Vice President Mary Grace, one of Virtue Financial connection in Philipinas government, she was the one that comes to Virtue Financial Manila branch inviting my company to come and invest, as she offered a lot of benefits, T.A.S on my behalf okayed the investment and since then Virtue Financial now owned 30% of Philipinas small and medium company all over the nation. By my Choosing Manila and Puerto Princessa has become the province where we heavy invested, turning them into a city that owned by Virtue Financial, all of our factories and buildings were in these 2 cities, in short span of just 6 months, the 2 cities have turned into advance metropolis akin to the western city,“But if I wanted to do that… we definitely need more support and amicable relationship with the government…. Oh... by the way, Vice President Grace… I heard that the presidential election this time… you wanted to run as a president?”.The meeting room fell silent as Vice President Grace leaned in closer to Mies S
By nightfall, the top executives of Virtue Financial had gathered at an exclusive resort—a sprawling testament to Mies Sai’s own vision and wealth, nestled along the pristine shores. The atmosphere was a blend of luxury and tension, as every guest present knew they were on the verge of a monumental decision. Conversations were quiet, voices hushed, the underlying intensity clear. The sense that something more was at play, something perhaps beyond even their comprehension, seemed to press down on the room.At precisely nine o’clock, Mies Sai entered the main hall, and the soft murmur of voices immediately ceased. His eyes swept over the group, each executive watching him with a mixture of respect and apprehension. Sai’s presence commanded attention—tonight more than ever, as he finally addressed his elite team.“Thank you all for gathering here,”he began, his voice measured and calm, though carrying an unmistakable weight.“What we discuss tonight will define Virtue Financials’ future
“Andy Greg,”.he began, his eyes narrowing slightly,“CEO of Saint George Hospital. I trust you’re aware of why I’ve singled you out.”.Andy Greg, a man who had once carried himself with confidence and pride, now looked uncharacteristically small. His shoulders tensed, and his face twisted into a grimace as he struggled to compose himself.“Mr. Sai,”. (Andy Greg)he stammered, attempting to summon a bravado that was nowhere to be found,“I don’t understand what this is about. There must be some mistake—”. (Andy Greg)“There is no mistake,”.Mies Sai interrupted, his tone leaving no room for doubt.“The mistake, Mr. Greg, was thinking you could sell out Virtue Medical without consequences.”.Sai’s words were razor-sharp, cutting through the flimsy excuses Andy Greg was trying to muster.“Let me outline your crimes, for the benefit of the room,”Sai continued; his demeanor unflinching.“Selling shares of Saint George Hospital to a U.S. congressman—Johnathan, I believe—without authorizat
“Leave,”.Mies Sai finally said, his tone as cold as the steel that fortified his reputation. In that one word, the fates of 120 CEOs were sealed. No one argued. No one negotiated. They filed out of the room, their footsteps echoing down the long hallway as the heavy doors closed behind them. Yet even after they were gone, the tension lingered, a palpable reminder of the purge that had just taken place. For several long moments, the room remained quiet, the remaining executives too stunned to move or speak. Then Catherine Kent, the formidable CEO of Virtue Financial, rose from her seat. Adjusting her posture, she stepped into the center of the room. Her commanding presence, though less severe than Mies Sai’s, was equally impossible to ignore. “Now that the cancer has been excised,”. (Catherine Kent)Catherine began, her voice steady but urgent, “We must turn our attention to the threat at hand. The meddling of the United States government is not something we can overlook. Their i
As the meeting adjourned, Mies Sai retreated to his private suite at the resort, seeking a moment of respite. Yet, it wasn’t long before the quiet was disrupted. As was her habit, Catherine Kent strode in unannounced, her signature confidence leading the way. Following close behind were Marcuez Vega, Ran Hyun-ok, and Maria Hills—all key members of Virtue Financial’s inner circle. The four quickly made themselves comfortable in his living room, their casual demeanor betraying the gravity of their roles. These were not just trusted subordinates but individuals who had earned the rare distinction of being counted among Mies Sai’s friends. The camaraderie they shared allowed them to breach formalities, though none would dare undermine his authority. “So, are you really sure about this?”. (Catherine Kent)Catherine started, leaning back against the plush sofa. Her tone was light, but her expression revealed a deeper concern.“Pulling out of the U.S. is… monumental.”. (Maria Hills) Maria
As they left the suite, a solemn determination settled over the two. They knew the responsibility that awaited them and the trust that had been placed in their hands. The era of Mies Sai’s unrelenting presence at the helm was shifting, and with it, Virtue Financial was poised to enter a new chapter. The decision to rebrand Virtue Financial and its subsidiaries as Virtue Financial International sent a clear and defiant message to the world’s governments: meddling in the company’s affairs would no longer be tolerated. Catherine Kent, representing Virtue Financial, alongside Marcuez Vega of Virtue Constructions and Maria Hills of Virtue Medical, led this bold transformation. With the term "International" now tied to their names, the subsidiaries stood unified, prepared to face the retaliation of meddling powers with a calculated and unyielding stance. Two days after the pivotal meeting, Catherine Kent stepped into the spotlight, holding a press conference at Virtue Financial Internatio
“Russia is prepared to provide land, tax exemptions, and long-term agreements to ensure Virtue Financial International flourishes in our markets,”. (Minister Schevenko Schevenkova)he promised, his words carrying both paternal pride and professional precision. Katerina’s lips curved into a smile at her father’s proposition.“That’s quite a generous offer, Father,”. (Katerina Schevenkova)she teased lightly.“But let’s not forget, generosity alone isn’t enough. Virtue Financial values stability, reliability, and a future we can depend on. What assurances can Russia offer to make this a seamless transition?”. (Katerina Schevenkova) Schevenko chuckled, his pride evident.“Ah, Katerina, you’ve learned well. Virtue Financial will have the full support of the Kremlin. Legislation can be passed swiftly to accommodate your needs, and we will ensure that no external interference—”. (Minister Schevenko Schevenkova)he glanced briefly at Jonathan“—jeopardizes this partnership.”. (Minister S
“Gentlemen,”.he said, his voice carrying a calm yet commanding tone.“Welcome. I’m glad you could join us.”. The ministers exchanged excited glances, realizing that their efforts had brought them face-to-face with the man who could reshape their nations’ futures. The real negotiations were about to begin. The meeting between Mies Sai, Jonathan Togo, and Schevenko Schevenkova began with a calm that belied the magnitude of their discussion. Within the luxurious café at Mies Sai’s private resort, the atmosphere was cordial yet laced with purpose. The two ministers, initially hesitant, found themselves disarmed by the straightforward and accommodating manner in which Mies Sai addressed their concerns.Jonathan Togo, seated opposite Mies Sai, could not help but reflect on the moment. He had known Virtue Financial International to be immensely wealthy, but witnessing this meeting in real-time underscored a truth that left him in awe: this was not just a corporation. It was a global entit
The project would take time—perhaps years—but its impact would begin in weeks.“Once the roads are in place,” Merrica said, entering her chamber with a report in hand, “we’ll be able to move goods faster, respond to crises quicker, and prepare for the second phase: economic zone development.”Helen took the report with a tired, but satisfied smile. “This… this they will see. This they will believe.”“And when they do,” Merrica said, “they’ll follow.”Late that night, as the wind howled against the palace windows, Helen stood in her private study, gazing out at the flickering torches lining the city streets. In her hand was a smooth, curved stone from the first road pile—just a plain stone, but to her, it was the beginning of a foundation.Her fingers closed around it as she whispered to herself, “Let this road lead us to a better kingdom.” And with that, the first steps into a new Hallerus had begun.The throne room had seen war plans, council betrayals, and royal declarations. But on
The ministers eagerly pointed out their favorite places from their student years.“Over there—that café served synthetic ice cream you have to try.”“That’s the district where I first saw a holographic opera.”“This is where I spent hours in the central library—eight floors of pure knowledge.”Helen listened with quiet amusement and growing wonder. These weren’t just stories. This was the future.They stopped first at a shopping promenade, where modern boutiques lined the plaza. Aeternum fashion—streamlined, elegant, tailored for form and comfort—was on full display.Helen tried on a pale blue dress lined with iridescent threads that shifted color slightly under different lighting. She admired herself in the mirror. Regal, yet free. She hadn’t felt this light in years.Merrica chuckled as she twirled slightly. “Careful. You’ll make the palace tailors obsolete.”Next came the Aeternum cuisine district. The aroma of spices, imported meats, baked delicacies and exotic fruit blends filled
Meerkat sipped from his flask; eyes gleaming. “Monster cores alone could offset our collective energy reliance on Aeternum’s hybrid reactors. If those dungeons are stabilized and regulated under UNA protocols, we’re looking at a resource boom.”Angela arched an eyebrow. “All that assumes stability. A kingdom can’t regulate dungeons if they can’t regulate their own court.”“Well,” Meerkat said with a shrug, “that’s what Merrica’s for, isn’t it?”They all laughed lightly—because it was true. The man’s reputation preceded him. Hallerus may have signed with a queen, but Merrica had built the bridge.Kaneda leaned forward. “It’s risky, but it’s a calculated risk. We’re not signing blind loyalty here. We’re watching. Evaluating. But make no mistake—if this works, Hallerus becomes the keystone of continental connectivity.”Redwall drummed his fingers on his knee. “I suppose that’s why we’re here. Not to clap at the signing. But to see if the queen is truly changed.”“She is,” Angela said qui
“And now, a major announcement: With the signing complete, Hallerus Kingdom is formally inducted into the United Nation Alliance as its thirty-first member. This marks a turning point—not only for Hallerus, but for the entire Central Continent.”“The UNA, now composed of thirty-one sovereign nations, officially becomes the largest unified alliance in the world’s history—its reach, economic power, and strategic cooperation unmatched by any prior coalition.”“Following this event, Aeternum has confirmed it will begin a nationwide rollout of its Super Stores, factories, and humanitarian infrastructure in Hallerus territory. In exchange, Hallerus will provide critical resources and cultural integration into the alliance structure.”“Public reaction is already beginning to surface—here in New City, spontaneous celebrations have begun in the multicultural districts where former Hallerians live. Meanwhile, markets across the UNA are surging in response to the stability this alliance signifie
“I don’t forget betrayal easily,” I said. “And Aeternum doesn’t forget pain lightly. What happened between us—it scarred people. People who trusted Hallerus. Soldiers who bled for your freedom. Civilians who saw us pulled out overnight.”“I know,” Helen said. “And I accept the cost.”“But,” I said, letting the word hang before softening my tone, “I do respect accountability.”Her eyes met mine. “Then we start again?”“We do,” I said, extending a hand.She took it. Her grip was firm.“We bury the hatchet,” I added. “But let’s be clear—this is not a return to old friendship. This is a new foundation. One built on lessons learned.”Helen nodded. “Agreed.”Merrica exhaled, satisfied. “It’s what both sides need.”I looked at Helen, voice calm. “You have a second chance now. Few leaders get that. Don’t waste it.”She nodded again, quietly this time. “I won’t.”“Good,” I said. “Because your people need you more than ever. Rule wisely. Rule well. Let this alliance be your legacy.”For the fir
“We’ll export more to Hallerus—especially food. You’ll need it. In return, we’ll import more raw ore and minerals. Your mining sector’s still decent, right?”“It is.”“Then let’s grow that. More volume, more jobs, more imports on both sides.”He beamed. “Thank you, my friend.”I smiled back. “You’ll find I don’t just use the whip.”“A carrot, then?”“Always. A balanced hand is how you keep control. Too much punishment, and you push people away. Too much reward, and they forget who they owe.”Merrica nodded slowly. “You’ve become a real ruler.”I stood, offering my hand again. “I became what this world needed.”He shook it. “And I’ll make sure Hallerus becomes what Aeternum can trust.”We stood in silence for a moment longer. The sound of cheering still floated in faintly from the streets below. Somewhere out there, Queen Helen was being paraded through New City—through a modern marvel built from vision and precision. Through a world she couldn’t have imagined a year ago.And now, she’
“They’re… happy to see us?” she asked, disbelief in her voice.Duke Merrica gave her a half-smile. “Some of them, yes. The others are watching. Judging. As they should.”One young woman in the crowd, her hair wrapped in Aeternum’s signature style, waved a small Hallerus flag and called out, “Welcome back! My family’s from Archenport—we’re with you!”Helen felt a warmth rise in her chest. Her lips curled, hesitant, but sincere. She lifted a gloved hand and waved back.Her ministers behind her smiled with relief. The people hadn’t forgotten them. Or maybe… maybe Aeternum’s citizens were willing to forgive, even if their leaders were not.Still, with each new marvel the city revealed, her pride took another small wound.Digital traffic signs shifted in real-time. Elevated walkways moved gently above the streets. Tall towers bore solar glass and climate control systems beyond her comprehension. Everything was clean. Efficient. Vibrant.Hallerus, by contrast, was still struggling to clear
“But that’s not all,” he said. “We’re not just building stores. We’re buying land.”Elijah’s eyes narrowed. “Land?”Andrea arched a brow. “Personal Aeternum-controlled territory?”“Exactly,” Mies said. “We’ll negotiate the purchase and designation of sovereign Aeternum land within Hallerus. Locations where we will build permanent structures—embassies, farms, factories. Property they can’t touch. Not legally. Not politically.”Andrea crossed her arms. “You want to turn this alliance into territorial leverage.”“I want security,” Mies said. “We trusted them once. And they betrayed us. This time, we own the pieces on the board. If they want access to food and prosperity, they give us something real in return. Soil.”Elijah nodded. “No oversight from their monarchy. No interference. Full extraterritorial jurisdiction.”Mies smiled. “Exactly. We build an Aeternum that lives inside their walls. One they can’t tear down without declaring war.”Andrea added, “And when we build those farms and
“We’re proud Aeternians now,” said one local organizer. “But we remember where we came from. If we can help fix the old home while serving the new one, why not?”In university lecture halls, students debated passionately.“Strategically, re-integrating Hallerus into Aeternum’s economic sphere is a no-brainer,” one economics major argued. “We’ll be able to shape their policies from within.”“But trust is a currency too,” another replied. “If we spend it on the wrong partner again, we might pay more than we think.”In a small park in the east district, a group of Aeternum veterans sat on a bench, medals on their coats, eyes on the screens showing news footage of Andrea’s visit.“You remember that street?” one said, pointing.“I remember clearing it house by house,” another replied. “They cheered us one day. Chased us out the next.”The youngest of them, silent until now, finally spoke.“We gave them peace once. Maybe it’s time to give them a future.”Silence followed. No one disagreed.