Aeternum, New City.
In Downtown New City, at the 6 in the morning, where the sun were yet to rise in the horizon, Les were already waking up and preparing in his house, getting ready for his busy days ahead. Naturally this is not normal for them, in fact, they were one of the new category of people that lived in Aeternum, They were Migrant from the Giant Lake Crystal Duchy, who come here to the New City from the last year Monster Horde that comes and destroyed his village.
Unable to retreat back to the capital of Giant Lake Crystal Duchy at that time, he joined a large migrations groups who is heading northeast, according to the group they were headed to the safest place in the Central Continent. The land of safety, gold and dreams, The independent States of Aeternum, the haven for the lost, discarded and victims, where one can live as they like. As a simple village fisherman, who not only lost his house and everything that he ow
With enthusiasm, the Giant Lake Fish Stall finally opened for business, as always the Wet Market as soon as it was opened, all of New City dweller will come in and out of the market, everything were being sold fast. This is the uniqueness of Aeternum, everyone were able to buy and can buy any food they want. The environment were quite busy and cherry, many happy face went in and out of the market, and by the noon quite a lot of vendors has closed their stall because their products has gone out, including the Giant Lake Fish.But then, Les Noticed that today there is something odd happening, there were quite a numbers of Aeternum Resource Department Officer, wearing the famous Aeternum Military uniform, but blue in colour signifies that they were and officers from the Aeternum resource department. This group of people arrival made many felt uncomfortable, and wonder which bastard that does not pay their trading taxes yet. But the officers went from stall to stall
Just like anyone in the crowds, Les was shocked and alarmed with the announcement from Minister Andrea, Sharing the Country wealth and rich, More over the Government wanted the mass public of Aeternum to taste and afford the luxurious meat of the Ocean fish. This sounded just to good to be true, after all, Sea Fish and Sea Products isn’t something that one can easily picked up everywhere.One must know that any Sea Products were very expensive and all of it can only be obtained from the prestigious merchant groups that specialized in selling these kind of items. Also, the price has always reached above gold Coins outside of Aeternum and inside of Aeternum, it usually sold 50 Credits and above for a single fish or items. It was an equivalent to a Tier 3 Monster meat, that is how luxurious it is, only the richest can enjoy them. But now, The government wanted to ensure that every single Aeternum can have that taste of luxuries. Even to all the vendors
“Yes, Changing the products you were selling will cost you more taxes..but it wasn’t to to point where the Government will dry you up!!…That vendor, not only didn’t file his business changes, but after the whole incident take places…he didn’t even go to the police station to report on the incident…..so do you think it’s our fault for not protecting your fellow vendors?…..NO IT IS NOT!!…he violated the rules!..he ignored the procedure!…all for money!!..This is outrageous!!…This should have never happened!!….have you no shame?!!…have you no honour?!!…after all that the 5 Minister and the President have done!!..building this country that you call home…that you live on!!..and none of you willing to follow a basic rules?!!…Shame on you!!…”. (Minister Andrea)Actually when the incident of the foreign merchant ignoring the Aeternum power, this
To understand the concept of food products regarding the difference of Oceanic foods and Fresh water foods in Fantasma is fairly simple. Both of them were basically the same, but the differences lays on the taste, benefits and ranks, Fresh Water fishes is only considered magical meat and premium when the fish or other foods were Tier 3 and higher, only then the meat will have benefits when eaten, such as improving health, helping with easy leveling up and etc. But compared to the Oceanic foods, one can consume a Tier 1 products and it has already comparable t the fresh water products that gave multiple benefits. Also according to some, it’s even tasted better.But the problem is this Oceanic foods can only be obtained from the coastal area, which is on Central Continent is very hard to get. Also after the discovery of the benefits from the Oceanic Foods, the many Nobles, kingdoms and mostly the old Merchant family and Merchant groups has huddled toge
The news of Sea Food availability in Aeternum, bring a lot of joy and happiness but some Aeternum also worried that this new development might bring some troubles and difficulties. Because of how expensive it is, the government might suffered some loss, and many were worried on behalf of the government about this matter.“[Of course this is a great news DJ SKELLY…To this, I brought the words from the Black House itself…To Aeternums, heed this notice..There are conditions to obtaining this Sea Products, first rules…Since this is a gift and welfare program to the hardworking Aeternums…To buy a Sea Products, one must be a Citizen of Aeternum, with an identifications card of ID Card…when buying, please show your ID Card before paying..this privileges only apply to Aeternums…Second Rule, Foreigners, Visitors are not and can not purchase and Sea Food Products sold in the Market, Super Stores or any vendors that supplies
Ever since Aeternum were founded and opened to the many of the Central Continent, There were very true saying that describe Aeternum. That is, ‘Aeternum Is a Country Like no other, it is different, very different’, and this saying were true, for the nobles wherever they went they were respected, but as soon as they set foot in Aeternum, their titles will grant them nothing but a look of contempt and dismissive, if the nobles didn’t mind their manners here in Aeternum, then expect to be locked in jail like a criminals, or even worse, be sentenced to death or even being banished out of the country with a tonne of gold coins debt around your belt.As for merchant, no matter big or small, Aeternum is the nation where wealth comes from, not mentioning the rich citizen of it that seemingly can buy anything, but the products from Aeternum is a guarantee to sell anywhere.For merchant, the lesson they learned dealing in Aeternum is fairly simple
“<BAM!!..BAM!!..BAMM!!>…Unbelievable!!..how did they managed to get this?….where?..where did they get any of these?!!….Look!..all of these were high quality products…while we only sell fake Tier’s products..they sell a real Tier’s items!!….AT A LOWER PRICES EVEN!!!…at this point..they might as well tell us to close our stores!!..”. (Baron Govane Selspring)Baron Govane Selspring doesn’t hide his contempt and anger any longer. Sitting inside the room, again, were the same figures as yesterday, both Antoine Loland and Louis Franklin The 4th. Both of their faces were grim as they saw and tasted the 2 items inside the metal case. As someone who dabble in this industry they knew what is real and what is not.All this time many of the Oceanic Products dealers, has reached a consensus that, all their products can be sell at a certain prices and that must be hig
“Hahaha congratulations Madam Jongi!..you should let this Sea Bream become his diet from now on…after all I guarantee that it is working as intended!…Who would’ve thought that..after many years I once again be able to taste these magical meat of the Oceanic foods…Also, thank you to the Government for letting us taste all of this…if not for them..we might still have to buy those outrageous price produce from those foreign merchant…”. (Mento)Everyone in the vicinity were nodding at the Old Mento words, acknowledging it was all thanks to the concern and kind government to even further granted the people of Aeternum the sweet taste of life.“I Know right~…I thought for so long that, Oceanic Food is just that expensive!!..it was costing gold coins to buy those…back before I am Aeternums…only nobles and kings can dine on these…but now thanks to the Government&h
“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
“Merrica understands that if Hallerus moves against Aeternum, we won’t hold back.”Kasuma gave a knowing smirk. “And you won’t hesitate to destroy them.”I met her gaze, unblinking.“No.”A heavy silence fell between us.Kasuma leaned forward, her voice softer but firm. “You don’t want war with Hallerus.”“No, I don’t,” I admitted. “The people of Hallerus don’t deserve to suffer for their queen’s mistakes. Merrica doesn’t deserve to be put in that position.”Kasuma studied me for a moment before sighing. “Then let’s hope Duke Merrica succeeds.”I ran a hand through my hair, my thoughts swirling. Visma was controlled. Chaos was their prison, and we held the keys. Hallerus, however, was different.It was once an ally, a friend, a brother. But betrayal had shattered that bond. Still… I didn’t want to be the one to crush it completely. I drummed my fingers on my desk. If Helen could be saved, then perhaps—A knock interrupted my thoughts.“Enter,” I called.An ACIA officer stepped in, bowi