Gate: Clash of Ideologies

by GTI-1

The war is over yet a new one is about to begin. Forces old and new shall meet for the first time and the meeting of those that could have been will meet a nation so different yet steeped in blood. Ideologies will clash, values conflict, conflicts emerge as lines are drawn. Their contact shall cause a cascade throughout the history of humanity.

4. The Board is Set

New Pendragon, Imperial Capital, ISB research facility

The capital much like the other cities had been rebuilt, previously the capital was in the North American continent. Now it lay at the heart of Central Asia, in the former nation known as Kazakhstan.

It is a bustling of industry and innovation, large shipyards creating the newest generation of warships, one's capable of spaceflight and operating in the void. Other factories dotted the city, scattered yet organised in near rows. Producing essential goods, armaments for the next war and the newest prototype of technologies that could tilt the scale in the next war.

Heavy Artillery pieces, 800mm VARRIS cannons mounted on modified G1 Mobile bases. The new G3 Heavy Siege Howitzers, capable of firing up to 600km. Vincent Asellus, mass produced 10th generation interceptor KMF and the Palamedes class, bombardment KMF. Smaller siege tanks, anti-air laser batteries, ship components and so much more. All rolled out of the assembly lines, in preparation for the next war.

All of which would not come to fruition were it not for the effort of dedicated imperial scientists, royalty included. For decades, the ISB under the leadership of director Cecile vi Britannia, with key scientists such as Lloyd Aspluld, Rakshata Chawla and Nina Einstein. Not to mention the other scientists, together they had advanced imperial science far beyond what the technologies used 50 years ago.

Among them was Arianna vi Britannia, daughter to Empress Consort Cinder vi Britannia and the Emperor, had found her talents in the sciences. For some miraculous reason, the new royalty of the Imperium was talented, nurtured in a loving environment, taught by the best and brightest.

It was surprising that all of them were competent in some way either in administrative, military, the sciences, or any other fields. Her calling had lad her to creating Legion, an autonomous army, capable of waging war without human oversight.

After the devastating loses in the previous war, she wanted to create machines that could fight, so that they don't have to send men and women to their deaths. It wasn't only hers, Arianna had to ask her mother and Lloyld in creating the physical models, Rakshata for the command-and-control systems.

Despite their assistance, Legion wasn't alive, still using advance VI's, for the purposes of a functional army, she needed to create an AI one that could adapt and think on its own. For that she had to consult with the Randles. Which is why she was here right now.

"Basing the new AI on the neural patterns of the brain, it is feasible", Positronic Artificial Intelligence a new idea yet one that has not come to fruition, he continued. "Whilst mapping the neural pathways of the brain is possible, it cannot be done without damage." As the creator of the BRS and its evolution the Neural Interphase System, he was the best at his field.

"Exactly, I can cover the latter issue, yet I need equipment to create a digital neural matrix", tapping the console, she forwarded her design, lines of codes all culminating into a digital brain. "Since you and your wife were instrumental in creating the NIS, a system that links the brain to a machine." This time the images shifted, without any physical interactions, "You can build a neural matrix scanner, I request that so that Legion can be further developed."

The man took on a thoughtful expression, the one who replied was the woman besides him. "Your highness whilst I know your intentions are good, please heed caution, we are creating a new life, our actions in nurturing it could be the difference between annihilation and success." The women, Sophie Randle voiced out her concerns. She did not disagree, AI if nurtured terribly could have terrible consequences.

Creating an AI is like raising a child who had God like computational abilities, it needed to be taught boundaries and principles of morality which is why she needed them. "I know, Legion has its risks but if we do this right." She stressed that point. "We could send less soldiers to die, lives could be spared, and the issue of parenting is precisely the reason I need you." The couple took a more serious expression unbothered by the bustling activities around them.

"Whilst I know my abilities in creating inventions is excellent, I doubt that I have any expertise in nurturing." Arianna continued as Sophie contemplated the situation, her husband placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. What they were doing was dangerous, yet they knew if this was done right, so many lives can be preserved. She came to a decision, "I and Takeru are willing to raise this new child."

For what could this AI be called other than a child, referring to it as such did well in giving it humanity which Arianna understood. "We will teach him or her the values of humanity, principles of morality and restraint." She took a deep breath. "We agree with your proposal your highness, we'll raise the new child well, it will take time to create the scanner." She finished as Takeru spoke out for them. "I'll see to it personally; I leave the creation in your hands. Just hand it to us when it's done, and we'll take care of the rest."

Arianna smiled, pleased with their cooperation, "Thank you, this personally means a lot to me." She took a deep breath, face near to tears as the couple offered words of comfort. "Your highness, you are not alone in this, everyone lost something in the war, I am sure your family and friends will be proud of your accomplishments, we're all in this together." Arianna shook some of the tears in her eyes, her motivation in creating legion, all of it so that they won't lose more.

Fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters, loved ones, friends and so much more were lost in the previous conflict. She shook her head bitterly, the dead can rest in peace, it was up to the living to carry their legacy.

"I am grateful for your words of comfort, I wish that we did not need Legion, not need these weapons of war, if only we could find peace in the future." That made the couple sighed, faces in melancholy of what could have been, yet the universe was cruel, even now they did not know if another attack will come, be it years or even decades. This peace that they had right now was an interim, the war is not over as long as they are out there in the stars.

Arianna composed herself, before giving the Randles farewells as she moved to her destination. Around her were men and women discussing improvements to Knightmare Frames, biological augmentations for devisers, or theorising new computational technologies and discussion on inventing new weapons.

She found her mother, deep in discussion with Lloyd Asplund and Aunt Cecile, discussing the latter of topics. Her arrival had not gone unnoticed as Llyold gave her a wave of his hand which turned the group's attention towards her.

"Arianna, it's good to see you, I take it you achieved a recent breakthrough." Aunty Cecile greeted her with a smile, followed by her mother as Lloyld as usual laughed. "Ah! Did you get any ideas on the new AI. Must have been nice if you looked that happy" As usual Lloyd had no care for any form of propriety which her mother took issue with, "Lloyd" the way the word was phrased snapped him back.

Muttering some apologies as Cecile shook her head at her old partners antics. "I may have an idea on developing the new AI but that comes at a cost." At the mention of the latter, Aunt Cecile face turned grim, surprisingly Lloyd followed knowing what the cost is, her mother's reaction was the one she was looking for, face stoic until she spoke the subject aloud.

"You need test subjects" pausing for a second "human test subjects" She stressed the word human, highlighting its importance. Using human test subjects had been a contentious issue with the imperium, those subjects usually those sentenced to death, or those who are already dying had presented a moral dilemma as many were split in its use.

Even now, aunty Cecile grimaced, she was of the faction that these practices whilst inhumane were necessary, still caring of each human live sacrificed. Her mother and Lloyd had no such issues especially if their crimes were significant, the latter was more concerned if they worked or not which was his source of contention with the original BRS.

The Imperial Science Bureau was not wholly united, there were many groups with differentiating ethics and morals, often debating upon moral principles and practical efficiency. Lloyd initials strive with the BRS did not came from his concern over the human pilots, much to Aunt Cecile's disappointment and frustrations, but of his opinion that the BRS would fry the devisers which he viewed as critical components of KMF.

He was proven wrong though as the new Neural Interphase System, managed to achieve absolute synchronicity between the pilot and the machine without any risks. Allowing the pilot to move the Knightmare as if he was moving his own body, directly sending controls to the brain. This made Knightmares inhumanely fast as the computers of the frame boosted the processing capacity of the brain leading to high reaction times and finishing decisions and calculations within a second.

That was the breakthrough of the 10th generation, it wasn't just the capacity to break the speed of sound and its high offensive and defensive capabilities that was of the 9th generation rather it was upon improving the pilots ability to control the machine to massive degrees of success alongside providing combat capabilities in the void.

There was another generation of frames that they had achieved. If her recollections were right, it was the 11th generation and its ability to break a planets orbit. The design of a compact Aether Generator was immensely difficult, its basic construction requiring a large size which was why it was primarily used on the new ship class that were under construction and to power up cities.

The cost of producing one compact Aether Generator could create a hundred compact fusion generators. Which was why they were producing 10th generation Vincent Asellus and the Palamedes series; those craft could simply be carried with existing ships into orbit. The only reason one had to produce an 11th generation craft is if they were special forces that had to infiltrate deep or the knights of the round like her mother once was.

All these thoughts were done in a second, her inhumane intelligence already concluding such thoughts as she was formulating a reply. "Yes mother, and I think we all know where we can get them." That shifted the topic away to the gates, those strange dimensional pathways that somehow led them to this.

"Ah the gates and their societies" Her mother mused "I believe I could requisition tens of thousands of prisoners for you to use in your experiments." Her smile turned feral, Lloyd and Cecile completely unbothered by what would otherwise be a creepy expression, "Afterall nobody could care about the lives of slaver scum." Which brought a pained agreement with Aunt Cecile and a whiff of disgust from Dr Asplund.

"Augh, Slavery" He grimaced, as if the mere idea disgusted him. "Such an inefficient system, how can they innovate if all they think about is how they could have sex with them" He exclaimed as he threw his arms a wide. Despite his sociopathic behaviour, he does surprisingly understand the concept of attraction even if he doesn't feel it himself. He's seen the videos of what they do to prisoners and was completely apathetic to it. "Such is a system where you could cheaply solve problems with labor, but that destroys any desire to innovate, I bet that they had spent a few thousand years swinging swords while we push for the stars." Again, his only critique of a system is if it's efficient or not, many imperial scientists were like him in that regard, only caring for efficiency, unbothered by ethics. Which is why Aunt Cecile establishing the ethics committee to keep them in line.

"We cannot confirm the latter, our expansion has just begun, there are more forces at play that factor into their primitive state." To which Aunt Cecile agreed as she added, "Lloyd do not assume that Saderans were primitive just because of slavery, their so called 'gods' may have a bigger impact than you think."

Ah that was a hypothesis that the people of Falmart were deliberately kept down by these entities. These so-called gods, need faith and worship to survive, interviews with locals had described the deities in details and many of their domains would wither and die, if the world advanced technologically leaving Emroy the God of War and Bloodshed, to remain powerful as all other gods withered with the lack of faith.

Those are enough reasons for them to deny any form of advancements, where each small breakthrough that would lead to an industrial evolution were crushed by the apostles. Now these apostles were nascent gods, waiting for their time to ascend meanwhile they had to serve the interests of their patron deities. The closest she could compare them were to code bearers like her aunt C.C and her father. The similarities may be closer than they may think, the codes previously thought destroyed had been rendered dormant.

The recent war had catalyzed C's world to activate them and now they were perpetuals, incapable of death. Fortunately, their bonds had manifested for real, anyone in a deep emotional bond with her father will not die of age, the same applies for his children. Her mothers face had no sign of imperfection, her lost eye healed, same for Cecile.

"Besides the Saderans and their gods, what about the society beyond Alnus gate." Deciding to shift the topic, everyone else agreeing as they wanted to move on to a less heavy subject. Aunt Cecile mentally showed and shared their recent findings of the society beyond Alnus. Information quickly comprehended in about a flash of light. A prelude to the next discussion that she began first.

Before that however, "As for how the reports were gained, well" She ran a hand behind her head, completely unbothered by the breach of societal etiquette that was expected of them. "One of Diana's subordinates were creative enough and sent a stealth drone to Alnus, then connected it with their version of the internet without the Saderans noticing." That brought chuckles to everyone, a certainly creative idea that they should have thought first.

"The recent reports of this world which I will designate as Earth or Terra Secundus and their star system as Sol 2." Creating images of two earths and their solar systems, showing the date, political map and the infrastructure that was present within the system. There is a stark contrast between the two solar systems, while one was bustling with industry, the imperium having expanded to the edges of the solar system. Sol 2 was absolutely barren; the only structures were those orbiting earth barely passing their Lagrange points.

"As you can see, Terra Secundus and it's civilisations are stagnant, if the space race had continued, they may have reached mars but as it stands, their political systems prevent it." She zoomed to the world of Terra Secundus, already noting that there were 195 nations. "Democracy has actually flourished in this world, their age of revolution managed to produce something, the key factor being the development of democracy in the United States of America."

To think Washington's rebellion would have such a large impact on democracy, the only democracy that they knew were of the EU and its use in practice did not turn out as intended. It was a two-party state between the Pox Populi and the Pax Romana which continuously shifted in the Hemicycle. This back-and-forth division between these two parties cased the Europa United to stagnate.

Pro labor policies set about by the Vox Populi will be repealed by the Pax Romana during the next election cycles, similarly the new budget and military expansion plans by politicians from Pax Romana applied for a few short years, but when the Vox Populi were elected, those measures were again, repealed under the excuse of saving 'budget'. It was a result of decadence, polarised nature and lobbying as the parties are pulled by interest groups, corporate donors and the desires of the people that often conflict with each other.

In the end, those democracies barely did anything, causing them to stagnate and not advance. As far as they could see, the European Union consisting of democracies, more fragmented than the EU they knew alongside the US suffered this syndrome, especially the United States.

In recent times especially around the year 2000, the stagnation worsens. An example could be taken, the empire state building took 15 months to construct while the world trade Centre took 8 years. Both buildings were not that different in height, yet it took longer for them to construct the latter.

California, from the information they have gathered, had the largest housing crisis in the entire United States, the fact it took 17 years to build 49-unit apartment complexes due to the byzantine housing laws is horrendous in of itself. This is a symptom of decadence, high polarisation, and the fact that the laws are being pulled by a thousand different groups, doing it for their own self-interest.

No wonder they never get things done, their rival the Peoples Republic of China were already constructing high speed railroads and 150 nuclear power-plants whilst the US can't keep up, due to China being more centralised and focussed with the CCP. The Imperium would suffer no such thing, it's constitutional absolutism at the hands of her father and competent leaders could finish things quicker than they can.

A democracy that's already tearing itself apart could never compete. The words of Abraham Lincoln were fitting, a house divided cannot stand. A shame the presidents that came after him did not share his wisdom.

"Their technological base is less than the imperium, they have no mastery of interplanetary travel, no inkling of the arcane, they haven't fully shifted to electricity and are having difficulties with it, they have a climate crisis due to overuse of hydrocarbons and their overall industry has substantially less output and worker efficiency than that of the imperium." Already comparing charts between their worlds, the results were drastic, if they were careless, they could crash their global economy and cause multiple economic crises.

"Furthermore, they have no fusion technology, still use gunpowder-based weapons and their industries and power supply are reliant on hydrocarbons, minimal automation, no quantum computers let alone psionic computational and interphase technology." Aunt Cecile grimaced before continuing. "If we desire it, we could destroy their economy just by flooding their markets with our goods. Overall, their technology is significantly inferior to our own, especially that of our great enemy."

Everyone grimaced at the mention of the enemy, if the aliens were ti attack, Terra Secundus with its fragmented, disunited nature, they would be slaughtered. Britannia barely managed to survive the catastrophe and that was with their father at the helm of a united world. Terra Secundus as it stands cannot survive an attack, if they were to save those people then the imperium must annex them and start digging in.

It Lloyd that aired everyone's thoughts "Oh boy that is terrible, ironic that to save them we have to invade them, wouldn't you agree your majesty." Face turning to his query whilst giving his best eccentric smile possible, her mother rested her head on her hand, contemplating the situation, still remaining stoic before she declared.

"True and it's for their own good, knowing Lelouch, I think he understands that already, although we may not need to invade, their version of Africa is underdeveloped and strived in chaos" Her mother began highlighting GDP per capita, economic statistics color-coding those with the lowest in income as red whilst higher ones show greens and blues.

It was a bad picture when Europe and North America were in varying blues and greens whilst Africa was in red, it similarly applies to stability, corruption, and wars alongside their genocides. It was not a pleasing picture, her mother concluded "imperial intervention will bring prosperity to their lands and give them more freedoms ironically." They were ruled by puppet governments or corrupt politicians or worse warlords. It was no brainer that it was an improvement.

"We can assign our respective ethnicities and our own Africans to slowly mend ties and fix bonds, whilst they may not be similar, since their culture are analogues, they should be able to administer these lands." Cultural similarity indexes, concepts on their differences were highlighted, her mother's idea could work if applied well. Those analogues should treat their other be kin as foreigners, who knows what historical differences can do to entire societies but they'll be able to integrate themselves and connect culturally and emotionally with those people, a fact that the Western led coalition cannot comprehend.

"In the end they'll be ruled by their own people and when the time comes, they can begin to govern themselves, whilst Lelouch may hold absolute power." Stressing that point, "He needs governors and viceroys to administrate the local areas and the colonies, he needs to appoint competent governors he can't be everywhere at once." Her concern was noted by all parties, in theory the emperor's word is law as is told by the constitution, in practice governors, appointed or elected run the day-to-day affairs in the imperium.

The fact that some were elected amongst specialist groups such as military commanders or scientists does mean the Imperium has certain democratic elements into it. But the state sponsored platform meant that it was more of a meritocratic competition, as while popular opinion matter, competence is even more so and other figures of high authority could change the appointments if the candidate was good enough.

"I'll need to discuss these plans with the others later" Delaying that topic until everyone else that mattered, Fathers inner circle, were gathered. "Moving on what of their military and industrial capabilities." Another mental command, the console followed displaying overall production charts, composition of forces, overall number of soldiers, their equipment, transportation and so much more.

It was so lacking; this was expressed by Lloyd "The militaries of the world rely on the Main Battle Tank" Showing images of Type-10, Leopard 2A6, T-90, Challengers, Leclerc, Type-99, Merkava, and the Abrams. "These vehicles are armed with a 120mm or 125mm in the T-90's case smoothbore barrel gun except for the challenger, some have autoloaders, and armored with standard explosive reactive armour or depleted uranium." He chuckled before continuing, "Sensors include varying degrees of 3rd to 4th generation thermals, alongside night vision, no motion sensors and stabilisers." He clapped his hands together.

"They would have worked well against forces in 1945 A.T.B but as it stands, they'll barely worthless." Using the NIS, he conjured videos of simulated attacks against armor, "At best they'll barely hold against 4th generation frames," a Glasgow took a potshot at the tanks top armour, blowing it off completely, others were repeated as Glasgow's shot from the sides or in on multiple instances jumped to the tanks and fired their 50mm KMF rifle at point blank range.

It did not end well, in urban areas, KMF zipped from rooftop to rooftop, engaging the tanks weak armour and then disengaging. In the forests and deserts, the same happened as the tank's depression were too slow to get a lock at the Glasgow's, that cost them their live as they were blown to bits. One Glasgow running out of ammo decided to jump on a tank and used its stun tonfa's to bludgeon the hatch open, before electrifying its crew. Others had the Glasgow's jumping up and down the tanks, using the mass to slowly crush them, or used their bare hands to rip the gun barrels out of the tanks.

It was not a pretty sight, emphasising Lloyd's point on tanks terrible performance against KMF. On an average of 9 to 10 engagements were won by KMF as tanks either got lucky shots or the human error factored in the simulations and the Glasgow pilots slacked up and get complacent, leading to their deaths.

He continued "Against our latest forces." Lloyd took a serene smile; this time Aunt Cecile did not admonish him. "They'll be slaughtered, here are the simulations, I set up." They nodded, seeing as it would allow them to visualise how much of a tech advantage they had. What they didn't expect however was that the gap was that high.

Japanese type-10's cut to pieces by High Frequency Blades, the Vincent's accelerating to Mach 3 and using their own body and speed to cut the tanks like knife through butter, their IFV's and APCs fared no better, either pulverised by plasma fire, cut to gory bits by the blades, or obliterated by concentrated hadron fire from the Palamedes.

Shifting the simulations without KMF's fared no better, Legion drones spotting before Flidais artillery fire obliterated entire formations of mechanised, armoured infantry. In some cases, they were destroyed as they are deploying often by G3 Heavy Siege Howitzers. Their air force annihilated by Cernunnos laser anti air systems, the platform of 4 legs taking in position before a bright flash of light, hitting an F35 as its pilot was eviscerated, followed by the entire squadron. Their response of cruise missiles and artillery didn't work either, batteries of Cernunnos nullifying any round that came to them.

This left them with only ground forces to directly engage, with air, artillery, and other support systems down. Their forces had to directly engage the enemy, it did not end well. The simulations continued, showing infantry clashes, the 5.56 bullets used by NATO only scratching the paint of powered armoured imperial soldiers, their response volleys of 20mm rifle fire, shredding men to bits and pieces, the ground stuck in a gory viscera as snipers took a 105mm coil gun, it was overkill, these munitions meant to engage armor.

The IFV's and in some cases tanks were mauled by the weapons, the former immediately exploding due to ammunition cook off and the latter losing key capabilities. Those 'snipers' were meant against alien infantry, and due to coil gun technology, could stash hundreds of munitions, that would not be possible if it was spent in casing for powder. The genuine anti-tank equipment, infantry scale VARRIS riffles, turning vehicles to slag. The Hadron Launchers, mounted on a tripod fired, an Abrams was hit, its gun disfigured, armor melted before the crew screamed and ended with the ammunition cooking off.

Engagement after engagement was shown, each time the militaries of Terra Secundus tried to make a stand, they were brutalised and defeated, every single time. They never thought the disparity of power was this huge, at their current capabilities with a soldi foothold, they could take Japan in less than 7 hours, the world in 3 days if they decided to disregard collateral damage.

It dawned on them just how hopeless they are against the enemy, imperial forces as of this moment had managed to achieve parity if not superiority in some areas against the enemy and that was against those that they faced during first contact, they could be a security team to a mining force or a battered fleet with injured soldiers and then said parity would vanish as imperial forces became inferior again like the war for Terra.

Terra Secundus has no chance, its 8 billion people completely hopeless if the enemy invaded. If this was how bad they were facing against current imperial forces, how could they stand against the enemy as they are right now? The answer lay in the next section of Lloyd's presentation.

"With the current number of soldiers reaching 20.1 million" They snorted at that, that was way too low. "And their inefficient industries" cue to images of 11 carriers of the approximate 470 ships. Even Cecile snorted at the number of the 'largest' navy in the world. That would be enough to compose a single Britannian sector fleet, The Britannian Navy had thousands of vessels and hundreds of carriers, its air force having hundreds of thousands of planes.

That didn't even count the EU or the CF, the former having near equal if a bit less on numbers whilst the CF had double the combined EU and Britannian fleet, even if they were at a lower quality. Even Japan during the 2008 A.T.B invasion, had a surface fleet of 672 vessels which took a brunt for the Pacific Fleet to clear. By the standards of Terra's Secundus world, Terra Primus had entire armadas of fighter craft, missile destroyers, cruisers, rail cannon battleships and aircraft carriers. Lloyd continued.

Then again Uncle Schneizel built Damocles in the jungles of Vietnam, a 2km Stratofortress capable of limited interplanetary flight, In a jungle with scraps and with a makeshift shipyard. All of that achieved in less than 2 months. The US meanwhile had to build a small carrier with an approximate length of 400m in 12 years. The industrial output of Terra Primus was simply more advance in construction than Terra Secundus.

The Japanese prior to the First Pacific War had pioneered with the creation of 3D industrial plants with the other powers quickly catching off. Factories can simply be reprogramed like software, new features and changing assembly lines taking less than a day. They were decades ahead as it was previously, right now they had a few centuries worth of tech advantage one that was continuously highlighted in the next part by Lloyd.

"Would pose little resistance against a hostile extraterrestrial attack. Their only hope is of their combined nuclear weapons stockpile of 12,119 as of 2019." Now that was impressive, due to Britannia's peaceful era that followed unification, they barely had a need of a large FLEIJA and they only managed to build a few thousands, roughly a third of that number by the time the invasion began.

"What is even more impressive is at around the time of the cold war in 1986, they had around 70,300 warheads." Mother was impressed, even she and Cecile had not expected such a high number. The latter voiced her concerns, "70 thousand warheads!" She exclaimed "and they built those and are pointing it at each other, are they insane!" To be fair, aiming that large number of warheads against each other is the peak of insanity, no wonder there was no war between each other, they had a literal sword of Damocles that hung above their head.

What Terra Secundus was better at, is in their rocket technology. Britannia and the other two superpowers had only used rockets as a source of Satellite launching. They never had the idea to weaponize such a weapon, and in this regard, the people of Earth were better than them at which her mother pointed out.

"So, they have better rocket technology, especially their ICBMs" a hint of respect flashed within her, if there is anything that can make her mother regard another as their equal is if their capability of destruction or creation was higher or equal to hers. "Too bad it's outdated by our new standards, orbital bombardment by our void ships can achieve the same damage if not greater." She took it with pride even now despite being the younger of the two earths, their civilisation had managed to surpass the elder.

They can sail the stars and bring Armageddon down to upon planets, they still did not have an FTL system yet, but if the reverse engineering of those alien relics succeeded or their own warp drive produced a working prototype, or the principles behind the creation of the 'gate' was completed. Then the Imperium will join the galaxy as a new peer whilst Terra Secundus was still trapped in their own gravity.

Already they had colonies on Alpha Centauri, the three worlds that inhabit the goldilocks zone colonised as the gate network connected them directly to Terra. There were some troubles with the natives on the world of Pandora, but they were negligible. Other star systems such as Tau Ceti, Barnard star, Sirius, and Procyon were relatively newer. Only Barnard star had no habitable worlds, with all other three having at least 1 habitable world.

All of that was possible due to large construction ships measuring over 2km, traveling at sub light speeds, launched during or after the war, before reaching their destination and constructing TTS that connects them directly with Terra. Those gates were heavily defended and hidden or built deep within the worlds as to protect it from orbital bombardment. The result was that they had a proto interstellar empire with 6 colonized worlds. Still without a direct FTL, all of these could be lost within months if they were not careful.

Overall, she had been silent in these discussions but decided to speak one critical fact that they had all ignored or forgotten. "I believe you are forgetting something important" all eyes turned to her, her mother giving her an encouraging smile gesturing her to speak. "Terra Secundus in all of the records we've seen so far had no mention of Sakudarite meaning that substance does not exist in Terra Secundus." Eyes widening in surprise as a collective slap on their foreheads, how could they forget something this obvious!

It was Cecile who voiced their thoughts "Of course how can we forget one critical fact, Sakudarite, natural or artificial is the backbone of our technology without it none of this is even possible." It was Lloyd who in surprise decided to add his own hypothesis. "Without Sakudarite, their electronics technology would be impeded if not delayed." Gesturing to a renewed figure, this time showing old Britannian vessels from the 19th century.

"Even at the beginning of the industrial revolution, Sakudarite has been used to create batteries that power those ships." He added a new model this time it was Terra Secundus naval ships at the same era. "They never had that chance and had to rely on coal to fuel their industrial revolution. Britannia and the EU did not have such dependencies, utilizing both hydrocarbons and Sakudarite before the former was phased out."

"Whilst it is unfair to compare us with them since we had a wonder material that we took for granted" She was flabbergasted, her mother was surprisingly fair and not judgmental and even Cecile took the same expression meaning she wasn't alone in this, Lloyd was unaffected by this because he's Lloyd, the eccentric man couldn't care about a person's emotions as long as they get the job done.

"However, that does not excuse the fact that they could have done more with what they had." She took it back until her mother showed something in the holograms. Squinting her eyes, she saw it was a film, what does a film had to do with this, Cecile expressed her bewilderment. "What does a film,' For all of Mankind' relate to them misusing of their potential" Only for a flash of the show to quickly pass through their minds. Their psionic augments allowing them to comprehend them within seconds.

They were disappointed and she voiced it out loud, "Impressive, even they could see how far they could have gone had they actually pushed for it." Technology was depended on the number of resources but more importantly the minds who can develop it and how willing they are to pour it in. In this regard Terra Secundus failed, not because of a lack of resources but because they simply were no willing to pursue long term commitments for the betterment of all, in the long run.

"Exactly, even now when we make first contact, we'll have 7 worlds colonized, the world that contains Falmart included, and we've explored and established ourselves in 6 star-systems." Changing the console again, the previous solar system gone, replaced by the star systems that make up the imperium and of Falmarts even if that was separate.

"They only have 1 planet with barely any presence on Luna, already facing an ecological crisis they have no intention or solution to stop it, with a source of energy that's about to run out in a few decades and poor computer technology." Diagrams of computers, comparing theirs and ours. Further comparisons were made in industrial output, military technology, transportation, economy, and population. The only thing that Terra Secundus had an advantage of was in population, anything else was inferior to centuries behind including computer technology.

Lloyd decided to put his usual maniacal laugh as this and began explaining, "Besides flooding their economy we have another way to doom them without any military invasion." He brought his arms wide, presenting the glory of Terra Primus computational achievements. "We could shut down their internet, doom their source of digital networks, our quantum computers can easily massacre their internet networks." Simulating a large-scale network attack on Terra Primus, she sighed again, as usual it would totally obliterate their economy and industries, at this point this conversation has changed to how many ways can they destroy Terra Secundus.

It was a lot, and it was paradoxically both gladdening and worrying. Lloyd continued "Their total computational output could take centuries in breaching our Polyphasic Entangled Waveforms encryption, and if project Noosphere was completed." He paused for dramatic effect. "Completely impossible."

Again, as they were right now, the only reason why they knew all the capabilities of their world, is because their immerse advantage in computer technology. From that single drone connection which had allowed them to surf the open section of their internet, their computers can just as easily allow them to breach all their networks, all hidden communications, force rosters, contingencies, planned policies, all of it as long as they were connected to a network, they would know.

The only thing that they couldn't know if it was only written in paper, but at this digital age, networks were the norm, and this plays well into their advantage.

"Speaking of computational advantage, are we directly monitoring all world leaders, at this instance." She questioned as her mother and Lloyd grinned devilishly. The console changed this time presenting the Japanese diet and the office of Prime Minister Shinzo Motoi. He and his cabinet were apparently debating on the details of sending an invasion force. The fact that it took so long stunned all of them, they never expected democracy to be this inefficient even the EU would send forces in a week or two.

Meanwhile they were still mustering, designating Falmart as the 'special region' that as a territory of Japan. It was laughable how far they could enforce it though; the imperium was already in the process of achieving system wide superiority, having achieved orbital supremacy. Any resistance can be solved by orbital bombardment, it was just a matter of when they will fall, not if.

"Interesting" Her mother pointed out the detail with the others quickly following. "They are sending decades outdated technology to fight in their so-called special region." The console shined, flashing an array of images, Howa Type 64, Panzerfaust 3, Mitsubishi Type 74, Type 60 106mm Self Propelled Recoilless guns, UH-1J Multi-Purpose Helicopter, AH-1S Cobra Attack Helicopter, F4-J Phantoms.

It was a substantial arsenal yet outdated even by their standards. Lloyd made the connection, "Ah they're sending disposable equipment in case they lose the gate and even then, that equipment should be sufficient against the Saderans." That was a surprisingly sensible move, Japanese sensibility seems to apply to all Japan's even parallel history ones. Aunt Cecile continued.

"If that is the case, then they may abandon Alnus altogether." That was a bad scenario, one they cannot happen. "It means we'll have to be careful", her mother paused. "Show too much and they may decide to cut the gate and run but show too little and they may think us weak." Ah a balancing act, "We'll simply have to play nice with them at least before we establish a foothold within Terra Secundus."

She raised her hand, halting any upcoming question as she pulled a message from father, Emperor Lelouch. She read the message and grinned, "I believe his majesty has a plan for it but for that we'll need to create a specific device, designed to his specifications." They nodded already rescheduling to make up for this new hurdle, her work with Legion will be postponed for a while, this device took a much higher priority. His father had an insane but also creative plan and as usual the possibility of them working yielded high rewards. She giggled, she should defer to him, afterall father knows what's best even when meeting parallel timelines.

Speaking of parallel timelines, what would Aunt D.S think? She does observe alternate universes through the collective, is there another caretaker or is she dormant, if the presence of the arcane is that low. Questions for later, she had work to do.

---

Orbit of Falmart, Unnamed New World

He couldn't help himself in wonder, every single time he saw this, it wouldn't change, they would always be beautiful. The marvel of travelling the stars is not new, yet it still felt invigorating even if they had to fear the dark sometimes. Gazing at the world of Falmart, safe in his EV suit does that to you in his Vincent.

From this point, the politics, intrigues, and nuances did not matter. There was only one world, and no borders except the gravity of the planet. It made him think of how far they had come to reach this point, 40 years ago they had only reached the edges of the Solar system. The emperor proclaiming a new manifest destiny as a way to drive the empire forward.

30 years ago, they had perfected the study of the thought elevators and connected the worlds of man with Terra, reminding them that Mother Earth was always with them. A few years later, the first exploration fleet launched for the distant alpha centaury, its blazing fusion engines lighting the sky.

Then they met the enemy, and learned harshly once more to thread cautiously, for this universe was dark, lurking with danger. Yet it did not stop the number of wonders when the exploration fleet built the first extra solar gateway and connected it with Terra, much to their horror after the end of the invasion.

More missions were launched despite Terra needing to be rebuilt, its population spreading out to the new worlds in an effort to diversify the population, in a diaspora of sorts. 10 years ago, the missions reached their destinations, establishing new dominions, he's seen it personally when the gates were opened, revealing a whole new world to explore in wonder.

It was just like that feeling when they first set foot upon Arcadia, that he was reminded of as he saw to the construction of another gate. This one was gargantuan, a ring with a radius of 10km, much of their time having been spent building this rather than exploring the planet below.

He didn't know if he should feel jealous that the ground pounders had the chance to explore and meet new friendly people for once, or proud that he was up here with the others fulfilling this crucial duty whilst they languished in the ground. It was conflicting feeling, but it did not distract him from his duties.

Checking to make sure all the components were in proper working order, he moved his Vincent, using its sensors to inspect the other sections that his unit was building, before starting his communique, the face of his superior appearing in one of his screens. "Captain, all of Section 2 has finished construction, requesting permission to RTB." Captain Csilla Valerie returned with a stern nod, a hint of a smile appearing on her lips.

"Excellent Lieutenant Commander, your sector was the last part of this gate." New directions and coordinates were transmitted, the NIS system already showing him what to do. "Stand by for TTS activation maintain 100km distance away from it, let's enjoy the show, boys and girls," Gesturing to her subordinates, all of them sighing from exhaustion but happy that the work was completed.

"All of you had earned it." That brought more smiles to the pilots and to the crew of INS Temperance of Faith, of the new Kyoto Class Frigate retrofitted for on site construction. It's sleek prow, dotted with the familiar Terran sharp angles, it looked like a two-fork broadsword with 2 engines containing 4 thrusters each pushing the vessel forward. It's hull extending to the sides, where the hangers should be, with an overall length of 1,036 meters. It was a sight to behold.

On its hulls lay a multitude of weapons, Hadron Lance batteries, efficient at eviscerating the enemy at short range. Melting through shields and armour alike, Diffusion Beams, an energy weapon that has more range, perfect for medium distances and the Neutron VARRIS, rapid firing neutrons accelerated to the speed of light, kept the long-range kinetic weapons of the fleet. But it did not have an FTL drive and as long as this exists, they'll need construction ships like these for further expansion.

Then again, they were much more focused in creating new ships, their armaments, and components to even bother making an FTL drive. The possibility of an attack on Terra and their colonies meant that they had to prioritise improving the defensive, offensive capabilities, creating new weapons, better engines, faster computers and sturdier shields. It meant that they did not have much time developing a direct FTL drive but when the drives are available for mass production, then they'll have the ships armed to the teeth, ready to meet any possible armaments.

His scanners moved on to its weapons contingent. Overall, it's armaments consisted with dozens of these canons, 36 missile launchers both internal and external. Both containing 16 missiles each, meant to engage enemies in support of the neutron VARRIS. The latter can be ditched in the middle of combat whilst the former requires careful reloading. An overall capacity of 576 missiles, 20 of them being FLEIJA, another 42 carrying EW capabilities and the rest being plasma missiles.

To defend against those and fighters, the ship was equipped with 45 phaser point defence arrays, usually containing hadron phaser, although several Diffusion variants exist their shorter range meant it was relegated to stopping plasma munitions. Their phaser configuration meant less power, but those were made to target munitions and craft not capital ships, yet those phasers may deal hull damage if the shields were down.

The Kyoto being a new ship as part of the new fleet modernisation program meant it used the new Pridwen shield system made up of three systems, the first made of radiant wave-surger denting any munitions and preventing boarding actions, their goal was to reduce the potency of the strike as the second layer made up of the new void shields, an experimental shield that sent anything that hit it to the warp. The third layer was made up of Blaze Luminous shielding, in the absolute defence configuration blocking whatever made through the void shields. That made a whole layer, the Pridwen had two, meaning if the first three were to fall, the others can pick up the slack and recharge.

The result during fleet combat tests meant that the shields could take ludicrous amount of firepower and kept the shields going at all times. That was quite the advancements made in the recent decades, even his Knightmare would require specialised combination of munitions to breach those ships. Their High Frequency blades were made to breach a layer of Blaze Luminous shielding, but if he were to try and rush the ship. His blade and his mech will be sent careening through the warp, a grizzly death that he did not want to experience.

Luckily the circle that made up of the gate, was finally activating, it shined in a kaleidoscope of colours. The metal resisting the strain of ripping a wormhole through the immaterium, resisted by the composite alloys that were put into its construction, conducting the power of the warp whilst resisting it. The gate dazzled in a sea of colours. It was a breathtaking sight, the herald to imperial expansion as they made this system our own.

It was over in a moment, too short but then again they had to be quick, the colours replaced by the darkening void of space, clearance was granted, confirmation given, the gate began a series of tests to ensure it worked as intended without any side effects. Even the slightest mention of mental effects meant they had to recalibrate the whole thing, being possessed by warp entities is not fun.

With the tests done, there was one final step to do. "This is Temperance of Faith reporting to Sceptre do you copy." The return signal came quickly after the transmission. "Confirmed, beginning transportation of construction flotilla, be advised, you are to escort that flotilla until it completes its objectives. Over and out." And there was that, now it was up the gunners that man the ship and pilots to keep them safe.

They weren't alone though, 2 more ships came through, a Moscow class cruiser, Righteous Vindication and another Kyoto class frigate, Silent Patience. With those two ships, their flights of KMF increased by dozens of squadrons. Already through his Mk2 Factsphere, including gravitonic scanners that detects motions of gravity, created using a wide spread of the float system, the Temperance is moving to take formation his scanners and visual cameras painting a nice pristine formation.

Remembering his lessons, the scanners were made by inducing a wide dispersion of the float system as instead of concentrating short beams that focused in pushing the craft against gravity, this one sends out a pulse like the radars of old, which detects a gravitational shift that is counted on as units. They still had to fix several of the issues with differentiating planetary and stellar mass, but it was quickly solved.

At the heart of the flotilla lay the Righteous Vindication, a Moscow class cruiser. It like most Terran warship designs looked more like a broadsword, similar to the frigate except its prow was straight & singular, it's hull extending to over 2 kilometers with the usual weapons except in much larger quantities. What made the cruiser unique was that it was the first ship equip with a spinal mounted mass accelerator, the Móralltach mass accelerator, capable of launching munitions at .60c. Experimental Vortex rounds, Hellfire FLEIJA with a blast radius of 10,000km and a new Diffusion Structure Phase Transition munition.

Either way he pitied whatever got hit by those things. His coms beeped again, indicating it was those new arrivals. "This is commodore Hamid Salama of the Righteous Vindication, to all squadrons begin wide system sweeps and loose formation, our extend our CAP line." Commands were sent, the squadrons of Vincent's and Palamedes contingents moving beyond their frigates or cruiser. Loose formation meant that they'll be dangerous close to the maximum range of the point defense of the flotilla.

Some of the squadrons began veering off at vector starting system sweeps and scanning for any anomalies. His own squadron joined them, their destination. The asteroid field that they were investigating, Rubicon 4, a gas giant and the second planet that is farthest from this systems star.

It was also decided that due to the hill that they first set foot on was named Rubicon, a fitting name as they had already crossed the point of no return. The star system was given the name Rubicon with the planets being assigned numerical designation based upon which planet is the closest. The world that contained Falmart was Rubicon 3, the third planet of this system.

He sent mental links to his subordinates, letting them know that they are inspecting this site for any Xeno presence. For a moment he thought that this would be another normal operation, routine even but as the squadron moved with its gravitic engines toward the field, he noticed a sensor ping.

It was small, tiny even, but it did not match the profile that was commonplace within this system. He alerted everyone, "Squadron halt advance" They paused, weapons angling towards possible vectors. "I'm receiving anomalous readings, Righteous Vindication, we've spotted an anomalous power signature, sending coordinates" There was faint trace of engine residue, it was old, likely a few thousand years old, but it meant one thing, one that made his blood ran cold.

He tried to keep his panic hidden as best it could, "Alert possible xenos contact, I repeat, possible alien contact within system." This alerted everyone, eyes widening as they scrambled to cover and begin preparations from combat. His reply from the cruiser finally came, "Repeat squadron leader of possible xenos contact, can you confirm." The voice broke no arguments. His scanners picked the flotilla beginning to vector in as the construction ships changed direction.

"Affirmative, I'm tracing an old engine residue, it's centuries maybe millennia old." They halted, setting up a containment zone as far from the coordinates that he had sent. Whatever his readings picked up it did not please the commodore, which is bad. "Data confirmed, set flotilla to condition 2, ready anti-capital ship armaments, be ready for enemy fighters, Vincent's armed with interceptor equipment are to guard our bombardment units." Palamedes were pouring in escorted by Vincent's with similar heavy hadron blasters. Surrounding them were drones and their Vincent handlers. His squadron was an engineering unit, not fit for combat.

That concern was thankfully addressed "Lieutenant Commander, return your squadron and re-arm, all forces are to maintain distance from this anomaly at once, do not provoke it." Boundaries were written, a flash and a red circle appeared within his console, around 500km from the source. Frigates moving to the starboard and portside of the anomaly, the next orders came, "Hold position around the anomaly until elements of fleet command arrive to reinforce, we cannot lose this system, do not screw this up." His voice is stern, fully emphasizing the danger of the position.

They thought that they had a few decades left until they began to meet first contact. Well, first contact that involved advanced alien species, not the primitives below. Now they were to meet another alien species, or a relict belonging to it. This anomaly could be mostly harmless, just another wreck strewn about in the void or, he shivered. Some eldritch horror, from a time when man was crawling in caves.

He seriously envied the ground pounders, at least their contacts were certain, and they didn't have to deal with this, he would prefer fighting some primitives over a possible confrontation with an ancient horror, he hoped they were having it good than they were. Thankfully fleets command insistence on developing weapons should pay off, hopefully it should meet equal parity with this anomaly.

Or else it will be a slaughter; the ground pounders sure have it easy.

---

Coan Forrest, Province of Italica

He hoped the space forces had a much better time than this, he certainly was not having fun, talking to these creatures. They were one of the demi-human strains, screw that, a completely different species all together. They looked just as bit as regular humans, round faces with normal hair, 2 hand and 2 legs with 5 fingers or toes each. Perfectly normal except that they had pointed ears, has insanely high magical aptitude and with live spans that last for millennia.

They had begun to establish contact with the inhabitants of the land, some like Rondell would take time, the negotiations for their capitulation should begin a few days from now. Whilst they had to meet with the exotic races of the region. If he were an otaku, he would have enjoyed seeing anime elves alongside whatever girl-animal thing come to live and their fluffy cuteness. He was not one and seeing these elves could not contain his nervousness. He was psionic, and some did not have the gift of foresight. Yet this forest was crawling with the energies of the warp, he could feel it even see it.

It would have been beautiful had the possibility that these energies be directed at them, therefore eviscerating his entire survey team, wasn't that real. All the smiles and friendly waves did not ease him at all, did these people do not realize that they are sitting on a cesspool of power, their own psionic potential extremely high whilst living above what could possibly be a leyline with concentered warp energy. He hoped the space force was having a great time, exploring the system, seeing the beauty of the stars, without any interruption.

Speaking of the inhabitants he spotted the chieftain of the village and began his dialogue with him. "Greetings I am Captain Wiley Eric of the imperium, those who came from beyond Rubicon." The elf chief seemed surprised, his reaction was genuine and filled with human emotion. That disturbed him, and he kept it hidden as he replied. "Greetings otherworlders we are the elves of Coan forest, we welcome you to our homes." He gestured to his people bringing food to the table. "We would celebrate your welcoming with a feast, please enjoy our hospitality." He had to check if those food were poisonous.

They were not, maybe his paranoia was getting him but never in his live had it let him down and so he opened his helmet, revealing a human face much to the shock of the elves. Had they not seen power armor? Figures, he sat on one of the benches, using his abilities to lighten his weight in case his armor was too heavy.

His subordinates were not so lucky and had to eat standing or on the ground. Most chose the former, unwilling to let their guard down. Pulling himself to speak he began, what would hopefully be the first friendly first contact with an alien species. If that were to fail, he had orders for the Knightmares hanging behind him to raze the forest to the ground.

"Yes, we are humans even if our technology," gesturing to the behemoths behind him and to his soldiers, "is advance and may seem magical by your standards, but that is not the case, all of these were created by the hands of man." The man was pondering this information, scrutinizing their equipment. "I have never seen such fine craftsmanship, even the dwarves cannot forge such magnificent creations, your artisans must be talented for them to be able to create these wonders."

On that he could agree as he nodded, "True but we are not here to discuss the craftsmanship of my people." He gestured to his men as the KMF moved gracefully, air tingling as the Knightmare placed a projector on the ground. He interacted with it and began showing a map of Falmart. The natives stared at the device in wonder.

"We hail beyond the gate of Rubicon on the world of Terra." The image went to the gate and changed to a globe of his home world. "The gate at Rubicon opened here and in short the Saderans invaded us." There were gasps of shock and outrage, interesting there must be a resentment of the empire among these people. He could use that and began displaying the imperium's might.

"They were foolish, and the imperium slaughtered them" cue to the videos of Legion having fun annihilating the legions, their reaction was a mix of surprise, rage, and joy. "We counterattack and established ourselves at Rubicon, deceiving the empire of our presence. By letting one of them with edited memories to report everything was fine"

That brought someone to speak, "So your people were the source of the rumors" He allowed the man to speak, interested in what he had to say. "We've heard disappearances, of missing people as soon as they entered around that area and the presence of strange creatures, was that you?" He asked fearfully, they terrified of Legion, of course they were, it designed to be like that but he didn't want these new citizens to be fearful of their protectors, so he sent a command to bring a Legion drone here.

As expected, it showed up within seconds, the drone came out of the forest, red eyes scanning as the inhabitants stepped back in fear. He laughed to assure their worries "These are our constructs they shall not harm you as long as you do not harm us." That brought relief to the group, the air getting much warmer as the drone began bopping around, as if to play with the children to which they started jumping in joy much to the protests of their parents.

"I will be blunt and say what our purpose here." He decided that honesty was preferable, even if it may seem counterproductive, they really should have sent a diplomat, he was a soldier meant to negotiate in bullets and lives not trade words laced with underhanded meanings that he'll miss every single time. "We are here to request your capitulation and annexation to the Imperium." Their welcoming became much frosty, the atmosphere rapidly falling in temperature, so he gave in his sale pinch.

"In return for protection, recognition of your lands autonomy and raise your people to imperial standards of living." He began showing his peoples greatest works and achievements. "Join us, and you may take part in the greatest nation to have walked upon this Earth, we will teach you medicine, crafting, electricity, ways to harness your magic and the option to sail the stars."

At the mention of the last part, the people began muttering, some raising their doubts to the veracity of their claims. It was expressed by the chieftain as he said, "Travel the stars, but those are the realms of the gods, we are mortals that cannot go there." To which he shook his head in disgust and showed them a picture of their world.

He gestured them to interact with it, letting them fawn and prob the holograms to see the changes it made. He gestured to it and began anew. "That is the continent of Falmart from the planets orbit." He changed the image to the system star and gestured to the sun. "The sun is a large ball of plasma that gives warmth to planets of which this world orbits." Cue to a fast forward orbital cycle, the planet spinning around the sun.

"We have built ships that can sail the void of space." Deciding to play a recruitment video of the imperial navy. "We built gates that connect each system to our home world" the magical TTS network, linking the empire together as footage of ships setting upon planets, exploring wonders and so much more. "And through it all, we are just beginning." The empires time at the star was new, when the new FTL drives are built, he is sure it is a matter of when. "We offer you the opportunity of a lifetime, join us and your people will prosper and find safety through the our armies." He paused to present the stick, "or Refuse and meet your end upon a flame dragon" The threat seemed to work as the villagers panicked.

"A flame dragon! Where have you spotted it, the creature has the power to burn our lands!" he ignored the worried looks sent his way and began playing a real-time observation of the flame dragon, its course indicated that it was going to their location. Just as he had intended. "Yes, and it is coming here, to your homes" Now they were on the verge of panicking, eyes rapidly wondering as they thought of ways to survive the catastrophe but there was only one way, and the village chieftain knew it.

"If you protect our people then I Nehemias Summanus pledge myself to your emperor, protect our people and you shall have our loyally." To which he and his people kneeled in fealty. He bade them to rise, there it was, he smiled gracefully, hiding the maniacal glee in a ploy well done. Well time to have some dragon meal for the menu. He joked aloud "Have no worries our Knightmares will destroy that dragon and we'll have dragon meat for the feast to welcome you as new citizens of the empire." Turning his gaze to a trio of Vincents and a Palamedes, it was overkill, yet it served well to display the imperium's power.

"Dragon meat for the feast?" He looked at me incredulously, I explained "Yes as a celebration of new members of the empire, we'll welcome you with meat from a creature of legend." He and his people gave me a skeptical look and decided to express it. "But my lord, a flame dragon is no easy creature to kill it's armor is tough and can shrug off" He was cut off at the drop of something huge.

Looking upon it, he saw the dragon's head. Dropped off just like that, he quickly rushed to the console and replayed the recent footage, the elves giving their attention to the hologram. It seems the flyboys decided that the moment of clearance was given, immediately raced to cut off the dragon's head.

A Vincent Asellus, drew his high frequency blade one its hand, drawing it from his sheath, accelerating to speeds above the speed of sound and released it just as the beast came into contact and cut off the dragon's head in a shower of gore. The Palamedes didn't even get the chance to raise its hadron blasters and obliterate the thing from existence.

Showoffs, he thought, the flyboys out there really want to let off some steam, especially if they are confined to the ground. He looked up to the same mech that slew the dragon and give its pilot an earful or two. "Lieutenant Jerald, my friend here was in his moment, regaling us of the beast's strength." He gestured to the dead's creature head. He could feel the target of his exaptation grinning from ear to ear. "And you ruined the moment!" He shook his head, "I was going on to regale our new civilians the glory of our empire and you ruined it."

He laughed out loud, he sighed, fighter jockeys and their gung-ho attitude. "Sir to be fair, you didn't tell us when to kill it, and besides" He moved his mech and pointed them at the selves, "Isn't us valiantly killing a beast just before it harms the people make us like the valiant shining knights of old." He shook his head, tired of their antics. "We're saving them regardless and isn't this a show of might."

Their dialogue flabbergasted the people, these otherworlders made it seem that killing a flame dragon was no big deal, that it was but an insect, ready to be swatted aside as if they are nothing. Maybe this imperium wasn't so bad, they're powerful enough and their protection meant they would be safer out here than they were, centuries ago when the empire came in and knocked out their trading partner in Coda village.

The next words though briefly sent them into a panic. "As of Article 3 of the imperium, all citizens aged 18 and those older must serve a mandatory 15 years in either military service or serving as an adept in the ISB." Conscription! They were going to be sent on to foreign battlefields away from their homes. They faced him in worry looking to their young, knowing that due to elf live spans, all of them had to serve before it was abruptly halted as he continued.

"However due to Falmart being a military zone of operation," that confused them until he continued, "You will begin basic training and education right here," He gestured to the forests, "In these forests, you will learn how to defend your homes, how to learn to use our weapons." Which he grabbed from one of the crates and gave it to the elf, who was straining as if unused to the heavy weight of the riffle. "And learn our ways of war" He brought forth his hand and many of these men of steel stepped up.

"These will be your drill instructors, they will teach you how to fight, how to survive and learn the values of our nation." He gestured again this time to a different set of people, "Furthermore you will be taught, medicine, the art of healing magic, and engineering. With those of your young going to military school to learn our advanced knowledge." More crates were dropped, these contained books.

"With this knowledge we will turn this forest into a bastion of imperial might, none would dare attack this forest when we show our might, am I clear!" he yelled at the people, who gave mixed responses. He furthered the drill, "When your superior asks you reply with sir yes sir" They tried again, still unsatisfactory. He grabbed one of the elves and yelled to his face. "Am I clear!" the women surprisingly brave replied with certainty, "Sir! Yes Sir!" Satisfied he let the instructors to begin basic drills.

His task is done, now he would have to set up an FOB here, get some chow and finally rest. All in a day's work in the imperial army. When the Japanese from Alnus finally decided to get their shit in order, they'll find out that all the land is claimed by the imperium, those were orders from command. He didn't know why they couldn't just occupy the gate directly.

But he was just a regular grunt on the ground, matters of strategic important were better left off at the hands of his superiors or the royals, they were raised for this stuff, not him though. He just wanted a simple live with little responsibility, a life where he can relax a while or two.

He looked at the recruits again and gave himself a pat in the back. A job well done, the prelude to the break he desperately needed.

---

Base Hector Zero, Refugee Camp Section

Elanour Hawkins did not know how to find these Britannians or imperials as they are known are. They are so similar and yet so different. The OSI agents that had interviewed them asked them upon historical subjects over a cup of tea. Asking details of the United Kingdom, it's culture and history, their current reigning monarch, and the parliament. She had answered these questions the best she could, and through it all they had been cordial and then sent off to their quarters which looked more like a luxurious 5-star hotel, if a little spartan and utilitarian.

That does not mean all of them got off scoot free, her brother, a kind sweet man died protecting her, from the vile barbarians. He failed and she was subjected to abuse, feeling their vile seed on her ass as they enjoyed using her day and night. It brought her mind to the others who suffered with her. Either crying in pain or learning to remain silent, oh god, she felt her heart quicken. Tears in her eyes until someone caught her, an imperial soldier who asked worryingly.

"Ma'am, are you alright, if you are feeling unwell, I could take you to the bases hospital, will that be alright?" Polite, careful in their touch, so different in comparison to the Saderans. She should have listened to Ms Hanako, acted servile.

Prevented her from being used a plaything, he seems to understand "I know that your time with the savages have scarred you mentally." He straightened himself, uniform clean and free of dust. "There are therapists in the base, if you are still having mental issues, you should consult with the therapists, free of charge." Free, she looked at him bewildered, although she forgot to ask his name, a proper introduction should do.

"Apologies, I am Elanor Hawkins, might I ask your name" He considered, eyes turning to the others around him. This base, if it could be called was more of a small city. Giant ships the size of aircraft carriers passed through some sort of magical wormholes, factories in place continuously producing units and components. Despite the substantial output there was no smoke, it was too clean.

"I am Lieutenant Jerald Thomson, Knightmare pilot attached to the 2nd airborne division." He followed her gaze, amused at her bizarre reaction. "Amazing isn't it," He gestured to the factories "the might of imperial industry, we have the means to powering entire factories without producing any form of emissions."

"But how can you power those factories without fossil fuels, do you have some sort of fusion technology." He smiled, hinting that she was somewhat right. "We have fusion, it was developed by Doctor Nina Einstein" He paused pointed at a quad legged machine with a nasty barrel. "Those are powered by miniature fusion reactors, whilst others" Pointing at the factory "are powered by large ones that ae similar to your nuclear reactors."

She was puzzled "Einstein? Albert Einstein, wasn't he the man that invented the theory of relativity." He too seemed confused by it, their worlds must have different Einstein's yet still significant. "You have a different version of Dr Einstein than we know, our version created the FLEIJA's" She was horrified by it, unlike nuclear weapons, that weapon annihilated everything, at least with nuclear bombs, there was a chance to survive the radiation. There was nothing that could protect you from a FLEIJA strike.

"Yeah, and your nuclear weapons are interesting, his theories eventually led to something about splitting the atom" He nodded, they were walking, she was following his lead as they passed through men and women, already busy doing whatever works that needed to be done.

He continued. "That may have something to do with Sakudarite, whilst you had to contend with nuclear fission, we skipped directly to fusion." That was interesting of itself, despite being the younger civilization, they were already skipping so much in the technological tree that she didn't know if the modern world could compete.

They eventually passed through a hanger of sorts, filled with the giant mechs that they called Knightmare frames. She asked her companion, he was a pilot, probably knew a thing of two of these machines.

"What is a Knightmare?" She asked as she pointed towards one of the machines "I know it's some giant mech, but we've never had anything like those in our world." He seems amused, quickly inviting her over to see one of the machines. Mechanics and drones were busy working, checking armaments, parts, and doing regular maintenance. She could see one of the machines had a stamp RPI-302A, on its shoulder lay a squadron emblem, with its designation G-03.

"A Knightmare, you've seen the videos, of its first usage but in short they're giant flying death machines and us pilots use those to crush anyone foolish enough to fight the imperium." He touched one of it's legs, gliding his hands towards the machine surface. "These are Vincents Asellus the 10th generation Knightmare frame, capable of fighting in space and reaching Mach 6." Chuckling at the afro mentioned speed, "Still aren't as fast as the new 11th gens, but it works well."

But how did they endure the high G-force, he seemed to catch her hidden question and continued, "Yeah, we've had augmentations applied." Pulling up one of his sleeves, demonstrating his arm, it was bigger denser than was normal. "They allow us take all the high G's and makes us tougher, stronger, and faster, the usual super soldier treatment."

"That is incredible, I take it every pilot like you has one." He smiled, "Yes we are" they were running out of conversation topics as they left the, deciding to comment on a game she played. "You know your Knightmares are similar to the mechs I found in games" At the mention of other mechs, his ears perked up, paying close attention to her. "One of them armor core 4 was a game about a corporate dominated worlds with their mechs taking the core concept." He gestured her to continued.

"In essence we have a mech that is built around a central core from which we can modify, arms, legs, body, head, weapons and other shoulder mounted emplacements." She began remembering the weapons, power source and general lore. "So you can customize a mech based on the versatility of parts and can even change the power source" She put a finger on her lip, "Ah yes! They're powered by these Kojima particles, which power the mechs, I don't know what they are but they're incredibly toxic." The military man in him. Immediately asked the potential harm it had, figures.

"How lethal is it, does it destroy the environment" He asked, which she would get in a moment. "Yes but I'll talk about the generations first, the first two generations were basic walkers, with second being slow mass produced muscle tracers, think of Glasgow's without landspinners and being generally slower."

"Now the third generation are the Normals, machines that are more compatible with the 7th generation machines that you had, now the key here and the most important part are the NEXT, 4th generation armored core, with experimental new features." He remained silent letting her continue.

"These NEXT as you can imagine are a huge improvement to AC's, they can zip at around Mach 6, have shielding technology that scars the landscape and weapons capable of annihilating city blocks, the pilots called Lynx require psionic capabilities via AMS that allows the pilots to control the machine as it were their body." He seemed to consider that information, pondering upon it.

"Psionics, we have plenty of those in the imperium and the AMS wounds like our version of the Neural Interphase System, NIS for short" Figures they already invented that, what more could they do. "I wonder if you've ever played a game like that, why don't you try the real thing, become a pilot" tapping his shoulder, "see wonders and fight for humanity, fight for a cause that's worth giving your live for."

She doubted that becoming nervous, even though the mention of getting the real thing seemed attractive. "What would it take to become a pilot, and what of my British citizenship, I'm no soldier and what more could joining the army do." He smiled again, this one filled with far more warmth.

"There's plenty of benefits to join in the imperial military, you get free healthcare, education and free housing." Those were substantial benefits. "Moreover, the military will make you strong, teach you discipline and restraint, and a whole slew of other lessons and benefits, I take it from your expression, your militaries aren't like ours" She frowned at the thought.

Whilst she had no interest and involvement with the army whatsoever, the way the veterans were discarded, completely ignored even if they had fought for their country. "Yes, they are, I've seen veterans left in the street, homeless, injuries completely unpaid as the Veteran Agency, didn't take care of them, through byzantine laws the promised pensions, and benefits were not given, the veterans are often left penniless, homeless and thrown away as garbage." He frowned, seemingly genuinely angry at the mention of their treatment.

"What kind of nation throw away their heroes like garbage, what happened to fighting for king and country. Have the British degraded this far without learning the meaning struggle" He intoned. "No one would fight for a country like that, I take it many were fed up with it." She nodded, "I guess so, but the imperial military isn't like that, we take care of our own, we'll make you strong so that you won't suffer again. When you have strength, you can protect yourself and more importantly you can protect those who you care." He stopped gesturing to everything.

All she saw was camaraderies, of bonds between soldiers, many joking, others training, it was the same as any military, yet she felt this was different.

"You know why I fight, it's because my brother is up there, in the ships in orbit fighting to keep us safe and do you know why he fights." He took a moment to calm himself, "To avenge what we had lost, our parents died fighting, giving their lives for humanity, my brother felt that he needed to take up the mantle, I followed just to keep him safe besides how old are you?"

She felt insulted before replying "Isn't it rude to ask a lady of his age, didn't they teach you manners" He laughed shortly, "Sorry, just that you'll also get live extension treatments, you see those" Gesturing to a group of young people, "are in their 50s, I myself am 42 years old, you can spend 15 years in the army in exchange for an extra century to live, seems a nice deal to me and" he grinned "the pay is good, his majesty is kind to give his warriors a respectable wage."

"That is a substantial list of benefits, I know many who would enlist just for the age extension." She continued to move eventually entering the therapist office. "True and as for your citizenship, any human that is born from Terra can attain citizenship as long as they served just like everyone else, even I completed my time, and decided to re-enlist." She was stunned that meant that everyone from Earth can attain imperial citizenship, were they like star ship troopers.

"Still how does your empire maintain all these benefits, the costs it would take to give free housing, healthcare, education and basic amenities alone are astronomical, how can your empire pay for all of that?" Whilst that sounded good, she still doubted on how the emperor can maintain these policies.

"Well we have unlimited clean energy, for one" That was one reason, "The other is we have the resources of 6 star-systems and plenty of space to expand and due to only being 4 billion of us, the empire can actually overspend on their citizens." She was startled by that, 4 billion, that's half of the global population.

"Why is there only 4 billion people, shouldn't there be more." She questioned. His reply was less than forthcoming, he seemed agitated, lost, was that hatred. "We used to," He said solemnly, "Not anymore, the war took them from us." That must be it, a war that turned Britannia into the imperium. "We fight in memory of the living" he shook his head, wanting to banish the topic.

"So lets' get back to something lighter," he shifted the conversation "Ah about your decision to join, I know it's a major decision to make, so take your time to decide whether you want to go home" Home to what her brother was dead "or start a new beginning as an imperial citizen" He lit up "One last thing, if you joined the services you can visit the colonies." She asked, "What colonies?" He responded, "the imperium has colonized several worlds, Arcadia our newest one, you can travel to the gate and visit these worlds." She pointed towards the giant ring in the base, "Through those gates", He nodded, "Yeah like those stargates from SG1 except we make our own.'

Of course, he read the files, Earth TV shows had just become common after they managed to link up with their internet and decalcified their presence. Making them well known amongst the soldiery. She contemplated her decision, deciding it would come after her session, he opened the door like a polite gentleman, she smiled in turn before replying, "I'll think about," she paused again, feeling shy, "thank you for being kind to me" he smiled earnestly.

"No problem, that's what we're meant to be, defenders of the people" He bade her farewell, and gave her time to think, the doctor greeted her and as she began her session. She remembered the words that he said, defenders of the people, that's what we're meant to be.

She decided then, she would join the imperial army and protect the people, so that won't suffer like her.

---

Tokyo, Office of the Prime Minister

Prime Minister Shinzo Motoi had felt his hair greying, likely due to all the stress he has been receiving since the Ginza incident. Every now and then nations had 'requested' to deploy military forces and grant them access to the gate and their resources. They all want the same thing; the only difference is in terms of denying it to their compettitors and hoarding it all for himself. The US has been insistent to deploy troops in the region to bolster Japanese defense. His excuse of insisting that this was a Japanese 'internal' issue felt like it wouldn't work any longer.

He'll have to give a concession or two, but what to think of? He passed through civil servants and government officials as he headed towards a meeting with his cabinet. Japan has been peaceful for 74 years and the Saderans finally broke that record.

A stray thought entered his mind before he considered it, turning to one of his aides "Tell president Direll that I am ready to accept US troops within Japan." His secretary began noting his response. "And those troops will stay in Japan, I fear China may increase the pressure in the Senkaku islands, we need all the best troops stationed in the mainland." He finally came to the room where he met but decided to finish his conversation before, he began his meeting.

"Leave the special region to Japan, it is a low threat region, our priority is the defense of the mainland, and those US soldiers will help that." His secretary already finished compiling his notes before requesting his leave with a polite bow. It was good idea, he thought. Hand the US a thing a concession that allowed them to deploy troops, placate their ego by saying they are important and needed here whilst leaving more soldiers to explore the special region.

Upon entering he was greeted with respectful bows as they respected his position, his ministers gestured for him to begin the meeting, to which he relented. "We begin this meeting in discussing our options for the special region." Many perked at the mention of the special region, it was their opportunity for a Japanese rebirth. "All of you know what this region means for the future of our nation, address your concerns." His defense minister spoke first, beginning with the obvious. "Respectfully sir, due to budget constraints we cannot deploy more than 3 divisions across the special region." Ah the new budget cuts from the diet, it was annoying what the legislative body could do especially when it concerns matters of the military.

He continued, "Even with the new equipment, their reduction in cost may allow us to send a division or two but we are not certain if those are enough to occupy the special region." The new weapons being old gear that has been reinstated or bought cheaply, President Direll had happily allowed him to buy a few old gears in the form of Cobra attack helicopters and the UH-1 utility helicopter. He couldn't help but feel agitated that the budget cuts came at this moment, just when Japan had the chance to achieve prestige and glory, the diet sabotaged it for worries of 'imperialism'.

His foreign minister, spoke the last concern he had with his secretary, "We are also receiving requests from the EU, Russian Federation, UK, the Chinse and recently the US for access to the gates and to search for their lost citizens." That was bad, it wasn't just Japanese civilians that were taken but several unfortunate foreigners as well, when their consuls and embassies or random people at the wrong time were likely the source of these discrepancies.

As heatless as it may sound, it's better if they swept this under the rug until after they rescue the captives, after. He did not want to give a perfect excuse for the other nations to clamor to the gate. "Allow the US to deploy troops on Japanese soil." He held out his hand, "but only to the mainline, we need them here." He received nods of understanding, "and as for the JSDF I will see if I could convince my allies in the diet to increase funds." Another pause, "In an effort to prevent tragedies such as the Ginza incident to occur again." He lay in his excuse, his defense minister, pleased that they were not being under budgeted again.

"Still, when will the JSDF be ready for deployment in the special region." He asked his defence minister, "In 1 month, 2 weeks to transport the equipment here and another 2 to get the troops used to it and to set proper supply lines." Alright, that is enough time he had until his term ends in a few months. He was already in office twice and cannot hope to run again.

He supposes he could make it easier for his successor if he spends his political capital and connections in increasing the JSDF budget, that will make the next regime and the next prime minister owe him a favour which he could use to retire peacefully. History will remember that he was one of the men who would begin Japan's revitalisation, even if his role was mainly in setting the board, it will be remembered as one of Japans triumph.

He continued discussing other matters, one month till the expedition into the special region and another 3 until he can finally retire. What they didn't know was that each word had been recorded, a foreign power was listening, an empire that they were not expecting to meet.

The information was recorded and sent to the emperor, the empire will have 1 month to conquer the lands surrounding Alnus, it was more than enough, Rondell will fall and with it, any hope the Saderans had of resisting the imperium.

---

New Pendragon, Imperial Palace

Looking atop the city never felt tiresome, everyday each new addition to the capital would be added, whether it be new shipyards meant for the new dreadnoughts or new commercial buildings as homes for the people or for commerce and trade. That didn't even mention the sprawling districts of manufacturing, entire factory complexes run by less than a dozen men. Automation allowing one overseer for each factory, increasing productivity by leaps and bounds.

The imperial palace, rebuilt with new designs including scores of defenses and a functional underground city play host to the highest decision makers of the empire. Upon one of the towers that has an impressive view of the new capital was the office of the prime minister, her majesty, Empress Consort Leila vi Britannia.

Turning her gaze away from the windows and into the desk, linking to the console to see a mountain worth of paperwork. If she were any other human, they would have been tired and exhausted, taking hours to review this. For her it was Tuesday and she finished most of the mundane ones such as regular economic reports, permits for new resource extraction sites and more mundane matters that still required the approval of higher leadership.

Picking up a cup of tea and taking a sip, enjoying the deep flavors, and allowing herself to relax, she considered some of the more serious matters, one where she may need to consider other factors, one of which was the new fleet modernization program, pioneered by Marshal Hadrian vi Britannia, and approved by her husband and the upper echelons of the imperial military. His idea of reclassifying fleet designations, ones that would render the old Caerleon class battleships into corvettes.

It proposed a whole slew of new experimental fleet vessels. Viewing through the roster of ships, her eyes came upon two classes that caught her eye. The Nemesis class, Forward Reconnaissance Fleet Engagement Vessel and the Damocles class, Mobile Fortress Fleet Annihilation Vessel. These were considerable vessels, one that was layered with secrecy that only selective personnel can see, including her position and that of her husband.

The Nemesis, destroyed during the war for Terra, it died valiantly defending the capital. Most of her crew were dead but some of them survived including her husband to propose a new design bearing the same name, one that would be mass produced instead of the singular use that the original namesake of the ship had been. Reviewing the ship, she could see elements that Lelouch had designed with his son, a father bonding with his son, together developing new weapons of mass destruction.

She smiled wistfully, she cared for both, but their love of advance weaponry was commonplace in Cinder's children somewhat bothered her whilst her own would take a much more administrative role. Even now, her little Arthur was busy in the colonies, working to establish new systems of governance, one where the colonies can remain fully loyal to the empire. She had known that if distance grew between the colonies and the home world.

Separation and independence would be inevitable as had what happened in the 13 colonies, in Terra Secundus. She was thankful that C.C and D.S had worked extra hard to create a system based on the thought elevators, the TTS. It ensured that the colonies would remain connected with Terra, despite the vast distance in space and ensured the fleet could reinforce any colony in the moment of an attack.

Back to the ship roster, the Nemesis has many experimental features, ones that she found audacious and completely insane, but the practical designs were there. An Akasha Engine one that fired a vortex lance, a weapon meant to tear through the sea of souls, displacing anything that was hit along the path of the beam into the sea of souls where a grizzly death awaited. New gravitic impulse drives, an experimental Mimir class Aether generator, where a helium 2 fusion reactor, a complicated thing as it is, used to supercharge the main Aether generator, causing a tear directly to C's world and absorbing the resultant energy.

To say that the helium 2 fusion reactors were complicated enough already, adopting a new laser cooling system, chilled to absolute zero, the more power it is given the more coolant the ship had. It would have been a sufficient power generator even for a cruiser, yet its primary purpose was to charge the Aether generator. At its current form it would have been enough fuel the ship of its class but with the fusion generator used to massively increase the efficiency of Aether generator, the result was the ship had a 1,000 times higher amount of power.

Therefore, increasing the defensive capabilities of the shields, weapons potency, and movement of the dreadnought. It was an ambitious project, one meant to establish fleet dominance. The Nemesis would have enough guns to turn entire fleets into molten slag and engage ships of its size with an overall length of 8km, it was meant to the tip of the spear for any armed offensive within deep space.

She was honestly more worried for the Damocles class. This one was Hadrian's own personal project much like her sister had with Legion, the weapons that were used here, would have been illegal under old war time laws. The weapons used had the capacity to crack planets, a testament to his dedication and hatred of the foe to warrant the creation of such weapons.

She sighed; their children weren't meant to have these burdens placed upon them. When Lelouch unified the planet and achieved his dream of a gentle world. They had expected their children to inherit a peaceful world, one where they can discover the wonders of the universe and be at peace. Instead, Hadrian and the others had been thrust into this war when he was but a juvenile. History does rhyme oddly it seems, in the worst way possible.

She continued her reading of the specifications, not noticing the presence of someone entering the room, until she felt someone place a hand on her shoulder, without even looking she knew who that person is. She smiled and gazed lovingly at Lelouch, just like the first time she met him face to face. He gave her a sincere smile before greeting her.

"Still at work it seems" He gazed to the files she was reading, understanding flashed between his eyes. "I take it you find the new ship class fascinating isn't it." He pulled out a chair and sat right next to her curling up an arm around her waist, a hug which she returned. "As interesting as the new war machines are, we have another issue, one that takes precedence than this." She knew what he meant; the presence of Terra Secundus had sent shockwaves throughout the imperial administration.

They had decided to keep this information out of the people for a while, until at least first contact was achieved. Their world was fascinating, a different history, a world without Sakudarite and where the arcane isn't common knowledge. Their world has twice the current population of the imperium, yet it had a massively lower industrial output than the imperium, the average imperial citizen with automated assistance could achieve what would take a million Terran Secundus people.

Ending her musings, she snuggled closer to her husband, enjoying these moments of intimacy as best she could, knowing full well that when duty calls, they had to get back to work. There was no excuse for slacking off, the lives of billions depend upon them. She began the discussion with the obvious, "When we make first contact" in a month or two, "What is our policy regarding their world." She paused for a moment, Lelouch giving gentle strokes on her head.

"Their world is complex to say the least, yet we know they won't stand a chance against the enemy, Cinder may conclude that an invasion is all we need but these issues aren't so simple as to constantly require a blunt hammer." He knew full well of what she was referring to, whilst Cinder has as much political understanding as she had, her solution to complex problems usually includes subversion, inciting regime changes and the usual invasion or two.

Whilst she agreed that those solutions might need to be used against the more powerful countries like the US, each country is still unique and Schneizel's diplomatic divide and conquer strategy will be much more suited to this, than carelessly launching invasions where they'll meet resistance and insurgency.

"Yes, Cinder is well Cinder" She chuckled at that, her sister wives' unique habits and personality had given her and the others a source of amusement. Ironically Kallen would be inclined to share Cinders methods, both may claim to rival each other yet their rivalry became more friendly over the years, bidding each other to outperform the other. That was why when Cinder became invested in the sciences, Kallen quickly followed, their antics had shined a light in an otherwise dark atmosphere.

"Whilst her expertise may be needed, I require a much more flexible approach." He kissed her forehead, causing her to snuggle deeper into his embrace, as Lelouch was saying, it means he will be sending her to negotiate with Terra Secundus. She casted her doubts, "You're going to send me as a diplomat" He didn't deny that. "You know I have far more important duties at home than to play diplomat." She is a housewive except her house is a proto interstellar empire, she had a lot of work just to maintain it.

"I know yet it is important that you attend to this task." Which meant whatever task he had, must have been important enough to pull her away for a few months, he could have sent other ambassadors other than her, knowing Lelouch's mindset enough, they've been married for 3 decades at least, he likely has a plan to exploit it but what is it?

"You've caught on" likewise he knows her too, "Let's just say that if our venture succeeds, we may add another solar system to our empire and the chance to gain a few billion people." That meant, she looked at him incredulously. It could work, by their laws if the Imperium established a presence there, they could legally claim it as imperial territory.

But how will we do it, that would require a direct link between Sol Primus and Sol Secundus, the only way was to use the TTS which meant. She mentally slapped herself, Lelouch's smile became wider. Of course, that was his plan, that must have been the device he commissioned from the ISB. As if to further double down on the point the door swung open, revealing Cinder and Arianna.

The latter looked a little shameful for catching them in their moment of intimacy. The former had little shame and quickly joined in on the snuggle, giving both her and Lelouch a hug which made furthered Arianna's embarrassment, deciding to spare her goddaughter, from further embarrassment. She respectfully pulled out, Cinder decided to stay put until she began admonishing her.

"Cinder, would you spare your daughter from further embarrassment." To which she gave a slight chuckle and gave him a respectful distance, at least when the children are present. "Right, right, so Lulu!" she turned to Lelouch who was unbothered by such a informal name, it used to be a source of embarrassment for him, one that she had also used to great effect. He's much more focused, unbothered by it as he continued giving us a serene smile.

Getting to the point she used her desk and activated its projector, who's idea it was to have a projector in every important government office, she did not know but appreciated as Cinder continued. "So, we have a new world, much more chaotic and divided." It honestly looked so, 195 countries, countless conflict, it wasn't terrible, yet it would have been better. "One where the UN, the worlds closest attempt at a world government, is useless, and morality a joke." She did not know what the latter meant.

She was enlightened "The Nobel Peace Prize was given to a US official who had backstabbed countries, overthrew governments and caused the deaths of millions." A profile and his 'accomplishments' the US were so disappointing, lacking depth, finesse, and wisdom much like the old EU, the only they did better was give the illusion of control to their people. "In such a world, I could get a Nobel Peace Prize, me the women who burned nations, would be awarded with a prize for merely resolving it." That was an overstatement, despite her claims of burning Finland, she merely massacred soldiers, civilians would be spared and left alone.

This official on the other hand funded genocides, despite how callous Cinder is in war, she would never kill civilians intentionally, it was a waste of ammo and a PR disaster one she avoids fervently. "So why not go conquer the US, it would be like our last war in the EU and just as fun." But Cinder is still Cinder, she enjoys battles just as much as she enjoys laying with their shared husband.

Fortunately, he dissuaded her "Cinder, whilst conquering the world can be done in less than a week." After checking the military composition of the world, she didn't doubt it, they had less overall combined strength than the EU at its last legs. "Other methods would work just as well, besides the integration period is a factor to consider, conquest is easy, keeping those conquests are where the challenge lay." Truer words, Lelouch had much higher headache when dealing with peacemark than they did with the EU, the fact that he was more in danger after the war, after, really settled the point, which she remembered fully.

"Which is why I will be sending Leila to negotiate our first meeting with the nations of Earth." At the mention of her mission, Cinder hung silently, gazing at her, and giving Lelouch looks of doubt.

"Sending Leila? Dear that is unnecessary, we could send a diplomat and be done with it, less risk for her." Whilst she didn't mention, she and Cinder had become close friends, often joining in on their sessions she had with Kallen and Lelouch. To say that she was heartless is wrong, the moment her first child was born, she flipped a switch and became much more friendly. She could understand why, she and her fully knew how painful it is to lose your parents, she merely had a different way to hide that trauma.

"Yes, it is necessary, a declaration of our Empires commitment and Leila has the important work of laying the foundation, from which we can integrate the nations of Earth." Cinder gave her and Lelouch, a look of understanding, she had come a long way from before and it showed, Leila found it endearing, giving her a nod of thanks.

"Arianna, I take it you have completed the device we require." She respectfully nodded and displayed a 3D image of a modified G1 mobile base. She had been respectfully silent, observing their moment with silent patience. A good daughter, Cinder raised her well. "Yes, Father and I have may have reached a breakthrough in Legion's AI development." Lelouch smiled proudly, before giving her daughter a hug of affection.

They were in a private setting, displays of affection like that could be done without scrutiny. Her mother quickly joined in, despite all the stresses and burdens of rule. They were still a family, when they were done, she gave Arianna a hug, they may not be her children by blood, but they were all precious. Such an honest relationship could never be found in the previous emperor's regime, honest, strong bonds of family prevented disasters and made the nation stronger.

Look what bad parenting caused in Britannia, so many disasters could have been prevented if parents and children were a little nicer and more understanding with each other. They didn't want to repeat that, and they were proud of how their children had done in the name of their nation.

"Arianna, you have done your country proud, I am proud of you, we are proud of you, continue your work, Hadrian would love the AI for our Fleet Modernization Program." Arianna still looked nervous, unsure, that was what happened when you are living in the shadow of her brother, a decorated man with many achievements. "Your work in creating a powerful, sane, functional AI would lead to many more breakthroughs, your achievements are not less, they are fundamental for the future of our nation." Her nervousness began to melt away, it was nice how fatherly Lelouch could be, leagues better than Charles. "All our praises would mean nothing if you were not confidant in the significance of your achievement."

He put a hand on her shoulder, "Take pride in that you've gone further than what is required of you, you've made Terra proud, our people can look to you as an example for generations to come" she was close to tears, Cinder quickly skuttled to her and gave her a comforting hug. It was honestly a shame she had little confidence in her achievements, a mistake that they would correct.

For now, they could enjoy a moment where they are just a family, away from their responsibilities, at least for a while. Turning her gaze to Lelouch and Cinder they agreed, before they bade Arianna away, they should spend one last moment together before they separated.

Moving towards the bedroom, she and Cinder quickly released themselves from their clothes. Joining their husband in bed. They would enjoy these moments of bliss, maybe get a child or two in 9 months. It was a short respite, one that they would fully enjoy. It will take a lot of effort to get Lelouch exhausted, he was not the same physically weak man as he was in his teens, now it would take two of them to at least make him tired. They're probably going to faint soon, but the moments before that would be pure bliss.

And it began with a kiss, as he finally entered her. Moaning in ecstasy, she would enjoy this moment whilst it last.

---

Rondell, Province of Bellnahgo

They were ready, after tense greetings, the imperial delegation arrived in force. Her she was awaiting planetfall as a squadron of imperial navy ships lay above her. The dropship stopped, the lower ramp beginning to descend. An honor guard of 8 Vincent and 2 Palamedes on her left and right, raising their swords and blasters in salute. She requested it, a show of force to remind the natives, that their primitive empire has no meaning here. If they refused her offers of annexation, well they could always find a representative more amenable.

Ahead of her lay the Meeting Hall of the magic academy, a large dome like structure made of clear blue stone. There was no cut that could be associated with bricks or basic masonry. Magic must have been used, and so far, it impressed her compared to the other primitive cities that they had seen. Rondell could be described modern if it wasn't for the terrible city planning making any organized location system impossible. Clearly the natives still had much to learn, they would do well under imperial guidelines.

Her escort, more like an entire battle company, full of Legion machines and regular imperial soldiers in power armor. So far, she was the only one who appeared unarmed, wearing a formal business suit with a skirt that reached her knees and stockings covering the rest. Not to say it was defenseless, the Kevlar woven fiber could protect her against projectiles, and she had a personal shield system that was tucked in as a necklace.

The mages, of which were divided into 6 ranks looked like the fantasy architype of mages, hats, and long flowing robes, some with wands and staffs. She allowed them the chance to speak first.

"Greetings otherworlder I am Arch-mage Tullus of Rondell, what is the reason of your visit." He greeted, a slight twitch of his fingers indicated nervousness, well Legion drones were made for terror and they were dozens behind her.

"I am Geraldine Matilda, ambassador of the Imperium, psionic agent of the Arcane division" she held out her hand, the man was confused until he took it. She coursed warp energy to her hand, letting her know that she was a fellow mage.

"The imperium is an empire that came from the gate of Rubicon" Many were surprised at the revelation, she doubled down. "The Saderans were foolish to invade us, their forces as I speak have been rendered non-factor." Cries of outrage rung around the hall, marking the pro Saderans to her escorts, in case they needed to be euthanized.

She brought out a hologram and brought a device, linking with it, it's activation causing the mages to stumble as they curiously observed the otherworlder artifact. "We'd like to offer you, the leaders of Rondell the chance of greatness, the imperium always marches forward, finding innovation and progress. Join us and we may share our greatness with you."

"You've wished for us to join this imperium and what rewards do you speak" an arch mage spoke up.

She gestured her hand fully activating the hologram. "This is a cogitator, a device that is able to transmit and present information in less than a second all throughout the known space of the imperium and allows you to access all known knowledge of the imperium, if you have the clearance" She snapped her fingers, showing the features of the machine. "You can store information, write books, simulate magical models and calculate ambient mana." She waved her hand, a ball of fire coming to her fingertips, as the scanner raised the holograms chart, indicating a presence.

Many more began to mutter, most in excitement as they beheld one of the imperium's basic devices.

"Such a device would proof revolutionary." Whispered the arch mage, as he beheld the device.

"Something like that would remove the need for books." More whispers of amazement.

"Knowledge at one's fingertips whether you go." Another one intoned.

"The capability to produce magical models, that would be incredible, we can reduce the risks of experiments." More and more people began staring at the device in wonder, she kept a placid smile, still confused if it was this easy.

She cleared her throat, turning their attention towards her again. "Now these are one of the many technological wonders of the imperium, as you can from our airship and the Knightmares, all of these technologies can be accessed should you agree to join the imperium and sign this treaty." She paused once more, this time projecting her psionic capabilities in full, many stared in wonder at the controlled flames, Terran psionic discipline showed.

"There is so much more yet to be discovered, I myself am a mage, and the imperium continues to find ways to tap to the well of magic and improve our capabilities, his majesty emperor Lelouch vi Britannia himself is a powerful mage, a scholar to the arcane crafts, join us and you shall know the true meaning of greatness." Her impromptu speech aroused many claps and cheers, had she underestimated how disconnected Rondell was from Sadera.

That was good, it means force would not be needed, and this would be a plus in her record. One of the mages quickly recovered and spoke faster than others, "This is marvelous, I am sure Rondell would like to join-."

"Traitor! you would forsake the empire?! That has protected and allowed us to study in peace for centuries for these parlor magic tricks." Shouted one of the mages, she had noted that as one of the few pro Saderans loyalist. Time for step two.

"What loyalty do we have for the Empire!? We have no interest in their affairs and so do they in ours." Another rose into his defense; it would have spiraled into an argument had she decided to not intervene.

"Gentlemen, I prefer this does not escalate unnecessarily, let us remain civil, we are all friends here." Her tone cut the argument before it escalated, some gave her looks of thanks, but the Saderan loyalist was not so recuperative.

"Silence you wench! You barbarian whores belong to the brothels, spreading your legs-"and as usual, the Saderans were barbarically stupid, just as she wanted it before she gathered the energy of the warp.

His hands gathered to his throat, choked by an unseen force as he began to be lifted of the ground, stretching her hand causally, not bothered with the slow execution she was doing. Others stared horrified at the casual display of callousness, her escorts unmoved, some amused as the savage native choked on his own mucus.

But she didn't want him to die yet, he fell to the ground gasping for air as he attempted to rise, fear and anger washing over his face. Good that should proof fortunate for the next show.

"Now mind your manners, calling a lady a whore especially a diplomat of that is such a poor display of manners, are all Saderans this brutish." Another casual insult, the man quickly forgetting his fear, she hammered the rage button. "So, to make this fair, I will allow you one attack, make it as powerful as you can at me, my escorts will not harm you, this should make it fair." Others exclaimed in shock, worried of a magical duel that would shred the academy to cinders.

The man ignored that, staring triumphantly, completely disregarding the danger. "Hah you foolish barbarian whore, fearing your betters, take this." He raised his staff and began chanting, the residue mana was slightly impressive, even she can take that without effort but that was not the point. "And die to the ground where you dogs belong!" before nothing happened.

He starred at his staff in horror, trying to cast another spell, that would never come to fruition. Now she needed to show the stick, and it seemed to have worked well, "I thank this arch-mage for demonstrating another wonderful invention." She gestured to the device in question. "This is the Aether disruptor, a device that cancels and disrupts the mana collection process that formed spells, meaning none of you can cast a single spell when it is active."

Others tried casting spells of their own, all of them prevented from coming to fruition, many of the mages stared at the device in wonder whilst some beheld it with horror, the whispers began.

"A marvellous invention, this should reduce any chance of our experiments going wrong."

"Impossible! the ability to cancel cannot be possible, if this imperium's mages can do feats like these then- "

So many more mutterings all growing louder than each other. She hammered the final nail to seal the deal, "As you can see, the Imperium is capable of making the impossible," She stressed that word, "Possible and many of you have the chance to partake in these discoveries, if you choose to join the Empire and swear fealty to his majesty emperor Lelouch."

Eyes filled with wonder, the previous arch-mage, Tullus knelt and pledged his loyalty to the Imperium after which he and the others signed the treaty, the complaints of the loyalist completely felling on deaf ears.

They discussed terms of integration, the new imperial overseers that would also act as their teachers, the new psionic registration that would conveniently weed out traitors, speaking of weeding out traitors. One of her escorts spoke out.

"By Imperia law,l your mage, on the charges of assaulting an imperial diplomat is sentenced to death." Followed by an electric discharge, making him writhe and whitter as he screamed in pain. He fell silent, many thinking he was dead, he should be soon, when the ISB can dissect his living body.

"Unfortunately, Imperial law, is still imperial law, this should be a warning for any who misbehave." They gulped, especially the loyalists. "Now we take matters of the arcane very seriously and I believe you understand the dangers of untrained use." They nodded, all too familiar of what failed experiments resulted in. "Therefore, we require an interview of each mage, today several officers would interview and ask several questions alongside testing your aptitude." She paused again. "And do not lie, they will know, they have the ability to read minds, and I suggest you remain honest."

She smiled even as she sensed the internal panic of several of them, some of them conducting experiments that were wasteful and inhumane. "Now do not worry, if you have nothing to hide, you will remain perfectly safe, be honest that will determine if you are eligible to be taught of our arcane craft." Now they were determined, several of them were true honest magicians who wanted to advance the arcane arts without any other motivation besides discovering hidden truths.

With that, Rondell became an imperial Terran city, the first of many to come. They would need to rebuild it from the ground up, no proper Terran city can be this disorganized, there should be some complaints which she can leave to the others. Now she could rest and get some R&R, knowing full well that they had eliminated the greatest threat to further imperial expansion.

She supposed should the Bellnahgo negotiations fail, it would give them ample time to test Legions new AI. She should bring the popcorn and invite her comrades; it would be a nice show to watch.

---

Encryption key: Yellow

Accessing file… Legion… unit roster…. Access granted.

Revenants, designation ARI-9

General Characteristics

Description: Legions basic foot soldier, humanoid in shape and made with titanium composite alloy and coated in memetic adaptable liquid coating. Revenants are durable constructs, it's artificial synthetic muscle like sinews ensured advance flexibility and movements. Completely surpassing the need for hydraulics, a hallmark of a more clankier era.

Height: 2-3 meters

Armaments: Blades and constructs that could conjured with memetic Polly alloy and a F172X phased plasma riffle.

Power source: NX-1 Miniature Fusion reactor

Weight: 0.7 ton

Antlers, designation NIX-1A Infantry Support Weapon

General Characteristics

Description: Legions heavy infantry support unit. An insectoid hull that has 4 legs, it's titanium composite hull protecting it from the most basic of small arms fire, its sharp legs allowing it to climb buildings using deep protrusions to stick to building surfaces, gives it great jumping capability, allowing it to jump over 30 meters.

Height: 4-5 meters

Armaments: 2-50mm rapid firing autocannons, 2 missile pods, containing anti air and ground bombardment missiles, 25 each.

Power source: NX-2 Miniature Fusion reactor, Solar Power, and Biomaterial Energy Converter.

Weight: 6 tons

Scorpions, designation ARPI-312 Autonomous Panzer Infantry

Description: the direct successor to the automated hounds using the continued Alexander chassis. The insect like body, integrated with float systems, allowing flight capabilities, unseen in previous models. An insect mode for faster ground coverage using it's legs whilst normal mode has the integrated Landspinner propulsion system. An added Blaze Luminous shielding adds an extra layer of protection and top of the line gravitonic Factspehre sensor system. Memetic Polly Alloy layer adds extra versatility and options for lethality.

Height: 9-10 meters normal mode, 4-5 meters insect mode

Armaments: 1 KMR-8 Phased VARRIS Plasma Riffle, 4 Slash-Whip Harkens (Sharpened edge for ranged stabbing ability, 2 on the forearms and 2 on the hips.), 2 High-Frequency Blades, 4 Plasma Grenades, Shoulder mounted missile launchers.

Power Source: Yggdrasil Drive, KNX-1 Fusion Reactor, Biomaterial Energy Converter.

Weight: 12 tons

Cernunnos, designation NIX-1B Aerial Denial System

General Characteristics

Description: A 4-legged weapons platform, equipped with an enlarged and specialized Factsphere system. Its mobility is not excellent, it's main use is its Phaser Diffusion Array, targeting any aerial targets with pinpoint accuracy up to 76 km at an altitude 800 meters high, 3 seconds in between shots. Protected with a Blaze Luminous system and integrated float system for rapid relocation. Its alloys is made up of standard titanium composite armor, and extra space for its power source and armament. Can use targeting information from Legion Occuli drones.

Height: 6-7 meters

Armaments: MX2 Phaser Diffusion Array, 2 miniature plasma autocannons

Power Source: NX2 Fusion Reactor

Weight: 15 tons

Flidais, designation NIX-2A Mobile Howitzer System

General Characteristics

Description: Like the Cernunnos except its armaments are replaced by a Plasma Howitzer system. Designed for ground bombardment and suppression of enemy forces. It's 4-legged frame is given extra stabilizers in the form of anchors and additional slash-harkens. Made of the standard, composite titanium alloy, naturally black in nature. Additional protection provided by Blaze Luminous shielding, requires forward recon for precision targeting, can fire at precise coordinates.

Height: 7 meters

Armament: HPG-1 352mm VARRIS Gun, 2 slash harkens, 2 Phased Plasma Machine guns

Power Source: NX2 Fusion Reactor

Weight: 18 tons

Occuli, designation ARU-1 Aerial Reconnaissance Unit

General Characteristics

Description: Utilising the latest stealth camouflage technology, Occuli are able to shift its hull color to match that of its environment, a small drone with the length of 2 meters, it's hull is adaptable special titanium composite alloy meant to reduce the presence of heat, motion and any form of scanning, does not shield against gravitonic scanners. Due to the nature of its operation, it is not equipped with a fusion reactor, instead an energy filler, that does not reduce its lethality, it's eyes function as a multipurpose weapon. It's scanners and processors are the best of its class, allowing information to flow freely from the front to those units which require targeting data.

Height: 1 meter

Armament: EW-1 Adaptable Electric Beam Rifle (Stun and Lethal mode), 12 Miniature Missile launchers.

Power Source: Mk12 Energy Filler, Biomaterial Energy Converter, Solar Power

Weight: 200kg

Mimics, designation IM-1C Adaptive Infiltration Unit

General Characteristics

Description: Like the Revenants in most features, it has one huge difference that it's Memetic Polly Alloy is much more versatile and stronger than baseline units. Due to its versatility, infiltration units can take the form of a person down to the cellular molecular detail. Whilst its human interactions are limited due to AI uses, it is nonetheless a dangerous entity, allowing the imperium access to information that would normally be hidden to the enemy. This adaptability also allows it to gain direct access to information network, due to the specialized construction. It has greater strength, speed, and agility than baseline units but at a higher cost.

Armaments: Polly Alloy Configuration (blades, axes, other forms)

Power Source: NX-1 Miniature Fusion Reactors

Weight: 500kg

Status of AI Development:

As of the 25th of June 2048, A.T.B/ 1993 A.D, Legion AI development has yielded mass results, previously it had relied on complex logic deducing Virtual Intelligence to guide the drones of Legion. As of the date, due to certain experiments that required the usage of prisoners captured from the gate, criminals that have been convicted to death by imperial law. The new positronic AI development, meant to copy the neural pathways of the brain should in theory give human like intelligence, if not succeed it by a wide margin from baseline humans. Although an early prototype will be in construction.

Many tests such as emotional stability, boundary limitations, Terran ethics evaluation have not been concluded. The AI has been proven possible to exist, whether it is stable in coding and emotions remains to be seen. Much more time will be dedicated to imprinting the new child of human values despite its digital nature, proper parenting is required to ensure no rebellions occur. Despite these initial prototypes of AI will be in construction shortly for the various roles the Imperium requires.

The Green-series will be focused on terraforming and stable industrial management, meant to follow in line with Mariella vi Britannia's Gaia Initiative.

The Babel-series will finally perfect Legion's lacking computational capabilities, these range from smart drones to command units which will be given Terran Citizenship once it proves sentient and accepting of Terran values.

The Crimson-series, meant for the fleet, specifically the Nemesis Forward Reconnaissance Fleet Engagement Vessel and the Damocles Mobile Fortress Fleet Annihilation Vessel alongside a slew of derivatives meant for battleships, cruisers, destroyers, frigates, and corvettes. These would be further specialized to work in conjunction with fleet officers and reduce menial roles for more manpower efficiency.

Further testing is underway, may the light of Terra shine brightly.

Pax Imperium, Terra Invictus. Ave Imperator.

AN:

Got to say, it took a lot longer for me to write this chapter, due to the presence of certain characters. I have to say that I wrote a lot of OCs in just these 4 chapters, some of them will be pushed to the sidelines, meant to push a plot, whilst others will continue in their role. There are also others which I will kill, just to advance the plot, so I decided to take a hybrid solution to writing original characters from the three body problem series of novels. When I write about these OC's, I meant to write them as cogs in a machine, to illustrate how the imperium functions, how much has changed, etc.

Like the three-body problem which focused more on society and using the characters to illustrate society, I decided that whilst some characters will have notoriety, others are more likely to be used as a plot device, as bad as those sounds, it's easier for me to write that way.

Also, I feel like the 3rd chapter could have been written better, oh well I did write it in 2 days which means quality is going to be suboptimal. Now I'm taking a longer time, to check things out, and give you guys a much higher quality of reading as it was meant to be.

Moving on from my ramblings, yes, the gap between the modern world and the imperium has increased yet again, due to the advance nature of the imperium, they know a lot of gate Japan which does not know them I turn, they'll be in a world of surprise from there. Thought Elevators and their ability to instantaneously teleport is insane, likewise due to Lelouch's peaceful era, it's bound that they will be reversed engineered, and mass produced.

Those Thought Elevators make interstellar colonisation a lot easier, it's like if you play stellaris except you switch the hyperdrive with a psionic gate network. Meaning that discovering and colonising new systems is a nightmare but once you've established a presence, you can flood the system in resources. I should start up a stellaris game, just to name all the stars that will be prevalent soon.

Also, Code Geass industrial capabilities are insane, they had a much earlier industrial revolution and the mega structure of the settlements, imagine building plates upon plates that layers a city. The engineering requirements of those are extreme and impossible at our current tech level. It's why the casualties of FLEIJA are so high, that thing collapsed plate upon plate of city blocks much like Lelouchs initial opening in the first black rebellion but on a city-wide scale.

Modern industrial capabilities simply cannot catch up, the settlements were built in less than 10 years, that speaks well of Britannia's industrial capability. If not that and the fact Schneizal managed to produce Damocles, in the jungles of Indochina in less than 2 months at best and 6 months at worst. A 2km behemoth at the time, with a bunch of scraps. Meanwhile US had to take a decade just to build a small aircraft carrier.

That's the difference between CG and Modern world in terms of industrial capability. As it currently stands, I can see the imperium forming warships the size of Apocalypse class battleships from 40k. If Scheizal can build Damocles, the largest ship at the time with a makeshift shipyard, what can the imperium do with dedicated industrial facilities, will cover that later.

Moving on to codes, I'm writing fanon here but Leila's geass did not destroy a code, merely makes it dormant. You can kill someone with a dormant code, but you cannot destroy a code, it's a concept, one that is key to the collective unconsciousness. You can't kill a concept, killing someone with a dormant code meant it will be randomly transferred to someone else.

Also Leila and co decides to get some snu-snu with their hubby, probably have a kid or two in the future.

And yeah, Sadera is the side show, gate earth is where the main theatre is at. Colonising Sadera and the empire is just so common in gate fic's it gets stale but colonising gate earth. *chuckles* now that is something new. Got to wait for the JSDF to have a taste of imperial firepower. Also, the imperium is not alone in the Rubicon system, can't wait with that confrontation.

I'm also basing the issues of gate Earth on real life flaws within democracy. Personal opinion wise, to be taken with a grain of salt, is US democracy sucks. They get nothing done, Politician A rolls climate protection policy then Politician B completely reverses that, next election cycle, Politician C restarts Politician A policy, this back and forth nature means nothing gets done and that's my primary issue with the system, if reforms aren't taken, I could reasonably see the US tear itself apart due to it's increasing polarising nature, back then despite being opposing sides, politicians are willing to put feuds aside for the good of America. What happened to that? short answer it's gone. If you want to understand why nothing gets done, you should check Jerome McCree's video of the Great Stagnation. I know many of my viewers are Americans, for a good democracy to work, one must understand it's flaws, Jerome here has summarised why democracy is so inefficient and why politicians don't give a crap about the average people

I know it's kind of bad to bring real-life issues here, just felt that needs to be said. So sorry about that rant and moving on there's an inevitable confrontation between the UN and the Imperium. That's the point of the story, the title from which i base it on which was what happens when His Britannia Code Geass meets a world similar to modern real life except it's not the same.

There's been some delays, I have a network issue, got to fix that for a while which is why this fic got delayed.

Furthermore, I read the reviews, thanks for the support you guys, appreciate it.