked, "Who are you guys?" having trouble remembering any country to have such futuristic-looking gears.

"(ESF) Eden's special forces," one of them answered and then they immediately started handing each of the survivors a black zip tie-looking device and at the same time instructed, "Put them on or you will be forced to do so."

Following the instructions, the Esparian soldiers put their hands at the center of the ziptie-looking device which automatically closed themselves, fitting to the size of their hands at the same time, giving them a sensation as if they had lost all the strength from their bodies, scaring the shit out of them.

This sudden loss of strength had more to do with the zip ties using the nervous system in their hands to force the brain into putting a limiter on the strength of the people wearing them.

Following that, they were immediately escorted to a military truck that had arrived a few moments ago, indicating that it was specifically brought for carrying these new prisoners.

As for the those in the helicopters that had headed to the waterfront, they were met with the same fate, the only difference being that they had to swim for a few meters before a boat came to rescue them, it was at that time that they were handed the zip tie 2.0 before they were even offered blankets to shield themselves from the freezing breeze in the ocean.

"Sir, we have lost contact with the helicopter we sent for reconnaissance," reported the assistant, who had been the one responsible for sending the order of dispatching the helicopters for reconnaissance.

"What do you mean by that? Didn't we send six of them? How the heck could all of them lose communication at the very same time?" Logan asked, his tone clearly indicating that he was breaking from the inside. He finally started believing that even if they were unlucky for the first time, they couldn't be so ill-fated now as well and have lost all the helicopter's communication despite being well-prepared with counter measures.

"No, sir, they didn't lose communication at the same time, rather, all of them were shot down," the assistant clarified his report as he put down a computer and played the audio recording right before the helicopters were gunned down.

"Understood, Home Base. Standing by till fur…BRRRRRRRRRRRR" The audio came to an abrupt halt with white noise, indicating that the helicopter was certainly lost.

"Fuck" the President swore, realizing that now they had to buy new helicopters to replace the currently downed ones. He wasn't concerned about the loss of soldiers at all since they could be replaced at any time, however, the money needed to buy the helicopter couldn't be refunded and that meant he would be having a little bit less money to embezzle.

"So, we failed to get any information about what is really going on on the borders?" asked the representative, causing the entire room that was filled with whispers to return back to complete silence.

"No, we have managed to get images from the land base before the helicopters were shot down, however, the one sent over the waters was shot even before they could send us any images back," reported the assistant as he started handing a folder which had the pictures that were sent by the Recon-1 before it was shot down.

"Holy mother!" Logan blurted as his eyes widened as soon as he laid his eyes on the picture, despite being an incompetent general, upon seeing the crater near the base, he could still deduce that whatever had exploded at this place was massive ordnance, carrying quite a heavy power with it.

"So, what are we going to do with this?" Samuel wondered as he put the folder down, knowing how unpopular he was going to be after this news reached the citizens and relatives of those that were sent to the base.

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"It might not be as bad as we think, if you look at the explosion, there are only a few body parts scattered around it, meaning that more than seventy percent of the soldiers might be still alive and are only captured. However, the problem is, we don't have the images of what happened at the other location," Logan said, bringing into view that most of their problems were only due to them being starved of information.

"Then how about sending fighter jets for reconnaissance this time?" Samuel asked.

"We can't do that, with them shooting the six helicopters at once; it clearly indicates that they already have a very robust anti-aircraft defense system established," Logan said, shaking off the President's idea.

"I can get you the satellite images of the battlefield, but no matter the outcome comes from the picture, you have to remember the deal, you are not to stop until you have reached one of the milestones stated in the contract, or else you will be the ones who will need to worry about your lives. If the situation on the ground is worse than expected, we will be supporting you with both manpower and even the technology to take down their infrastructures, but for those assistances, our deal will have to be rewritten and increase the share of the pie we will be receiving when everything is over," said the representative, even threatening them to not even think of the idea of giving up.

"We should get those images first and then decide what actions we are going to take following that, but if things are as bad as what we can extrapolate from what little information we have, we will have to be as much prepared as we can and also need to send a massive amount of vehicles and other resources." Samuel agreed, feeling that his money was getting further and further away from him.

"So, how are we going to respond when Eden makes an announcement about this?" Samuel asked after a moment, taking a look at everyone in the room.

"We just have to prepare different responses and choose one based on how Eden reports the incident, that would allow us to understand what they are planning to use their victory at the moment," the representative said before taking his phone from his pocket and leaving the room to call his supervisor for the request to provide him with the satellite images of the ongoing events at the border between Eden and Esparia.

...…..

When they received the satellite images, they finally were able to see the full extent of the war's outcome.

On the land, there were two craters: one massive, which lay in the place that used to be the artillery squadron's location of firing the shells and the second one which was caused by one of the Esparia's special forces after it fired on the ammunition depot, resulting in the depot's explosion, thus forming the small crater.

As for the water, where the other part of the battle had taken place, there was nothing but a calm ocean. No boats or their wreckage could be seen, however, there were still many bodies that could be caught sight of if one zoomed in, this was enough to give them the missing part of information they needed to know what exactly had happened to their navy fleet.

Their entire navy fleet was completely wiped out!

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However, when they looked at the next image, they saw some of their boats being docked in a small military port with tents being arranged at the base, giving them slight reassurance knowing that at least some of their soldiers were alive. This would reduce the amount of backlash they would be receiving from the family members of the soldiers and the general public for the huge losses they had suffered had it been a complete massacre of their navy fleet.

"It looks like we have lost round one and Eden should be bragging about it tomorrow morning, but that should turn out to be helpful for us as now that they had won, they would loosen their vigilance and when we return after preparing for over a month, we should be able to pay for this humiliation," Logan spat as he crumpled the papers on his hands in anger, he had lost his chance of winning a battle and get himself a medal, which could have been the start of his journey on etching his name among one of the best generals in the history.

"Are we going to negotiate with them for the release of our soldiers in the midst of our preparations?" he asked after putting down the now crumpled paper on the table.

"Yes. Right after they make their press conference, we will respond that it was a misunderstanding and they were the ones who attacked us first and tell the family members of the soldiers that we will be negotiating for their release, while behind Eden's back, we will still be preparing for the second round of the fight," answered the President's assistant with a starry light in his eyes.

But what happened the next (Thursday) morning was nothing that they had prepared themselves for.

The spokesperson of Eden's ministry of defense just informed the public about Esparia's attack on both land and water, while they never talked about them winning the war or anything related to it, they just said that the fight was still going on and that they will do their best to protect their sovereignty, that's all.

No talks about winning the war or anything to hint at that, they even portrayed themselves to be the ones on the losing side and put themselves in a worse condition and even causing worry among the public where they could have been bragging about their one-sided beatdown that they had dished out to Esparia, flipping the table on almost all of Esparia's plans that were made with the expectation that Eden would be bragging about their win.

"SHIT" cursed the President and the general in unison as they watched the press conference. 𝚋𝚎𝚍𝚗𝚘𝚟ｅｌ.ｃ𝚘𝚖

They were taken aback by the unexpected turn of events and Eden's unexpected thick-faced nature.

The news was received by every corner of the globe in just a matter of a few hours.

However, the world on the other hand reacted completely differently to the information, especially after the American government held a press conference a few hours after the one carried out by Eden's Ministry of defense(EMOD), but during this press conference, they brought out a completely different narrative from what the EMOD had stated about the ongoing war.

The revelation from the American government's side came with imagery evidence among which included the shocking explosion images that were captured by their Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) constellation. The image clearly showed the ocean water rising very high amidst a few boats that were destroyed and only had a few pieces floating together, with a massive plum of water rising for a radius of ten kilometers which was its impact zone. The water turned foamy after being disturbed by shockwaves from the explosion and was caught by the sensors and is now shown as evidence.

In fact, people were completely taken aback by such a horrific event that had occurred just a few hours ago and the country that did this did not even consider what might happen after they massacred the entire fleet that had breached their maritime sovereignty and continued acting as if the war had only started.

( CuriousSoul): Woah, just caught up on the EMOD's press conference about the ongoing war! Their narrative made them look weak, but now the American government comes in with a completely different story? #WarSaga #DualNarratives

( HistoryBuff101): This is getting wild! The American government's imagery evidence is too just shocking. That explosion pic from their SBIRS is horrifying, yet it looked awesome! #WarSaga #ExplosiveRevelations

( NewsJunkie23): Can't wrap my head around it! Why does Eden's narrative imply that the fight is going to be very difficult for them if they want to come out victorious, but at the same time, America's narrative shows that they have completely dragged and massacred the Esparians, ending the entire thing in a matter of a few minutes? Who do we believe? #WarSaga #ConflictingReports

( TechGeek99): The technology doesn't lie! The SBIRS evidence is compelling, but who's to confirm that it wasn't tampered with? We need a real report. Conspiracy theories in 3, 2, 1... #WarSaga #TechTruth

( problemmaker): But from where the heck did they even get their hands on such a powerful explosive and how were they even able to use it without the other side doing absolutely nothing to avoid it? #somethingishidden here #Conspiracy #Insidejob

( PoliticalInsight): Geopolitics at play! EMOD and America trying to shape the narrative in their favor. We need unbiased reporting and fact-checking. #WarSaga #GeopoliticalGames

( DefenceExpert22): Let's not forget the tragedy! The casualties in the ocean battle can't be ignored. Condolences to the families affected. #WarSaga #RememberTheFallen 𝙗𝒆𝙙𝙣𝒐𝙫𝙚𝒍.𝒄𝒐𝒎

( HopefulMindset): Amidst the chaos, let's hope for better days ahead. Humanity must find a way to resolve conflicts peacefully. #WarSaga #HopeForPeace

( AnalyticalEyes): The power of perspective! EMOD and America's narratives show how information can be twisted to their liking. Critical thinking is crucial in times like these. #WarSaga #PerspectiveMatters

( Thecuriousdude69): By the way, where the fuck is Esparia's department of defense? We need some fucking answers, they remain quiet throughout all of this? Are they embarrassed for the beating they received? #WarSaga #WherethefuckisEsparia #Esperia? #Ineedansweres

Interestingly, Esparia had remained silent despite them being the ones who had suffered heavy casualties of their soldiers and were humiliated while the other side had already made their announcement.

As the public pressure continued to increase, the silence could only last for a few hours before the news about Esparia arranging a press conference in the afternoon of the same day.

After all, they were pressured by the public to give an explanation of what the heck had happened and with the cries of the families of the soldiers that had been sent to the border during the period, only escalated the tensions.

People were waiting for the press conference with anxiousness, curious as to what explanation Esparia was going to provide about the devastating events.

...

[ Esparia Ministry of Defense Press Conference ]

Inside the room filled with hundreds of reporters from both local and international media, all were eager to get this news to the curious observers who wanted to get as much information as possible about the ongoing situation. People were curious whether it was just a skirmish that would end as such or will it escalate into a full-blown war, with some secretly hoping for the latter to happen.

A handsome-looking man, donned in a full ceremonial military uniform, walked into the room, carrying a hard folder in his hands. He confidently walked to the podium before putting the folder on it. Raising his head, he looked at the flashing cameras and reporters in the room to address them in a calm and slow manner.

"Ladies and gentlemen,"

The little amount of whispers and talks came to a halt as he continued.

"Thank you for joining us today as we address the recent events involving Esparia and Eden. It is with a heavy heart that I stand before you to shed light on the unfortunate incidents that occurred last night," he paused for a moment, allowing the people to prepare themselves for the gravity of what he was going to say next.

After a short moment of pause, he continued, "Last night, our fleet was engaged in a routine navigation exercise, training for a situation where we use other means of navigation apart from just our GPS navigation system."

"Due to some uncalculated errors occurring during the exercise, our fleet inadvertently veered into Eden's waters without any malicious intent."

"When that happened, Eden's forces, without any prior warning, launched an aggressive attack on our fleet using a bomb that resulted in the loss of numerous brave soldiers and the capture of the remaining members. We deeply mourn for the loss of our comrades and are doing everything in our power to secure the safe return of those captured."

"It is crucial to note that there was no prior warning from Eden and we were taken by surprise when we were suddenly faced with an attack without any provocation."

He let out a sigh, a look of worry flashing on his face, he then continued.

"Furthermore, Eden's aggression didn't stop right at the sea as they simultaneously initiated a skirmish on the land border. This clearly indicates that this was not just a simple reaction to us entering their water, but a deliberately planned operation from their side, so that they could inflict damage upon us and us entering their waters was nothing but a mere justification they could use for what they had done to us."

"Their actions caught our forces off guard, leaving them with little to no chance to defend themselves. This attack resulted in severe casualties and a humiliating arrest of all the surviving members of our forces situated on the base."

The man said as he seemed to be grinding his teeth in anger.

Seeing this, many of the reporters couldn't help but start to believe that it was indeed true.