March 2, 1639
Rodenius Continent
It has been five months since the establishment of diplomatic ties between Qua-Toyne and the country of the so-called Alliance of Southeast Asia. Since the event filled with misunderstandings and rapid-paced developments, both parties have been struggling to understand and comprehend the unfolding situation. Nevertheless, one significant outcome has emerged, Qua-Toyne is currently experiencing rapid economic growth and development, a phenomenon that seemed unusual and impossible just a few months ago.
At first, there was a misunderstanding that the Alliance of Southeast Asia would demand extortion or fealty, but no, it was simply a request for a diplomatic channel that, more or less, surprised them. Along with Quira, a neighboring country of Qua-Toyne and their longtime ally, they accepted the request for a diplomatic channel from the Alliance of Southeast Asia. Surprisingly, they found themselves ensnared by the barren lands of Quira, which seemed like a treasure trove according to the people dispatched by the alliance. As for Qua-Toyne, they traded for a rather unusual variety of food that wasn't considered fancy or a priority, nor deemed as a luxury by the farmers of Qua-Toyne. Items such as wheat and the vast groves of Giban trees, which were considered a nuisance, were little known to Qua-Toynians, but they were essential for rubber manufacturing and, therefore, crucial for the Alliance of Southeast Asia, who were among the few dozen well sought-after by this emerging, unknown country.
On the other hand, in exchange for resources and supplies, the Alliance decided to use infrastructure projects as bait for Qua-Toyne—a critical bargaining chip in their exchange between countries. This included the construction of asphalted roads throughout the principal cities, which were superior to the cobblestone roads they had been using, and the implementation of a large-scale transportation and distribution system known as railroads.
Rodenius countries had also requested various technologies, including weaponry. However, this request was temporarily put on hold due to the "Technology Conservation Law," which aimed to minimize the risk of some countries attempting to replicate or weaponize the exported technology.
Thus, the former distant lands of Qua-Toyne and Quira, medieval civilizations, found themselves at the crossroads of history when they encountered the Alliance—a modern nation. The Alliance extended its support, offering an array of conveniences that would forever alter the course of their existence.
Among these blessings was the gift of clean water. Before this encounter, the people had struggled with the challenges of procuring safe drinking water. They often relied on distant, unreliable sources that frequently harbored contaminants. The Alliance introduced a network of pipes and reservoirs that brought pristine water directly to their communities, putting an end to waterborne diseases and ushering in improved public health.
The Alliance shared advanced farming techniques, illuminating pathways to agricultural success. Insights into crop rotation, superior seed varieties (which, in reality, did little to benefit the blessed land of Qua-Toyne), and efficient irrigation systems led to bountiful harvests and facilitated the transportation of goods.
Yet, it was the gift of electricity from solar panels and generators that illuminated the nights and captured the imaginations of the Qua-Toynians most profoundly. No longer did they contend with the flickering inefficiency of candles or the smoky haze of oil lamps, or perhaps the privilege of Mana lamps, which were expensive and reserved for the elite. With a simple flick of a switch, their homes, streets, and markets were bathed in a steady, radiant glow. Darkness was vanquished, and the veil of danger it once cast was lifted.
Concurrently, the transformation extended to sanitation systems. The Alliance shared technical knowledge and resources, enabling the construction of proper sewage and sanitation facilities. The scourge of disease receded, and communities grew cleaner and healthier.
One of the most significant endeavors was the construction of paved roads and the rapid development of railways that crisscrossed the land, connecting towns and cities. This newfound ease of transportation facilitated trade, bolstering commerce and cultural exchange.
Propane gas stoves and heaters brought unprecedented convenience to kitchens and homes, eliminating the need for mages or Magic gems. With a mere turn of a knob, flames sprang to life, simplifying cooking and heating tasks.
Medical practices evolved as the Alliance imparted modern medical knowledge and provided advanced equipment. Skilled physicians learned new techniques, and hospitals were equipped with state-of-the-art tools, rendering healthcare more effective and accessible than the scarce healers found in the land.
The advent of radio telecommunications transcended the boundaries of time and distance, proving far superior and less expensive than bulky Mana comms that required specific magic gems that requires three levels of refining processes. This allowed voices to bridge vast geographies with a device that fit in one's pocket. Communication, once hampered by the bulkiness of Mana comms, became extremely accessible even for commoners, leading to an abnormally induced globalization of Northern Qua-Toyne, where individuals kilometers apart could connect and converse with ease.
In tandem with these advancements, the Alliance fostered education through the establishment of schools and libraries. Knowledge, once the privilege of a select few, became easily accessible to many. An expected generation of skilled professionals emerged, fortifying society with their talents.
These gifts ushered in an era of economic growth. Markets flourished, industries thrived, and the standard of living ascended. The formerly medieval civilization of Qua-Toyne now found itself propelled into an era of prosperity, with the pages of history rewritten by the wisdom and technological sophistication of the Alliance. The future shimmered with promise and possibility, forever altered by this encounter with a modern nation that far eclipsed the superpowers of the New World.
_____________
In the midst of the absolutely abnormal advancement of Qua-Toyne, both economically and technologically, the expressions on the faces of Qua-Toyne's upper echelon turned grim, including Kanata. They all breathed heavily, as if they were resigning to an unwelcome reality. The topic at hand revolved around one of the projects that Qua-Toynians had reluctantly accepted: the Qua-Toyne International Airport building project. This massive endeavor was privately owned by Alliance's Aerospace United but was now shrouded in obscurity.
"The Ministry of Internal Defense by the Alliance appears to be requesting restrictions on all natives from entering the airport for the time being. They've also expressed concerns about what they call 'Directory of Civil Aviation,' suggesting that our wyverns pose a danger to their aircraft," he reported to Kanata.
Time and again, the Alliance issued requests for information and suggestions that the Qua-Toynians regarded as absolute orders. They dared not question these directives, for fear of provoking conflict by defying the newcomers' commands.
"Damn these gentiles," grumbled one of the military men in the meeting place of Qua-Toyne's upper echelon. It was General Nou, commander of the heavily fortified region of Ejei County. His garrison was stationed at the impregnable Fort Ejei.
General Nou represented one of the factions opposed to the Alliance within Qua-Toyne. However, he understood the stark reality that they stood no chance against the behemoth known as the Alliance. With their overwhelming military might and advanced technology, which could only be found in the civilized sphere, Qua-Toyne had little hope of victory. Thus, he adopted a pragmatic stance, keeping his ego in check when dealing with the Alliance's representatives.
"Nonetheless," the Minister of Commerce interjected, addressing everyone present. "The Alliance's products are unbelievably sophisticated and affordable. This is propelling us forward at an unprecedented pace." Many nodded in agreement, recognizing the benefits of this technological influx.
However, Kanata sighed in response to his subordinate, who had no intention of causing offense but was far from painting a rosy picture. Kanata perused the papers before him, highlighting the absurdly sharp drop in prices. Commoners could now happily afford high-quality goods such as soap, once a luxury exclusive to nobles. It was now being bought in abundance by ordinary citizens, reminiscent of surplus wheat sold at dirt-cheap prices. The economic transformation was profound, even if it came with its challenges.
Kanata followed the initial optimism with a sobering dose of reality for everyone present. "Many trade guilds are closing due to unfair competition with the cheap and high-quality products brought by the Alliance, and many of our industries will likely follow suit," he declared, effectively silencing not only the Minister of Commerce but also those who had nodded in agreement earlier.
"My apologies, Prime Minister,"
The Minister of Commerce offered a swift apology to Kanata, recognizing the thoughtlessness of his earlier words.
Kanata sighed, waving his hand as if to dismiss the apology, and turned his gaze to address everyone present. "The benefits are undoubtedly unprecedented. However, if this trend continues, our ability to provide services and domestic products will vanish, and we will become mere puppets of the Alliance. Remember that," he cautioned with a tinge of cynicism. It was evident that if events unfolded as they were, Qua-Toyne would become increasingly dependent on Alliance goods and services in the near future.
As the reality sank in, the people gathered around couldn't help but groan. The Alliance, once seen as heaven-sent due to their benevolence and strangely formal, almost light-handed approach—so polite and meek by the standards of the outside civilized sphere—now revealed a darker side. Their gifts were akin to a venomous serpent hidden beneath an enticing facade, turning what seemed like a blessing into a potential hellhole, a trap if one's will.
The evidence of the lopsided trade, the Alliance's ownership of crucial infrastructure, the overwhelming presence of their merchandise in local markets, and their incremental yet inexorable impact on the daily lives of Qua-Toynians and Quirans was indisputable. It was as if they were slowly being devoured, drawn ever deeper into the Alliance's embrace, its grip tightening with each passing day. The technological and economic might of the Alliance was akin to a potent and addictive elixir, one that few dared to resist. Many ultimately succumbed to its allure, for it was unparalleled in its intoxicating nature, far surpassing anything Qua-Toynian products could produce. It was like a mortal trying to challenge divine creation—a chasm between heaven and earth, a divide impossible to bridge.
As if acknowledging the inevitability of their fate, Kanata resigned himself from thinking about alliance as he shifted the discussion. "What about Lauria?" he inquired, his tone considerably weightier than it had been during earlier discussions about the Alliance. While the mysterious and potentially dangerous nature of the Alliance was cause for concern, it paled in comparison to the overtly aggressive behavior and actions being exhibited by Lauria on their southern borders.
The Qua-Toynians could, to some extent, tolerate the Alliance's presence, despite their blatant monopoly and audacious borderline shameless demands typical of a civilized nation imposed on one outside the civilized sphere, like Qua-Toyne. However, Lauria was presently the most pressing concern. The looming question was when they might launch an invasion, as there was no certainty regarding the timeline before the Alliance's influence and power could fully monopolize and undermine Qua-Toyne's domestic goods and services.
"It's just a matter of time," General Nou grimly stated to everyone present. A wave of murmurs rippled through the assembly, with some faces paling at the realization of how close their lands lay to the volatile southern border. Concern for family and property was etched on their expressions. Meanwhile, others appeared less perturbed, seemingly confident in their ability to fight and emerge victorious in a conflict with Lauria.
However, there were those with even deeper and shadier intentions, already plotting to defect the moment Lauria arrived. These individuals remained surprisingly composed for the time being, masking their true intentions behind a facade of nonchalance.
"Hmm," Kanata responded with a deep, contemplative expression. Then, he surprised everyone with a proposition that left them in shock. "Request the Alliance to send their army to our lands," he declared to those assembled.
"Prime Minister!" one of the officials immediately protested. "Those are savages in disguise as civilized countries! Every single one of them undoubtedly harbors malicious intent toward our nation! Allowing them to land carries no guarantee that they won't take the opportunity to occupy us instead," he argued fervently.
The room erupted with a chorus of voices, each offering their perspective
"Prime Minister, please reconsider! We could win the war if we prolong it!"
"Quira stands with us! We could delay Lauria until they're weakened!"
"Numerous rebels within the conquered territories on their lands are already working to destabilize their government. A little push from our side could tip the balance!"
And then, those with shadier intentions chimed in. They saw no guarantee that the Alliance would grant them independence if they instead invaded. They had already established deals with Lauria and deemed it a safer bet compared to dealing with foreigners from the civilized sphere, who often regarded the uncivilized as mere livestock and slaves. The room was filled with a pitch of conflicting opinions and fears.
"Prime Minister," General Nou interjected, drawing the attention of Kanata and several other officials. A hushed silence fell over the room, with even the bickering officials momentarily halting their debates, all of them anticipating Nou's question. "You've been steadfast in your belief that the Alliance poses a threat to our country. Why, then, are you now seeking their help of all times?" he inquired, seeking clarification.
"I wonder the same," Kanata mused, his gaze directed towards the sky, the birds, and the sprawling vines of the towering Ymia Tree. Legends in Qua-Toyne claimed that this ancient tree had lived for over 40,000 years, predating even the civilizations of the Elves and Beastmen during their migration to this continent thousands of years ago.
"We're unlikely to prevail in a frontal and prolonged war against Lauria," Kanata stated, drawing upon his extensive knowledge and age of over 400 years. He was one of the few who had heard of the rise of the Republic of Parneus, the precursor to the superpower of Philades. His experience encompassed dozens of wars fought by neighboring countries.
With Qua-Toyne's population standing at less than 5 million, facing off against Lauria's 30 million strong population left them hopelessly outnumbered. Even when combined with Quira's population of less than 2 million, they would barely reach 7 million. These figures did not account for potential traitors or the significant number of humans within their borders. Given Lauria's strict adherence to human supremacy and their determination to eradicate all non-humans in Rodenius, there was a high probability that a substantial portion of Qua-Toyne's population, predominantly humans, would either be influenced by or defect to the extreme ideology of Lauria, or simply seek to escape their blades by joining the Laurian invading forces. The odds were overwhelmingly against them.
"To ensure our survival as the minority rulers of Qua-Toyne, we must cooperate with the Alliance," Kanata declared to everyone present. His words held an unwavering and self-interested tone, driven by the desire to maintain the grip of non-humans on Qua-Toyne's lands. "Request their participation, and we will fully cooperate. Foreign Affairs Ministry, please draft potential terms of payment for the Alliance in exchange for our protection," he instructed the ministry staff, who nodded in response.
"General Nou," he continued, turning to the seasoned military leader, who also nodded in acknowledgment. "Prepare our army. We are going to war," he ordered, and heads throughout the room began to nod in agreement.
"Our survival takes precedence," Kanata emphasized, his tone unyielding. "Whatever means we employ to ensure it, be it considered dirty or not, is justified for our sake. Remember, if humans gain power, we, as the minority, may face discrimination or even extermination, as we've seen with Lauria. To prevent that, we must firmly grasp power within this cabinet," he concluded, addressing the assembly.
Almost all present agreed with his sentiments, including those with the shadiest intentions who had been involved in covert dealings with Lauria. The urgency of survival had united them under a common cause.
__________
"We humbly refuse."
A voice of indifference responded to the Chief of the Qua-Toynian Ministry of Affairs, Alben, a half-elf who opened his eyes in response.
"Sir, sir, Roman, Lauria will invade the country! They will massacre us! They're maddened bloodthirsters! Savage monkeys in disguise as humans!"
Roman, the Consul General of the Alliance to Qua-Toyne, sighed and massaged his temples before replying. "My people won't go to war without justification," he explained to Alben. "You're asking for too much from us," he added, concluding his words with a tone of regret. The reality was that the situation on Qua-Toyne's side was far from favorable for any form of military intervention. The lack of proper infrastructure, almost non-existent logistics support, and an unfinished airport nor have any modern large scale ports made it questionable who in their right mind would send an army in such place that could be easily considered as middle of nowhere.
"But we're already offering gold! A substantial supply of foodstuffs at bargain prices for the next decades! We're even willing to lease ports to you for free for the next century! What more justification do you need to send your army?" Alben desperately articulated one argument after another in an effort to persuade the Consul General.
"My people value peace, and we'd rather not become embroiled in a war," the Consul General replied calmly. "From our perspective, it seems that Qua-Toyne possesses sufficient military strength to delay the invading forces from Lauria."
Alben persisted, unconvinced. "Lauria outnumbers us six to one in terms of population. We have no way to match their numbers in a war," he reiterated to Roman, the Consul General.
Roman responded promptly, countering Alben's concerns. "Lauria would need to traverse numerous lakes and hundreds of kilometers of muddy terrain, including wetlands and your extensive farmlands. We cannot envision a scenario where their invasion would be highly successful. You have the potential to halt them by engaging in a war of attrition, where numbers matter less, regardless of the significant population disparity." He sought to reassure Alben of their strategic advantages.
"Even if that's the case," Alben conceded, acknowledging Roman's argument regarding land warfare, he shifted the focus. "Lauria possesses over 2,000 ships that could transport untold thousands of invaders directly to the heart of my country, landing on shores with little to no resistance at all," he pointed out. "Unlike on land, we have no way of predicting when or where the gargantuan Laurian naval force will strike," he added, highlighting the vulnerabilities in their maritime defenses.
"Uh, well, it seems they're crazy enough to pull a Persian-style invasion," Roman murmured softly, just loud enough for the half-elf with sharp hearing to catch.
"Persia?" Alben asked in wonder, not having heard of this power from outside Rodenius.
Roman continued, "Never mind. I'll relay the information and word to my people, and the decision may come sooner or later."
As Roman prepared to conclude the conversation, Alben's disappointed at his inability to secure reinforcements from the Alliance, added, "My people value human life, especially civilians. They will undoubtedly be a top priority. It should serve as a heads-up for our rulers to take action."
"I'm grateful, Sir Roman. I hope to hear good news of such developments," Alben said before leaving the consulate.
Little did Roman know that his final word marked a radically unfortunate and inevitable step for their people's entry onto the world stage.
_______
"So they won't allow us to send their armies, but they're willing to protect and support the civilians, despite our offers?" Kanata questioned after hearing Alben's report about the meeting with Roman. "Hypocrisy," he uttered ominously, his mind deep in thought.
Alben, on the other hand, felt a chill at the way Kanata spoke. He worried that such blasphemous words against a civilized country like the Alliance could lead to dire consequences for their nation.
Kanata remained silent for a moment as he contemplated the reports and additional information provided by the Alliance, which seemed to indicate a relaxation of their strict mysterious isolationist stance. His mind was filled with details and began considerations for the future course of actions.
Then, Kanata reached for another bundle of papers, it have a blue seal indicating its urgency, and he broke the seal before unfolding the document to read it slowly.
"Reinforcements for Gim," he uttered, the words carrying weight.
Hearing this, Alben responded cautiously, "Isn't that the border facing Lauria's camp?"
However, that moment — Kanata's serious expression began to transform into a wide grin, sending a shiver down Alben's spine. "They asked for justification, didn't they?" Kanata asked ominously, making Alben nod reluctantly in fear.
"I see," Kanata said, and in a swift motion, he tore the paper requesting reinforcements for Gim into pieces and tossed them into the fire.
"Prime Minister..." Alben began to speak, his voice trembling, as he watched Kanata casually destroy the crucial request for reinforcements. Without the support of the royal army, their forces at Gim would likely face overwhelming odds and be slaughtered.
"A small sacrifice is necessary, Alben," Kanata said, his tone grave. "As a non-human like me, you must understand the implications of my actions."
Kanata rose to his feet and walked closer to Alben, leaning in to whisper near his ear. "You didn't see anything, and the request didn't reach in time," he said ominously, leaving Alben shaken by the weight of his words.
Satisfied by Alben's disturbed yet reluctant agreement, "If you understand, good." Kanata continued, "Our little friends, or what was it they changed their name to? From the Alliance to Aseyan?" Kanata mused, his tone contemplative. "Mysterious as they say, no one truly knows their origin, but their power is undeniable," he remarked to Alben. "But that's a dangerous game we should gamble, a perilous fire we should play with in order to survive."
That day, Prime Minister Kanata's clandestine actions would remain hidden for decades, only to be discovered generations later. The rippling effects of these actions would have a profound impact on the future of Qua-Toyne, a story for a time when their descendants would come to realize how deep and disturbing their history and ancestors actions could be.
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This would be the final revision settings of mine in attempt to create depth on my fic and patch my inadequacy as writer of this military fiction.
Appears, it's easy to correct the grammars, I corrected 5 chapters in fact in just a day, problem surfacing however due to my perspective seeing my grammarly corrected chapters weird without any tweaks or extensive revision, so my apologies for the timeline I put as I can't get it in time as my weird ass preference to overhaul the chapters made me bogged down into speedrunning my release and completion. I have no timeline to complete them, but I'll probably began my progress to chapter 89 and release it, just for the month of September.