“This war will end not with chaos but with calculated and decisive action. The Central Region must be taken swiftly, but with care. Our objective is not just victory, but the establishment of lasting peace.”The commanders exchanged brief glances, their faces reflecting a mix of determination and anticipation.“General Eliza,”I addressed her directly,“Your air superiority has been unmatched. Continue to secure the skies and ensure that our forces on the ground advance without hindrance.”Eliza nodded, a confident smile tugging at her lips.“It will be done, Your Excellency. The skies belong to us.”“Governor Gust, General Lucas,”I continued,“Your region has been a beacon of stability. Use your position to support the final push. Ensure that supplies and reinforcements flow seamlessly to the frontlines.”Both men bowed slightly in acknowledgment, Lucas’s leonine features set in a firm expression.“Consider it done, Your Excellency,”Lucas said, his deep voice resonating through the
“Governor Gust,”I continued, shifting my attention.“How fares the Western Region?”Duke Oliver Gust bowed slightly, his noble demeanor radiating pride.“Your Excellency, the Western Region has become a model of prosperity. The people have embraced Aeternum governance wholeheartedly. Thanks to the reforms we’ve introduced—education, healthcare, and economic opportunities—the populace is more motivated and productive than ever.”“Are there any signs of rebellion or unrest?”I asked.“None,”Gust declared firmly.“On the contrary, the people are eager to contribute to Aeternum’s growth. Farmers are producing surplus crops, artisans are thriving under fair trade policies, and even the nobles who initially hesitated have come around. They’ve seen the undeniable benefits of aligning with Aeternum.”General Lucas interjected, his deep voice resonating through the screen.“If I may add, Your Excellency, the Western troops are also flourishing. Morale is high, not only among soldiers but als
“You’ve done well—each of you. Your dedication and understanding of the mission have ensured our success thus far. But now, the time has come for the final push. By tomorrow, all forces under your direct command will begin their advance into the Central Region of Alemia Nation.”The seriousness of my tone resonated, and the atmosphere on the video call grew tense yet charged with anticipation.“Each front will move in unison,”I continued.“We will maintain the same strategy that has brought us success: conquer and consolidate. Every settlement behind our advancing forces must be secured, stabilized, and brought under our governance. No region can be left in chaos.”General Eliza nodded; her grin replaced by a focused expression.“Understood, Your Excellency. The Northern Front is ready to move at your command.”Admiral Duchess Kolarova added, her voice firm.“The South has been prepared for this moment, Your Excellency. We’ll press forward and ensure every piece of ground we take rem
“Lt. Colonel Selie,”Angelina greeted, her sharp eyes immediately noticing the subtle glimmer of excitement in Selie’s otherwise steely expression.Selie acknowledged her with a nod.“Captain Angelina, it’s time. The troops are to mobilize immediately. We move today.”Selie and Angelina entered the command center, where the hum of activity filled the air—officers at their stations, maps sprawled across tables, and communication lines buzzing with orders. Selie wasted no time addressing the assembled personnel.“Attention, everyone,”Selie announced, her voice carrying a resolute edge.“The President has given the final command. Today, we march towards the Central Region of Alemia. Prepare the men and women of this army. Ensure every soldier, vehicle, and piece of equipment is battle-ready within the hour. This is the last battle of the war. Let’s finish what we started.”The command center fell silent for a moment, the gravity of her words sinking in. Then, like a well-oiled machine,
“The President has given the final command. Today, we march towards the Central Region of Alemia. Prepare the men and women of this army. Ensure every soldier, vehicle, and piece of equipment is battle-ready within the hour. This is the last battle of the war. Let’s finish what we started.”The command center fell silent for a moment, the gravity of her words sinking in. Then, like a well-oiled machine, the officers snapped into action, relaying her orders to every corner of the base.Captain Angelina couldn’t help but smirk as the command center burst into activity. She glanced at Selie, who maintained her usual stoic expression.“Excited, Colonel?”Angelina asked teasingly, leaning closer to her superior.Selie shot her a sidelong glance, but her lips quirked ever so slightly.“This is war, Captain. Excitement has no place here.”Angelina chuckled softly.“Oh, of course, Colonel. And yet, you’re practically glowing. Can’t blame you, though. After all, we’re about to carve our names
In the Western Region, the city of Gust was alive with anticipation. The central square, which opened up to the western wall, was packed with thousands of onlookers, a sea of townsfolk and refugees who had sought shelter here during the turbulent war.On the raised platform near the western wall, Governor Duke Oliver Gust stood alongside General Lucas. Behind them, a breathtaking formation of Aeternum soldiers stood shoulder to shoulder with the Gust Ducal Family’s knights. The juxtaposition of modern Aeternum military vehicles and the gleaming armor of medieval-style knights painted a scene that spoke of unity between progress and tradition.The air was thick with anticipation as Duke Oliver Gust stepped forward. His sharp, noble features were illuminated by the midday sun, and his deep voice carried over the crowd with ease.“Citizens of Gust City!”he began, his tone resonating with authority and passion.“Today, we bear witness to a moment of unparalleled significance—not just for
“This is Quara Raedrim bringing you today’s top story on the Aeternum Radio Network.”She paused for effect, her emerald eyes glinting as she glanced at the breaking news memo in front of her.“Breaking news from the frontlines of Alemia Nation,”she announced, her tone rising with excitement.“This morning, it has been officially confirmed that His Excellency, President of Aeternum, has made the decisive move to restart the liberation campaign to bring the Alemia Nation fully under Aeternum governance.”Across New City, radios crackled in homes, cafes, and workplaces as citizens stopped what they were doing to listen.“Did you hear that?”a baker in the marketplace exclaimed, turning up the volume on his radio.“The President is leading the Eastern Army himself!”“I knew it,”a mother murmured to her young son, clutching his hand as they walked through the park.“He always fulfills his promises. Alemia will be whole again, under Aeternum’s light.”In the immigrant district, a group o
Paul’s bony fingers tapped rhythmically on the desk as he considered the question.“If there’s one thing you can count on,”he said, his hollow voice firm,“it’s that His Excellency always finishes what he starts.”As the broadcast neared its conclusion, Quara leaned closer to the microphone, her voice filled with pride.“To the brave men and women of the Aeternum Army, and to our beloved President leading them—may you march forward with strength and honor. The people of Aeternum stand behind you, united in hope and faith. This is not just a battle—it is the dawn of a new era for Alemia and Aeternum alike.”The closing theme played, and as the broadcast ended, applause erupted in the studio. Quara removed her headphones, her heart swelling with pride.“Another stellar broadcast,”Paul commented, his skeletal hand giving her a rare approving gesture.“Thank you, Director,”Quara replied, smiling warmly.“Let’s hope the troops hear this and know we’re all rooting for them.”As the day u
“We’re sending an envoy,” I said. “I want a diplomatic team ready to leave within the week. Formal clothes, soft language, but firm posture. They’ll deliver the proposal to reopen channels with Hallerus.”Andrea raised an eyebrow. “And if they hesitate?”“They won’t,” I said. “Helen’s smarter than she was. She knows what Aeternum means now—not just power. Stability. Progress. A future. Her people know it too. They’re already lining up to buy our products again. Her economy needs us more than she’d ever admit.”Andrea took notes. “Do we offer full partnership or just trade?”“Start with trade. Let her work for the rest.”Elijah crossed his arms. “You’re playing the long game.”“Always,” I said. “She showed backbone. Now she has to show consistency. If Hallerus stays clean, stays reformed, we talk alliance in two years. Maybe joint ventures. Maybe intelligence sharing.”Andrea looked up. “And if they regress?”“Then the gloves come off,” I said. “I owe Merrica nothing now. The ledger is
“Shadow diplomacy?”“Shared progress,” I corrected. “No puppet states. No conquest. We build allies, not subjects.”“And if she fails?”“She won’t.”“You trust her?”“I trust momentum.”Silence settled between us. Weighty. Calculated.“She came to the edge,” I said. “She looked down. She chose to climb.”I placed my palm on the table. Pulled up the interlink data from the last ACIA relay. A still frame of Helen and Merrica, standing beside a new council—half of them former commoners. Not a single noble.“She’s rewriting the code of kingship,” Elijah said.“She’s writing history.”Elijah nodded. “I’ll alert the Council of Governors. Phase One integration can begin. Cultural exchange programs. Civil training volunteers.”“Quiet. Measured.”“As always.”I watched the horizon past the glass. My reflection stared back. Older now. Sharper.“Hallerus lives,” I said.Elijah placed the closed folder back into his case. “And Aeternum listens.”I sat behind the presidential desk, sunlight spilli
"Your Majesty, to attempt full restoration in so short a time—""Will cost," she interrupted. "Yes, I know. But the people have paid enough. Now it’s our turn."What followed was a flurry of action unlike anything Hallerus had seen in decades. Labor crews moved out in droves. Merchants were granted tax reprieves to reopen. Public works officials received emergency authority. For once, the gears of governance turned swiftly.But still, the people watched with wary eyes.In the village of Elbarrow, a merchant shook his head as soldiers repaired a broken bridge."They say it’s Queen Helen’s will," he muttered. "But we've heard such promises before.""Aye," replied a farmer, watching with folded arms. "But maybe this time it sticks. She walked among us, didn’t she? My cousin swears she saw her with the duke."Rumors of the queen’s journey spread like wildfire. With them came cautious hope.One evening, at a small gathering hosted by village elders in Merrowind, Helen removed her hood and
"Transparency will be paramount. Council sessions will be documented, and decisions made in conjunction with the Crown will be communicated openly. This is not a move to consolidate power, but to distribute it wisely, ensuring that the governance of Hallerus reflects the will and welfare of its people."Lord Dallren, who had been silently observing, stepped forward. "Your Majesty, such a council could indeed bridge the gap between the Crown and the nobility, fostering unity. I support this initiative."A ripple of agreement spread through the assembly.Helen continued, "Furthermore, to address the grievances of our citizens and promote economic growth, we shall implement reforms aimed at equitable taxation and the eradication of corrupt practices that have long plagued our administration."Duke Merrica added, "These reforms will not only strengthen our internal stability but also enhance our standing among neighboring realms, fostering alliances and trade relations."Viscount Rellan,
A murmur of agreement rippled through the assembly.Helen's gaze swept over the room, her eyes meeting those of each noble in turn. "I have summoned you here not only to reaffirm our unity but to propose measures that will ensure the stability and prosperity of Hallerus for generations to come."Viscount Rellan, his earlier defiance now replaced with a veneer of compliance, inclined his head. "Your Majesty, what measures do you propose?"Helen took a measured breath. "Firstly, we shall establish a council comprising representatives from each noble house. This council will serve as an advisory body, ensuring that all voices are heard and that governance is conducted with transparency and fairness."Baroness Yvette Darrow, her scepticism barely concealed, arched an eyebrow. "And what powers would this council hold, Your Majesty?"Helen met Yvette's gaze unwaveringly. "The council will have the authority to propose legislation and oversee its implementation. However, ultimate executive p
Amidst the turmoil, Duke Merrica found himself face-to-face with Lord Dallren."Merrica," Dallren sneered, blood trickling from a wound on his brow. "Betraying your own kind for that girl?"Merrica's grip tightened on his sword. "My loyalty lies with Hallerus, not with those who would see it rot from within."Their blades met in a fierce exchange, each strike echoing their clashing ideologies.Nearby, Baroness Yvette confronted Queen Helen."Your Majesty," Yvette began, her tone almost mocking, "you've become quite the thorn in our side."Helen met her gaze unwaveringly. "And you, Baroness, have leeched off this kingdom for too long."Yvette smirked, drawing her dagger. "Let's see if you're as formidable with a blade as you are with words."As the battle raged on, it became evident that the Queen's Faction held the advantage. The support of the common folk had bolstered their numbers, and the corrupt nobles' forces began to waver.Count Vorell, witnessing the disarray, turned to his r
A trusted royal scribe—a man who had served the palace for over a decade—was found dead before sunrise. A dagger coated in poison was discovered strapped to his leg. The second attempt followed soon after.A servant carrying tea for the Queen was intercepted before she could enter the throne room. Hidden beneath the silver tray was a vial of deadroot extract, a lethal poison. The servant, after interrogation, confessed that her family had been taken hostage by nobles who ordered the hit.Then came the third, fourth, and fifth attempts. Archers on rooftops. Explosives set along the Queen’s carriage route. Blades hidden in the folds of a courtier’s robes.Each time, the assassins failed. Each time, they disappeared without a trace. Helen knew who was behind it. But rather than show fear, she faced the storm head-on.Seated in her war room, Helen traced her fingers along a map of Hallerus, where red ink circled enemy strongholds. Duke Merrica stood beside her, arms folded, his sharp eyes
Aeternum had taught her a valuable lesson—control is not about force, but manipulation. So, she would make them turn on each other.Helen began summoning the nobles one by one, speaking to them in private meetings. She whispered honeyed words into their ears.“Viscount Talis, I need a reliable man. Duke Rehn is plotting against me, and I require your loyalty.”“Countess Ferros, your influence is invaluable. I fear Duke Rehn is siphoning funds, and I need someone I trust to investigate.”“Duke Rehn, the other nobles are moving against you. You must act swiftly before they remove you from power.”With every meeting, seeds of distrust were sown.The nobles—drunk on greed—were too blind to see that they were being played.And so, one by one, they began to conspire against each other.As the nobles scrambled to destroy each other, Helen’s true loyalists made their move.Under the cover of darkness, handpicked assassins carried out eliminations with precision.Duke Rehn?Found dead in his s
“Then Mies will destroy Hallerus.”Helen turned sharply toward him. “You think he would go that far?”Merrica didn’t even hesitate. “Yes.”Helen stared at him, searching for a lie. A hint of hesitation. But there was none.“He will not give you mercy a second time, Helen,” Merrica said. “If those nobles push for war, if they even dare to challenge Aeternum—you will lose.”He took another step forward, his voice heavy. “And I will not be able to protect you.”For the first time in their conversation, Helen looked away. Merrica saw it. The fear. The realization.She already knew everything he was saying was true. She had just been too proud—too trapped—to admit it.Silence hung between them. Then, at last, Helen spoke.“…What do you want me to do?”Merrica finally allowed himself a small sigh of relief.“You already know what must be done, Helen,” he said gently. “You must take back your court.”Helen slowly nodded, though her expression remained grim. “Those nobles will not leave peace