Forever Future 1.7 PBEM game

[Eerion]

“This is when I learnt, how treacherous the Egyptians are and how correct was my teacher. He got beheaded by Horo, yet I knew this is how everything exactly looks like. You must exploit others to reach your goals. Exploit your citizens to ensure the safety of the country. Exploit the neighbours in any way – political, economical or even threat them to make sure your plans succeed.” Hanekawa walked around, while speaking. Ahri, sitting on the throne with her arms crossed, listened carefully. Her eyes were locked on her mother. “It does not matter how you reach your objective, achieving it stands before everything else”
“You speak about your objective. But what if they my objectives are opposed to the ones of my country?” Young girl asked.
“A rulers objectives are country objectives. Everything you do has to be for the sake of Nippon. Never even think about betraying that rule, because if your country falls, so will you. That’s why you have to be merciless when executing your plans. People are weak and you have to lead them to greatness. They will resist, until they see the fruits of your actions.”

Ahri looked at the ceiling. Why did she dream about that old discussion? She straightened up. It was unusual for her to take a nap on the throne. Back then, just sitting on it was incredible. Now it’s just like any other chair. Just more... official. She waved her hand around the head, as if trying to get rid of these memories. Empress took the deep breath. The guest was about to arrive soon. She had to welcome her appropriately.

They entered the room without any question. A woman with 2 guards. Despite the proofs of ageing, she still could be considered beautiful. Expensive dress, she was wearing, only intensified this sensation. Only one thing looked completely out of picture – the shackles on her hands.
Ahri send the guards off without any words, just by waving her hand. After they left the room, she said.
“Your uprising has failed... mother”
Hanekawa looked coldly at her daughter. Sitting on a throne casually, she was emitting a victorious aura. Still, she couldn’t feel any happiness from it. Only determination. Cold and emotionless one.
“You have won this war. But at what price? Country is demolished after all these domestic battles. The core of our nation, the religion has crumbled. People are unhappy...” Old woman spoke
“Don’t make me laugh!” Ahri intercepted her speech. “Unhappy? During this anarchy you created, for these 4 long years we have battled, west had less riots than during any of your last years of regime. Demolished country? I shall rebuild it quickly with the help of the factories you established yourself.”
Hanekawa laughter calmly. “Rebuild what?” She taunted her. “Your allies are crumbling. Before you come back to the previous capabilities of Nippon, there will be no more Rome. You are alone, you foolish girl. Even Haruhi left you, deciding she’s going to take command of the fleet. You are all alone after how you have destroyed Nippon. You cannot rebuild something that has already fallen apart.”
Empress clenched her fists. “I cannot lose myself to that bltch. Even if she’s my mother”, she thought angrily.
“A great grandmother of mine also destroyed this country” Ahri answered, accenting the word destroyed. “We all know how it ended. It shall be no different. Daimyo support me, since I stripped these pesky priests of their power. People aren’t as happy? The defences I restructurised should make up for it. Even your royal supporters in the east crumbled after your pathetic ruling led to a complete insecurity. Actually...” She stopped for a moment “I should thank the Egyptians for their piracy in the south. Thanks to that everyone could see how much of an incompetent ruler you were.”
“I had to plan for longer than you can even imagine” Hanekawa answered with cold tone. “The war was obvious, but I had to make sure we can take on enemies, who don’t reside in cities build on tundra or glacier. They have forests, hills and mountains. We needed factories at all costs, even losing few cities or having riots, since no one expected how greatly it change lifestyle of citizens.”
“It was not enough” Ahri rose from the throne. She walked towards Hanekawa “You planned, and I know you did hoping for the best. But these were a fools wishes. A plans are worth nothing if you do not have a country to rule anymore. It was just a matter of time before Nippon would fall under your rule.”
She looked closely at the eyes of her mother. They were fearless, just as she remembered them. Even after complete defeat her spirit did not waver. It made her angry. She wanted her to fall on her knees, beg, talk. But she stood there like a statue and just argued what is right and wrong. That’s no way a loser should act like this!
“I stripped these peaceful weaklings of their rights!” She referred to the overthrown priests “I am a Goddess and people do not need any fat fools to lead them!”
“Do not get too full of yourself” Hanekawa answered. “Do you really think you can lead the country completely on your own? How foolish of you.”
“I am the absolute ruler, mother! If you are not capable of ruling the country that way, why you think it is the same for me?!” She yelled angrily “I am the country and will take on any threat! I will not be as passive as you. I will take on anyone who will try to claim Japan! Egyptians, Celts, Russians, even French if they will be stupid enough to attack us!”
Hanekawa’s expression changed. She didn’t answer, yet she clearly toned down. She just looked at her daughter.
“You have nothing else to say? Finally.” Ahri said with an annoyed voice. With one swift move she pulled out a small knife from the sleeve of her ceremonial dress and with one swift move she stabbed Hanekawa. The expression of pain appeared on old empress face for a brief moment. She fell on her knees, but she kept looking at her.
“At least you have remembered this lesson.” Hanekawa said quietly. “The Nippon is now in your hands.” She grabbed the hand of Ahri both handedly, but the empress pulled the out quickly, scared. “For thousands of years, Nekomimis ruled over these lands. Do not make the mistake and be the last one, Ahri.”
“Quiet!” Young girl yelled, letting her supernatural powers loose. Wave of force threw Hanekawa at the walls as if she was a doll. She feel on the ground. Her face and clothes were getting soaked in her own blood. Ahri stood in front of her like scared animal. Her tails tousled. She stayed like this for some time, with her eyes focused on the lying body. After seeing that her mother stopped moving completely, se straightened out and let out a wild howl.
“Why the fu.ck I can’t really hate you?!” She yelled angrily “Why couldn’t you come and ask for forgiveness, you dumb woman?! Why the fu.ck you had to be a ruler to the very end?!”
“Never even think about betraying that rule, because if your country falls, so will you.” She remembered the sentence. Ahri turned around and looked at the throne. She clenched her fists, setting it on fire. “Die!” She continued yelling “And take your country with you! I shall create something that will make people forgot about everything that was before. About your puny creation! I will make Nippon stronger than ever. I will...” She fell on her knees. “...not make that mistake.”
“I will not fail” Ahri sobbed.

[Solarius Scorch]

Ships leaving the port of Zion to join the Great Armada.

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LES AFFAIRES POLITIQUES

Paris, Rue de la Roquette 71
27th Brumaire, 792

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Five months ago the royal forces reached Pompeii, a medium-sized town in the small Republic of Rome. Our readers are bound to have heard about it some time ago already, since the bombardment of said town has become the top subject of any conversation, from the high society to the lowest labourers. However, the actual reasons for the action, as well as the greater political picture surrounding them, remain the source of much speculation and sometimes slander against His Majesty. Within this article, we aim to sufficiently explain the war, investigate its roots and shed some light on the future of France.

The Romans are ancient people, whose civilization reaches back to the earliest times. Although their impact on the grand scheme of things is relatively insignificant, they enjoy a sizeable piece of arable land. Their life is quite idyllic by our standards, as the climate is mild, the fish are plentiful and their government rarely has any real influence on them. Their cheerful disposition, beauty of their women and intellectual talents of their men are confirmed by the Japanese, who come visit Rome, Pompeii and Apollonia en masse. If it weren't for the bitter war against Russian pirates and warlords, their life would be quite pleasant, if simple and modest.

However, this picture that most of us French have about the Romans, if we do have any, is crumbling apart. The humongous Japanese empire that lies to the west casts a long shadow on Rome, both in terms of political and cultural power. According to our famous traveller Alexis Tocqueville, who is in the middle of his trip around the world, roughly a quarter the Romans have already converted to haruhism, with the majority of towns mimicking their larger Japanese analogues in architecture and business practice. While their government is stable and even popular, the consul - whom Mr. Tocqueville failed to meet in person, sadly - remains a distant figure, reportedly detached from the everyday politics and pursuing his own unfathomable goals, leaving his people to the Japanese cultural invasion.

Mr. Francois Bougard, a lecturer in the Royal School of Officers and Landlords, confirms these conclusions. "The Romans are out of the picture already, and have been a long time", he says. "Between the Russian attacks - which, let us not forget, would surely caused their fall if it wasn't for the Goddess' aid - and the Japanese reign of souls they were reduced to a lesser nation that cannot exist forever. There can be no future for them, whether we subjugate them or not."

Then Mr. Bougard explains his view further: "The land of Rome is a price of contest between several major powers. It's not only the Japanese and the Russians who are interested in it. Let us not forget that Egypt's hunger for new land and riches, caused by its rapid industrial development, is unlikely to be satisfied by Persia alone, and Rome is the next logical target. We must understand that His Majesty's actions are the realisation of our national ambition and interests, but ultimately also a gift to the Roman citizens. Since Rome is already doomed to fall before one or another power, it is our duty to protect its people from becoming fanatical slaves of the Goddess or quite ordinary slaves of the Russians, or perhaps eradicated by that monster on Egyptian paycheck that calles himself The Baron."

Mr. Roland de Launay, an accomplished historian from the Sorbonne and Mr. Bougard's colleague, commented: "That's all true, but let's not lose our focus here. Our main objective is to ensure the safety of our kingdom, first and foremost. Virtually every country that matters invests heavily in colonies, which are a major source of financial, political and strategic power. We cannot limit ourselves to the frigid North if we want to participate in this race, and Rome is an excellent candidate for extending our influence to the Southern regions of the planet."

As we can see clearly now, the Pompeii operation is of tremendous importance to France on many levels: it will allow us to increase our power, to extend our presence to previously impossible distances, as well as to share our safety with the confused natives. However, that is not everything: this war already has a positive impact on the French. Despite the turmoil that has overcome the capitol, for the first time in years people are looking at their country as a whole, arguing not prices of bread or merits of this or that aristocrat, but our common future and interests. If this war is the price for rekindling our national spirit, isn't this a price worth paying? Whatever comes out of this crisis, it is bound to be for the betterment of the country and its citizens. After all, as it is said, and as His Majesty would certainly agree, a nation shouldn't be forged with words, but with blood and iron.

[Max_Smirnov]

765 AD. The Battle of Jaipur.



The campaign in India was entering its tenth year. Ten years in the saddle, always on the move, striking where the enemy was weakest, retreating, maneuvring, using all her cunning and ruthlessness. The Indian cities were falling one after another, their strongest fortresses becoming isolated and cut from supplies. Her own losses, she kept them at minimum. Not like she had any choice. Now, at the gates of Jaipur, farther to the south than she had managed to get ever before, her forces were nothing like the proud army she commanded at Delhi. Not at all. A rag-tag band of mercenaries, slavers and grim butchers. They were here only for profit, and that suited her. The lords and governors of the Empire couldn't be trusted anymore. Even the fear wasn't working. They knew well she just couldn't run the Empire without their help. The Empire, it seemed, nobody cared about anymore. Nobody but her. Honorable people like Sir Lancelot were nowhere to be found nowadays.

"That changes nothing," she said. "I will fight for Brittania even single handedly, if that's what it takes. As long as I have my sword and the power to kill those that oppose the dream I was entrusted with."

"Were you saying anything, my gorgeous Lady?" asked a female voice, eerily resembling her own.

Arturia blinked and looked at the newcomer. "Just talking to myself... Clone." She straightened herself and looked at the harbour city visible behind the rolling plain of dunes. "Are our soldiers ready?"

Her mirror image. So little people she could still trust. And even the Empress of Brittania couldn't do everything by herself. And so, Merlin appeared again and created this... person. Of sorts. Her copy. Less powerful, a mere shadow, but strangely talented at controlling the scum that passed for Arturia's army nowadays.



"The defenders are less numerous than we anticipated," said Mordred, pointing with her sword. "Just a few hundreds of pikemen. The soldiers are convinced that Jaipur's riches and slaves are worth the risk."

"It doesn't matter, as long as they fight. The grander case prevails. Commence the attack," said the Empress, mounting her horse and unsheathing the Excalibur once more.

The clone bowed, smiling. "It shall be done, my dear Lady."



Jaipur was burning. The slavers weren't that great soldiers. Sometimes, a sacrifice needs to be made to break the lines. They were unwilling to make any. After the initial retreat, the Indian pikemen fortified themselves in a stone palace and warded off any attempts at rooting them out. So far.

"Cowards!" cried Arturia. "Does your Empress have to do everything alone?!?" Her elite guards, just a dozen knights and Mordred, managed to break into the fortress, and although they were badly outnumbered, no human, it seemed, could survive facing the immortal ruler of Brittania. The bodies were piling up at her feet, and her dark sword feasted upon fresh blood. But even now, after the spirit of Indians was broken, Arturia's soldiers were unwilling to join the fray. Those not busy with plundering were just surrounding the place, looking, looking at her, as she walked down the stairs. Something finally gave in, and Arturia's face contorted with anger. She started to walk towards the crowd, sword in her hand.

"Useless. You're just useless! You thieving rats, I expect you to at least fight! I've had enough, you do not deserve to serve Brittania! You do not deserve to l..." She paused and coughed blood. Something was wrong. Something was making speech impossible. She looked down and saw a bloody tip of a blade protruding from her belly. Slowly, painfully she turned her head. Only to see her mirror image, smiling.

"Even the hardest armor has its soft spots, doesn't it?"

"Mor...dred. Why?" Arturia grimaced. There was no anger on her face anymore, just pure surprise.

"You were becoming a liability to Brittania. Everyone hates you. Everyone. This is counterproductive. It's better for the monster to die, so a new, better..."

Arturia turned forcefully, and the steel blade shattered inside her body like it was made of glass. Her hand shot up and her gauntlet grasped at her clone's throat, claws ripping flesh, blood gushing from the wound.

"No."

Her copy was, of course, unable to answer, green eyes bulging in pain and fear. Arturia clenched her fist and ripped out her throat, letting the limp, armor-clad body to tumble down the stairs. Then she stumbled. Her own blood was flowing freely. Not only that, her power was waning as well. Looks she wasn't immune to harm anymore...

"Gah," she said, spitting more blood and leaning heavily on her sword.

"She's wounded! Kill her! Kill the beast while she's weakened!" cried someone. The crowd wavered. "Thousand gold pieces for her head!" cried someone else. The soldiers started to converge, run towards the Empress, raising their weapons. "She's almost dead already!"

"I..." gasped Arturia. "I... AIN'T DEAD YET!" she screamed, and rushed to meet them, leaving a trail of her own blood in her wake.



"And lo, the rule of Empress Arturia had cometh to an end," said a hooded figure, observing the city from a distant hill. He shook his head, then produced a crystal globe out of his long robes. It was slowly filling with light. "What was given, shall be returned. And Brittania has to move forward." With those words, the old man turned around and disappeared into the twilight, like he was a mere mirage born of the fleeting desert sand.

---

A click of a hammer being cocked, a clang of chains. In the falling darkness, more strangers appeared upon the dunes. "This operation costed five hundred thousand shekels, more than any of you is going to see in your lives, so don't screw this up," groaned their fat leader, his dark complexion and a six-shooter he was holding immediately betraying his Western origins, even if his attire was that of a Celtic or Indian Slaver. "You see anyone who's not one of us, bullet to the head. Just a little more, and we're going to be filthy rich."

[Max_Smirnov]

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T H E . T H E B A N
i s s u e . 2000

april 2863 (AD 713)
Printed in Rottschild's Print Shop

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Glory to Her Immortal Majesty, Queen Cleopatra!
Long live Duke Chalis, the Theban Commissioner!
The Queen choses Theban Royal Mead!

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The Tough Stance Towards Japan Is Unlikely To Change

But is it a good business to Egypt? Many people are afraid of further angering the most industrialized country in the world. One of our reporters managed to reach Izaak Silverberg, the Chairman of the East India Company. "The Japanese policy of conquest and plunder is a threat to the interests of the Company and the economic well-being of our Kingdom as a whole," are Chairman's words. "With the emergency powers, invested in the Company by the Queen, we have put Japan under naval blockade. We estimate their trade revenues dropped by as much as one third at least. We also put any merchant who wishes to trade with the Japanese under a heavy tax. Shall the southerners continue to encroach into our spheres of influence, this policy is unlikely to change."
While some people remain doubtful about the vast amount of power the Company holds, there is no shade of doubt that it keeps delivering immense amounts of money to Luxor and the royal treasury. And how this could be a bad thing?

---

Famous Scientist Knighted!

Never before a man was knighted for achievements not related to warfare. Yet, it seems the star of Sir Niutonis shines so brightly that it was able to overcome even this limitation. After his most famous work, On Gravity explained why don't we fall off the Earth into space and why the Galileis' model of our Solar System is true and how it all works - using just Mathematics - there was no end of accolades for the brightest scientist of our times.
When asked about his comments about being knighted, the Provost of the Theban Institute said: "It's about damned time. Now get off my face, I have no time for this".
Spirited as ever, and undoutedly busy with unlocking some new secrets of nature!

---

Exclusive Interview With Arturia! Only In The Theban!

After many years of tries, we were finally able to pull enough strings for our reporter to reach Arturia; with the recent sharing of the techniques of building factories with the Celts, it was possible to add one more little condition to the trade. We even managed to get the elusive Empress to pose for a sketch, which is presented below thanks to our unmatched printing techniques!

Empress Arturia (EA): "So what is the purpose of this questioning."

The Theban (TT): "Your fame is beyond measure, oh Empress, yet so little is known about you as a person. You never divulge your opinions or views. People want to understand you better."

EA: "There is nothing to understand. My only concern and objective is the well-being of Brittania."

TT: "Your achievements in that area are beyond measure. Yet, it is widely known that some of your own men question your methods, even amongst the highest circles of power."

EA: "I'm only doing what needs to be done. Any treachery will be dealt with extreme prejudice. If people fail to understand the reasons behind my actions, they will understand the language of violence."

TT: "Isn't this a somewhat extreme point of view?"

EA: "It's the only logical point of view. My duty is to uphold the Empire, and its good trumps the good of any single person. I have heard such questions many times before. Why is it so damned hard to understand!"

TT: "...Fair enough. Your ruthlesness is widely known. Yet, people want to know about your personal life."

EA: "My what?"

TT: "Personal life. Your hobbies, likes and dislikes, friends, things like that."

EA: "I have no time for trivialties such as those."

TT: "It's hard to believe! Those are traits of any person."

EA: "I'm not a person. I'm an Empress."

TT: "Isn't it a bit too huge burden to bear? No human can live like this. I'm sure you have some human side to you, like..."

EA: "I will bear it, rest assured. This is the path I have chosen long ago. Frankly, I'm growing tired of this conversation. It is only for the sake of Britannia's alliance with Egypt I have agreed to it, but I'm just loosing time here. This is frankly insulting to be tricked into such an useless talk."

TT: "Yet, you're an owner of the most fabulous arena and kitchen in the world... And the most fabulous harem, too..."

EA: "Purely representative functions! This conversation is over! Begone! Go question someone on your level, that pedophile Haruhi maybe!..."

Our reporter managed to escape with his head, but it seems securing the next opportunity to interview the Empress may be hard. But we here at the Theban won't stop trying to deliver you the most fresh and exclusive content!

[Eerion]

Here comes the big report (turn 165)!


Ahri, daughter of Hanekawa displaying her powers of a Goddess.


“Date Hidemune
The Persian war report

As it was ordered we have moved the forces of Asaak even before the fall of Persis. As anticipated the enemy choose it as a second target, considering the Ectabana a heavily defended fortress even before it was actually true. Due to the miscalculation of evacuation plans the enemy managed to lay hands on our plans on ours factory concepts. On top of that, instead of destroying the city in the same way as they did with Persis, a stronghold is being build on a penisula leading to Asaak. Based on its military and economical capabilities it is most likely a taunt toward our forces or they plan on maintaining a force there to hinder our further conquest plans. Whichever it is it does not change the fact that Ectabana is and have to be heavily fortified in the future.
Persepolis defences also increase rapidly, as they face not only the threat of Egyptian invasion, but Indian as well. The skirmishes have already begun in order to claim the control over the river. Another huge war may outbreak there soon and we must be prepared for it.
The situation looks grim, but steady. We will withstand their invasion, yet for a returning strike the reinforcements from mainland are more than needed.
All hail Nekomimi! All hail Nippon!

Latest informations – the huge naval army is sailing toward the shores of Nippon. We do not posess any information is there any army aboard, yet the highest possible risk should be considered and countermeasures taken.”

“They... are laughing in our faces!” Ahri crushed the report in her hand. The paper caught fire immediately, yet her hand was perfectly fine as if nothing happened. “These pathetic fools are getting too full of themselves!”
“It is only a matter of time. It was a long period of preparations, but it is almost complete” Haruhi responded calmly.
“Too late! Everything is happening too late! What if these northern scumbags are going to land here? If their forces are big enough we may lose a city or two in the process. That’s not even a slap in the face of our country! It’s far worse!” Young girl stopped to catch a breath. “And it’s only because my mother was taking everything too easy!”
“Hanekawa reformed the military, what strengthened our defences greatly, but it happened before you were ever born. And there was no navy required, as we couldn’t support it properly. Our mines were still under construction and without factories we couldn’t do much. But now...”
“Now we are going to lose a lot before returning the strike. Our oil support crumbled the very moment the informations about Egyptian fleet entering the Sea of Japan arrived on continent. Was this also planned by my mother? To make sure our people live in constant fear of the enemy?” Ahri answered angrily, as her gesticulation became wilder and wilder.
“An unarmed strike is worth nothing. I’m...” Suzumiya stopped for a moment trying to find a proper word “glad you think about your people and can criticise even your mother now, but... you still have much to learn”.
“How to bend so the enemy can fu.ck my royal ass? That’s what I have to learn?”
“Do not get too full of yourself kid.” The face of a Haruhi showed the sign of annoyance. “Do not forget that I am the one who created you. You’re a thousand years too young to oppose me”
“Then kill me. But my words are true and you know things could get solved better. It’s because she... played her little game it ended up like this.”
Haruhi burst out in laughter. “We all are playing our little games, even you. But if you have a better idea, tell me what we should do. What Nippon should do.”
“Some of the garrisons are obsolete. We have muskets, pikemen and some cannons yet you still can find phalanx and archers as a part of city defences. It has to be changed! But before that... fleet. We must create a fleet that will eradicate the enemy forces. On the sea and in Persia. They have to be afraid of entering our waters.”
“Do you know how much work is it going to take?”
“Send people to our factories. Even all of them if needed. We have built them for that reason, haven’t we? We do not have time anymore. A sacrifices are bound to happen for the sake of our defences.”
“Oh. I like that one. I wonder if your mother will appreciate it too.”
“As if I care. Enemy are at our very gates while she went to kill enemy leader personally and then visit the eastern parts of the country. Perfect timing!”
“The leader of Persians could not be killed by a mere man. A God’s creation is needed to kill another God’s creation.”
“He could escape. No one would care, as he has no force to reclaim his cities. Egyptians are much bigger issue than that.”
“So be it. Your orders will be sent to every city tomorrow morning. From now on every capable city is bound to produce the fleet to defend our waters and help reclaim the Persia.” Haruhi summarised everything. “But there are more things that should be taken care of. Look at this one”

The sketch regarding Japanese factory - the first one in the world!

“Iga Motoharu
The leader of the Russian Infiltration Division

Enemy develops rapidly. Their grounds are swarmed with better and better equipped soldiers. We do not have enough information if they are preparing for invasion or it is a response to the constantly increasing power of other northern countries. Whichever it is, everything happens in the northern part of the country. The south is rather peaceful what is definitely a good sign for our Italian allies. Still we have to be wary, as apparently whole north (world, not Russia) is undergoing the militarisation and being left behind may pose a great threat to our country.

All hail Nekomimi!
All hail Nippon!”

The member of the Russian Infiltration Division

“So my plans shall take care of this issue too. Heavily armed we shall remain safe and be able to continue with the conquest plans. Simple as that” Nekomimi stated proudly.
“But there is one thing you need to pay attention too. Iga claimed their forces are well equipped. Our recent leaks mentioned that Napoleons scientists revamped the concept of muskets. Their new creation, called rifle, is way more deadly. Egypt shall claim such weapon in a short time. On the other hand recent events greatly reduced our income. And your shipbuilding orders will lower our scientific output even more. Soon our whole army shall become obsolete including the great fleet you wish to create. Is this what you want?” As Haruhi was speaking, the face of Ahri was looked more and more troubled. She started to walk around, moving her fluffy tails in random directions. The goddess noticed it always happened when the youngster considered few options at time. Apparently she was good at thinking about several things at once.
“Then we shall use the concept the Date created. It should make up for less tradesman.”
“Can you deal with the outcome of this change? People are bound to rebel. For hundreds of years they were ruled by a Goddesses. And now... what? How do you wish to explain it?”
“I am a Goddess too. Nothing changes here. The whole country needs to be reorganised and it’s true some shall oppose, but that shouldn’t be an issue. We enforce this on people today and tomorrow it will be natural for them.”
Haruhi rose her brew. This was an obvious simplification, yet undoubtly it could be done that way.
“And when do you want to reform the country?” She asked.
“When the time is right. It should happen pretty soon, but I cannot tell you exactly.”
“Hmm... so you’re not thinking only straightforward, do you?”
“Do not underestimate me” Ahri grinned.
“And what if your mother opposes this idea?”
“She shouldn’t. It is easy to notice we need these changes sooner or later. However if somehow she shall complain... I will have to put an end to her time as a ruler.”
“Do you think you can do that? She is the embodiment of Nippon.”
“And so am I. I am the Japan. Do not even try to question that!” Young girl yelled. They looked into each other eyes for some time, but after half a minute or so, Haruhi averted her gaze.
“You are the ruler here. Few years ago you were a heir by the name. Now you become a ruler through your actions. I only hope Hanekawa won’t oppose. I do not wish her harm.”
“Neither do I. She is my mother after all. Even if she tends to be foolish at times.”
“Hane. I am not sure how, but looks that we have overextended a little bit here.” Suzumiya thought to herself. She looked at another report. “What do you think about this one?” she asked.

Hattori Hanzo
The head of Information Gathering department

Young lady. I am writing this report as the Empress ordered me to. Usually everything was going directly to the ears of the empress, but in past few years it became too much for the head of a ruler. Because of that decision, more and more informations are processed by us and only the most important, like the one from the Iga clan earlier, are given directly to you. The rest is being collected by us, and it is my responsibility to provide you with a summary. I promise with my head that no important data is being left behind in this process.
Overall I shall start with the north. French empire is now a fact. Apparently they were thinking about the same concept Date Masamune did, but they implemented it as soon as possible. As of now they are more than ready to challenge any empire on any possible field. Be it science, production capabilities or income. I suppose the time of their neutrality is slowly coming to an end. And I pray that they shall not become an enemies of us, as it would put us at the gravely disadvantage.
Egyptians on the other hand stick to the concept of the ruling queen. There was an attempt of overthrowing her by her younger sister, but apparently it failed miserably. Thanks to their new institute in Thebes they are still the greatest scientific nation in the world and their deeds in Persia and Sea of Japan proves that on the other fields they do not lack much.
The Celts are eating from the hand of Cleopatra. Our actions in Persia made their allies very generous, what few hundreds years ago, when their alliance formed was unimaginable. Thanks to that the conquest of India is speeding up. The army of Gandhi slowly starts to crumble and it is only a matter of time before our neighbour cease to exist and a new extremely powerful nation wage a war on us. Of course they may bite the hand that feeds then at one point, however, for now it is highly unlikely and we should consider them rather hostile. Hopefully the future can bring some change.
Rome is undergoing a great militarisation. Our diplomats are unsure whether the threat of the north is slowly become greater or they finally decided to reclaim the captured cities. Whichever it is, we should act carefully. Their help is one of our priorities, but so is maintaining peace with Russia. At least for now.
Remains of Persia are defending pathetically. It is only thanks to the Egyptians that this weak nation still exists. However, without any leader or mass recruitment possibilities they are bound to fall sooner or later.
Russians and Indians were mentioned before, therefore I have nothing more to add.
If any important news reach my ears I shall process them to you Immediately.
Faithful servant of Nippon.”

Hattori Hanzo. A legendary ninja in the service of the Empress.

“This is a clever one. He wrote he serves Nippon. Not me or my mother.” Ahri noticed.
“Hanzo is one of the best in the world. Of course he does not want stupid mistakes. But what do you think about it?”
“As he said... nothing very important for us. Except the Celts, however, we are in no position, diplomatically or any other way, to interfere with their actions, especially between them and Egypt.”
“And what about India?” Haruhi kept on questioning the heir.
“They simply conquer the weaker ones. We are doing the same. I have no rights to complain here. Also their objectives are perfectly clear. The question is shall they try to claim the peak with their own strength or serving as a faithful dog of Cleopatra?”
“It is unknown and for now, unimportant.”
“True. There is so much to do. Egyptians in sea of Japan, Egyptians in Persia, Egyptians in far eastern colonies. They’re everywhere. Time to make sure they learn their lesson how trespassing ends.”
Haruhi looked at Ahri. “Two years can make one hell of a difference” she thought. “Especially with the way we educated her. She shall become the devil of the south. Hopefully only for our enemies.”

[Max_Smirnov]

Cleopatra couldn't sleep. It was almost funny. As an immortal, she used to sleep for decades, even centuries at a time. That was the tradeoff for such a long existence. It was also a matter of Power. The less energy, the less she could remain awake. She had known of Prince's death the instant it happened; just like every other immortal ruler, she absorbed a part of his power. It was like a narcotic. And her own country was growing in power too, adding to her energy as well. The last millenium seemed longer than the six before it combined.

She looked out the window of her palace and shivered despite the warm night. Her existence was tied to this world, for good or bad. And even if nobody kills her directly, she couldn't outlast her country or this world. Most of the time had already passed; just over two millenia remained till the absolute deadline. If the world survives that long. She created a perfect kingdom, with its castles, knights and plate armor, that lasted for twenty eight centuries. But that long sunny summer was nearing its end. Even if her kingdom lasted, Napoleon already entered a new age, and the seemingly-eternal Celtic Empire was running out of time as well. The world was changing, changing at an increased pace. The industrial revolution was exploding all around, and the Theban scientists were starting to unlock the secrets of physics. Even if she gave up this race, the others wouldn't. So it was either this route of the fall of Egypt. Too bad she was vaguely aware where this race was leading, and for the first time in over seven millenia, she felt genuinely scared. Cannons made her uneasy, but they were just the very beginning. The Japanese weren't going to stop, and Napoleon, he had already found a scientist who envisioned the next generation of warfare, above and beyond anything Leonardo could have invented. Speaking of which...

"You may come out. I was aware of your presence all the time."

A shift in the shadows, a faint gleam of a dagger.

"You don't really want to kill me," she said with more force, focusing her Power. The air shimmered slightly as the Snakes of the Nile became almost visible for a split-second. Every ruler had their own magic; Prince's was that of hope, deception and time-control. Hers was much more subtle. She simply made everyone around her think more like her. And how could you raise a blade against a person whom you truly understand?

The dagger clattered upon the marble floor. Not a grizzled professional, obviously. A suicide trooper. More easily controlled. It worked both ways though.

"Remove your mask," she adressed the small, lean figure, dressed in black. The assassin did so, revealing short, blonde hair and a delicate face. It was just a girl, sixteen, maybe seventeen years old. "And let's have a talk. Why don't you pour us some wine. Please."

The girl hesistated, but finally listened. What else was there to do?

After a few minutes, they sat by the table, the girl silent and dark, the queen thoughtful and not paying any heed to her nakedness.

"I'm sure Azuria knew you couldn't have succeeded. But it was the next logical step, after I ignored her deeds. She killed Leonardo, she killed many of my important servants, and yet, I haven't reacted. I guess she's getting desperate. Just like Hanekawa... Sharing the secret of enlightened governance with Gandhi, just to spite me, for no gain whatsoever. Does she even realize who he is? That he had conquered thousands of worlds? That he lived for millions of years? I guess not..."

"For him, this is just a game. Because, in a way, this is a game. The biggest there is. Eight immortal rulers. Ten thousands years. Only one winner. What is the prize, I don't know. I guess I have forgotten or stopped to care thousands of years ago. All that matters to me, is Egypt, and our vision of the world. My vision of how it should look like..."

The girl kept silent; what there was to say?

"Eight rulers, now seven. One had just died. The first of us. The Prince of Persia. But... It's too big of a game not to bend the rules. Everyone is doing that. I have relinquished five per cent of my power towards Azuria. She was so weak it took six millenia for her to even wake up for the first time. Napoleon and the Prince invested in women to keep them company. I can understand why; you cannot possibly realize the loneliness I feel. Merlin went even further, becoming an invisible wizard and summoning powerful immortal servants, like Arturia, who currently holds at least half of his power. Gandhi and Stalin are playing it straight, more or less. I can even feel the presence of the unnamed shadow over Rome, he hadn't revealed himself, he keeps his country under a shroud of secrecy, but he is definitely there."

"The problem is, I can't put a finger on the Japanese. There is only Haruhi, and she had appeared very recently. What's more, her power is far too weak, on a level of a strong servant. Nowhere close to what should be expected of such a powerful player. Are they genuine? I mean... Are they genuine idigenous people of this world? With no will to steer them?"

Cleopatra stood up at walked over to the map. The assassin's eyes were following her perfect form.

"I have thought of it a while ago. See, this is the Southern Kingdom. It used to be a huge gap. So much perfect land with no immortal ruler there. Such thing couldn't be. And finally, I have found an immortal living there. His people are calling themselves Jamaicans and are living in the gentle lands between Akhim, El-Amarna, Sakha and Armant. They're primitive tribals. His power levels are minuscle, but if he decided not to take place in this great race... Just to live and let live, never built a civilization, never choose the path to power and destruction... Yes. That could account for the eight ruler. What about the Japanese then?"

"But it doesn't really matter, does it. It won't change the dark fate that awaits us all. But the summer didn't end yet. Come here."

---

A few years later.



The children are always the first ones to adapt.
It had been mere weeks since Asaak was seized by the Egyptians, and the coastal town was still gloomy and silent. Yet, a dark haired Persian boy, eight or nine years old, was building a sand castle just beside the wall of the governor's palace, not caring about the traces of blood still reminding of the fate that met Japanese clerks and magistrates that used to rule here.

"Hey, it ain't half bad. You build the walls low and thick to withstand cannons."

The Persian kid raised his head to see another boy, around his age, blonde and strikingly beautiful. He was grinning and holding hands on his hips.

"Get lost. I haven't given you permission to play with me."

"I don't need one. I'm your rightful ruler. I could have you beheaded if I only said one word!"

The Persian boy snorted. "Fat lie. The Prince is dead, besides, I listen only to myself."

"The Prince was my uncle. I'm Feyd Heliconnen, son of the almighty Baron Heliconnen and Prince's sister," boasted the blonde.

"So you are... So what," shrugged the Persian, not seeming afraid in the slightest. "You still need my permission to play with me."

The young Heliconnen laughed, then approached the sand castle and placed a sizeable gem on top of it. "How about that?"

"That's better."

"See, I can also show you how my dad would build these walls. I have seen it in his papers."

"All right, show me."

Feyd smiled; he managed to impress that unruly and curious boy. And he loved to impress people. Too bad most of them were too easily impressed, taking away the fun.

---

The sun was already setting when the two boys were sitting on the beach. They keep eachother's company for the whole day.

"So, who are your parents?"

"Dead. Your father's cannons killed them. When I grow up, I will kill him."

Feyd laughed. "I'd like see you try. Well, you would probably have a chance if you passed his guards. He's old and fat. Heh, you Persians are quite spirited people."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. You're just like my mom. After the Japanese killed her brother, she swore vengeance to them. She had led my father to Prince's secret fortress. He took all his treasures, documents, maps, everything. And this ring. I'm the heir of Persia now."

"Cool. Is that true that she's no longer immortal? That's why she hides from the public?"

"Yeah. Apparently when the Prince died, his magic is gone as well. She's an old woman now."

"I don't care about magic."

"Hehehe, me neither. Hey, I want you to become my servant."

"I'm no-one's servant."

"It's a trade. You want to kill my father, right? If you become my servant, you may have a chance. Without it, without your parents, you will surely perish and never carry out your revenge," grinned Feyd.

"I'll think about it."

"Do you have a name?"

"My name no longer matters. But I was also called The Son of a Blind Man. Since my father was blind. He mouthed off to some Japanese scum and was blinded."

"That's too long. From now on, you shall be known as Blindson."

"Fair enough."



A painting depicting whom the Blindson eventually became

[Solarius Scorch]

CODE CIVIL DES FRANÇAIS
DECLARATION OF RIGHTS AND DUTIES

To be known to all free citizens in the Kingdom.

We, Napoleon Bonaparte, King of France, Protector of Froide-Savoie, Lord of the Frozen Sea, Immortal Ruler of the Alps, et caetera, et caetera,
faced with this time of struggle and dissent,
as well as the confusing and inconsistent code of laws that the citizens live by,
in recognition of the fact that the Kingdom is like a body and not a Hydra, thus needing only one Head and one Heart,
introduce a thorough reform of the Kingdom:

1. All persons, things, actions and procedures in the Kingdom of France will be governed by law, not custom. Only published laws will have any real power, and no law shall be kept in secret from the citizens. Ex post facto laws are also prohibited.
2. All administration shall be taken care of by the French Royal Bureaucracy. All other administration systems, including those of Our vassals, will be incorporated into this French Royal Bureaucracy or they will perish.
3. All military forces will be commanded directly by the King, and all military commanders will be appointed by the King. Our vassals will be allowed to keep honour guard, but local law enforcement will be conducted by the Gendarmerie.
4. We will resume the position of the King whose words is absolute and irrevocable, to ensure the well-being of France and therefore all citizens.
5. Our Vassals shall form a Parliament, whose task will be to create specific laws and to pass all relevant information to the King. All members of the Parliament shall be protected by royal immunity, so that they wouldn't fear repercussions for what they say.
6. Any dissent, protest or ignorance towards these just laws will be rooted out and punished with utmost diligence, to protect the Kingdom and pave the way to a brighter future for everyone.

signed,
Napoleon I Bonaparte
Le Roi Soleil

in the French Year 7621

[Eerion]

The forces were moving quickly. After the fall of Ashur, the Assault Corps marched north to continue the conquest. Ten thousands of templars supported by eight thousands of musketeers. The monstrous power was adcancing towards Susa burning everything on its way. The line made of scorched earth was almost perfectly straight as no Persian army was able to stand against them.
Until the messenger has arrived.


Shimazu Yoshihiro, the leader of Assault Corps.

“I’m glad my orders have reached you in time Yoshihiro” Hanekawa said.
The commander of Assault Corps, Shimazu Yoshihiro kneeled before her. Her visit, kept in complete secrecy was the last thing he would have guessed. Still, she was standing before him. Wearing a perfectly fit leather armor with a breastplate on top. Two handguns were attached to the both sides of her belt and there was a sheathed katana on her back. She looked like a heavy armored scout rather than a powerful warrior. Still no one dare to question her choice of clothing or how safe it was.
“No force could stop the words of a Goddess” the commander responded. “I do not know the circumstances, however, I prepared the army as you asked me to. For last several days we were dispatching scouts all day long to ensure the Persians will not track us, at least not so easy.”
“You did a good job. I’m sure your men did your best, but on the way here we spotted a garrison marching to reinforce their defences. I don’t know if you let someone notice you or some wise commander figured it out, but enemy forces are moving alongside the river just few hours from here.”
“How many of them?” The general was clearly dissatisfied by this information.
“Several thousands of slingers. At least it looked like so. We had no time to check it out properly” Empress pointed at the map of the area “I’m going to split your army. From now on you’re in charge of musketeers and the supplies. Maintain the current course, as I’m going to intercept and slaughter these barbarians. We shall meet afterwards and plan the assault on the city.”
“My lady.” Shimazu wanted to confirm what he had read beforehand. He had to confirm something with his own ears. “The walls of Persepolis are high and sturdy. Even though they made a mistake and moved some of their forces to reinforce Susa in anticipation of our attack, they have still more than enough to hold us before their main forces arrive. Forgive me my insolence but how do you wish to breach their fortifications?”
“You care about your soldiers, don’t you? I shall forgive you questioning me... this time.” Empress answered coldly. The general kneeled down and bowed, asking for a forgiveness. “I have some spies within the city walls. They will open the gates for us and join us in the slaughter, when we will strike at night.”
“Yes my lady” Yoshihiro answered.
“Prepare everything to meet me in a few days. Tell your soldiers to be ready for battle, as there won’t be time for preparations”


The painting of Yazdi.

“My prince! You have to wake up!” The delicate girly voice snapped him out from his dreams.
“What is it, Yazdi?” The prince sat up on a bed rubbing his eyes. Two concubines in his bed also woke up. He looked at them and sent them off with a simple hand gesture, as he knew such situation doesn’t happen unless it’s an emergency. The messenger waited until they left the room and said.
“The enemy has breached the walls. We were betrayed by our own men. They allowed enemy army to enter the city!” The girl voice was constantly rising. She looked terribly worried, surprised by the whole situation, as she wore nothing but a see through night gown. Being his first concubine, she was an outstanding beauty in every possible aspect. The nervousness, seen easily on her face, only made her look even more charming.
Prince stood up and started putting on his clothing. As a careful man he always kept up his armor and weapons nearby. “What’s the situation right now?” He asked while arming up.
“Our men somehow managed to stop the march of their templars, however, it all fell apart when their musketeers showed up. They are moving slowly shooting down everyone be it a civilian or armed soldier. Covering each other backs they are invincible for our partisan units. They move slowly, but steadily. It’s just the matter of time before they reach the palace my prince!”
Prince, fully armored, appeared at the doors. He was wearing a fine leather armor incrusted with valuable gems from the Himalayan range. The top notch of Persian military capabilities, suited for fighting in the desert and not rusting like the plate armors other countries were using. He had a sword and his legendary dagger attached to his belt.
“So we have to warm them properly it seems. We have some bows at the armory. We might be able to hold them off at the inner walls before reinforcements from Susa or Egypt show up. Hopefully my messenger did well in Persis.”
Yazdi looked at him with fear in his eyes and responded gloomy.
“One of the gates leading to the palace was sabotaged.” Seeing as the prince stopped for a moment “There were few concubines and soldiers within the palace that worked for Nippon. They opened the gates and destroyed the mechanism. It cannot be fixed in short time.”
The ruler of Persia put a hand on his mouth and sighed.
“What happened to them?” He asked, following his concubine with his eyes, as she passed him by and entered his personal armory.
“They were executed on the spot, but it was too late. The palace bound to fall my lord. You have to escape. Run to Susa using the escape tunnel your great grandfather created after the fall of Persegarde.”
“And abandon all my family ever created?” He responded in rage “Abandon the hundred thousands of Persians who live in this city?”
“They are doomed already my lord.” the First Concubine showed up, carrying a longsword on her back. “But you still can live. You are the embodiment and spirit of Persia. Persepolis may fall, yet if you are alive there still is hope. Egyptians may reclaim the city for us if we pay enough. Or...”
Prince put a finger on her mouth, preventing her from continuing her speech.
“It’s ok” he whispered to her ear. “I will fulfill your wish. But I’m not going alone.”
“I shall follow you everywhere” She said while embracing him.

They were inside of a smelly tunnel looking like a sewage drain. Wide enough for two people to pass each other with ease it runned under whole metropolis up to the fields north from the capitol. unused for long time it was completely covered by moss. The fire of a torch allowed them to see few meters ahead, as the everything was complete dark.
“We shall be around the city walls by now” Yazdi broke the silence. They were walking as quickly as the slippery ground allowed them. They closed the entrance to the passage, yet the ominous feeling was forcing them to hurry up.
A loud sigh stopped them in their tracks.
“It took you longer than I anticipated. You’re not in a hurry, even though your country is burning, are you, dear prince?” A mysterious female voice spoke calmly. They’ve heard the sound of the steps and moment later they noticed a beautiful woman with a cat ears. She was pointing a gun at them, while holding the other one in her hand.
“Hanekawa...” Prince said while gritting his teeth. “Who else could pull of such impudent and shameless plan if not you” he said, while grabbing his dagger. “You conquered half of my country and now you’re here to finish me off personally?”
Empress nodded with a gentle smile.
“I have a bad news for you” he pressed the tip of his dagger. A dry wind blew from within the weapon stopping time for everything and everyone but its owner. Both girls, fire from the torch, everything stopped moving. “It is your end not mine” he said whilst taking a step ahead.
“Is it?” Nekomimi suddenly grinned while pulling the trigger.
Eyes of the prince opened widely, as the bullet pierced his right arm. He fell to his knee dropping the dagger. Shocked and wounded he spoke more to himself than his enemy. “How?”
“Haruhi, a Goddess prepared a medallion for me. It nullify all the magic your artifact is capable of.”
“How... did you know about it... and the passage?” He looked at her with pain and hatred in his eyes.
“You are strong, but naive. Plenty of your servants were also my servants. They were telling me about everything you did. Your dagger is a well known mythical item. You showed it to thousands of your soldiers during the war with India. It was just a matter of time before my scholars told me everything I had to know... and prepare for facing it.” Hanekawa spoke, while looking at the slowly evaporating sand inside the hilt. “And the tunnel... It was known to only few people, but unfortunately one of them served me.”
“Who... betrayed me?” His face displayed terror. He looked at Yazdi, but she didn’t move as if set in stone. The magic of the dagger of time worked on her flawlessly.
“I won’t tell you but it wasn’t her. At least your ***** was loyal to you.”
“Don’t... insult her.” The immense pain was slowly getting over him. Remains of gunpowder were inflaming his wound.
“I’d love to chit chat more with you, but the sand of your precious weapon is running out.” She pointed the second gun at his head. “Farewell, Prince of Persia. Your country dies together with you tonight.”
“Cur...” The bullet smashed his skull splashing the blood around.
Hanekawa threw away the guns, pulling out the katana. “My medallion also protects me from that” she said, while cutting off the head of the first concubine with one swift move.
Even though she could see the line at her neck, the head did not fall off.
“Creepy” Empress commented, as she turned away and approached the dagger. The last grains of sand within the hilt were already evaporating. “I don’t think this weapon could accept any of my people” She stepped on it, crushing the glass handle. The body behind her fell to the ground. She looked at the dead ruler.
“I wanted to let you die bravely. On the battlefield like the great leader should. Your fate was sealed from the very beginning and this pathetic alliance only quickened your demise. It’s a sad fate, dear prince. But don’t worry. Those who took away your chance to die a warrior’s death shall pay. It’s just a matter of time... the one you don’t control anymore.”

The legendary dagger of time

[Eerion]

Three girls were sitting in the room and looking at the map of Persia.
“It looks pretty bad” Ahri said with a grim look on her face. She was growing fast, and it wasn’t long before Hanekawa decided to end her childhood.
“You think so?” Hanekawa said “Persis have fallen, we have lost Date, but... this is all. Ectabana is still standing and with their defences they should be able to hold off enemies. If I recall correctly, the leader of the defences is the son of One Eyed Dragon, isn’t it?”
“That’s correct. Date Masamune left his son Hidemune in charge of securing the city before leaving for Persis campaign.”
“We have to help him! Ectabana may not survive on their own!” Young girl insisted
“The chance that their navy will intercept our reinforcements is just too big” Haruhi answered calmly “We do not wish to repeat the past”
“Are we abandoning them?”
“No, we are not” Hanekawa said quickly. But before we send our reinforcements we have to ensure our work will not be in vain.” She stopped for a moment “Haruhi. What about the goverment concept we shared with Russians and Indians while ago?”
“They accepted our gift, however, both countries are still reluctant to put it into action. They may think it’s a sabotage try of some kind. I don’t know. Well it was worth trying.” Suzumiya responded
“Cleopatra feels so mighty, so she acts cocky. Even thought it wasn’t of great use, friends should be generous from time to time. That’s also a lesson this bltch has to learn.”
“But what about our homeland? What shall Nippon do?” Ahri was slightly shaking. Still young and inexperienced, she was concerned about any possible danger.
“Nippon shall show them what we are capable of.” Haruhi said, looking at the Empress. “You have a plan already, don’t you?”
“Indeed. I will explain everything to you tomorrow. Both of you are going to be responsible for that.”
“We?” Both girls answered completely surprised. “What about you?”
“I may be off for some time. There are few people... I need to talk with.” Empress looked at the map.
“One person in particular” she added. “I shall start with the Dragon of Echigo. Call him to me.”

The Dragon of Echigo. Uesugi Kenshin.

[Max_Smirnov]

546 AD: The Battle of Persis



It was the largest armada ever assembled. Large enough to carry thirty thousand ground troops and hundreds of cannons halfway across the globe. It took them half a year to sail from Memphis to the western shores of Persia. They had to make two stops, first at El-Amarna, then at Sakha, to restock the food supplies. Still, the fleet somehow managed to make the whole trip without being noticed; in part due to the fact that Cleopatra didn't involve any of Egyptian knighthood, the operation being carried out entirelly by her own ships and mercenaries. In part, it was a matter of neccessity. The nobles wouldn't really like to participate in an open war with Nippon, too little reward for the risk involved.

Now, the plan was nearing its fruition. The ground troops have disembarked a few days ago, forming a dozen-mile wide half-circle around the ancient city of Persis, surrounding it while still leaving one avenue of escape should the enemy choose to do so. The fleet itself assembled once again, still unnoticed, massive shapes of Ships of the Line, covered by the night, slowly approaching the barely lit harbour. The silence was absolute. Persis fell to the Japanese assault just a few days ago; the surviving population was still shocked, and the docks, normally bustling with fishermen, seemed abandoned.

"What a stroke of luck, isn't it, Baron?" asked Commodore Pyrris, the captain of the Egyptian flagship, HMS Hydra. Even though the crew was at full battle readiness, the moonlit deck was mostly empty, sailors moving about in silence, like ghosts. In contrast, the huge man standing next to the captain was more than substantial, clad in ostentatiously rich robes and weighing almost three hundred pounds, composed mostly, it seemed, of fat and gold. There was something revolting about this man, and Pyrris preferred to look directly at him as little as possible. He watched the silent city instead. "The reports said Persis was defended by a huge garrison. They probably did half of the work for us, the Japanese didn't have the time to recover. It amazes me they took the city at all."

"One man's luck is another's undoing," answered Baron Heliconnen, the commander of the whole operation, his charismatic voice in stark contrast to his repulsive visage. He seemed to be in an unusually jolly mood. "An unassuming baron with just a few villages to his name is going to bring down the mighty conqueror, Date Masamune. Just because of some bad luck. Or good luck. Look very, very closely at that port, Captain. Tell me, what do you see?"

Pyrris flung a spyglass to his eye.

"It seems the Japanese finally noticed us. Torches, axemen, they're scrambling troops to the pier, to deny landing... They probably still have no idea what they're facing."

The Baron chuckled. "What else?"

"Strange, some expensive looking boat... Japanese banner, but it's not a war banner... Hmm, a diplomatic ship? Here?"

"O ho ho, one more man with awfully bad luck. What else? Can you see... the immortality?"

"The immortality?"

"The only kind of immortality available to men like us. Let us begin, Captain. Great and horrible deeds are awaiting to be done."

---

"What are they? Reinforcements from Japan?" Genda Shirou, the newly appointed head of the diplomatic corps, was rubbing his eyes. Truly, his country was amazing. Returning from two years long trip to Russia, where his former superior took a permanent residence, the young diplomat was amazed to see Japanese flag over Persis, and then immensely honored with the opportunity to meet the legendary Date Masamune eye to eye. Immediately after the meeting, though, Genda was sent back to his ship; Masamune couldn't guarantee his safety or proper residence in the still troubled city. Genda felt immensely humbled that the old general would go to such lengths to care about a mere diplomat.

"Unlikely, Sir..." his bodyguard seemed uneasy for some reason. His hand was already on the hilt of his katana. "You'd better head back under the deck..."

"Nonsense. Who else could just sail into a Japanese harbour like that? These ships look too big to be Persian, either. In fact, far too big... And far too many... Do we even have that many ships of the line?"

"Sir! The design... iron plated bows! Leonardo's secret technology! These are Egyptian ships!"

"What?! You must be..."

"Here they come...!" shouted the bodyguard, moving to forcefully pull Gendo off the deck, before everything was drowned in the noise of hundreds of guns and muskets being fired. They never stood any chance. Gendo's small ship took the first broadside fired by HMS Hydra and was reduced to burning splinters.



The Egyptian fleet continued the barrage long after the Japanese have retreated, leaving bodies and burning houses behind. The main army arrived the next day, ten thousands of elite cavalry and four hundred heavy cannons. Their barrels stayed cold; there was no Japanese soldier left in the city.

Having a force far outnumbering the former Japanese garrison, and containing thousands of plate-armored halberdiers, Heliconnen had little trouble in completely subjugating the surviving Persians. The indescriminate destruction his cannons have brought upon the city made the recent Japanese assault seem almost pale in comparison. The Baron took a residence in the most representative, if not easily defensible palace, completely trusting his overwhelming manpower.

The messenger reached him when he was in the middle of dinner, gorging himself on the best wine and meat that could be looted from the city.

"...And so, the Japanese force was completely annihilated. Date Masamune is confirmed killed. It took twelve halberdiers to take him down."

"How many dead?" perked up the Baron.

"Thankfully, just over fifteen hundred. That's only thanks to our unmatched plate armor and recent advances in medicine. We have great many wounded though. If this was happening a hundred years ago, we could be looking at six thousand dead here. We took most of our losses while trying to approach their musketeers, and while their bullets were rarely able to kill outright, you cannot brave such barrage unharmed, even in plate armor. Still, we have to ship thousands back to Egypt. Out of five regiments, only one is in full readiness, and another one can be replenished with the lightly wounded after they recover. The remaining three, well, lost for good."

The Baron shook his head.

"How many dead in total, Colonel. Ours, Japanese, Persian, military and civilian."

"Well, including the Japanese siege... twenty thousand Persians, twenty thousand Japanese. Plus at least thirty thousands civilians."

"Hmm... Have we outdid Arturia and Delhi then? I think the figure was close to seventy thousands there as well..."

"Uhm. We have found some interesting documents on Masamune's body. You will find them most interesting; it seems he was quite a thinker and his insights into the current state of the Japanese Empire could possibly generate quite a storm in our ruling circles. Their concepts of administration and the way of ruling are simply astonishing."

"Good, good. So the old man took the honorable way out. But it seems I have put far too many bodies in his way for him to weasel out of this... So sad. Colonel! This concludes Phase 1. Pass the sealed orders concerning Phase 2 to your peers. We'll be starting soon. Now, if you'll excuse me... I had another meeting underway when you arrived."

The Baron smiled at an astonishingly beautiful Persian woman who was sharing the table with him.



"So, the Prince seems to be a reasonable man after all. Yes, I'm quite comfortable with the general idea of what he is proposing. The details, however... they need some working out..." his smile turned into a repulsive grin. The woman, however, didn't flinch.

"That's what he expected. Don't get us wrong, though. You're ruthless conquerors, just like the Japanese. Only for now, you're lesser of two evils. Your dark tyranny is better than their desire to posess our souls. And your appearance might discourage them from attacking more of our cities."

"Indeed. I'm not interested in your soul, pretty pet. It's your body the Prince gave me as a gift."

"Only for now. Until the negotiations are complete. And I'm only doing it for him and for my country."

"Such a pure maiden. If you're as skilled as you're proud, he couldn't give me a more perfect gift... Let's see if Persia has more to offer than just sweet screams of agony and fresh food." He made a slight gesture. "Very well. The negotiations are postponed till tomorrow. For now, I shall savour you. Not too quickly. Let's begin with something innocent... And you're wearing too much clothes to start."

[Eerion]

“No one expects Japanese assault” Mori thought to himself. “Yamato Damashii!”
“Chaaarge! Let them taste the spirit of Nippon! Slay as many as you can! For Nekomimi! Yamato Damashi!” Date yelled. He charged forward, leaving the huscarls and musketeers behind.
The right flank of Egyptian army besieging Persis, stationed nearby expecting nothing. They were taken completely off guard. The slaughter began.

“My lord, the Egyptian army is on the move! Large battalion landed on our shores! Ships carrying them opened fire crushing the walls! We have heavy casualties! Third huscarl division ceased to exist. We have embodied the remains to the second one, but still it’s not even half of the original size” Scared and nervous messenger was speaking very quickly.
“That’s not what we expected” Date Manamune bit his lip “Were you able to notice the units of their main division?”
“Only the hand musket armed cavalry. But we expect there are some cannons and musketeers behind!”
General sat down.
“Their wings? What do they consist of?” He asked.
“Pikemans. We believe there is nothing else on their flanks”
“Possible reinforcements?”
“Our last informations regarding the Assault Corps are from few days. Even if they already know what is happening, what is unlikely, there is no chance they can make it in time.”
“So it means. This is our last stand, isn’t it?”
“I’m afraid so, sir” There was no hope in the words of messenger.
“Where is your home, boy?”
“Tosa, sir. I’m from the Chosokabe clan.”
“That’s a lovely island. I’ve been there once. Tell me boy, how many people have you killed in the last battle?”
“8 sir. We, the Chosokabes, are very good with ranged weapons. We were the masters of the bow, but we adjusted to this new technology!” Youngster said it with pride.
“That’s a lot. Tell me boy. Do you mind killing few more?”
“As many as you order me to, my lord!”

Generals royal guards entered the camp, slaughtering the soldiers before they even managed to grab their weapons. Egyptian rules and perfect equipment made them extremely powerful in battle. But it was all in vain, when taken by surprise.
The huscarls reached the camp. First musket fire was heard from behind.
“Slay all of them! Get rid of this northern scum!” Masamune yelled. He looked at the enormous size of the camp. “There’s way too many of them.” he thought.
“Slay them all! For Nekomimi!”

[Eerion]

Date Masamune looked at the walls of Persis. Many people in the past looked at them in awe. Tall and made of stone looked mighty. But it wasn’t happening anymore, especially for Date. No longer the height mattered, now it was thickness and resistance. Yet, these foolish Persians were slow at learning their lessons. Too slow.
He wasn’t fortunate enough to have a cannon support from caravels nearby. Yet it wasn’t a big issue since he had more than enough gunpowder available. Packed in a big barrels it was almost as deadly as a cannon.
“We’re attacking tomorrow.” he gave an order to his adjutants.

The templars went first, covered by muskets fire. His personal invention, called “Suppressive fire” prevented Persians from shooting at marching templars. It required a lot of supplies in order to maintain it, yet luckily it was of no issue. They marched very slowly. Templars, wore a full armor and had to carry even heavier barrels.

The sun peaked the sky, when the preparations were finished.
“Begin” Date ordered shortly.
The explosion, ignited by musket fire was enormous. The stone walls shattered and even thought Japanese army stood as far as they could, the flying stones managed to kill few of their subordinates.
Ignoring that fact, a massive army moved forward. Whole army moved forward, giving the defenders no time to regroup. They got into the inner city with ease. They quickly blocked all the roads allowing the shooting divisions to deploy. Ruins of surrounding buildings, set on fire by the explosions looked abandoned.
Until the first arrow flew from there. And tens of them afterwards.
Templars charged forward, slaughtering the hiding soldiers. It wasn’t long before they all scattered fighting in the surrounding area. Date, arriving just shortly after wrinkled his brows.
“It’s not looking good” he muttered to himself. His ranged divisions were not covered by anything. Enemy archers using hit and run tactic could easily overpower them here.
“Soldiers! For a circle around the breach! Prepare to defend!” he yelled. Then he saw a divisions of phalanx showing up on the opposite roads along to the wall. They gave up on their tight formation for the sake of mobility and charged at the defenders from both sides.
Masamune smiled. “They are even more stupid then our templars” he thought. “Soldiers! Kneel fire!” he yelled. “Fire!”

There were the yells of victory and cheers heard nearby. Persians were surprisingly happy about something.
“It’s not looking good” Mori thought. He considered charging forward to reinforce whoever was losing there, yet he knew it may turn out really bad. Then his scouts appeared.
“There is a central square nearby. Apparently templars were lured out from the main force and swarmed. We saw hundreds of dead Persians, but it looks like they still won. We also could hear gunshots coming from the breach, so rest of the army fights over there.
“Good. Go back and wait until Persians move to support the rest of their army. We should intercept them.”
“Yes my lord!” Huscarl saluted. He said something to rest of newly formed scout divison and scattered in nearby buildings.
“Let them think they are winning.” Mori thought to himself. “No one expects Japanese backstabbing huscarls”

[Max_Smirnov]

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T H E . T H E B A N
i s s u e . 750

november 2652 (AD 502)
Printed in Rottschild's Print Shop

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Glory to Her Immortal Majesty, Queen Cleopatra!
Long live Duke Nakrikis, the Theban Commissioner!
The Theban Royal Mead - a brand like no other!

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Life Is Good, says a Noble

When one looks at the splendour of main streets of Thebes, Luxor or Pergamon, with their luxurious residences and expensive stores, one cannot help but think that most of that wealth doesn't belong to people of high birth. The palaces of the merchants, while frivolous, are rivalling the biggest castles in terms of accumulated wealth, and all those riches sprang up in just a few centuries, not millenia. So we have asked Lord Kamizonos, are the nobles upset about this?
"Not at all," are his words. "I even like to leave my countryside and visit bustling Thebes from time to time. I'm enjoying the commotion and novelty. As for their riches? They're fleeting, easily lost, while we, the nobles, own the land. And we have our loyal knights, while the merchants are surrounded by flatterers and backstabbers. As it always was and will be. Besides, such shady and low pursuits as trade are grossly unbefitting a noble man, as it shows in the horrible tastes those rich plebeians have. Money can't make up for noble birth, as anyone sensible can immediately tell; a plebeian thinks that expensive equals beautiful. It's in their lowly blood and cannot be changed."
While this is quite heartwarming to hear such a gentleman, one of his claims seems a bit outdated. While the lords have their knights, Her Majesty's own force had grown enormously since the ancient times, and she commands whole batteries of artillery, regiments of musketeers and fleets of giant warships no lord could ever afford, their knights being merely one of the parts of Egyptian might.

Arturia's Tastes

While the private chambres of Empress Arturia are still impregnable to our inquiries, we have managed to learn something that shows she does have, after all, some human vices. Our emissary was admitted to the Imperial Palace, being a part of the group of Egyptian engineers hired to help the Celts to build their first Mill. He managed to have a talk with her chef.
"When it comes to food, she's an absolute tyrant," are his words. "The food has to be served immediately when she demands it, and she likes to eat a lot. The more exotic food the better, we have whole trade routes dedictated to importing various delicacies she fancies. It's not an easy job, since she's, you know, not very talkative and wouldn't openly tell you what she likes and why. And if we don't do well enough, oh boy. She becomes angry, and I mean, angry like you or me, not that cold death stare she sports all the time. She breaks things and makes snide remarks. It's actually almost funny, that is, until she strangles a cook or breaks his legs."
It seems even the emotionless Empress isn't above some human pettiness and passion!


Dragons Never Existed, Declares a Theban Scholar

"The calculations, derived from Leonardo's works on flight," are the cryptic words of Academician Prykizis, "show clearly, that a beast of a weight greater than a man couldn't fly; the power of the wings grows with square root, while the body mass with the cubic root. Maybe if their bodies would have been very light for the size, but what about those scales and armor, then?"
To which the authority in the field of zoology, High Scholar Azhali usually replies, that dragons indeed were light, because they were filled with fire; fire is lighter than air and has energy to power wings far greater than blood has, the only problem being tapping that energy. And do I even need to mention the fossilized remains of great, scaly creatures discovered in the mines of Luxor?"
"Pure ezotheric babble, even if widely accepted", answers Prykizis. "Everyone knows what usually happens to any living thing that is on fire. Death by burning. As for the fossilized remains, there were some big bones, and there were some scaly creatures. Only that none of those scaly creatures was bigger than a chicken. And least none from those which were found. One is certain, the invisible to the naked eyes structure of those remains is similar to that of currently living beings, so they really lived in some distant past. I may not have a microscope as big as the High Scholar has, but it's not size that matters, it seems."

---

[Eerion]

We have landed at daybreak. The order was simple - capture the city called Ashur with one swift attack without creating any siege machines, usually needed for such operation. The Caravels, stationed nearby were to use their cannons to crumble enemy walls allowing us to move into the city. That’s what we were told. I looked slightly worried at my musket. It was about to be used in the heat of battle for the first time, so we were unsure of the outcome. However, the words from our Goddesses soothed these worries somehow. They know everything, so how can a simple human deny their words? I grabbed the stock a little bit harder and looked ahead. We were getting closer.

The rumbling of cannons was terrifyingly loud. Our enemies had to cover in fear before the weapon unknown to them before. Stone walls, old and obsolete, began crumbling after the very first volley. With every big chunk of rock falling off, templars roared. They were the cream of the top with insane morale, unlike us. They wanted to fight and to kill.
It wasn’t long before the crack was big enough to let us perform an assault, yet no order for moving out was given. As we waited, slowly losing our steam or nervousnes, we saw our ships turning around and sailing away. The sun managed to peak the sky, before their masts vanished from our eyesight, yet we didn’t make a single move.
“Commence the attack! Templars! Onward to victory!” our leader, Uesugi Kenshin yelled shortly afterwards. Horns followed his voice giving all of us signal to move out. For some reason whole army was marching at the same speed. I could not see anything ahead, but was sure of one thing. Walls were empty. Inaccurate fire not only destroyed part of the wall, but also grazed everything around. No one would want to stand on a place, which was about to crumble at any moment.
I smiled. No enemy arrows and templars in front to protect us. It was too easy.
“Templars! Halt! Musketers! Forward march!” A sudden command stopped us in our tracks. I looked at Motoharu, the leader of our division. He looked as confused as the rest of us, still the orders were absolute and he did not dare to qestion them in any way. With my heart, trying to escape and run away, we passed the templars. They looked extremely annoyed, as they faces showed nothing but a readiness for fight and slaughter.
What stood in front was a spiky wall made of shields and spears. Spearmen and phalanx soldiers filled up the crack with their own bodies and armors.
Oh my Goddess came to my mind.
“First row! Move forward!” General yelled. Our enemies were only about one hundred fifty feets away from us. Unsuspecting.
“Fire!” he yelled. A sea of fire and metal flew forward piercing the archaic shields of Persians. Yells filled with pain, louder even than the gunshots, soared the sky.
“Second row! Forward!”
I went forward. Now, without anyone in front of me, I could see everything clearly. A splattered blood and wavering sea of shields made me realise how much of a fool I was questioning this weapon. Motoharu yelled the order, so I instinctively put the stock on my shoulder.
“Fire!” I pulled the trigger. Ground and remains of a wall got covered in blood. I saw several bodies falling down creating cracks in their defences. Terrified eyes I saw between shields reminded me of scared animals.
barbaric fools I thought running back
It didn’t even take 10 volleys for the human wall to crumble completely. We retreated allowing the bloodthirsty templars to slaughter the withdrawing enemies.

We entered the city through the captured gates. Wherever I looked, were bodies of dead Persians. It was hard to find any templar lying on the ground. The armors of soldiers we passed by were covered by blood, yet it almost never looked like their own. I looked at the sky. Not even half a day has passed since we have landed and the city is now ours. With almost no losses we crushed enemy city. Me, a simple peasant could kill seasoned warriors without thinking what was going on. Without any fineness or paying attention.
This is the power of technology. The power of Nippon!

Japanese soldiers, equipped with heavy armors and muskets

[Eerion]

The great city of Sapporo dominated over surrounding areas. One of the greatest cities in eastern Nippon as well as an impregnable mountain fortress, guarded the one and only ship canal between the Inner Sea with Antarctic Straits. The channel itself was a wonder in itself, as it was build artificially for millennia’s. Despite the extreme conditions, the whole project was a success. And now, the another incredible project was just finished here. The first of many cathedral’s, the result of teaching of Haruhism was finished here.

“It’s quite enormous, isn’t it?” Hanekawa said looking at the building. Ahri was sleeping peacefully in her arms. She was hugging or even sometimes biting one of her tails while dreaming.
“It definitely is. A building worth of the nation of Gods” Haruhi agreed. The white walls, covered with delicate ornament showed the might of the nation and professionalism of its people. Two soaring spires made the building visible from any point in the city. Even though the cathedral wasn’t as big as the castle its beauty made it look as impressive.
“Let’s go inside” Hanekawa ordered. Hundreds of nobility started gathering on the square behind.
The great gates opened, allowing the ruler to enter inside. Suzumiya, walking beside her, gasped. The interior was even more impressive. Columns and ornaments were completely made of gold. The floors and walls, made of higher quality marble than on the outside perfectly combined with the most beautiful metal on the earth. Ceilings, on the other hand were completely covered in paintings referring to the words from the Haruhi Gospel.
“It is... insane” Young goddess murmured.
“Not really. Half of our region capitols are right now building exactly the same thing. Do not forget that we are the greatest producer of the gold in the world. Half of the world use gold coins made of our metal. And this is proof of our wealth and power. No one but us can allow to use so much of it for a decoration.” Nekomimi answered calmly. She anticipated such question. After all, it had to be impressive. It was even for her, living every day in luxury. For a commoner this is yet another proof that this country is ruled by Gods, not humans. “Let’s move on. Our seats are in front. Let these daimyo get inside.”
“How long the ceremony is going to take?” Haruhi asked wrinkling her brows.
“Few hours perhaps. With one or two breaks for feeding Ahri.”
“It’s going to be a long day” She answered, while looking at the painting portraying her own birth.