Chapter 7: The Holy Milishial Empire
Ministry of National Defense Compound ("August 1st Building"), Fuxing Road, Beijing.
The Ministry of National Defense in China, unlike similar institutions in other countries, does not command the People's Liberation Army (PLA) operationally. That responsibility falls to the Central Military Commission (CMC). The Ministry and its minister function primarily in a diplomatic role, acting as the liaison between the CMC, PLA, and foreign militaries.
The majestic halls of the August 1st Building echoed with the purposeful strides of men in uniform, their polished shoes tapping out a rhythm of authority and gravitas. Li Shangfu, the 13th Minister of National Defense, convened a crucial meeting with members of the Equipment Development Department of the CMC.
This department, a pivotal unit created under Chairman Hu Wenbo's military reforms in 2002, was tasked with overseeing the development and acquisition of military technology. General Zhang Youxia, the director, stood at the helm of this mission, his presence a testament to the importance of this meeting.
The recent, dazzling technological display by the Holy Milishial Empire had sent ripples of concern through the State Council of the People's Republic of China. Despite being halfway around the world, the Milishial Empire's capability for force projection was unprecedented, surpassing anything seen in this new world. The State Council had designated the Milishial as an S-class threat, a status previously reserved only for the United States of America before China's mysterious transportation to this new reality.
The purpose of today's meeting was to reassess and understand the potential threat posed by the Holy Milishial Empire more accurately. Li Shangfu sat at the head of a long, polished conference table. Opposite him sat General Zhang Youxia, the director of the Equipment Development Department, a man known for his sharp tongue and strategic acumen. Surrounding them were other high-ranking officers and officials, each with a specific role in China's military and technological apparatus.
Li Shangfu, a man of stern composure, secretly thanked the arrogance of the Milishial ambassador for providing an overview of their own military capabilities. Those elves seemed to love boasting about their superior technology to anyone within earshot, making intelligence gathering significantly easier.
Li Shangfu began his speech, projecting a series of images and data onto the screen behind him. The images displayed the grandeur and technological prowess of the Holy Milishial Empire, each slide meticulously prepared to provide a comprehensive overview.
"Gentlemen," he started, "today we face a potential adversary unlike any we have encountered. The Holy Milishial Empire is enormous. Spanning approximately 98 million square kilometers, it controls the southern half of the largest supercontinent in this world, the Milishient continent, which is larger than all the landmasses on Earth combined. Currently, about 1,208 cities in Milishial have populations over 100,000 people, with 183 of them having over a million people, and of those, 29 are classified as global cities with populations exceeding five million residents. The estimated population of the Milishial Empire is 2,141,600,000. Among these residents, 1.8 billion are pure-blood elves. Being a pure-blood elf is vital for living in the empire, conferring numerous privileges, including exemption from the poll tax, eligibility to join the army rather than the guard, inalienable rights like health care and welfare, and the ability to appeal to a Praetor during litigation. Pure-blood elves also gain voting rights at the age of 160 and can run for political office according to their social class."
He paused, allowing the weight of the numbers to sink in. The room was silent, the officers and officials absorbing the magnitude of Milishial's demographics, eyes fixed on the minister as he continued. The enormity of the population and the structure of privileges within the empire painted a picture of a deeply stratified and complex society.
"Economically, the Milishial Empire displays characteristics of laissez-faire capitalism with huge monopolies dominating national markets, while small businesses thrive locally. Government intervention is significant in sectors like public transit and national defense, typical of state capitalism." Li Shangfu's voice was steady, each word calculated to convey the vast economic landscape of the Milishial Empire. The intricate balance between free market principles and state intervention highlighted the sophistication of their economic model.
The room remained silent, every pair of eyes fixed on Li. He continued, "Thanks to their accumulated military strength over millennia, the Empire is recognized as the greatest superpower and main protector of this world: Novus Orbis."
The attendees exchanged uneasy glances. The recognition of the Milishial Empire as the paramount superpower underscored the immense challenge they posed. This was not merely a nation with advanced technology, but an empire with a historical legacy of military dominance and strategic influence.
He then switched the display to the Milishial Imperial Salvation Army (MISA), the combined military forces of the Holy Milishial Empire. The screen showed the imposing emblem of MISA, a symbol that evoked both awe and intimidation. "The MISA is composed of five branches: Ground Force, Naval Force, Air Force, Strategic Force, and Special Operations Force. Each branch operates with a level of autonomy and specialization that ensures the comprehensive defense and offensive capabilities of the empire."
Li Shangfu continued, "It is commanded by the Central Military Commission, under Emperor Lucius Erudato-Horourein De Milishial VIII. The Emperor's strategic oversight and direct involvement in military affairs reflect the importance placed on military readiness and capability at the highest levels of their government."
He paused to let the significance of the Emperor's role sink in before proceeding, "According to the documents provided by the Milishial, the MISA has 2,300 heavy vessels, identified as machines weighing more than 14,000 tons, in commission. This includes a range of warships and support vessels that form the backbone of their naval power. Their air force boasts tens of thousands of aircraft, including advanced fighters, bombers, and transport planes, many of which incorporate both technological and magical enhancements. The ground force is similarly formidable, equipped with cutting-edge armored vehicles, artillery, and infantry weapons, all designed to leverage their technological superiority."
He elaborated further, "The Strategic Force is responsible for their long-range offensive and defensive capabilities, including missile systems and other strategic assets that can project power across vast distances. The Special Operations Force, on the other hand, consists of highly trained elite units capable of conducting unconventional warfare, intelligence operations, and direct action missions."
Li Shangfu clicked a remote, and the screen behind him flickered to life, displaying an imposing image that filled the room with its grandeur. The Adamant-Class Magic Battleship loomed large, its presence eliciting gasps of astonishment and murmurs of disbelief from the audience.
The battleship, measuring a staggering 350 meters in length, was a marvel of both technological and arcane prowess. Its sleek, futuristic design bore more resemblance to a spaceship than a traditional naval vessel, blending advanced engineering with potent magic.
"Behold the Adamant-Class Magic Battleship," Li Shangfu began, his voice steady despite the weight of the revelation. "According to the documents provided by the Milishial, this vessel measures 350 meters in length, 50 meters in width, and has a draught of 15 meters. It displaces 190,000 tons under standard conditions and up to 210,000 tons when fully loaded. Its armor is an astonishing 1,000 millimeters thick, composed of fully enclosed homogeneous magic armor."
General Zhang Youxia's face twisted into a grimace of disbelief. "Are you kidding me? A thousand millimeters of fully enclosed armor? How in the world does that even float? And 210,000 tons? This seems like some sort of sorcery."
General Zhong leaned forward, his tone a mix of skepticism and intrigue. "The design choice of fully enclosed armor is baffling. It's an incredibly heavy configuration. It seems like they've opted for a design that anticipates being hit by high-precision munitions aimed at exploiting weak points. It's almost as if they're preparing for a relentless barrage of guided strikes, banking on their heavy armor to withstand the assault."
Li Shangfu nodded, acknowledging the observation. "The ship is powered by four fusion cores, generating a combined total of 230 million horsepower. This immense power allows it to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h or 110 knots. Anti-gravity spells play a crucial role in balancing the massive weight and enhancing speed, while reducing the draught to just 5 meters. The operational range is effectively limitless, thanks to its advanced manatohydrodynamic propulsion systems."
He shifted the presentation to focus on the vessel's armaments. "For its primary weaponry, the Adamant-Class is equipped with six triple-gun turrets, each mounting Type 98 51cm/45 Spirit Magic Cannons. These cannons have an impressive range of 500 kilometers. Additionally, the battleship features two triple-gun turrets with Type 90 203mm/50 Spirit Magic Cannons, and sixteen triple-gun turrets armed with Type 10 155mm/50 dual-purpose anti-air magic guns."
Li paused, allowing the audience to absorb the gravity of the firepower. "The Adamant-Class also boasts forty-four Type 55 six-barrel 40mm magic rotary cannon CIWS for close-in defense, eighteen Type-15 53cm magic torpedo tubes, and it can deploy six seaplanes. The Milishial Empire claims to possess 100 of these battleships."
Admiral Wei Guoqiang's eyes widened in sheer astonishment. "Holy hell! This ship has more firepower than an entire fleet. Those magic cannons have a range of 500 kilometers? How are we supposed to counter something like this? It's like they've created a floating fortress."
General Zhang Youxia leaned forward, his scrutiny focused on the image. "A hundred of these behemoths? It sounds like something straight out of a science fiction novel. We need to assess how their spirit magic cannons perform at such extended ranges. Can they maintain accuracy over 500 kilometers? And what are their reload times?"
Li's expression remained serious. "These are critical questions we need answers to. Understanding their capabilities and limitations will be crucial in developing our counter-strategy. We must consider both their offensive and defensive capabilities, and how they might adapt their tactics in combat."
General Zhong nodded, his tone contemplative. "The sheer scale of their armaments and defensive systems presents a formidable challenge. We'll need to explore every possible advantage we can leverage—be it in missile technology, electronic warfare, or tactical maneuvers. Our response must be as sophisticated and adaptive as their technology."
Li Shangfu agreed. "Indeed. We must approach this with a clear strategy, incorporating all our advanced technologies and leveraging our strengths. By understanding their weaknesses and adapting our tactics, we can formulate a plan to counter the Adamant-Class Magic Battleships effectively."
The room fell silent as the gravity of the situation settled in. Each leader in the room knew that the coming engagement would test their strategic acumen and technological prowess to the fullest. Li's eyes met those of his colleagues, a silent acknowledgment of the monumental task ahead. The battle for supremacy on the high seas was about to take on a new dimension, and they were prepared to meet the challenge head-on.
Li Shangfu clicked the remote again, and the image on the screen transitioned to another imposing vessel—the Orichalcum-Class Magic Battleship. Its design was strikingly similar to the Adamant-Class, but with its own unique features that set it apart.
"Now, let's turn our attention to the Orichalcum-Class," Li announced, his tone steady. "This ship mirrors the Adamant-Class in dimensions but displaces 180,000 tons at standard load and can reach up to 210,000 tons when fully loaded. Its armor is also 1,000 millimeters thick, composed of fully enclosed homogeneous magic armor, but it's reinforced with orichalcum."
General Zhang Youxia threw his hands up in exasperation. "Reinforced with orichalcum? What's next, invincible shields? This is just getting absurd! How do you even penetrate that kind of defense?"
Li Shangfu nodded, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "Orichalcum is a rare and incredibly strong material, adding an extra layer of protection that makes their battleships even more formidable. However, our goal is to understand these ships thoroughly, so we can find a way to counter them effectively."
He continued, "The Orichalcum-Class is powered by four fusion cores, producing a total of 240 million horsepower. This allows it to achieve the same impressive speed as the Adamant-Class, up to 200 km/h or 110 knots. One of its standout features is the Reloadable Vertical Launching System. It's equipped with 256 missile cells—128 located forward and 128 aft. According to Milishial sources, they claim to possess 30 of these ships."
Admiral Dongguan's eyes widened in shock. "A Reloadable Vertical Launching System? Are you kidding me? They can actually reload missiles while in the middle of a battle? What kind of monster are we dealing with here? This just escalates the situation even further!"
Li Shangfu raised a hand to calm the room. "Yes, the reloadable system is a significant advantage for them. It allows sustained missile fire and extended engagement durations without needing to resupply at port. This capability adds a new layer of complexity to our strategic planning."
He then turned to the secondary armaments of the Orichalcum-Class. "In addition to its main features, the Orichalcum-Class is equipped with two triple-gun turrets housing Type 98 510mm/45 Spirit Magic Cannons and two triple-gun turrets housing Type 90 203 mm/50 Spirit Magic Cannons and sixteen triple-gun turrets armed with Type 10 155mm/50 dual-purpose anti-air magic guns. It also has forty-eight Type 55 six-barrel 40 mm magic rotary cannon CIWS for close-in defense, twenty-four Type-15 53 cm magic torpedo tubes, and the ability to deploy six seaplanes."
General Zhang Youxia cursed under his breath, his frustration clear. "So, they've got enough firepower to obliterate an entire carrier task force and then some. With the ability to reload missiles in the middle of combat, it's like we're facing an endless nightmare. Our strategy must adapt accordingly. We need to focus on exploiting their weaknesses and disrupting their operational effectiveness."
He looked around the room, addressing his colleagues. "Our first priority should be to target their logistical support. By disrupting their supply lines, we can limit their operational endurance and missile replenishment capabilities. Additionally, we need to employ sophisticated electronic warfare tactics to interfere with their guidance systems and communication networks. If we can create confusion and breakdown their command and control structures, we can find and exploit gaps in their defenses."
Admiral Wei Guoqiang nodded in agreement. "We should also consider leveraging our stealth technology and long-range strike capabilities. Our aircraft and missile systems can engage from beyond their effective range, reducing the risk to our forces. Precision strikes on their vulnerable points, such as their missile reload stations and command centers, could be pivotal in neutralizing their advantage."
General Zhong added, "We should prepare for adaptive tactics as well. These ships are formidable, but they're not invincible. Understanding their operational patterns and exploiting any discovered weaknesses will be crucial. We must be agile in our approach and ready to adjust our strategy based on their responses."
Li Shangfu glanced at the screen and continued, "The Milishial seem to be placing all their chips on these big-gun battleships, evident from their lack of a dedicated aircraft carrier but they do have something else—the Marine Fortress Pal Cowne."
The screen displayed a colossal, bizarre vessel, eliciting gasps and incredulous reactions from the naval officers.
"From what narcotic-induced vision was this monstrosity created?" someone muttered.
The room erupted in murmurs as naval officers reacted to the sheer size and power of the vessel. Li Shangfu then introduced the Marine Fortress Pal Cowne, displaying its specifications on the screen. The reaction was even more pronounced.
The Marine Fortress Pal Cowne was an engineering marvel, if not an outright fantasy creation. Its specifications included:
Length (submerged): 495 meters (1,624 feet)
Beam (submerged): 116 meters (381 feet)
Height (submerged): 54 meters (177 feet)
Displacement: Submerged: 810,000 tonnes; Surfaced: 650,000 tonnes
"The Pal Cowne is a trimaran hybrid submarine/carrier/battleship design," Li Shangfu explained. "It has a large straight carrier deck for CATOBAR operations and two auxiliary hulls housing magic 16-inch guns. It can carry 30 to 50 manned aircraft. The Milishial have built 50 of these."
General Zhang Youxia could no longer contain his disdain. "Modern submarines are effective because they are stealth platforms. They reveal their position only when attacking, and sometimes not even then. Their best defense is their stealth. An aircraft carrier, on the other hand, has to be in a predictable location to recover its aircraft, making it the exact opposite of stealth. The Pal Cowne, as a submarine/carrier/battleship hybrid, is fundamentally flawed as its capabilities are in direct conflict with each other."
Zhang continued, his voice dripping with sarcasm, "It can't be escorted by surface ships without compromising its position. It can't defend itself with its aircraft while maintaining stealth because launching or recovering aircraft requires it to expose itself. And those magic 16-inch guns? They might have a better sustained fire rate and ammo capacity than VLS missiles, but using them effectively means hanging around on the surface, which is not what a submarine wants to do."
He concluded, "There is really only one scenario where the Pal Cowne could be remotely effective: a 'Doolittle Raid'-style operation, a deep-penetration raid through enemy waters, launching an airstrike and naval bombardment near the target. But even in this scenario, the risks are immense. Conventional cruise-missile submarines could achieve similar results without risking such a valuable strategic asset. This vessel is so situational and dependent on the enemy making colossal strategic blunders that it is practically useless. However, the existence of 50 such vessels indicates Milishial's confidence—or perhaps their hubris—in their technological prowess."
The room hummed with agreement. The Milishial Empire's vessels, while technologically advanced, seemed to suffer from overconfidence and a lack of strategic focus.
Li Shangfu nodded, acknowledging Zhang's points. "The Milishial are clearly confident in their technological superiority. However, their overconfidence might be their greatest weakness. We need to gather more intelligence and understand the full extent of their capabilities. We must also continue to advance our own technologies and be prepared for any eventuality. Traditional electronic warfare might not be effective against magic. We need to research and understand the fundamentals of their magic technology. Perhaps integrating our scientific knowledge with their magical principles could yield new defense strategies."
Zhang nodded. "I'll get on that immediately. We need to establish a dedicated Task Force to study Milishial's magic technology. Collaboration between our best scientists and military engineers will be essential. We also need to increase our intelligence efforts. We need more information about their operational doctrines, maintenance cycles, and potential weaknesses in their magic systems."
Li added, "Our diplomatic efforts must also continue. We need allies in this new world, and we must be cautious in our approach to the Milishial Empire. Their arrogance could be their downfall, but we must not let that blind us to their strengths."
As the meeting drew to a close, Li Shangfu stood to deliver his final remarks. "Gentlemen, we are facing a new and formidable adversary. But we have faced challenges before and emerged stronger. We will adapt, we will innovate, and we will prevail. China's strength lies in our resilience and our unity. Let us move forward with determination and resolve."
The room erupted in applause, a show of solidarity and confidence. As the officers filed out, Li Shangfu remained behind, deep in thought. The challenges ahead were immense, but he was determined to lead China through them. The Milishial Empire might be powerful, but China would not be easily intimidated.
Li turned to General Zhang, who had lingered behind. "Thank you for your insights, Zhang. Your critique of their battleships was particularly enlightening."
Zhang smiled, a rare sight. "It's my pleasure, Minister. We have a tough road ahead, but I have faith in our abilities. Together, we can find ways to counter their advancements."
Li nodded. "Indeed. We must stay vigilant and proactive. Our future depends on it."
The two men stood in silence for a moment, the weight of their responsibilities hanging heavily in the air. The stakes were higher than ever, but they were ready to face whatever lay ahead.
As they left the meeting room, the sense of purpose and determination was palpable. China had been thrust into a new and unfamiliar world, but with leaders like Li Shangfu and Zhang Youxia at the helm, they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. The Milishial Empire had shown their hand, and now it was China's turn to rise to the occasion.
Qua-Toyne Principality, Rodenius, The Third Civilization Zone.
Above the Nonesuch Mountains, the 79th Air Wing of the Gra Valkas Empire flew in perfect formation, their engines' growl echoing through the air like the drums of war. This formidable fleet consisted of 32 Antares fighters, 16 Sirius four-engine heavy bombers, and 24 Vega twin-engine bombers. Their mission: to bomb the city of Marmaduke into submission.
Second Lieutenant Spencer Heartworm piloted one of the Antares fighters, his confidence bolstered by the Antares' capabilities. The Carsline Type-08 Antares was the pride of the Gra Valkas Empire, a sleek monoplane reminiscent of the Mitsubishi A7M Reppū. With its 2000-horsepower radial engine, the Antares could reach speeds of 660 km/h. Its armament, consisting of two 13.2 mm machine guns and two 20 mm autocannons, made it a formidable adversary in dogfights.
Despite the Antares' prowess, Spencer remained vigilant, scanning the skies for any sign of Qua-Toyne's defenses. He expected little resistance; their previous encounters had been largely unchallenged. However, the serene flight would soon be shattered by a force far beyond their comprehension.
Suddenly, from the cloud-dappled sky, three shadows dove into the formation with the precision and speed of raptors striking a flock of pigeons.
The sleek, futuristic forms of these flying wing aircraft contrasted sharply with the more conventional designs of the Gra Valkas planes. These were not ordinary aircraft; they were the Aegon-5 fighters of the Holy Milishial Empire, machines of legend and terror. Piloted by warriors thirsty for gold, glory, and the beautiful women of Qua-Toyne, these legendary aircraft were the stuff of nightmares for their enemies.
Flying at speeds exceeding 2300 km/h, the Aegon-5s danced through the sky with grace and power. Their flying wing design, coupled with advanced low-observable technologies, made them virtually impossible to track. Even the most skilled Antares pilots found themselves helpless in the face of such superior technology. Even if an enemy managed to land a hit, the aircraft's magic shield could withstand direct impacts from 88mm anti-aircraft artillery, rendering the 20mm guns of the Antares as harmless as pebbles against a fortress wall.
The Aegon-5's main armament was the Atrates 30mm cannon, firing concentrated mana balls that glowed with a blue light. These magical projectiles, resembling streams of energy from a sci-fi blaster, were unleashed at a staggering rate of 4,000 rounds per minute. Each mana ball could penetrate up to 100mm of steel, and with a fully charged battery capable of powering up to a million shots, the Aegon-5 could maintain its barrage far longer than any conventional fighter without the need to reload.
Spencer's heart pounded as he tried to process the scene unfolding around him.
"Enemy aircraft! Incoming!" he shouted into his radio, but his warning came too late.
The lead Aegon-5, piloted by Captain Arion Valerius, targeted the Sirius bombers first. With unmatched precision, Arion unleashed the Atrates 30mm cannon. Streams of glowing blue mana balls tore through the bombers' fuselages, exploding them in mid-air. The sky lit up with fireballs as one bomber after another disintegrated.
"Stay on my wing, and we will show them the might of Milishial!" Arion's voice crackled through his squadron's communication channel, filled with calm authority.
Flying beside him, Lieutenant Zara's voice crackled through the comms, tinged with bloodlust. "I've got my eyes on those bombers. I want to see them burn. And think of the rewards! Gold, castles, and the finest women Qua-Toyne has to offer."
The Sirius bombers, designed to carry heavy payloads but sluggish in maneuverability, stood no chance. Within moments, half of the bomber force had been annihilated, their remains raining down over the mountains below.
"Ha! Look at them scatter like frightened mice!" Zara exclaimed.
Spencer veered his Antares fighter, trying to get a bead on one of the elusive Aegon-5s. He fired his 20mm autocannons, the rounds zipping uselessly past the enemy fighter as it performed an impossible maneuver, twisting and turning with a grace that defied physics.
"Dammit! They're too fast!" Spencer cursed, sweat pouring down his face.
The Aegon-5s then turned their attention to the Antares fighters. Arion's aircraft swooped down on an Antares, its pilot oblivious to the impending doom. A burst from the Atrates cannon sent streams of blue mana balls into the Antares' wing, tearing it apart and sending it spiraling to the ground. One by one, the Antares fighters were picked off, their speed and agility proving futile against the superior technology and magical enhancements of the Aegon-5s.
"Ngh… Is it still not over?!" Spencer's voice was tinged with desperation as he watched more of his comrades fall from the sky in flaming wrecks.
"Lieutenant, what do we do?" a panicked voice crackled over the radio.
"Survive," Spencer replied, though he knew it was a hollow command. Survival seemed impossible. The Aegon-5s had turned the skies into a killing field, and there was no sanctuary to be found. He attempted to break away, pushing his Antares to its limits. The engine roared as he dived and weaved, but the Aegon-5s were relentless. They moved with a predatory grace, their every maneuver calculated and deadly.
"How... How could something like this happen?!" Spencer's disbelief mirrored the chaos around him. They had been the undisputed power, and yet here they were, being decimated by three seemingly invincible aircraft.
Arion zeroed in on Spencer's plane, the Aegon-5 closing the distance effortlessly. Spencer glanced back, his heart sinking as he saw the sleek, ominous silhouette of the Aegon-5 bearing down on him. He knew it was over.
From his cockpit, Commander Valerius watched the fleeing Antares. "Lock on target," he commanded, his voice cold and determined. The Aegon-5's targeting system beeped in acknowledgment, and with a slight squeeze of the trigger, Arion unleashed a burst of magic bullets. They pierced through the cloud cover, finding their mark with unerring accuracy. Spencer's plane shuddered as the bullets tore through its fuselage, and with a final, deafening explosion, it was no more.
The last thing Spencer saw was the flash of the Atrates cannon. Streams of glowing blue mana balls tore through his Antares, disintegrating it in a fiery explosion.
In less than ten minutes, the once formidable 79th Air Wing was reduced to a scattered collection of burning wreckage and falling debris. The Aegon-5s, untouched and invincible, soared through the skies in triumph. The city of Marmaduke remained unscathed, its defenders now bolstered by the presence of these legendary aircraft.
On the ground, General Sun Bruk watched the spectacle through binoculars, his heart swelling with a mix of awe and relief. "By the goddess," he whispered, "they're unstoppable. The tide of battle has turned in our favor."
Queen Melissa, standing beside him, her eyes reflecting the fire in the sky, nodded solemnly. "We owe them our lives," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "These three Aegon-5 fighters have given us a chance to reclaim our land."
As the remnants of the Gra Valkas formation fell to the earth, the skies above the Nonesuch Mountains cleared. The once dominant empire had been humbled, their might shattered by the unrivaled power of three Aegon-5 fighters. And with this victory, the hope for the Qua-Toyne Principality's survival burned brighter than ever.
News of the battle spread like wildfire. The story of three Aegon-5s decimating an entire air wing of the Gra Valkas Empire became legend, a symbol of hope for the beleaguered Qua-Toyne Principality and a warning to any who would challenge the might of the Holy Milishial Empire. The Aegon-5, a marvel of magic and machine, had proven itself as the undisputed ruler of the skies.
Captain Arion Valerius led his squadron back to base, the cheers of their fellow pilots and ground crew ringing in their ears. As they landed and disembarked, they were greeted with admiration and respect. Arion's stern demeanor softened slightly as he addressed his squadron.
"Well done, everyone. We've shown the Gra Valkas Empire that they are not invincible. Remember this day, for it is the beginning of a new chapter in this war."
Lieutenant Zara grinned widely, her earlier bloodlust now tempered by the satisfaction of a job well done. "And don't forget the rewards! I can already see the gold and castles waiting for us."
Arion nodded, his expression serious once more. "We've earned our rewards, but this is only the beginning. We must remain vigilant and ready for whatever comes next."
